Best of New York 2012 • Health & Self

• Jo Malone London

  330 Bleecker St., at Christopher St.; 212-242-1454

  Fragrances are like suits—you can go most of your life without discovering exactly the right fit. This new cosmetics boutique takes its mission—that you don’t waste another second with an ill-advised scent—very, very seriously. The perfume counter mimics a fancy wine bar, with patrons sniffing citrus, fruity, woody, spicy, and floral notes. A finely attuned cologne “stylist” guides visitors through the distilled components and suggests layering combos: say, Nectarine Blossom and Honey paired with Freesia ($55 for 30 ml.). Rounding out the sensual experience, sessions end with a complimentary hand massage.

From the 2012 Best of New York issue of New York Magazine