I had my nose pierced by Paul a few weeks ago and the experience was the best piercing experience I've ever had. The shop itself is a welcoming and comfortable place and the people are friendly. I was nervous and couldn't make up my mind for what type of piercing I wanted, Paul was patient and kind and never made me feel rushed, even though he had other customers. He politely let them know when he could be with them and redirected his attention back to me. I definitely recommend Bound for Glory for tattoos (because of the atmosphere...I didn't get a tattoo) but I highly recommend Paul if you're getting a piercing. I'm confident you won't be disappointed...unless you're just an angry person...can't please everyone! read more

Come here to get screamed at by owner Nick if you are from out of town and you want to get screamed at on your 21st birthday for having a temp ID, along with multiple copies of identification. Terrible!!! Go directly to hell. I swear this man has anger issues - didn't even try to argue just asked if I could get a tattoo and he literally cussed me out at the top of his lungs. Nobody with self respect should ever visit!!! Owners personality is disgusting. Even his receptionist apologized that I got screamed at on my actual birthday. read more

I've been wanting a new tattoo for quite some time, decided to get one last week Monday while I was out on vacation from work. Had the work on my leg done by Jesse.. He did a phenomenal job, I love it . my daughters love it and everyone else who has seen it so far absolutely love it. I took a chance walking in that day with no appointment, and I feel very lucky to have Jesse there and he was able to do it the same day for me. Definitely going to him again..already planning what to do with the other leg :) Great experience, shop was super clean and he was very professional. read more

I've been here three times and all three times Paul was super professional and you can tell that he knows his stuff. I got my naval pierced, helix, conch and I came for a jewelry change. All three times I was super satisfied and knew that I was in good hands. He cares about his clients and gives reccomendations on what he thinks we should do. I would definitely come here again and reccomend everyone to come here to get pierced professionally. read more

Bound For Glory Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Staten Island, New York

I love this place! Jarim was a wonder front desk host. She was warm and inviting. Everyone was very friendly.. however.. in the background.. i just kept hearing, what seemed to be, cumming noises! What an experience. Get your tattoos here! read more

Paul is a blatant racist. In 2018 I came here to have my septum piercing reopened, and he told me my piercing was placed incorrectly. So he marked the correct placement just in case I ever wanted to come back to have that done. While I was looking in the mirror he called me a "Ni**er", I do not know what provoked him to say such a thing but it was such a shock I froze and didn't confront him. I'm guessing it's a combination of stupidity, mental illness, and Trump giving people like this leeway. I will not ever go here for any of my tattoos or piercings. Seven at Ink Couture is a great person, and he is respectful. I will give them my business. read more

Stay away this place is completely unprofessional! Left a deposit but had to get surgery called and told them but they refused to refund deposit even though I explained the situation and was never told there were no refunds when asked why they told me it was b/c Nick the owner had made some drawings when I asked to see them they looked like a two year old had drawn them was a complete mess!! When asked if I could apply the deposit towards any further work was told by some ditz on the phone that the deposit was lost and she gave me nicks email who never responded I guess there business must be really bad if this is the way they need to make money by ripping people off go somewhere reputable that actually has some talent read more

I love Paul !! I got my nose pierced and very nervous at that tune but he explained it so passionately and details for after care . Incredible jewelry collection! If you look to be pierced I won't hesitate to go to him . Make an advance appointment is highly suggested because he is an expert read more

Bound For Glory Tattoo - Nose pierced - Tattoo Near Me - Staten Island, New York

The most majestic bathroom I have ever had the pleasure of taking a tinkle in. I was first welcomed my a brown door (the only brown door in the shop I might add), indicating the facilities. I then basked in the glory of the most spotless bathroom I've ever seen. While I was busy taking care of business, I was be entertained by a fine assortment of traditional tattoo flash. There was not a speck of human excrement to be found on the toilet. After washing my hands I was delighted to dry them with actual paper towels! Not that cheep dispenser crap. Oh, the piercer Paul and the tattoo artists are fantastic, too. read more

