Wonderful tattoo shop! Laura was my artist and she was fabulous. I wanted something very specific and been to other tattoo shops that had so many reasons why they couldn't do it or wanted to change my idea drastically, it wasn't that difficult in my opinion and Laura did exactly what I wanted. They had thin enough needles for the dates. The whole vibe of the shop was amazing. I highly recommend. I didn't even have an appointment. I was a walk in. read more

Godspeed Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Mateo, California

Zach did an amazing job on my tattoo. He was very friendly, professional, and kept his workspace extremely clean throughout the entire session. He was easy to communicate with and consistently checked in on me to make sure I was comfortable. Overall, the shop had a great vibe and the whole experience was smooth from start to finish. I'd definitely recommend Zach and this shop to anyone looking to get a tattoo. read more

Godspeed Tattoo - Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Mateo, California

An amazing experience by me, 68 years old and 1st tattoo! Amazing artist Zack Rose at godspeed tattoo in San Mateo. No pain and beautiful artwork by an amazing artist, Zach Rose, thank you my young brother. read more

Godspeed Tattoo - Same as my son, Persian Dadger with his name on it. - Tattoo Near Me - San Mateo, California

Please make an appointment with the legendary Nick B, owner of this fine establishment. Nick has been so good to me over the years, and I always leave 100% happy and ready for my next tat! Best shop in the Bay!!! read more

A long overdue review for the best tattoo artist out there. I've received 3/3 of my tattoos from the one and only Laura Jade! Every time I come in I'm super nervous, but she always meets my nerves with so much patience and kindness. She's super detailed-oriented and she really goes above and beyond to guide you through every single step of the tattooing process. Her conversations are engaging to the point where an hour goes by and you ask yourself, "That was it?!". I've recommended numerous people to Laura and all of them are super happy with the results. Both of my parents have gotten tattooed by her as well as a few friends. All of my tattoos healed beautifully and it's all thanks to Laura; a true gift to the tattoo community :) read more

Amazing!! Would absolutely recommend this shop. I just had my second tattoo done there and I wouldn't go anywhere else!!

Nick did my first two tattoos recently and I couldn't be happier with the results. The whole process was easy, from consult to cleanup and aftercare instructions. The studio itself is clean and professional, and everyone on staff was super friendly and excited to see the results. Already planning to do a few more. read more

Godspeed Tattoo - My Twitch avatar - Tattoo Near Me - San Mateo, California

Godspeed Tattoo in San Mateo California rocks!!! Some of the best tattoo artists in town. I've been knowing Kevin Marr for many years and can say his quality of work and the cleanliness of that shop is superb!! Kevin thank you for outstanding service I really appreciate you through out the years. read more

