Mike deserves all his 5 stars. I have been to him twice and had wonderful experiences both times. From start to finish, he made me feel comfortable and really listened to what I wanted. The second tattoo he did on me was an add-on to the first around my side and hip. So the whole piece looks like one. The designs came out even better than I imagined -- the attention to detail and artistry are incredible. I feel like it really suits me. The shop overall is clean and professional. It's nice that his wife also works there for tattoo removals. And Lalo seems to be great if you want a portrait tattoo. I can't wait to come back for my next one. I highly recommend Mars Ink if you're looking for beautiful, custom work and a great overall experience! read more

I was referred to Mars Ink by a friend and had my first session with Mike in April 2023. I briefly told him what I wanted and when he showed me his design it was almost as if he read my mind. I loved his work so much I had to go back for more! Last week I had my third session with Mike and was amazed with the fine lines and detail that he put into my new hummingbirds. He truly is an amazing talented artist. His wife Cynthia scheduled my appointments and responded quickly via text to get me on their books. The shop was very clean and I felt like I was well taken care of. I would definitely recommend Mars Ink! Thank you so much Mike and Cynthia, I appreciate your professionalism and will be back again! read more

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I went to Mars ink for my bestfriends memorial tattoo. So glad I did! Cynthia was great at communicating and booking my appointment. Very clear with everything that needed to be handled prior to appointment. Mike took my vision and made it a complete masterpiece. The very first image he drafted i was blown away and was ready to get inked. Mike completed the piece and I will forever be grateful for the tribute ink he did. I look at the tattoo and I see my bestfriend. Thank you both for being so amazing! read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Thank you Mike!!!! - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

5 stars because communication was quick and easy, owners were very nice (through email and in person), the tattoo shop was clean and I LOVED the artwork on the walls, parking wasn't too hard to find (it is a busy street), and lastly because the end result surpassed my expectations. It is beautiful in photos but it looks AMAZING in person. I definitely do plan to come back to get more done by Mike. Cyn, the co-owner, emailed me the day after I inquired. The next available appointment was 7 months out. He was booked out for a long time and walk-ins are not accepted. But TRUST, it is worth the wait. read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Elephant tattoo surrounded by poppy's - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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He is very good, I love his work and he understands my ideas . He is very professional and easy to work with him. Definitely I will work with him again . read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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Lalo is a very talented artist with amazing attention to detail. I got a portrait of my grandmother on my upper arm, and he took his time to make sure I was good with the size and placement. The end product is perfect and I wouldn't change a thing. It looks just like the photo I gave Lalo, and it's beautiful. I live in MN but I came to CA just to get my tattoo done by Lalo and I plan to come back for future tattoos as well. I highly recommend working with him! read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Portrait tattoo of my grandma. - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Amazing! I am so happy with my new tattoo done by Mike Aveno, Everything about the process was smooth and professional. After a consult, Mike created a design I just love! His attention to the detail in the cherry blossoms I wanted is incredible. He took his time and the piece came out so so beautiful. His use of color is just gorgeous. Already thinking about the next piece I want him to create. Very highly recommend. read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Cherry blossoms - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

I had to come here and immediately post about how amazing my time was at Mars ink with Lalo. I reached out to him through social and he got me scheduled within a couple weeks and collaborated with me on what I wanted. I wanted a portrait of my sweet pup who recently passed and omg I am obsessed. Lalo is an amazing artists and skilled tattoo artist. He was so thoughtful around the time and paused the clock every time he wasn't working on me. Highly highly recommended! read more

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I returned to Mars Inc Studio because of the staff, the environment, and knowing I'm going to be out of the park happy with the outcome. Mike listens to your ideas and transforms them to an amazing, viable art piece. Then executes a final product you can be proud of forever. Thank you Cyn and Mike for another amazing experience. read more

This is an update for my latest piece that Mike did! After 3 sessions and 14 hours, here's the end result of his freehand and his creation! *i got one more session to complete the inner biceps and get the full sleeves completed! When you have an awesome artist, you get an awesome kick arse result! read more

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This review is long overdue and I apologize for not writing it sooner. I found Mike through a bunch a people who recommended me to him. I contacted Cyn (boss lady/co owner) in regards to what I wanted. I made a deposit online and booked a session with Mike (which was almost 6-8 months out, can't really remember) but when it was time to finally start thinking about my tattoo Mike contacted me through email to discuss what I wanted. Fast forward to the actual date of my tattoo...was kinda scarred, lol I've had a couple tattoos done but I haven't gotten a tattoo in over 10 years. Mike was super friendly. He welcomed me when I walked in. He finished the last minute touches and he showed me. It was exactly what I wanted!! I got a little Godzilla with my grandpas signatures underneath it. The detail was unbelievable. Yes, the shop is kinda small, but that's not my main concern. Parking could be a pain if you also don't know how to parallel park. I've had my tattoo for over a year now and I still love it to this day! I can't wait to come back to Mike to get another piece done by him. Thanks again Mars fam for a great experience! read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Tattoo done by Mike - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

