I have been to Gastown Tattoo many times over the past several years for laser removal, and I have had one tattoo done here. Laser: Cleo, who does the laser removal here, is so nice and friendly. She knows what she's doing, and she made a very painful experience for me a little easier. I would always look forward to seeing her and having a little chat. I appreciated her knowledge and expertise when it came to having my tattoo removed. Tattoo: There is a vibe here that I find a bit off-putting. Sometimes the people at the front desk have been courteous, but often aloof to the point of unfriendly. I feel quite unwelcome in the space, and the artist who did a matching tattoo for my friend and me really didn't seem to want to be doing it (we had asked and made sure he was ok with it, and he agreed). I would come back her for laser removal, but not tattooing (unless there was a specific artist who I wanted to see). read more

Been coming to see Amanda for a few years now. Gone to a few artists before, but didn't get along as well as I'd like. Pros: - Amanda's a gem: honest, funny and fun personable. Need to talk to be able to talk to someone when you're laid out for a few hours in pain. - bit of a wait for bookings, I waited four and a half weeks between consult to ink time. - a good job coordinating and multiple reminders. - super clean studio FYI: - parking is brutal in gastown. I park at Tinseltown and go over sometimes (if tat is under two hrs), but super easy to just transit - shop sits on a one way street, if driving - be prepared to pay a deposit aft the consult ($100 usually) read more

Awesome awesome place! Got some of my favourite tats here ever. Jon was awesome to work with and understood exactly what I was looking for, 100% check em out! read more

With a less talented artist some may had said I've crossed the line into crazy cat lady territory, getting my cat's face forever marked into my forearm. Maybe it's starting to get a little weird. But luckily for me, I chose Mitch, an incredibly talented artist who turned my idea, a few ramblings, some printed photos and a lot of enthusiasm into a rendering that is just stylized enough to make it cute and classy with just a touch of a traditional tattoo form. Exactly what I wanted. The coloring and placement can be tricky when I already have two other large tattoos by two different artists filling the majority of my arm, but Mitch was meticulous. So many artists (and people!) will try to breeze through the placement and sizing process, which while it seems simple, is extremely important - ink really needs to fit with your body and (if applicable) other body art. Mitch did an amazing job, and is a genuinely nice and humble guy. Browsing through the other portfolios, everyone who works here seems to be masters of their craft, and everyone in the shop is super laid back and unpretentious. The space itself is beautiful as well, showcasing art from many local artists. The atmosphere is fun, interesting and relaxed. On top of all that - they regularly have tattoo sales! Yeah - tattoo sales. Walk in on the right day and you can choose from a page of simple yet nice tattoos for a low price, which is actually pretty fun if one happens to strike you. Fabulous artists, great place, nice people. read more

Pacific Rose Tattoo - Photo by Kate Brown from GastownBlog - Tattoo Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

One of the best (if not THE best) tattoo shops in the city. I have had tattoos done by two different artists at Gastown Tattoo, and both times were very positive experiences. As talented as the pros at this shop are, the only "attitude" I've ever encountered has been professional, welcoming and non-judgemental. These guys are great, and I'm looking forward to getting more work done here in the future. Although Gastown Tattoo has a ton of positive reviews on here, I'm a bit surprised that no one has mentioned Arlin's work. I was looking to get a sleeve done for quite some time, and I had spent hours upon hours pouring over tattoo artists' work all across the West Coast trying to find that special portfolio that screamed "pick me!" When I saw Arlin's portfolio, I loved every single piece he had done. Although many of the artists at Gastown Tattoo seem to favour the new school/old school style, Arlin does a lot of watercolour, sketchbook, and geometric-looking tattoos. Given that he has a constant waitlist going, it seems he's got quite a few fans of his unique style. When I finally got the chance to go in for a consultation with Arlin, I had only a few nebulous ideas of what I wanted, and a couple pieces of art to show what I was going for. In essence, I told him that I wanted something involving cats and outer space. When I came back to start my tattoo a couple months later, I was thrilled with what he had put together for me. We finished it over two sessions, and now I have an amazing piece of art that I get comments on all the time. One person actually said, "that's the nicest tattoo I have ever seen in my life." Well, shucks. **TIP** If you're trying to get work done by Arlin, follow him on instagram. Every so often he'll post when the waitlist is open, or if he has a last-minute spot open for a smaller piece. read more