Given that Anthony Bourdain lied about the quality and quantity of tiki bars on Staten Island, Bound for Glory (and Dave Borjes specifically) give Staten Island an actually awesome reason to exist (unless you count Vinny from Jersey Shore...). Staten Island was exactly as I pictured it - basically, it's just like Southern Connecticut. The only reason you'll find me back here is to get more work by Dave - because he did an excellent job with my time bomb tattoo. Or, cute round bomb that I wanted instead of explosives because I know in my heart that it's a time bomb. :D Dave has an amazingly light touch. I have been afraid of moving to my inner arm for a long time, and this was definitely a great experience in terms of popping that cherry - it barely hurt at all, and definitely wasn't any worse than any other spot I've been tattooed. Notably, the bottom of this tattoo is basically at the crease of my elbow, and it still didn't hurt badly to have done. If you're interested in a classic, traditional style tattoo, Dave is definitely the artist for you - my bomb is adorable and fun (explode!), and the color is really excellent. I look forward to Dave continuing to tattorize me... next time I will suck it up and get one on my calve. read more

Bound For Glory Tattoo - Bomb by Dave Borjes - Tattoo Near Me - Staten Island, New York

Very upset with my tattoo, The shop is clean and the staff is friendly. They are a little more expensive then most places at 175$ per hour, no matter who the artist is. I'd say that was a good price for what you get but for what I got. I think I just had a bad experience. My tattoo was changed mid way through getting the tattoo on me and wasn't told. And my suggestions to change it he didn't do. Even after he said he would. I think this place would be great if you want simple, flash art style, but if you want a great piece that you can show off and have a "wow" factor. I would look elsewhere. As for my artist. I expressed how I felt about my tattoo and explained the things that were wrong and without saying it-I'm sure he agreed with me. He offered a full refund but I only took half of what I paid and thanked him for his time. GL. read more

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I had a fantastic experience today at Bound for Glory. I had actually been here once about three years ago to get a tattoo fixed (I had gotten it done at a different shop), and I had an amazing experience then, as well. That's why I decided to entrust them with my most recent tattoo. Being an avid David Bowie fan, you can imagine how devastated I was when I learned he had died. About three or four days after I heard the news, I decided to get the "Aladdin Sane" lightning bolt as a tribute piece. Not only did John Lemon give this piece meticulous attention and care, he also let me put Bowie's music on Spotify so we could listen as he worked. The tattoo came out exactly as I pictured it, and it was just the perfect tattooing experience overall. Should I decide to get another tattoo, I will definitely be coming back here! read more

Bound For Glory Tattoo - David Bowie lightning bolt, as done by John Lemon of Bound for Glory Tattoo. Absolutely perfect job. - Tattoo Near Me - Staten Island, New York

Got work done by Francisco and I couldn't be happier. I showed him a picture for inspiration and told him an idea that i wanted and he brought it to life for me. He was awesome company while i sat for the tattoo and set clear expectations on timing, price, healing and more. I love how he encouraged and welcomed me back when my tattoo was healed so he can see it again. I will be definitely coming back soon to get more work done!! Loved the whole experience. Especially loved the clean lines and honesty with the expectations that were set. Great service and great shop!! read more

Bound For Glory Tattoo - The tattoo Francisco designed for me - Tattoo Near Me - Staten Island, New York

I have gotten all of my tattoos here, by the wonderful Nick Caruso. Bound for Glory specializes in custom pieces. I have worked on a connective back to shoulder piece with Nick. I couldn't be more pleased with how the process went. Nick really took the time to collage elements together to make an aesthetically balanced composition on my back, he advised me to change the scale and placement, even though it was not in my original plan. The resultant was absolutely spectacular. A month later, i got roses on my shoulder. I brought in many reference photos of etchings and old illustrations, rambling about how it should be. I wanted something completely different, and was afraid all of my specific requests would be confusing. Nick then proclaimed that the tattoo would be hand drawn right onto my skin! This made me slightly nervous, as I am an artist myself, and like to know how something will look before it is permanently etched into my skin. But due to the amazing he work he did in the last session, I put all my trust in him to do his thing. The process fascinated me. Nick started drawing these perfectly placed roses that flowed seamlessly into the previous back piece, as well as complementing the contours of my arm. He filled it in, and we were done. He has a gentle touch especially in areas such as the spine and collarbone. I will ALWAYS come to Bound for Glory due to their cleanliness, professionalism, and work they do. read more