My review is for the owner and tattooist who I tried to work with. It does not reflect any of the other tattooists at the business. I initiated contact with Nick Bergin of Godspeed Tattoo who I followed via Instagram when he posted that he had available appointments. I wanted new ink, and liked his pinup style which he is known for (I guess). I presented an initial idea, which he acknowledged and seemed enthusiastic to do. Communications were amicable and positive. After perusing more of his work on IG, I presented a concept for a piece which he "loved the idea" and said he could do some sketches. I gave him more details in writing and some images to reference to inform the design, which he accepted and acknowledged. We scheduled a consultation in person to proceed with the piece. During the consultation, the elements which I wanted in the piece were reiterated. We scheduled a date and time for the tattoo session two weeks later. Over the next two weeks, Nick never communicated with me with to show any sketches of the piece. I acknowledge that I should have asked to see a sketch before the actual tattoo session. Lesson Learned. On the day of the session, I arrived at Godspeed and Nick presented the sketch that he made. It contained none of the specific elements which had been previously discussed. When I asked him about the elements that I expected to see, he abruptly turned on me and told me that I "don't know how this works" and grumbled in a huff about "losing a day's work". I was caught off guard by his rudeness and unprofessional behavior. I relented, and agreed to do the piece which he showed me as I felt I could do this piece and still have him design the piece that I originally wanted as a compliment to the one he sketched. As far as I can tell, Nick took the last image I gave to him for ideas, and simply redrew it in his "style." At the end of the session he snapped pics of the tattoo and within an hour of the session he posted it on his personal and business Instagram accounts and tagged me. He never asked me for permission to post or tag me in his self-serving post. Nick ignored requests I made with specific details I wanted to see in the tattoo design. Even after the first tattoo session, we scheduled a second session for the tattoo that I originally wanted; he kept my deposit to apply to the next session. With more than a month until the next session, I DM'd him to follow up and ask about being able to see sketches prior to the next tattoo. In his response Nick was short, rude, and unprofessional, even when I was retaining him to do even MORE ink. I checked in with him a few times and I set a specific day to follow up with him so I could see the piece before it was tattooed. I repeatedly asked him for his "process" as to how custom tattoo requests are executed. He ignored any request to gain clarification on his design and inking process. As of the last interaction, Nick emailed me to decline doing any further business with me. He has has yet to acknowledge and explain his behavior during the first tattoo session. I've had plenty of custom tattoos where the tattooist consults then shows me sketches of the piece before it goes permanent. After seeing Nick's work on other clients, I wrongly trusted that he would produce something that resembled the concept which was reiterated several times in writing and verbally. I genuinely hope that I am an exception to how he conducts business and treats clients. I can only assume that he has some (undisclosed) personal issue with me which is reflected in his unprofessional behavior. If you do patronize his business, I highly suggest that you require sketches to be presented before allowing him to proceed with the tattoo. read more

I've personally had three tattoos done by Nick at Godspeed and not only is his art amazing, they healed beautifully without any issue. His shop is clean and his set up met my high cleaning standards. He's easy to work with, kind, knows his craft. I highly suggest setting an appointment. You can also do an art consultation with Nick as well - prior to your ink appointment - to figure out what you want, where you want it and if it is something he can do. Like a true artist, he doesn't do everything, everywhere - but he knows his craft and worth the time. Nick has always been a joy to work with, comes up with great ideas with you and an all around amazing person. If you're looking for great art, a wonderful experience - call Nick - tell him Sabs sent you. read more

Our favorite place. Love everyone here. Can't recommend this place enough - super wonderful environment. Every artist here is a great talent. read more

Great experience getting my first tattoo!! Laura was very patient with me and comforting as I took this leap. I would highly recommend her for your next (or first) tattoo session!! Thank you Laura!! read more

Godspeed Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Mateo, California

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Make an appointment during covid! I came promptly at 11AM and was told to come back at 1 PM for walkins. Thanks great customer service :)

If you are looking for a tattoo shop, look no farther! Godspeed tattoo is the place to go! Nick the owner is amazing! I got 3 tattoo done there and I am so happy with it! The very first one done 12 years ago still look fresh and none of the colors have faded! read more

Godspeed Tattoo - Eddie from Iron Maiden. - Tattoo Near Me - San Mateo, California

Been here a bunch, fantastic spot. Everyone's super chill and great at what they do, makes you really comfortable w the hygiene and the vibe

I have walked into this shop twice and the guy is super rude. I walked in on a Wednesday with my BF to get a simple small tattoo with him on the top of our thumb...both of us have sleeves. My sleeve comes down on the top my hand. He said "I don't typically do hands". What criteria do you need to qualify for typical? This coming from the tattoo guy who's hands are covered in tattoos. Super rude. This is the second time I've left this place and someone was rude...go to royalty tattoo collective in Burlingame. Super nice guys and they actually tattoo what you want...where you want it. No typical criteria. read more

I had a great experience for my first tattoo. I felt comfortable and I loved the artwork all over. I would definitely recommend! I had Zachary, who explained what I needed and helped me rework the design until I was happy. I wasn't fully sure of all the details, but he helped me figure everything out! read more