Pacific Rose Tattoo - Cosmic Cattoo by Arlin Ffrench. - Tattoo Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

I was fortunate enough to book in with Uncle Arlo and I was absolutely blown away. I've seen his work on Instagram and I was sure I was going to love what I got but it turned out better than I imagined. I would never hesitate to recommend him or this shop. Clean, professional, easy to talk to, skilled! read more

Pacific Rose Tattoo - Work done by Uncle Arlo in under 2 hours! - Tattoo Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

Wow! I absolutely love my new tattoo! Its so beautiful and exactly what I want. Tom did an excellent job and was one of the best tattoo artist I had ever. He is also super easy to talk to and a dog-lover! We had really fun conversation which helped to ease the pain. I would love love love to get another tattoo from him again! Follow him @ tompennytattoo! But I had to take one star off not because of the tattoo artist but the front desk service. She is SO COLD. Like I am not asking you to give me hugs and kisses, just a simple smile would do. I mean come on, is that too much to ask?? I felt like she is not passionate about her job... she literally just slap the bill on the desk, I mean isn't that kind of rude lol. Idk, like everyone else is so friendly and nice but she kinda ruined the day... she may be a nice person but she is definitely not good with costumer service. She makes me feel so awk and not welcomed.. like am I not cool enough for you?? Nevertheless, the tattoo was great and I guess that's what really matters at the end of the day. This place offers really nice tattoo and have a bunch of professional tattoo artist. Definitely check out tom, you won't regret! read more

Pacific Rose Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

I got tattooed by Amanda Meowzen at Gastown, and I couldn't be happier with the result. She did an awesome job of taking the reference material I provided and creating a unique image based on it in her own style, which is exactly what I wanted. This was also my first time getting tattooed, so I was pretty nervous, but Amanda told me what to expect without freaking me out or bullshitting me about it being painless. The actual tattoo process really wasn't too bad, and she was friendly and fun to talk to throughout. By the time it was over, it hardly felt like any time had passed. I love my new tattoo and I hope I'll be back for another one soon! read more

Pacific Rose Tattoo - Freshly inked tattoo. - Tattoo Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

Easily the best experience I've ever had getting tattooed! My artist Olivia was so welcoming, kind, and patient. She took the time to make sure I was comfortable at every step in the process, and really listened to what I was asking for. The day started out stressful and she immediately put me at ease, and made sure I could just focus on being tattooed. Miko was also incredibly kind during my time there, helping me over the phone and in person, and even offering me their food when I needed a snack. Everyone went above and beyond, and I couldn't be more thrilled with how my tattoo turned out. I'd recommend everyone come here! read more

To celebrate Canada's 150th, and, as the beer commercial says, "I AM CANADIAN", I went into Gastown Tattoo to be inked for the occasion! Master Artist, Amanda Meowzen, put the most awesome Canadian Maple Leaf on my shoulder. I love it! Next time I'm on the beach in Mexico or wherever, people will know I am a proud Canadian. This year, more than ever, I could not be more proud to display that fact! Happy Birthday Canada! Check out Amanda's work @meowzen on Instagram! read more

Pacific Rose Tattoo - Here is my new ink! Love it! Thanks Amanda Meowzen! Follow Amanda on Instagram @meowzen - Tattoo Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

Great shop with great artists. I've been tattooed here by Mitch and Boone. Great american traditional tattoo artists here and I can't think of a better shop for this style. And the shop itself is super clean and super cool. read more