Bound For Glory Tattoo - roses on shoulder, by NICK CARUSO - Tattoo Near Me - Staten Island, New York

Love the vibe here. Went in to get my wrist tattooed with some american traditional roses and I booked with John. His work was amazing. He made sure I loved the work before tattooing me. He went above and beyond and my tattoo looks better than how I pictured it would be. He really took his time with sketching out the tattoo and took into account all of the detail I wanted. The vibe here is awesome. From the atmosphere to the music, it's awesome. They make you feel welcome. UPDATE 4/23/21 I went in to get lobe piercings by Paul. INCREDIBLE experience. I have never gotten a piercing where a piercer actually educated me on placement and the type of jewelry I am putting into my body. He had amazing high quality jewelry in store; and the piercing felt like NOTHING. I didn't even feel a pinch. Paul took his time with placement and also accommodated me last minute. only coming here for piercings and tattoo. LOOK NO FURTHER. read more

Being an artist, the few things I respect most are talent, technique, style and professional opinions. I designed a tattoo myself (I'm not a tattoo artist) to get added on to my forearm as a continuation of a small wrist tattoo that I already had. I walked in to make an appointment and showed pictures of what I wanted. The 2 men I spoke to were incredibly easy going and professional. The one thing I fear when walking into a tattoo parlor is being the only one not covered in tattoos. That was not the case here. Everything about the shop is welcoming. The appointment process was a breeze and I wound up booked with Tom C. I brought my idea to Tom the day of appointment and he gave me some ideas on how to make it flow and look good above my other tattoo. We discussed what the main purpose of the tattoo was and he talked me out of adding cheesey music notes to it. He was very professional without insulting my idea or changing what I wanted. It was relieving to see an artist actually view the tattoo as a work of art and care about how it will look on my body. Needless to say, Tom will probably be the only artist I go to. I've talked him up to every person I know and I've already found 3 people who will only go to him. read more

Bound For Glory Tattoo - Envy On The Coast band tattoo by Tom Connors. - Tattoo Near Me - Staten Island, New York

BFG has a strong team of talented artists. I've gone to almost everyone in the shop and have never been disappointed. Mike Bee is nothing short of amazing! He is a true artist, has amazing respect for the business and takes pride in what he does! He does not fail to exceed my expectations every single time. What I respect most about the team is they're not afraid to tell you how it is and give their professional opinion. If something gonna looks bad, they're gonna make it right (so stop getting offended, they're trying to help!) $175/hr is a bargain for the quality of work you will get! I get complimented on every tattoo I have from BFG and I beg people to go there because I can't stand seeing any more shitty tattoos! I will be a client of theirs for years to come! You would be stupid to go anywhere but here! read more

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I found this place online while looking for quality jewelry for my daith piercing. When I got there, everyone was super friendly and helpful. Paul (ipricku) is the piercer and is incredibly knowledgeable and patient. I am not the easiest customer because I am pretty particular about what I want or don't want, but Paul was incredibly helpful, gave me suggestions and advice. He went above and beyond to help me look at different jewelry designers and online stores to see if we could find what I wanted. The shop itself was beautifully done. They just moved down the street, but the shop was immaculate - as it should be. I cannot say enough about my experience here and Paul's professionalism while helping me with jewelry. Hands down, I would recommend this place in a heartbeat. Go see Paul for all your piercing needs!! I know I will definitely be back. read more

Tattoos: Jeremy Miller is the mac daddy. I love all the guys there, everyone is very talented. Fun clean atmosphere. I don't go anywhere else! Piercings: I can't praise Paul enough for his work ethic, passion, and genuine care. Again, I wouldn't go to anyone else! read more

I love this shop! I got my first large piece done here, and it healed beautifully. The process was made comfortable even though it took 4 hours because it was so big. My artist, Tom Connors, was very patient and meticulous with his work. He drew the design himself and brought it to life. I love it every day. I also got a little ladybug done by Nick Caruso during a tattoo party at the Harley Davidson shop nearby. I love both! read more

Bound For Glory Tattoo - Chrysanthemum tattoo drawn and tatted by Tom Connors. - Tattoo Near Me - Staten Island, New York

