My daughter and I were in town visiting from Arizona and decided to get mother/daughter tattoos together to commemorate the occasion. Andrew made this experience so special for us. He was warm and welcoming and very excited to hear our story. We felt destined to be at the WRIGHT place with the WRIGHT person and so thankful he will forever be a part of our story. read more

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A neat little gem, tucked away on a small street. Came here because of Roumen, who used to be at the Black Widow, and is a very well known cover up artist. Ultimately it is the artist who makes the place what it is, and I'm currently itching to see what Roumen has in stock for me, after our conversations and discussions on half sleeve cover-ups, which we are about to do soon. read more

Went to Passage for my first ever tattoo an saw Chris Wellard as my artist. The environment was clean and welcoming and I never felt uncomfortable for a second (as I found was the case in a few other shops I had checked out prior). The receptionist (So sorry I don't remember her name) was friendly and organized and altogether it was a good environment. Chris drew up a BEAUTIFUL tattoo (picture above-- the blue bird) and asked me if I had a preference in music before he started (which was considerate-- I didn't tho and ended up listening to sweet sounding happy tunes that were A-Okay with me) Chris was professional and friendly and talked to me and I was comfortable on the table the whole time (2hours and a bit) Yes, it hurt but not nearly as much as I expected it to. For aftercare I was told to keep the bandage on and remove it the next morning, I was then told to wash it and do 3 hot-compress treatments on it fresh in the morning and then to leave it alone. Chris suggested a dry heal method and a week and a half later my tattoo looks amazing. I put non-scented lotion on it when it became really itchy but aside from that the tattoo healed on it's own I thank Passage so much for an epic first tattoo experience and I can't wait to one day get another-- I'd go to Chris again in a heartbeat. Only thing I regret is I didnt tip as much as I now realize I should've-- but that's nothing to do with anyone but me- I just didn't know at the time--- next time I'll make up for it. I recommend this place 100% if you want a good quality tattoo by genuine people. Ps. Not too expensive either -- minimum is $80, they do $130/hour and my piece (which is quite large (prob 40 squared cm) and coloured) was $300 Go here! But call in advance -- they get booked solid-- quickly. read more

Passage Tattoo - Blue bird on a branch by Chris Wellard at Passage. (1 minute old -- still red/swollen) - Tattoo Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

I'm late to the game in reviewing Passage - I had some work done on my foot at the shop about a year ago. I was tattooed by the infamous Handsome Mike. Yes, he is quite the dreamboat. The Good Stuff: Passage is very clean. They explain the equipment sanitation process really clearly. Mike listened to what I wanted and made suggestions on how to improve the image I brought as an example. He has a steady hand and a light touch, which made my extremely painful foot tattooing experience just a bit better. The Not Great Stuff: The music selection in the shop for the day was this terrible death metal cranked to 11. I think it amplified the pain of getting tattooed! I was also told to do a 'dry heal' (I've never done this with any of my other tats) and didn't get a ton of detail about aftercare - make sure you ask about this! On the whole, Passage an awesome spot to get your tattoo. The artists are the best in the city and it's a super friendly atmosphere. Quit stalling, go get tattooed! read more

I've been going to Passage for a few years now and I love it :) I see Tyson for my work and he is awesome!! Always a great time at the shop and the time flies by when you're doing bigger pieces. The girl in the front is really nice too :) I would highly recommend this shop!!! read more

Passage Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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This is my 2014 review of Passage. For some reason, it was lost so I am reposting. Good luck Passage crew in your new locale! It's been a zillion years in the planning, this one very visible tattoo on my arm. Unlike more daring souls who plunge right in, I had to think it to death. Relying on Yelp reviews, scrutinizing on-line portfolios, asking friends and family for their referrals, and creeping the person on Instagram, I finally found my artist. I met Kate Davies for a consultation in June and presented her with the sketch of what I wanted. She took it and asked me to send some other photo sources that I showed her while we chatted. She's super busy, so the earliest appointment was mid July, almost a month away. I waited and wondered if she would send me her drawing. She did not, and the worrywart in me became, well, worried. Did she get my images? What if I show up on the day and I don't like how she interpreted my drawing and sources? Needless to say I guess after seeing my rating, everything worked out. Her drawing wasn't exactly what I expected, but I liked it, and with the exception of one small detail which she changed at my request, we went for it. During the session, she was personable and though we clearly have polar opposite tastes in music, I enjoyed the time I spent in her chair. She was totally professional and I felt confident while under the needle. I can't wait to see what my tattoo (which she nicknamed "little dog dude") looks like when it heals! Oh and the price was right too! Very reasonable indeed. read more

