I'm convinced that tattoo artist Cheo Park is this beautiful shop's secret weapon. Sure, the place is famous for the owner tattooing all the Avengers, and while that is dynamite stuff, you really need to know about the quiet, petite genius set up in the far back corner. I was looking for years for someone who could flawlessly design and execute my full left arm sleeve. There are a lot of complex elements that needed to be woven together visually and he delivered. We still have a few more sessions to go to finish it up, but it has been beyond worth every penny spent ($250/hour) and every minute (40 hours and counting) under his gun. Cheo is friendly, subtle, funny, respectful, a true collaborator, ridiculously talented, and if you're lucky, he might have his adorable rescue dogs with him at the shop... read more

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Always the best. Clean, professional and Josh is an amazing artist and a great conversationalist. I only go to Eastside Ink.

The best. Nicest people. Best work made me feel so comfortable. Been back 3 times and brought friends

I have been coming to East Side Ink only since March 2023. But, one visit addicted me! I now have four tattoos by two different artists, and every single one of them is cherished by me and envied by others! The problem is that I love this place. I love coming here. I love the people here. The fact that I walk out with breathtaking art on my body (I even covet my own tattoos!) is the candle in the rose on the icing on the cake. I am NOT interested in patronizing venues where everyone fancies themselves cooler/smarter/hipper/more ...anything than I. The fact of the matter is that I could NEVER have drawn what Jonah and Kreg have drawn, what Luke is about to draw, and whatever else my next target and I decide to decorate my body with. But, in no way, shape or form--from Josh to everyone else--do I ever get less than the warmest of welcomes and the most delightful chill. The fact that this place has addicted me to tattoos (I'd previously gotten one in '89 and one in '14), and tattoos that almost always show, is testament to how remarkable is this environment. If you want poseurs, go somewhere else. If you want to be treated with love, honor and respect, then walk out with art you actually wish you had on your body, even though you now HAVE it on your body...this is the place. So. Much. Love. read more

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Mr. Jonah Ellis made my experience exceptionally easy and pleasant. From the initial consultation, his exceptional skill in design and execution was evident. The tattooing process was comfortable and professional, marked by meticulous attention to detail. The final result surpassed my expectations. The entire process was relaxed and comfortable, and I am extremely happy with the final result. He maintained a focused demeanor, and whenever I had a question or concern, he addressed it perfectly. I had a very relaxing and enjoyable experience and hope to return someday. Thank you, Jonah, for your excellent work. Nancy. read more

So very happy I went with East Side Ink for my first tattoo! Mateo (Matt) was so patient and kind when I expressed my nervousness and checked in with me throughout the process. And the tattoo turned out absolutely gorgeous. Highly recommend :) read more

East Side Ink - Anklet tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

I got my entire sleeve done by Luke and I'll never get tattooed by anyone else again. He's incredibly kind, patient, organized (shows up early and ready with the design already done!) and made the entire experience so much fun and stress free. I get stopped in the street regularly with people telling me I have some of the most beautiful black and gray they've seen. Cannot recommend highly enough! read more

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Highly recommend. Mariana is an incredible artist. She takes her time and ensures every detail is highlighted in her work.

My wife and I both are customers of Jonah as our artist. One of the best experiences and very light-handed as well great conversationalist. We can't wait to come back soon! read more

East Side Ink - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

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I've had several tattoos done here, and it's been amazing every time! Love this place. The people are super friendly! ​

I got the baby Simpson tattooed on my leg here. Sounds like it would be a joke, but it actually makes a ton of sense considering my fiancés name is Maggie. Some people get their partners name tattooed on them. Others get a similarly named cartoon. I guess I just fall in that second category. Well, regardless of how dumb, funny, or frivolous of a tattoo idea you have, you can be sure that East Side Ink is going to take it seriously. Everyone in the shop from the woman working the front desk to the person that filled in the blue bow on my Maggie was incredibly professional from start to finish. It's not cheap, but I know from experience that you definitely don't want to go that route if you're looking to put something permanently on your body. They also let my friends drink wine while they were waiting for me which made the whole experience even more of a social function. If you're in the East Village and opting for a tattoo to keep you entertained, you really can't go wrong at this shop! read more