My daughter got her first tattoo here last Saturday. We were taken care of by the "walk-in" guy because we didn't have an appointment. The girl sitting at the front desk was cold and unfriendly. The guy that takes care of walk-in's was okay but insensitive because he seemed bothered by my daughter asking for advice from her family; it's her first time so she needs help making up her mind.....daaa!What's wrong with that? The tat came out nice but it was over priced! They only take cash so had to find a cash machine....who doesn't use electronic money transfer in 2021? Get with the times.....don't worry we won't be back!!! read more

NOTE: If you wanna spend 50$ on a small little meaningless tattoo - this shop is NOT for you. They specialize in custom pieces. What sets Bound For Glory different from other shops is it's pure appreciation and respect for the art of tattooing. This shop is so clean and cozy, and the staff is very professional. I got my first tattoo here, and it's safe to say that my skin belongs to Mike Bee for life! He is very light handed and the amount of attention to detail and his creativity astounds me. My first tattoo experience was an amazing one, and I'm so glad I got my first piece done here. A gem amongst other tattoo shops. read more

I have pretty much a tattoo per every shop on the island, save for Ron and Dave (which is funny, 'cause it's one of the best), and I had never, EVER seen this place, despite being extremely familiar with the neighborhood. But a friend recommended me to her friend Tom Connors, and I took a chance, considering her tattoos of tiny black birds came out... like tiny black birds. Walking in was weird. It's so... clean. I mean, I've been to clean establishments, but this place screamed tidiness. Then it kinda has this old school, vintage sorta vibe, swinging doors and whatnot. This is in stark contrast to the big iMac sitting on the desk. I tell the guy what I want and with whom, but never actually talked to Tom because he was busy, which... seemed odd. And they charge.... by the hour? And require a $60 deposit? All of it was very different from the fly by the seat of your pants of Island Tattoo, and others I've frequented. And nothing to pick out on the walls! They specialize in custom work. Refreshing! I made my appointment and then left. Came back on my appointment date and here's the meat and potatoes of it: EXCELLENT WORK. Knowledgeable staff, talented professionals, in a clean environment. I went back the next week for another by Tom. Highly recommend him, or anyone else. They're giving Ron and Dave's a run for their money as best on Staten Island. I heard that two other guys were booked for two months, and I asked if they were famous and I didn't know them or what. Turns out they're just that damn good. read more

NICK CARUSO IS THE BEST REASON TO COME TO STATEN ISLAND EVER. Well... unless you're some kind of Wu-Tang historian. No, Nick is still a better reason. I would follow him from Flyrite to the ends of the earth, because he is the best tattoo artist ever. You should go see him! And the receptionist is hot, too. read more

Nicest looking shop I've ever been in without feeling like an all out art boutique. or a crack den. Some shops today feel more like Starbucks than a tattoo shop. BFG borders perfectly on tradition and modernity. Its a classy joint and you won't be hearing blaring hip hop or seeing some guy get his haircut across from your table like in some other fly by night shops on this island that shall remain nameless. The staff is friendly and knowledgable. Two attributes that are a must in this industry in my honest opinion. The artists (Nick, Mike, Magie, etc... sorry if I left anyone out) work with you to design your custom piece and guide you in the right direction based on their expertise. The staff is always ready to help you schedule your appointment and are johnny on the spot keeping the place spotless. Best shop hands down. read more

This tattoo shop is most likely the best on the island with every artist dishing out the same perfect bold quality yet each have their own style specific to the artist. Weather you go to Nick the owner, Mike, Tom or any other artist there you will leave extremely happy with your service! read more

Nick Caruso is one of the best artist I have ever come across in all my years of being tattooed and it's about time he opened his own shop. He only demands the best so that is what you will get at Bound for Glory. I have referred many people to him and they have all come back and told me that they were more than happy with what he did and felt extremely comfortable with how clean and comfortable the environment is. Your missing out if you don't check out this studio! read more

Bound For Glory Tattoo - Coop Devil by Nick Caruso - Tattoo Near Me - Staten Island, New York

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I have a piece that was done 5 years ago and asked if the owner (Nick Caruso- phenomenal tattoo artist btw) if he could add some traditional dragon Japanese fire onto my national flag tattoo which also consists of five stars like this review and it turned out optimal! We eventually hit it off and we started listening to Amon Amarth while he practiced his craft. This is a very very underrated tattoo shop. As soon as you step in (yes you hear the vociferous HC music blasting) the receptionist actually greets you. The artists here all project very down to earth vibes unlike some other parlors/studios/whatever the hell you want to call it. I will come here as not only a neighboring business manager but come here to greet the squad ! read more

A great and very friendly studio. And Nick is great. I would like to go back to get more work done.