I meant to write my review a few weeks ago. But now that I got the chance, I just wanted to say I really liked this shop. I was looking for another tattoo shop (just because my go to shops minimum was too much for the piece I was asking for). I happened to come across this shop many times as I pass by leaving from school. I did all my research and checked reviews & the IG page with all the artists work. I came to Yelp to post a question and right away I received a response from Cyn (one of the owners). She was very polite & was even able to give me a recommendation of who would be best be available to do my tattoo. This piece is small but has a lot of sentimental value because it was for my grandfather that had just recently passed. I was able to contact the artist Emmanuel via email. He also replied right away. Was SUPER NICE & patient with answering ALL my questions. I was booked and had my appointment within just a couple of days. Which I really liked. The shop was very clean. It is small, so definitely enough room for 1 tag along, instead of an entourage (they even note that on their website). But everyone was very friendly. Emmanuel was very nice & made sure I was comfortable & that the tattoo looked even and fit my exact mental image of it. Definitely recommend to anybody. This will be another tattoo shop I would want to come to, forsure. read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Tattoo by Emmanuel. - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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The MARS Ink Tattoo Studio staff, Mike and Cyn, have successfully created an atmosphere and experience worthy of Mike"s art and execution. I strongly recommend checking into MARS Ink and Mike"s work for your next project. read more

So hands down, Mike is a badass tattoo artist. I was struggling with finding a tattoo artist that could make what I wanted come to life. Luckily, I found the awesome Mike; he tattoos at Mars Ink in San Jose. I saw the sketch and I thought, wow, this is happening. Then when he added the background, I lost my shit. I was super ready to get my first tattoo! Throughout the session, he let me know his input on what I wanted and threw in his own style which I was more than happy with. For my first tattoo, it wasn't bad until the very end. After 4 and a half hours, we finally finished and I was in love! It's only day one of my new tattoo and everyone is loving it! Thank you Mike for your awesome skills! You truly accomplished what I was looking for! I will definitely be back for round 2! read more

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Words cannot express how grateful I am for Mike Aveeno's talented tattoo and artistry skills. I came upon his portfolio through a friend who previously got a piece done by him. While I was looking at his work, I noticed he had some of the most beautiful owls that I had ever seen. I've been looking for an artist who does awesome owls, because I previously got a horribly done owl piece on my back. For years, I haven't been able to fix it until I found Mike and Mars Ink. Fortunately, he said he was able to re-work it and bring it back to life. After putting a deposit down and waiting the customary 6 months since he's always booked (that's a good sign people), the day finally arrived to fix my back. I gave Mike complete creative control of the piece, because I clearly had no idea how to fix it. 6 hours later, Mike was able to resurrect my back tattoo from the dull life it previously led. Now I can confidently show my back again and let people know that they need to go to Mars Ink! read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - The before. Notice how it looked like a Lisa Frank coloring book page gone dull. - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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My experience at this shop has been very positive! Came in for a consult and mike was very friendly and helpful. The shop is very clean and I was greeted by everyone there it was a welcoming atmosphere. While i was waiting for my appointment date i had a lot of questions and concerns in which i kept sending multiple emails (Sorry-Cynthia) and she was more than helpful and quick in returning answers to my concerns. Came in on a Sunday for my appointment with mike and he explained the process to me. I wanted to add last minute changes to my tattoo and mike had no issues adding in to what he already came up with. All in all this was a great experience and I can't wait to come back for mike to take care of a cover up project i have and grace my arm with his art! Thank you! read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Cherry Blossom water color Tattoo with my Newborn Daughters name done by Mike. - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Had such an amazing experience with my tattooer Emmanuel. I got a thin line tattoo and it turned out so amazing and beautiful. The experience was smooth and enjoyable and I would definitely go back!! Thank you Mars Ink and Emmanuel for the awesome experience! read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Artist: Emmanuel - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Powder ombré done by Cyn, I'm so in love with it and how it looks so natural! Cyn is very friendly and easy to talk to and made sure I was always comfortable. She talked me through everything which was nice cuz I was super nervous from the beginning. Knowing that she has a medical license makes me feel even more better because everything is sanitized properly. read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Powder ombré done by Cyn. I'm so in love with it! - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Its an honor to have Mike do our Father/Son tattoo last Friday when my son turned 18. Mike is very professional and he took his time to listen to the story behind our ink. The shop itself is very clean and all the equipment he used are all wrapped individually in sanitized plastic and he make sure that everything that he skin will get contact with are all wiped or wrapped. Thanks Mike!!!! read more