I had heard through the grapevine that these guys recently got a laser for tattoo removal. I have a real bad tattoo that I got when I thought that tribal was cool, haha. I wasn't sure whether to cover it with another tattoo or just get it removed. I know this shop has a good rep in the industry (my buddy is a tattooist at another shop) so I went in for a consultation. I liked how they weren't pushy. The laser tech dude just told me my options straight up and seemed very knowledgeable about the subject. I decided to go ahead and get my first session. He quoted me only $100 bucks for my tattoo which is fairly large. It definately was painful but not as bad as I thought (it took like 30 or 40 secs). It felt like a sunburn for a day or two. It's been just over two weeks and I can still see my tattoo fading. Super happy to have found a place to remove it for such a good price. I will go back in a month for another session! read more

Pacific Rose Tattoo - Waiting area.. - Tattoo Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

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I love this place, I'd had multiple pieces done by Mitch, Matt, Frank, and Garret who occasionally comes back to guest spot. Every artist there is incredible. I'm always easy going and let the artists just whip up magic with a simple idea i give them, never been disappointed. They are more than willing to accommodate"(if possible) or give options, to make sure you get what you want. *also, they dont mess around with that bullshit oneply toilet paper read more

Just go and book your appointment already. Stop searching. Stop second guessing. This is the place for you. For everyone. It's the best. This shop is clean and legit with a super relaxed atmosphere. The prices are reasonable. Everyone is really friendly, helpful, and professional. No attitude. No "you're not cool enough to be in here" vibe. Which really works for me as I am the opposite of cool. I could go off for quite some time about how rad Matt is but you'd get bored. Synopsis: he is bananas talented and a pleasure to chat with. Now go and get that thing you've always wanted artfully added to your body canvas for all of eternity. read more

I have been getting tattooed at Gastown Tattoo Parlour since it's opening (I was actually the first person to ever be tattooed in this shop!) and i've been going here ever since! With a large cast of talented artists working in a wide range of styles and producing inspired, original artwork this shop can definitely meet the needs of anyone interested in getting anything from their first tattoo to huge full chest / back pieces etc. This shop is definitely highly recommended, fair prices, friendly, professional staff and a very clean and relaxed atmosphere. Those concerned with the potential "attitude" of some tattoo shops have nothing to worry about when visiting Gastown Tattoo Parlour! read more

0 stars. Where to start. My Daughter booked a tattoo for Sat Apr 20th. While we are away they called to tell her that they have doubled booked and could she come in Apr 27th. Today Apr 27th they pushed her back three hours. Upon arrive they asked her to wait another 40mins because they were behind. Very poor business. read more

Amazing. After having a rough time getting in touch with the shop, I received a message from one of the owners on Yelp! Mitch and Ed were extremely helpful and I was booked in for a consultation within 24 hours. Got the actual tattoo today and I love it! Shawzy did an incredible job and made my first tattoo experience unforgettable. Thanks again for the AMAZING customer and the AMAZING tattoo!!!! read more

My artist was not nearly as good as the photo's she previewed. I was double booked on my appointment more then 3 times. The staff working the desk was rude ( only the one girl). I would never recommend gastown tattoo to anyone that wanted realism or detailed work. $5,000 dollar tattoo & it was a terrible job. thanks for nothing. read more

I was very happy to be tattooed by the talented and ever so humorous Amanda Meowzen! I have two larger pieces done by her and they are well done, vibrant and illustrative. I get a million compliments a day about her tattoos on me and I never hesitate to recommend seeking her out! She is lovely and her work speaks for itself! read more

I got my very first tattoo done by Arlin (a.k.a Uncle Arlo) I am a huge fan of his work and style. I asked him for something simple with black ink and he delivered. My tattoo is a bit different from what I've seen on his Instagram but that's not a complaint at all! It's just an observation I made. It just shows me how skilled/versatile/flexible he is as an artist, something that I appreciate. He only had my awkward, weird, and brief explanation of my idea to work on and he was still able to create a beautiful tattoo out of it. I get compliments such as "it's totally you" "it matches your personality", etc etc. I have concluded: He must have some mind-reading powers. Super friendly and easy to talk to. Professional and clean. I was able to talk to some of the other artists while I was getting my tattoo - very chill people. I am thankful that I got my first tattoo from, Arlin. I will definitely be emailing him in the future for another tattoo. Thank you, Arlin! I love my tattoo. read more