I have been getting tattoos since I was 16 and they were illegal in New York City. I had the majority of my work done in Brooklyn in 2000 and 2001 in Brooklyn, but my artist has since passed away. I used a couple of other artists on Staten Island, but they made me feel as if they were doing me a favor. Then I found Bound For Glory Tattoo and Tom Connors. On a whim one Friday night he had an opening and I had that tattoo itch that we all get. He booked me and I was there that night getting a Nautical Star on my elbow. I felt so at home at this place. Everyone is cool and down to earth. I've since been back for 2 smaller pieces at one sitting and three for the next. I am going back in 2 weeks for a chest piece and in 3 weeks to start a leg sleeve I've wanted for years. I gave Tom my ideas and he worked his magic putting together a great idea. I would recommend BFG and especially Tom Connors to anyone. He reminds me of my original artist, just another cool, calm, down to earth guy. Looking forward to many many more tattoos by Tom at BFG. read more

I am so pleased by the experience I had at Bound for Glory. The shop was eye-catching, not to mention, clean. I felt as I was in a safe and professional environment. I was tattooed by Jeremy Miller and he was a charm. He did a fantastic job, paying attention to detail while also getting the job done quickly. The price for the tattoo was fair, although for the piece's beautiful quality I expected a lot more. Everyone in the shop is friendly and helpful and I will definitely come back when I am ready for my next tattoo. You can tell that the artists there love what they do and are pretty fucking great at doing it. read more

Mom wasn't thrilled with my new tattoo. At 72 she's still a mother and her middleaged son getting another tattoo didn't sit well. But she came around... Recently I visited Mom at her home and unveiled the latest imprint, still scabbing up. It had been awhile since I went through the healing process -- I got my last tattoo in 1985. At the time tattoos were illegal in New York City and weren't anywhere near as common -- or accepted -- as they are now. After the last tattoo I hadn't planned on getting another. But then something remarkable happened. I found my birth mother after a 50 year separation. I figured if anything warranted some spilled ink, this was it. In 2010 I took my family to meet Mom and her significant other, my step Dad. After the meeting I legally changed my middle name to Mom's maiden name -- the surname I had been born with, prior to adoption. Summer vacations to Mom's place are now something of a tradition but I am still stunned by the whole experience and so this year I decided to mark the occasion. I did some research and it turned out that the best tattoo parlor in my area was a short hop from my home. I stopped by "Bound For Glory" to make an appointment. Almost immediately I felt at home. The business card of the owner was a pleasant surprise - next to his name was written "L.A.M.F." My first tattoo was "L.A.M.F." A fan of Johnny Thunders, I got his tag line tattooed on my arm in 1979 -- after meeting Johnny during his tenure in Ann Arbor. Before going to the shop to have the work done, I spent a day working out an original design. It wasn't overly complex. Ink runs over time. I took my sketch to Bound For Glory and showed my design to a guy named Mike Bee. Mike's a big guy with lots of tattoos. I suggested a scroll around my family name - Mike said, "No, that would be too much." I smiled. A guy covered in tattoos telling me that a scroll would be too much was pretty funny. I said okay. I liked Mike and trusted his judgment. Meanwhile Tom, another tattoo artist, and Simon, the young guy working the front office, were polite enough to listen to my stories about Johnny Thunders, Slayer and Black Flag. Tom agreed with me that Keith Morris was one of Black Flag's better singers and he offered to play Keith's new CD for me while I was being tattooed. It was nice to hang out with guys who appreciated "old school" punk. But that wasn't all we had in common. I mentioned to Tom that I had a tattoo on my shoulder -- at 25 years old my most recent -- done by a guy named Mike Malone from Brooklyn. Apparently Malone had passed -- and was something of a legend. Who knew? Mike Bee asked if it was okay to photograph the Malone tattoo. I said sure. A short time later I left Bound For Glory pleased with my new tattoo and with a few stories to tell. The stories were almost better than the tattoo. And I like the tattoo a lot. A week later I unveiled the tattoo telling my Mom, "Now don't get mad..." Mom wasn't happy. But after I told her the story about how Mike Bee, a large guy you wouldn't want to anger, had a German federal eagle on his calf surrounded by text, my Mom softened. The text said, "I love you Grandma" in German. Mike got the tattoo when his Oma was dying -- in time to show her before she passed. You just can't make this stuff up. After hearing the story about this guy's Oma, my mom disappeared into her bedroom. She returned with a stack of newsletters from the Berlin (Pennsylvania that is) Historical Society. One of the articles had a paragraph about my ancestor. Johan Friedrich Altvater left Berlin in 1766, landing in Philadelphia. He was one of 100 families that emigrated from Germany. The article was surprisingly detailed, a real gift. And before I left Mom said, "I may not like tattoos, but I do appreciate the gesture..." I am grateful to have been blessed to find my birth mother after all these years, to have reclaimed my birth name, to learn my history -- and to sport the German colors on my shoulder, beneath the "Altfather" family name. Every time I see the inscription I smile. For Johnny Thunders, for the guys in Black Flag - who I met in Miami in 1982, for Mike Bee's grandma, and for my own family. What a gift this experience was - from Mike Bee's moving story to my mother's remarkable gift to me: my history. And I have something on my shoulder that reminds me of this experience every time I see it. I enjoyed my time at Bound For Glory and I gotta hunch you will too. They do good work and give a damn about their clients. You can't beat that with a stick. Maybe I'll see you there. read more