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If you're reading this, this a sign for you to go here for your tattoo(s). I got my first tattoo here and I'll absolutely go back here for my second. All the staff are nice and very helpful/suggestive when finding the right tattoo design or size. I came on a Friday and I believe I was the last appointment. The tattoo artist that did mine was Emmanuel. He helped me with the sizing and did whatever to make me fully satisfied before it was placed as a stencil. Anyways, he followed all the procedures and got right on to it! Mine took about an hr and a half. Emmanuel made sure I was feeling comfortable by asking occasionally if I wanted a break or if I was ok. At the end, I loved my tattoo and the service that came with it. Again, I'll be coming back and recommending this place to others. read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - What my tattoo looks like. Emmanuel made sure the bandage was secure and safe. - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

So much to say about my experience at Mars Ink. Owner and tattoo artist Mike is totally awesome. Coming from a guy with no artistic ability Mike is able to take my ideas and bring them to life. Very clean and sterile work place always is a plus and they far exceed that. Cynthia owner/shop manager was very welcoming from the time I arrived till the moment I left, making sure I was comfortable, had water or had a snack for our long session. I will definitely be back for more work at this amazing shop. Will be posting pics as soon as I'm all healed up Thanks Mars Ink read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Sketch of Pikachu vs Obi-Wan - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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Another Home run by Emmanuel !!! Today he did the background fill on my DBZ tattoos, lovely Japanese style clouds. It looks AMAZING!!! As always, thanks Cynthia, Mike, and Paydrow for helpful advice and great conversation!!! read more

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This review is definitely overdue! The owner Mike did my first tattoo and have been coming back to add more and more on - actually still in progress ! The shop is always professional, clean, comfortable and respectful. I really appreciate all the hard work and art. Make sure to book your appointment early as they are typically scheduled out a few weeks! read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Mike did an amazing job! I loooove my violet tattoo :D highly recommend him and this tattoo studio! It was very chill! read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

I booked my appointment with Pedro back in December. Got my 1st session done on May 29th. 100% love my tattoo. I get compliments all the time when I'm at work or when I'm out. My girl got a tat with Emmanuel. And my best friend got a tat with mike months ago. I can honestly say that all these guys are badass tattoo artists. I'll be getting all my new tattoos with Pedro from here on out. read more

I got a full sleeve dragon tattoo done by Mike in the summer of 2016, and the lines, shading, and detail look just as good now as it did then. He listened carefully to what kind of art I had in mind, and he drew the entire dragon freehand but was still open to feedback and questions. I would absolutely recommend Mars Ink! read more

Mike and Paydrow are amazing artists! Mars Ink really covers a wide variety in styles. They are attentive and very passionate about their work. Guaranteed to be very pleased with their work. I know I am! Will definitely be back for more! I also love the vibe of the place; welcoming, friendly and relaxed. read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Nailed the details! I love it! - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Omg I can not go on enough about how great this place is! It's by appointment so I feel it much more organized that way. I came into MARS Ink to get a Phantom of the Opera tattoo with Paydrow--it went so well! It's far better than I could have hoped! The detailed shading even the splash of color choice! I'm still in awe of this guy. The shop is modest so they have one or no friend policy to avoid cramped quarters. They offer water, great music, and even Netflix! I sat there for about 7 hours, with breaks in between of course, and I have to say this place was simply phenomenal! Paydrow and Mike are truly the most easy going people I've ever met and I recommend either one of them! I'm definitely going back in the near future! read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Mike did a great cover up, very well detailed for a very good price. Going back soon to get more tattoos! read more

I just want to say thank you to Paydrow, this was my first tattoo and he was super patient. I was changing my mind on what I wanted and he didn't seem annoyed . He was always smiling. About the place is very clean and they are very professional with their work. I can only say thank you !! read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Loved it ! Thank you Paydrow #CarpeDiem~ Viva el momento - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