I had this place recommended to me by a coworker with great tattoos. She said her friend worked there but that everyone there did great work and showed me a great little tattoo he did for her. My friend and I set up times to go get tattoos. My artist ended up being Henry, the friend of my coworker! I was super particular about my design and he spent probably an hour just drawing up the perfect text for me. After that it was no time at all, the stencil was drawn up perfectly, on and done before I knew it. My friend was tattooed by Mitch, who I believe is the owner. It was crazy how fast this guy worked, he had a stencil drawn up and ready to go... a full colour piece taking up 75-80% of my friends forearm. From the time the stencils were finished and the needle hit skin we were both out in under an hour! read more

I had my first tattoo done by Olivia and was very satisfied with the job she did - she didn't apply too much pressure and the designs were exactly like the picture I'd given her. I originally chose to come here because it had the best Yelp ratings out of all the tattoo parlors in Vancouver and seemed the most reputable from the research I did. I'm a very picky person and am often difficult to please, especially with tattoos because they are permanent so of course you want them to look perfect, and I can honestly say that Olivia exceeded my expectations. I'm having some more tattoos done by Amanda soon and I can see Amanda's name mentioned in other reviews with glowing remarks, so I'm pretty confident I'll be just as happy with them! read more

Would never go back here. Had a second appointment booked with Cleo to have tattoo removal... showed up only 4 minutes late and they cancelled my appointment. I totally get that if you're late you'll lose your time slot, but seriously 4 minutes?? Life happens sometimes and it is completely out of our control. During these times you would think that people would look out for one another but they were very quick to turn me away. I could understand if I was late for a second time or something but yaaa seriously not cool. They lost my business that's for sure. I heard inkoff was better anyway... my first appointment with Cleo barely had any results. Such a waste of money. read more

I have been getting tattooed for almost 15 years now, with over 75 hours of art on me to this point. I have had the pleasure of getting tattooed by a few artists here at Gastown Tattoo. I see they have a consistant rotation of guest artists from around the world, seriously world class artists working in this shop. I look forward to taking advantage of this guest artist rotation to get more tattoos in the future. I have been tattooed by Mitch Kirilo (owner) Matt Houston ( original cast, now tattooing in europe), Garret Egles (original cast, who does guest Spots a few times a year) and Mason Larose, another frequent guest artist. All tattoos by these chaps garner a lot of compliments from people that stop me to check out the art on my skin. Makes me pretty proud to say I love getting tattooed at GTP. I have a few tattoos that I collected in my early days (basement tattoos, bad decisions) being Lasered off by Ed, the other shop Owner. He is very polite and professional and walks me through the lazering process which helps to be calm while being lasered. It hurts, but it is a very quick process. The cost for lasering here is far better than any other option, and from doing my research, they use the top of the line Laser Machine. This shop is clean, and very friendly. The design is awesome, very classic tattoo parlour style. I love it here. Highly recommend anyone in vancouver that wants a tattoo to go check out this awesome local business. read more

I went to Vancouver a few days ago with my boyfriend! I really wanted to get a new tattoo! This was my second tattoo and what a great choice I made. Very professional and everything extremely clean. Arlin is an awesome artist!!!! Will be driving back here to get my next one! read more

Came in with a friend who is considering their first tattoo, the receptionist was so nice patiently explaining wait times, portfolio's, consults etc. I've never been to this shop as I got my tattoo's elsewhere but I may come back for my next one! The shop itself is gorgeous, and the people working there were so friendly. read more

This shop is great! They were able to accommodate me and a friend for a walk in appointment, everyone was very friendly. One drawback was I fell in love with the guy who tattooed me...it's a great shop and would recommend but don't go if you're not prepared for unrequited love. read more