East Side Ink - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

Though everyone and their mom has tattoos these days, it's surprising to me how many places can still be snobby or unwelcoming when you're researching them for your first one. I've heard that lots of tattoo artists don't want to be responsible for those who are looking for their first one, and that others look down at those who want to do small tattoos instead of going in for an entire sleeve or chest or something. I fell into both of those categories (first-timer, small tattoo), so I was very impressed with how comfortable they made me feel at East Side Ink. First of all, the space itself has a warm and welcoming vibe, something that's not easy to do with the buzz of needles in the air and bare skin being exposed all over the place. There are lots of women working in the place (though not exclusively), which was comforting to me, too. I had an appointment with Angela, who is obviously a badass and very talented from her book and IG accounts but is also super sweet and helpful. She's confident in her work but wants to hear everything you're thinking in terms of what you want - a good balance. She must see hundreds of people a week but she still made me feel special and not at all rushed as I got my first little tattoo. I walked out of there feeling great and, of course, looking great too because she did an amazing job. Coincidentally a couple of coworkers also went to her after me to get more intricate, colorful pieces and they turned out fantastically as well. They had a $100 minimum (lower than other trendier spots I consulted with in the past), and somewhat inconveniently they only take cash. There's an ATM at the bodgea across the street if you're in a bind. I'd highly recommend it to someone who's looking for a new spot or a first-time experience that will leave you wanting more tattoos immediately! read more

East Side Ink - Classy artwork - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

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Had the pleasure of working with Jen, who is the master of micro blading brows. She changed my whole facial world! It was amazing waking up today and looking in the mirror and being like "omg yesssssssssss" !!! She did such an amazing job, and was so patient and gentle during the whole process. She made sure that each brow fits my face perfectly, working with the natural symmetry of my face, she is a true artist and sculptor. They are my new favorite thing about myself, I'm hooked! Thank you thank you thank you Jen!!! read more

East Side Ink - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

I've been under a tattoo gun many times in my day, and some experiences have been better than others. I've had some terrible tattoos, I've had some pretty great tattoos, and a few sprinkled in between. But what's funny is that my last tattoo was intended to be somewhat of a joke, but it may just be my best tattoo yet. The crew at East Side Ink are all total professionals. Whether you're walking in unannounced, or you have an appointment, they'll talk you through in a way that's very straight forward, and they'll talk you out of any tattoo they don't think you'll love in 10 years. They don't want that blood on their hands, and you don't want it on your body. They could take the money and run (trust me, it's been done to me in the past), but they have a reputation to uphold, and adhere by the proper ethics of self-respecting artists. It might not be the cheapest tattoo in Lower Manhattan, but do you really want a cut rate piece that'll go to the grave with you? No. Don't learn the hard way like I did, just go to East Side Ink and love the new you. read more

East Side Ink - maude flanders in the flesh! - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

They moved to 88 rivington street. A new better location. The place looks really nice and there's a hot chick in the front desk to welcome you. Can't go wrong I highly recommend. read more

Man as a small business owner I really don't like to write bad reviews and I have never written one until now. I feel like I got ripped off here. My girlfriend and I both got very simple small tattoos that took a total of about 15 minutes (for both) for the actual tattoos. We paid $300. This was my first tattoo so I didn't know any better. Also I was on vacation and not in the spirit of arguing or doing anything to set off a negative vibe. Apparently my friends here at home in CA all are telling me this should not have cost more than $150. So I'm not sure what went on here. They didn't have us fill out any paperwork either. Maybe the staff pocketed the $ because the owner wasn't there? I don't know but something seemed dishonest. I don't have a good feeling about this place. PS The artist (Mike from Jackson) was a nice guy and didn't have anything to do with the price which was set by the front desk girl. read more

I was finally ready to get my first bit of ink and I wanted to find the best place to get it done at. This was no easy task being in NYC and I had no intentions of going down to W. 4th and letting any old Joe do something that's going to be on my body for the rest of my life. So I heard from a few buddies that East Side Ink was the place to go. I looked it up and did my research and I was impressed. I took a trip down there to get a consult and I was sold. When you walk in the vibe is very chill and laid back. There's never any judgment on what you want to get done. The girl at the desk was very helpful and told me to look through the massive books of the work the artists had done. I chose Sweety and paid my $100 deposit and booked my appointment for two weeks. Came back in two weeks and let me just say that Sweety calmed any nerves I had. He was extremely nice and it didn't hurt that he was nice to look at as well. He's very quick and precise, I was very pleased with his work. After he was done, he took the time to tell me exactly how to take care of it. I would definitely recommend East Side Ink for your first tattoo or your seventh. The staff and the talent here is just great. read more