I had the best experience here and I came out with the most beautiful tattoo I have see. I will tell everyone and anyone, who will listen, to go here. I do not have a "best part" of this experience because all of it wall A+ work from the jump. Coming here was the best decision I've ever made! read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - I love my tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Went here a month ago to set up an appointment and get a quote and it was amazing; from the beginning it has a good vibe it's very open and bright, it's very clean and the artists are amazing I booked two appointments that day. Both my pieces were amazing!! I'd for sure come back for another piece. read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Tattoo me and my sister got - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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I got my first Tattoo today by the owner Mike Aveno. I went in last week for consultation, I was greeted by a gal the minute I walked in. Then I spoke to Mike, he is very friendly & kind. I had found this place here on yelp. I was impressed with Mikes work, but I was still scared because I didn't have a personal recommendation. Then his little chihuahua was scratching @ my leg. I then new I was in right place. Mike did exactly what I had envisioned & then some! Mike has a very gentle touch & his lettering is phenomenal. I LOVE MY FIRST TATTOO & JUST IN CASE I GET ANOTHER I WILL COME BACK TO MIKE. Also his place is very clean & organized that's a plus Diana read more

What an incredibly awesome, talented, and friendly tattoo artist! Mike was extremely patient as I described my idea to him and then he sketched it out and made my vision come alive! The artwork on my baby Pooh Bear sitting on a book was perfectly created with beautiful straight lines and curves! Mike has a very steady hand and a light touch, making the pain very minimal in the sensitive wrist area. Thank you, Mike, for your magical artwork! I'm very thankful to have found you on my birthday to make my birthday wish of getting this tattoo finally come true! read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Thanks Mike for this adorable Pooh Bear wrist tattoo! - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

Mike is absolutely the best. I came here with a horrible embarrassing tattoo I got when I was really young. I asked him to cover it up with a mandala and lotus flower. His sketches are absolutely unique and beautiful. He gave me tips on what I could apply to help decrease pain. He was very patient with me even while I was cursing and squirming towards the end. I am so emotionally happy on the out come of my cover up. read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Before cover up - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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Incredibly happy with my experience at Mars Ink. Came in for a consult about 6 months ago after finding Mike on Instagram. Gave a brief overview of what I was looking for, some photos of other artwork that showed some of the inspiration and met with Mike who was friendly, informative and knowledgeable. Lucked out and scored an earlier appointment after a couple of months due to a cancellation and came in a couple weeks ago. I was getting a cover up on my chest from something I did when I was young and had wanted covered up for years. The day of went smoothly. I arrived and Mike showed me what he had come up with and even did a different mock up just to see what it would look like if we tried another design. In the end we went with his original design and got right to work. He made sure I was comfortable the whole time and did a pretty good size tattoo that covered the left side of my chest and up on my collar bone and shoulder in 5 hours. I was so pleased with the end result that I booked 3 more sessions for a sleeve tattoo early next year before leaving. Pros: Convenient Not too pricy compared to some other artists Clean shop Friendly staff Easy parking Comfortable space. Cons: Shop could use a little more privacy but it's a smaller location so it's probably not an option. They also do a pretty good job with what they've got. Appointments are booked out pretty far which could also be a pro. Any good artist is going to have jam packed books so I guess it just comes with the territory. Overall, I highly recommend Mike and his team. read more

I went to a few other tattoo shops in the area to have an old tattoo detailed. I was told by these other high rated shops that I needed to cover my tattoo that there was nothing that can be done. Well they were wrong! Mike is a true artist and was able to do a complete transformation. This shop is clean and welcoming and the real deal. read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - After - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

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If your reading this. It's because your wondering if it's a good shop to go to . For my experience at MARS INK ,this is my first time coming here not knowing what to expect and they made me feel very comfortable. The staff Mike , Emmanuel, Cynthia, Paydrow are wonderful , welcoming people. I will be returning for future art from each artist since each artist specializes in many creativity, I do wanna thank Paydrow very much for these pieces and looking forward for my next sessions to add more family to my arm. Paydrow exceeded my expectations on my parents portraits and can't wait to add more. Thank you guys again. See you soon... read more

MARS Ink Tattoo Studio - Parent portraits - Tattoo Near Me - San Jose, California

The Cover Up Master - Hands Down. Covered up (still pending and hoping the final product will be badass) my old tattoo I have been dreading for yrs. The only artist I've gone to who will consult with you, pre-draw your drawing and assure you are comfortable before your actual tattoo appointment. Very unique artist. Keep up the good work. Need I say More? read more

For my seventh tattoo, I went to MARS Ink. I was immediately greeted by a friendly staff, an adorable chihuahua, and an art-filled and clean facility. I had been in contact with them via email ahead of time, and was impressed with their quick and helpful responses. I ended up doing a walk-in and was so pleased with the experience. The artist was kind, sanitary, and very talented. I will definitely be back to MARS Ink again! read more