I waited a very long time before getting my first tattoo. After researching some local portfolios online, I decided on Amanda Meowzen. After meeting for a consultation, I trusted her and decided to get 2. I had a very vague idea for a foot tattoo but she gave created something truly unique and brought it to life. I love it and get compliments every day. Everyone wants to see it up close and to know who did it. I knew what I wanted for the second one but her suggestion for the location was perfect and it looks better than I could have imagined. I couldn't be happier and highly recommend her and the shop. It's comfortable, everyone was friendly and helpful, a really great experience all around! read more

Pacific Rose Tattoo - Thank you Amanda! - Tattoo Near Me - Vancouver, British Columbia

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Sick of looking at that ex-lover's name marked on your skin? Just not your style anymore? Whatever your reason, these folks at Vancouver Tattoo Removal are happy to help you out. No judgement, no questions asked (other than the important ones like medical conditions, removal goal etc). In my search for tattoo removal which began last year (no, I don't have an ex's name, it was more of a stupid "yay I'm 18" type of deal), I looked at a few laser/beauty type places until someone suggested this place. Despite my initial skepticism about the fact that it was a tattoo shop doing laser removal, the laser folks really know what they're doing because unlike those other laser/beauty type places, they focus and specialize on removing tattoos instead of other procedures like hair removal, scar removal etc. Does it hurt? Yes, I'm not going to lie. If you've ever burnt yourself while cooking, it feels a lot like that, but the ice packs they give you really do help to get things nice and number beforehand. They sell a topical cream for $40 which is supposed to help with that too, but I never felt like I needed it in all 8 sessions. The have some pretty talented tattooists working out of the shop, in case you're looking for a cover up or a new piece altogether. Haven't gotten anything done by them though, so I can't speak on behalf of that. read more

Review is covering the laser tattoo removal only. Hands down 5/5 for these guys. From the first consult, you know Ed is a straight up guy. No gimmicks (the whole overpriced doctor thing), just a parlour that deals with skin on a daily basis and knows what to do. Prices are super reasonable, place is clean, equipment is the best on the market and results are here. I'm now at my 8th session (big tattoo with lots of ink) and it's almost gone. And yes, it's painful so take a painkiller, some numbing cream and go for it. read more

THE BEST TATTOO PARLOUR IN VANCOUVER: I have gotten many tattoos across Canada, and the last three I received from the Gastown Tattoo Parlour. They are so on point and most of the staff is incredibly friendly. I definitely recommend going here! (Especially if you like that whole traditional tattoo aesthetic.) read more

Not sure my experience with them is typical or not. It feels they are trying to milk as much money as possible from you. I asked the girl to reschedule an appointment for me due to an event that may cause medical risk by getting a tattoo so close to the event. They asked told me they will charge me $50 deposit for cancellation and then another $50 for next appointment. She kept on saying cancellation needs 3 days notice. And I kept on reminding her I am rescheduling not cancelling. She doesn't sound like she gives a shit as long as she has the $50 charged already. So I told her I am gonna find another shop. She then rudely hung up the phone. So this is my experience, if their sole intention is to milk money out of you and their attitude is to treat you like dirt, I worry what kinda good job they can do with your skin. read more

WORST PIERCING EXPERIENCE EVER!!! My new ear piercing from Gastown Tattoo did not line up properly with the one on the opposite ear so I went back to the shop to have the captive bead ring removed. The male piercer REFUSED to remove the CBR as he thought it was just fine. I patiently explained that I had measured the distance between the holes on both ears and that his piercing was out by at least 1.5 mm. He then accused me of being difficult, rudely and inaccurately commented on my 'attitude', and basically threw me out of the shop. Is this professional behaviour?? (No wonder this person has 'bipolar' tattooed on his arm.) Shame on Gastown Tattoo for having someone so unprofessional and incompetent working. On a positive note, I was contacted by a co-owner who apologized for the employee's atrocious behaviour. A full refund was promised so hopefully it'll materialize soon... read more