Holy crap... amazing. I got my first tattoo here. It was exactly what I wanted. I was incredibly unhelpful when I went in and said, "I want a tiger lily," with basically no other direction. My artist (C-Jay) pulled up pictures, went to books, and spent a lot of time trying to figure out exactly what I wanted. He spent almost an hour just on that and sketching the outline. He originally said the inking was going to take about 2 hours. It ended up taking 2 appointments and about 4 hours because he just went into so much detail and did such a beautiful job, and still just charged me for the 2 hours. I love my tattoo, get compliments on it all the time, and am already planning on my next tattoo from them. read more

East Side Ink - Tiger Lily tattoo by CJay - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

I got my tattoo done by Alex who is a true talent. He was very patient in explaining his concerns with my original design (a treble clef in pastel colors). He re-worked the design with vivid red, orange, and purple. It's been almost a week now and the tattoo is healing beautifully. This is a serious tattoo parlor that specializes in tattoos only--no piercings. Prices start at $100. They accept cash only. read more

I got my tattoo here in June 2012 and it still looks incredible. As many people before me have done, I researched the hell out of salon in NYC before getting my first tattoo and based on reviews and the art displayed on the website, East Side Ink rose to the top of the list. Josh seemed best suited as he is known (based on reviews) as being "good with fine detail" and I'd been dragging an old folded copy of a picture of a finely detailed tree and was determined to find someone up to the challenge. The minute Josh and I met I knew I wanted him to do my tattoo! What a gentle soul! Someone who made me feel even more excited about my tattoo than before. I found out that he is also the owner and had been doing this for 10+ years which made me feel even better. I came to find out that he wouldn't have an opening until two months later, and though I was disappointed I wouldn't have instant gratification, it was a further indication he was well sought after! HE WAS AMAZING and worth the wait. My best friend came with me and we had a blast. He was skilled, patient, kind, funny, and focused. Clearly a pro. My experience was excellent. Whenever we took a break he would have us walk around and view every other artists work and was invested in supporting and encouraging all customers and staff alike. The tattoo itself is excellent and healed perfectly. Even though it is on my upper inner arm (bicep) the pain wasn't nearly as bad as I thought and Josh was careful to be clean, gentle and explained everything he was doing. I felt very taken care of and like I was in good hands -- someone you can trust! The prices are real high, but it's worth it as far as I'm concerned. It's on your body forever, folks. Pay for it. read more

East Side Ink - Josh Lord. Amazing guy amazing artist. - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

With no previous tattoos, the decision to have an artist place something permanently on my body was one I took very seriously, and I am so thankful that Yelp reviews lead me to the incredible East Side Ink. I called and described what I wanted, and they were able to set me up for a consultation that week. The studio is beautiful inside and when I met with Jess M. she sat with me and we talked about my vision, and I emailed her some photos that inspired me. She took a tracing of my arm where the tattoo was to be and we set an appointment for two days later. When I went back, everything looked exactly how I would have envisioned it and I am so amazed at her artistry and ability to bring this idea to life. read more

East Side Ink - Jess M. does beautiful work - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

This is my 5th tattoo and it's a thing I always take very serious, because of the fact that it stays forever and I want it to look exactly the way I want it. I did research and this place came up. I went there and choose a person by looking into their booklets! Now, my tattoo came out good, however not the way I really wanted to have it! I choose Raul Suarez and that was my mistake! He has a huge attitude! So be careful when you end up with him. He is a great artist but his communication skills are non existent. The day I went to look at his drawing he said one thing about a change I asked about, the other day, when I was finally there to get the tattoo, it was not possible anymore. When we finally sat down to start the tattoo, we ended up arguing about one thing I thought we had decided on beforehand as well. I don't want to argue with the person making my tattoo WHILE he's making it! When he was done, he just cleaned it and walked away! That was it! It left the whole experience, which is supposed to be a fun adventure, to be something with a bad after taste! It is really too bad he made it that way! What can I say? I should have walked away on him when we started to argue before he started his work! I really should have! The place is good though and I don't actually like to give it only 2 stars! It's really only because of Raul that I can't give it 5 stars! The others were great and I will actually go back to get another tattoo! read more

East Side Ink - Done by Raul Suarez - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

Rude to potential customers. Standing outside to figure out if over priced tattoos are worth it and they treated customers like shit. Looks rundown and dirty would not come here during covid. Small tattoo cost 250$ who do they think they are. read more