Just got my second tattoo from Nick, and his work is incredible! Highly recommend any of the team at Godspeed- sensible, authentic, and kind. Already started planning the next project with them! read more

Godspeed Tattoo - Outline and shading - Tattoo Near Me - San Mateo, California

Found this spot on Yelp and had a great experience with Nick!! He made sure I liked the design and was willing to make any edits along the way. I felt comfortable the entire time. They also took COVID precautions well. They took my temperature and I was the only customer in the shop. I would come back for another. Thank you Nick! read more

Godspeed Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Mateo, California

I have had the pleasure of working with Nick on a countless number of tattoos over the last five years. He is a consummate professional, and does great work. While I may not live nearby any longer, I always make sure to make a visit to Godspeed Tattoo to get tattooed by Nick while I'm in the Bay Area. read more

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Amazing tattoo and can't wait to go back!!!!! Thank you Laura!!! Great experience overall.

Laura was great. Lovely first experience. She's so clean and methodical, and clearly a perfectionist! She took my ideas and made them real. read more

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They read Yelp reviews at Godspeed. While my best friend was being tattooed by Bryn, we talked about Yelp a bit and he mentioned that someone complained about calling repeatedly to no avail. It only occurred to me that that person he was talking about is me! The day we went to get my best friend's newest tattoo, Bryn was the only guy in the shop. Whenever the phone would ring, he would have to stop, take off his glove, answer the phone, put the glove back on and start tattooing again. Now, I totally get it. Here's my best friend's incredible sugar skull: http://farm5.static.flickr.com/4135/4750833665_de637de11f_o.jpg If you ever want a tattoo, come see Bryn. He's got over 17 years of experience, is a really nice guy, listens to good music, and most importantly does great work. Go look at his portfolio: http://www.taylormadetattoo.com/ read more

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I've gone to a few tattoo shops with friends and was either intimidated/didn't get a good feeling or lacked the nerves/inability to commit at that time. I got a recommendation to go see Nick @ Godspeed. He was patient, welcoming, professional, & showed an interest in what I wanted. I was so happy with the 1st, I came back for a 2nd, and will be back for #3....#4... (I can see it's addictive) He somehow got in my head and came up with something even better than the image I had in my head. I am excited to see what he comes up with for my next one. I can't say enough good things about him... Godspeed is a great clean shop. Nick treated me well. I'm happy with the work he did. ** update ** Nick just finished my 3rd & 4th tattoos; Again, they are great, better than what I wanted. Going back for my 5th in a couple weeks; and who knows after that... Thanks Nick! read more

Since my last review, I've been tattooed by both Bryn and Kevin, both tattoos turned out fantastic and went above and beyond my high expectation. What more can I add? The artists at Godspeed are truly professionals in the art of tattooing and they are patient and genuinely care about their art. Pictures speak for themselves so I'll put up pictures soon!! My side note tip is that even if you are coming from San Francisco, the trip is worth it. Go here!! Besides, you don't have to worry about street parking because out of the dozens of times I've been here, street parking is always right in front of the shop. read more

I have been searching for a place to get a tattoo at for a while; then I came across this place here on yelp, and well with great reviews why not check it out?! They responded quick and answered my question through yelp DM. I was given an appointment within a day of contacting them, and when I actually showed up - patience - is all I can say. The people working there were really nice and patient with me. They allowed me the space to really make sure I knew what I wanted with no pressure! I decided to go forward with them, and I'm pretty happy. Only after going home, I found one thing I wish I could change, but then again- nothing is 100% perfect in life. So , I'm satisfied with the outcome. Great rates, great customer service, great outcomes read more

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Update on the fact that I had to get a hummingbird re done because Nick did the most terrible version I've ever seen. Heard from the tattoo grapevine that this guy is actually known for occasionally doing screwed up half ass tattoos. So I'm surprised I haven't seen many terrible reviews like mine. Again, if you're thinking about going to Nick for the first time, BEWARE of my horrible experience with this shitty crazy man. Before/After below read more