I got a daith piercing done by Paul and had the greatest experience! Paul is helpful and friendly. He made me feel comfortable the entire process, throughly explaining everything each step of the way. The cleanliness and professionalism of this shop is unmatched. My favorite place for piercings!! read more

Paul is by far the best piercer in the business. Professional, respectful and funny as hell! Very detail oriented, explains everything to the T! Paul pierced my nose and put up with all my questions lol even my aftercare ones. I've recommend him to several of my friends and everyone absolutely agreed on how professional he was! Like I said best in the business! read more

I don't know what the guys problems are. They are super rude and think they're hot shit. Everytime I go in there they have attitudes and are unwilling to help in anyway. I went in just a few hours ago to inquire about a tattoo. I asked the big bald guy Dave his opinion on where I should place the tattoo I was interested in getting. He said, " I already told you my option." All I was looking for was some discussion about placement and size, seeing as how that is his job. I felt very disrespected by his tone and attitude. I asked why whenever I came in there he had an issue with me. He proceeded to tell me to go "fuck myself". I have heard of and experienced their rudeness many times but thought maybe Id give them one last chance. What a mistake. The last thing I want is to be told to fuck myself and get out of the shop. Really upsetting. I could see if their tattoos atleast were decent, but not even. Im surprised this shop is still in business at all. read more

Nick Caruso is an amazing tattoo artist. The piece Nick did on my arm is the most amazing looking tattoo I have and I couldn't believe how fast he was. It's a beautiful shop. They take what they do very seriously and at the same time seem to always be having a great time. I love this shop enough to go back to Staten Island over and over again. read more

I've been getting tattooed at BFG for almost 4 years and not once have I ever left unhappy. The shop is clean,organized, and has amazing decor (before and after they relocated). I'll usually go to John or Tom but every single artist is unbelievably talented and will never leave you disappointed. They truly are the best Staten Island has to offer especially if you love bold, colorful, traditional tattoos like myself. I refuse to go anywhere else! read more

The front desk dude Vinny was so professional and a very sweet boy. Would highly recommend this shop. Clean professional work.

I brought my girlfriend from Canada with me to get artwork done here around the summertime of last year. Staff was very helpful in getting a design done on the spot for hers, and I brought a design in for mine. Both tattoos came out really awesome and still look very clean in the linework and shadows a year later, and we didn't have to empty our pockets to get the work done. I will definitely be back for another piece! read more

Got my first tattoo with Francisco. He was amazing. He was super accommodating, professional, and explained the whole process before and during the session. I showed him what I had in mind and he drew up an amazing version of it. The final product was better than I could have imagined! Everyone in the shop was lovely and I had an overall great experience! I highly recommend going. Thank you!!! read more