I read reviews for EAST SIDE INK, here on yelp. I had made my first appointment about 2 years ago to be exact. I called in and the receptionist gave me a appointment for the next day. When i arrived there the next day, I was about 15 mins late because of the NYC mta. I sat on the couch for about 2 mins and then I was greeted by a artist named MARK HARADA. I went in for some a additional add-ons for a tattoo that I got when I was 18.. He asked me what i wanted so that he could have a idea what he had to draw up. Since i had the little fish for some years now, I just kept up with the sea theme. He drew a mermaid and some coral leafs, water waves, jellyfish, kelp and a seahorse. The tattoo takes up the whole front part of my left shin.. I have already made 3 trips to get it colored, and I only have a little bit to finish. Mark and all the tattoo artist here are all down to earth.The parlor itself is pretty clean and has a family feeling to it . Mark makes you feel as comfortable as possible and he moves pretty quickly. I plan on getting a partial sleeve started within the next week or so.. The minimum charge is $100 and from there its $200 a hr. It may sound expensive but its worth every single penny in my book..Since going here, four of my friends has gotten work done here and they love it, and also plan on returning. This place rocks!!!! read more

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My second tat and all down to THE MAN (Bang Bang) Aka Keith. As good as it gets for sure with this man. Well done mate I love my tat and will recommend others to come see you (if they haven't already). Besides my experience I read others that have similar outcomes/feedback; a clean place, affordable in contrast and professional in their office. Good job ESI !! read more

East Side Ink - Keith - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

I wish I can give it a negative 5 stars~I still can't believe how unprofessional this place is, I mean it's a tattoo shop, you expect for them to be welcoming and accommodating. I booked a session a month in advance, consistently emailed the place, they were fast to take the deposit but not even professional enough to at least let me speak once with the tattoo artist on the phone ONCE. Of course, the tattoos artist reaches out three hours before and then, of course, then they claim I never reach out via email, which btw I sent 16 emails in total. I got the attitude of course. I still was gonna go through with it because of course it's a $200 deposit and you have to follow all these rules because if not, they will keep your deposit (You basically have to come in on your knees chanting while holding a candle with your left foot, so you won't lose your deposit). I got there (20 min before) the front chic desk was rude and af and of course I sit and wait..pass my schedule time and then the was told that (THANK GOD) the tattoo artist running behind way behind and if I wanted my deposit or go to another artist but had to wait an hour (WTF) but again, LORD forbid I was late then I would've lost my deposit! OKAY WHATEVER! I took my deposit and got the HELL out of there!!!! what a bad taste...I assure that I WILL be spreading the word to friends not to go here! just because they have a reputation doesn't mean they can treat people, like shit! bye FELICIA! OH! an FYI I booked with another shop totally different experience, I AM SOOO HAPPY I didn't get tatted with all this bad energy! read more

Over the last few years I've gotten 3 large & complex tattoos at this studio with 3 different artists. Each time I've come away with the same feeling... They are the BEST! The people who work there are friendly and welcoming. Even the artist that aren't "your artist" take time to comment on the progress of your piece. Their artists are very talented and it's clear they want you to LOVE the art they created for you. I've gone back at least 9 times now, each session lasting several hours, and every session has always been positive. Most recently I've been working with @theclicketyclick Jonah Ellis. He is soooo amazingly creative it's sick. His work is beautiful, delicate and intricate. He is also a great person with a really good heart and, let's face it, an amazing dog (Owen aka:TheScaredCow) whom I just love. Going back in the spring for more work with Jonah. Can't wait! read more

Spontaneous urge to get some more ink while on our brief visit to NYC, found these guys and was very glad I chose them. Clean shop, pleasant staff. Artist Caesar was available for my walk in. Consult was well done, he drew it quickly and perfectly and we were in and out in about an hour. I've been to many shops and have had ink done from Seattle to Mexico. His was an excellent shop and best part is you can explore the east village afterwards. read more

East Side Ink - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

East Side Ink is one of the nicest tattoo shops I've been to. It's extremely clean and comfortable and the staff and artists are all super friendly and helpful. I've been getting tattooed by Josh Lord for years and he consistently does amazing work. I've recommended this place to so many people, and have brought my own mom and sister for some work by Josh as well! Call ahead if you're planning to get something done by him though - he normally has a wait list, but trust me, it's worth the wait! read more

These artists are professionals. The place is just amazing and everyone was kind and welcoming. It was not my first tattoo, but definitely it was my best experience overall. Jonah Ellis is the NUMBER ONE, he went through all the details with me on my spine tattoo, and the result is simply perfectly perfect!!! I love it!!! read more