I've been tattooed here 3 times and adore this shop. I've had a decent amount of work done prior to this, and my visits here have been by far and above the best I've had. Before my first visit, I reviewed a ton of portfolios (it felt like I'd checked every artist in Vancouver) and chose this shop because every artist's work was exceptional! I knew that whoever I got paired up with would do an amazing job. Garret tattooed me on my first two visits, but unfortunately he's moved away now! When I went back for my latest piece, he recommended Frank to me, as their style is similar. Frank was fantastic, and I'm beyond stoked with his work. Everything about the shop is awesome. Everyone is friendly, accommodating, and hilarious. Now I just have to save my pennies so I can afford another visit soon! read more

I have been going here for the past year or so and have had 5 tattoo laser removal sessions on an old (lame) tattoo on my arm which is almost gone now. I would say it's about 80%-90% faded and i probably need a couple more to totally get rid of this ugly thing. They quoted me between 6-8 sessions. I did my research before I chose gastown tattoo removal and I found their pricing and experience to be the best. Other places seemed too sketchy (no real pics of results) or were very high priced. I do recommend buying the numbing cream they sell there. It takes away about half of the pain (the first couple of sessions I did not use it and I am a bit of a wimp). But you have to buy it before and put it on about 30 minutes before the session for it to set in. They are always professional and know what they are talking about. Great shop. read more

I had to cancel an appointment with these guys and lost my $100 deposit even though I was only 30 minutes off their 48 hour cancellation policy. I had to cancel for financial reasons so this really stung, but there was no empathy for me. Instead, I was told off for making him lose a days work, something I definitely do empathize with. I don't think I'll be heading here again :( read more

what can i say... Mitch is an artist. By far the best tattoo experience i've had. he did an awesome job on a cover up (yes the barbed wire tattoo had to go - lol). Thanks again Mitch - all the best. read more

What better way to celebrate art then making it a permanent statement on your body? I've had the pleasure of being Inked by not one but two of the resident Tattoo Artists here at Gastown Tattoo Parlour. Firstly let's talk about Frank Grimes known for his skill in Traditional Ink he's an amazing artist who puts his time and skill into every piece he does.I was previously tattooed by Frank Back in 2008 when he was apart of a different shop and am glad to see him find a new home at one of Vancouver's most renowned Shops. His line work is amazing and even with all my sunny vacations the colour has held true and looks as if I got it just last month.Id highly recommend him for Traditional Pieces and a Bonus if you let him put his own flare on it you won't be disappointed. And now Amanda Meowzen,whom I will currently call my Hero I had the unfortunate event of having an un experienced artist tattoo me the first time around leaving me with a piece that was less then desirable,now Amanda(whom normally won't work on others art) graciously excepted the challenge to change my not so pocket watch tattoo into the beauty that it is today. She has amazing attention to detail with a light hand and will gladly give you a break if (which I might have) decide you need. Her lines are impeccable and her neo-traditional style shines through in not only her portfolio but in person as well. I'd highly recommend her for anything on the darker side of art especially Neo Traditional,she has a large portfolio with original pieces available currently and doesn't have a long wait list as well. Overall 5/5 for this shop could not be happier and don't forget to check out the other artist as well! "Everything you can imagine is real." Pablo Picasso Till next Time -Vancity Gypsy read more

I was looking for a tattoo shop for my very first tattoo. I've read many good reviews about Gastown Tattoo Parlour and it was close to my place so I decided to there. Why I put 4 stars? - Very profesional - Quick email reply to all my questions, before and after the tattoo - Very hygienic and experienced tattoo artists - Great atmosphere and nice shop (decoration...) - My tattoo is really nice and I am very happy - My tattoo artist was really hot (well, it matters right?) Why not 5? - I was nervous and I felt poorly understood. For them tattoo is so common, but for me it was an important decision... - It takes some time to get an appointment. But it is worth it! In one word, that's a safe bet !!! read more

Got my first tatoo ever by Arlin yesterday and been feeling super happy and satisfied with his fantastic job! I'd definitely go back and also would recommend this place to everyone else! U won't regret it! Trust me read more