Just got a tattoo done tonight by Nick, and I'm SOO happy with it!! I have 4 other tattoos and this is definitely my favorite! Nick was super nice and accomodating and not at all intimidating or douchey like guys at lots of other shops are. I would definitely recommend coming here! read more

Godspeed Tattoo - By:Nick 2/19/10 - Tattoo Near Me - San Mateo, California

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Nick has been my one and only tattoo artist. We have done 5 piece's together and I plan on more. Nick has only ever been professional, kind, and a damn good tattoo artist. read more

We LOVE Godspeed! Kevin is a wonderful artist. He won't ink you if he doesn't think it looks good. Whenever I come in, the other guys are so friendly. They were so supportive when I got my first tattoo. I'm going back in a couple of weeks to get my tattoo extended. My boyfriend got a sleeve and we're both happy with the results. We follow Kevin on Instagram since we're both fans of his work. read more

Godspeed Tattoo - My boyfriends sleeve from @kevinmarrtattoo's Instagram - Tattoo Near Me - San Mateo, California

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I got a tattoo from Nick and absolutely love it!!! He was able to add extra details I asked for and his color choices were phenomenal. He was also a joy to work with and super fun to chat with while he works! I have over 30 tattoos and this was one of my best experiences at a new shop. Definitely will be coming back :) and recommending his artwork. read more

Nick is awesome, so kind and patient. my husband and friends and I have been getting tattoos from him for 15+ years. He works really well with his clients and makes adjustments as needed. I've told him before, I've never met a nicer tattoo artist. The shop is very clean and professional, I always recommend friends there. read more

I called and asked a few questions. One of them being if they charge per finger tattoo or just by the hour. (They answered me btw) Literally 10 minutes later, we walk in and explain what we wanted The guy tells us 'We're not really doing finger tattoos right now." OKAY DUDE. read more

Nick and the team are great artist and professionals. Got all my questions answered and ideas discussed. The tattoo shop from Nick is clean, all in order and he uses new, sterilized equipment every time. The artwork in the room is great, self-made and a good source for inspiration. Walked out with a new tattoos. Had a great time with good music. read more

To the Gentleman of Godspeed Tattoo!!!! I just wanted to say thanks again for my awesome tattoos. It's always a pleasure to hang with such wonderful talented professional people who respects everyone that walks through the front doors of the shop!! Thank you for having such and clean shop and putting everyone's safety first during theses strange times. Y'all's hands are truly a gift!!!! read more

They make you wait hours even with an appointment. Then when whoever you have an appt with is done with their client they refuse to help you and make you wait another couple hours for another staff member. After waiting 2-3 hours here I was told they weren't able to do the tattoo requested. Will never come back here. Don't waste your time. Go to people with better communication. 1 star only because Yelp won't allow you to write review without giving. Stars. Laura isn't helpful and not skilled at all. So if you do decide to go here please avoid her at all cost. Please be upfront and ask questions about your tattoo right away without waiting for them to draw up a sketch bc trust me it will not be the way you want it to be. Zack avoid his customers he had appointments with so he's not helpful and he'll throw you towards Laura who also isn't a good artist. Seems like she can only do what's on the sample pictures at the shop. Wasted so much time here. read more

Thank you Nick for my beautiful piece! My brother and I wanted to get sibling tattoos and after a bit of research we found this place. I currently live in LA and wanted to get it done back home. Contacted Nick via Yelp and I was so appreciative of the quick response. They normally only do appointments in person but Nick was so great and was able to do the consultation while I was still in LA. When my brother and I came in, they had the designs ready to go. Everything was SO clean. Im a stickler for hygiene especially because I'm in the healthcare profession. The appointment was quick and done so professionally. I'm coming back here for the next time I want a tattoo. THANK YOU SO MUCH. read more