Sweety is amazing. I emailed East Side about the tattoo I wanted and they said they would hook me up with Sweety. He called me , I told him what I wanted, and I was amazed at what he had created when I went in the day of my appointment. The artwork was exactly what I wanted. He was so calm and mellow and the shop itself was so simple and super clean. I was greeted with nothing but smiles. This is my second tattoo and I will never go to another shop again. East Side and Sweety ...you guys "ROCK"!!!!! Shannon aka Sienna read more

East Side Ink - Artist : Sweety - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

Came here with a friend of mine to get matching tattoos. We had an appointment with Caesar. He was very kind and attentive while listening to what we wanted. He was honest about how the placement of our tattoos would look best following our muscle and bone structure. Each of our tattoos took about 30 min and were $160. The shop was clean and professional. Would definitely recommend the shop and Caesar. read more

East Side Ink - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

This review is extremely tardy but have to show love to east side ink. I have 2 tattoos, both from east side ink, and I wear them both with such pride and love. My only regret is that I can't see the one on the back of my neck! I had rough ideas of what I wanted but not an exact design prior to getting both. The artists took the time to understand what I wanted and helped me to choose size and placement. Shout out to Jonah Ellis. I had about 100 different photos of feathers and he drew one exactly to my requests/vague direction. The detail is amazing and it's exactly what I didn't know I wanted. He also was really honest about his opinions on placement and size which is awesome. Love knowing I can go to someone who won't do bad work. Gotta trust someone putting permanent ink on your body. My second time there I didn't have an appointment and they were able to get me in same-day on a really busy one. So appreciated. Will be back very soon! read more

East Side Ink - My first! - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

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Had my 2nd session with Cheo Park to finish my whale shark tattoo. Came out great even after adjusting the tail to cover my surgery scar. This shop and artist are so easy to work with, I'll be back after I decide what I want next. http://s3-media3.ak.yelpcdn.com/bphoto/fxEtJwordeNPFU_y6_baFQ/l.jpg read more

East Side Ink - Whale Shark by Cheo Park - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

Dope layout and open space. I followed my tattoo artist here and was not disappointed. From booking the tattoo to paying, everything went smoothly. It's very important to do your research before you commit to a piece; my artist, Valentina, was patient and informative. There was no guessing how much it would cost or how long it would take. The whole process was smooth and enjoyable. Equipment was clean and my tattoo is healing beautifully. Would def recommend. read more

I came here (terrified) for my first tattoo on my 18th birthday.. I was greeted by Angela De Rosette, who was beyond incredible. Since it was my first tattoo, I was panicking about how bad it might hurt, or if I flinch, faint, etc.. Angela was super understanding and helped me calm down beforehand.. I got a simple Aries tattoo on my wrist, and I LOVE IT. The shop's vibe is so positive. Everybody there truly loves what they do.. I would recommend this place 100%! read more

I got my first tattoo here from one of the artists named Kreg and it was overall a horrible experience. My tattoo ended up lopsided which left me feeling very perturbed and distressed especially since the meaning behind this tattoo was very significant and as I mentioned previously, my FIRST tattoo. At this point I'm considering laser removal since the unevennesses is so pronounced. read more

East Side Ink - Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

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I could not be happier with my first tattoo experience at East Side Ink. My tattoo artist was Valentina, and she was kind, patient, and just an overall good vibe. I think it's really important having someone that makes you feel comfortable in the process. A couple of months before the actual session, I sent her some reference photos, and then a week before the session, stopped by the shop to see her sketch and go over finalizing the design. I'm super happy with the outcome! Definitely thinking about what to get next. read more

Fifty years from now, when I am a wise old wrinkled yelper, I will let you know how my ink has held up. Then we can decide if ESI really deserves 5 stars. But for right now... YES! Bang Bang (aka Keith) did an awesome, meticulous job and was very sweet. I also got to meet his 1 year old daughter -- she chilled with me on the couch while he finalized drawings. Nice. ESI is well-sized, clean, affordable, and relaxed. And it happens to be a mere hop, skip, and jump away from Grape & Grain, and Lula's, too. Just sayin'. read more

You're so pretty...it brings tears of joy to my eyes. I imagine the only thing better than getting indelibly gorgeous here is to travel to the owner Josh's eatery the V Bar. Impeccable shop, wonderful artists, and all around originals. Savor every second, cause it'll be with you for life. read more