Visited the Bear and Birch Saturday, 1/17 with some expired Amazon-Local certificates we had forgotten about. This is by far the cleanest banya I've ever visited. Rooms were hot and the staff is super friendly. Unfortunately, one of the 3 rooms was closed for repairs, but I'll definitely be back to see it operational. Of note, the steam room is excellent, but be careful in the back of the room. The steam jets are located in a place where if your legs are directly in front of the jets when they activate, you could get a mild burn. The cold plunge is nice, but too small to be utilized effectively. For a real cold plunge, you need to go to NYC to visit the Russian and Turkish Bath House. The centrally located cold shower is also a great touch for those who aren't comfortable with the cold plunge. The BYOB policy is also a nice touch if you're staying for a game or just spending the day chilling out. The jacuzzi was NOT over-chlorinated, which I personally appreciated as banyas frequently make the water so chlorinated, you'll reek of it for days. Bathrooms provided shampoo and conditioner and wonderful 4 position shower-jets, plus a high-pressure washing wand. Kids are FREE. Yes, FREE! ... and I was really appreciative of the fact that they honored the full value of the Amazon-Local certificate despite the fact that I pointed out it had expired and was only worth 1/2 the value. These folks are professionals who really appreciate your business.

Best banya experience I have had anywhere from St. Petersburg to Seattle. Clean and sparkling. Absolutely nothing comes close on the East Coast in America. Great staff! Kolya the banya guy rocks. HOT ROOMS. Fortunately they have a 45 degree cold plunge) Great kitchen and awesome place to watch NFL.

As a russian sauna the place is weak!As a place to hang out it's ok.Real russian saunas fans do not visit it,because steaming rooms don't really work...

Long drive for those who don't live in the "Marlboro" area. Built in contemporary style. The main "parilka" is excellent; however, the other two are okay. Limited rest area: choice of three or four tables on the main floor. If they are occupied (and it will take only 2-3 parties of 3-4 people in each to occupy all available sits), you have to climb up the stairs on the second floor, with, however, good view of the first floor. Menu of russian style food (herring/potatoes, pelmeni, shish kebab, etc.), and wide choice of herbal teas. Service is okay, and price (now is $25) is fair.

The Bear and Birch is both the most exciting and relaxing spa experience you will ever encounter. Apprehensive at first, our every expectation was exceeded from the moment we stepped through the glass doors. The true Russian banya treatment is something everyone should try at least once - your left feeling clean ,refreshed and exhilarated. The Spa itself is strikingly beautiful. The service, food, beverages and staff are exceptional and I won't soon forget my time here. Don't hesitate, make the plunge and go.