Godspeed Tattoo - Thank you, Nick! I'm in looooove!! - Tattoo Near Me - San Mateo, California

I originally went in to go see Nick, but he was all booked up for 2 weeks (super nice guy though!). I personally did not want to wait two weeks to get tattooed, so I agreed to a same-day appointment with their other artist, Campbell. Although there aren't many reviews on him here, trust me, he is SO worth seeing! He is a 5-star artist in every way! He knows what he's doing, so he's not afraid to give you some direction/feedback on your design ideas, he's talented, he's professional, and not to mention, just super nice! I know getting a tattoo can be nerve-wrecking, especially if you're considering getting one for the first time, but coming to this particular shop really helps minimize all stresses/anxieties that come with getting one. I personally have a few tattoos from other parlors, but will definitely be coming here from now on. I'm totally sold! Highly recommend this shop in general. Clean, spacious shop with professional/kind/talented staff! What more could you ask for? Lastly, the price was super reasonable/fair! :) Not a ridiculous shop that overcharges you for just being there. I would try to bring cash because the artists understandably prefer to be paid directly! (just to save you some time from walking to the market to pull out cash). read more

Well that was disappointing.... I have been thinking about my idea for a while and as I searched Yelp, I was so excited to come visit this shop. I called a few weeks back to set an appointment to discuss my idea with a tattoo artist and figure out how to make it work as a tattoo. They told me to just come in and we could discuss there...great!! I'll do that! Today I happened to get off work early and the first thing I thought to do (before anything productive, naturally) was stop in to discuss my idea, pay my deposit, and set a tattoo appointment. I headed into the shop and was ready! The artist asked me what I was thinking and then basically without telling me no, told me no. As I was trying to elaborate my idea and show him my inspiration, he looked at the picture and just laughed. Ok, great! Thank you so much for not only making me feel like an idiot, but also question if my idea was even possible. I explained that I wanted to meet with someone to discuss my idea and figure out how to make it possible. His response, "We don't brainstorm with people. People who don't tattoo don't understand how it works...." yup, exactly, that's why I was hoping as the professional you would help explain how to take my idea and translate it into a tattoo. The advice I was given was "just give us an idea and let us do our thing..." I'm sorry, but I would like a little collaboration before putting something permanently on my body. I am super bummed to say the least and wish my first interaction with this shop was different. I get that this tattoo was a bit more simple, but I have big pieces in mind for the future and was trying to find an artist that I trusted and respected. I might try and set a specific appointment with a different artist to discuss (again!), but I will definitely not return to the person I met today even if he promised "our next date will be different" after realizing he came off rude and could sense my disappointment as I was reviewing their books. He did attempt an apology, which I did appreciate, but the overall interaction was just not good. p.s. I was asking for a vintage lightbulb, not the Mona Lisa. read more

For my 200th review I knew I had to do something special. Where had I been that was not yet reviewed? Where was a place I absolutely adored and had not yet shared with my fellow reviewers? And then it came to me in the shower this morning... my most beloved part of my body was the gorgeous blue tattoo on my spine. Aha! I came to Godspeed for the first time in 2007. I already had a tattoo, but I had a design in mind for my back and on the many reviews I'd heard from my friends I decided to check it out. First of all Godspeed is the quintessential tattoo shop. I love the loud music playing, the personal designs they have out and about, and the great attitude of the artists themselves. Nick was my artist both times and he made me feel very comfortable and safe. All their equipment is sterilized and everything is very clean. After the fact I was told detailed instructions on how to take care of my tat and if I had any issues to call them immediately. So clearly when I wanted my third tattoo the next year, I came right back to Godspeed. Since Nick was continuing the same design from the year before he remembered me, and offered to re-color my previous tattoo with no extra charge. This way there wouldn't be a few months in between where one portion would be brighter than the other. I was once again very impressed. I would recommend them to everyone I know, which I frequently do. I can't wait to go back this year to continue my design. read more