Love the Geary location, always a comfortable, professional environment to be in. Have a couple tattoos done by Natasha Smith (@stonecolddown) and am always impressed. The whole team is exceptionally talented and it is an amazing experience to be around them! read more

Been Coming for Years! I have been a client of Jay's for upwards of twenty years and there is no better shop in TO. Professional, clean, creative, honest...There is a wealth of talent in this shop which is run like a true business so no funny stuff! I've had hours of work done with Passage and won't go anywhere else. read more

Love, Love, Love this shop. Friendly and professional staff without the pretentiousness of some other tat places. Subtle ambiance - the vibe of the place - relaxed comfortable atmosphere in the middle of the village. Getting a tattoo is so personal and there has got to be trust between the artist and yourself - I was put at ease immediately. Met for a consultation with Kate and loved her work. I had my tat finished within the first hour and perfect! I'm hooked. I've had tattoo work for over 15 years now and Passages is my favourite - from here on in I'm sticking with Kate. She listened to what I wanted and then executed the work perfectly. Reception is the best - friendly and knowledgeable. Wait times, between consultation and tattoo appointment are reasonable. Prices are relatively low but don't let that fool you - craftsmanship is superb. Location is easy to find - central Toronto - between College and Wellesly on Church. read more

I solicited advice from many friends before booking my consult at Passage; I got several really enthusiastic recommendations for Tyson Ward. I booked my consult and found everyone I dealt with there as sweet as pie. It is honestly like dealing with a retailer or restaurant whose owner has gathered all the staff together and said, "Okay, so, here is the deal. We are going to be known as the nicest god-damn people in the business. That is our number-one mandate." From the desk staff, to the artists, to Tyson himself - it's completely judgement free. They haven't decided that tattoos are for a "certain type of person," I think they feel tattoos are for everyone, and that everyone deserves to be taken seriously and treated courteously and with respect. They seem to be genuinely pleased people want to put their work on their bodies forever and ever, and act happy to see you and completely grateful. I love that. They are booked 2-3 weeks out, so think ahead, but it's worth the wait. My actual appointment was great, we tried 2-3 sizes before pushing ahead, and Tyson threw up the right amount of resistance when I started taking the alignment of something in the wrong direction - correct to my eyes from my perspective, crooked to the rest of the world. It was the right call. He chatted to me through the session which was reassuring, and the result was totally perfect. He seems to subscribe to the LITHA healing method, which worked beautifully for me. But I agree at first it seems like you're not getting much aftercare instruction. A typed single-page sheet on this might be a good idea. Cost of tattoo came in under the original estimate, which was a nice surprise. read more

This is the review from a tattoo n00b! I shall refrain from such terms as "ink" or "tatts". This is something I've learned. So, I'm someone who was thinking of getting a tattoo for perhaps two years - one and a half on deciding what to get and six months building up the courage to book an appointment. Knowing NOTHING about anything remotely related to tattoos, Passage Tattoo and Body Piercing came recommended from a friend (yelp.ca user Andre G.) who has had his fair share of tattoos. He even recommended the artist Liz whose detailed work leans more on the cute side which was perfect for my final tattoo decision (yes, I went with a cupcake and crossbones which also shows their range of artwork there). Confession session: I was nervous just talking to a tattoo artist. I don't know why, it's just how I inadvertently roll. But when I booked a consultation with Liz, she was so helpful, friendly and just a delight that it put me at complete ease with the whole process. Here's another misnomer squelched: tattoo parlors are not alway the dingey dives you see on sitcoms. This place was ridiculously clean like a doctor's office but displayed on the walls were awesome tattoo designs and artwork. When I finally went for my tattoo, I observed the process of preparing the ink and needles and it was so thorough and clean. So for all those people looking for their first tattoo be it butterfly tramp-stamp or cupcake and crossbones, this was a wonderful experience made possible by a wonderful place and its wonderful people. And here's an added bonus from this tattoo n00b to others: It feels exactly how you think it will feels: like a needle being dragged across your skin. It actually feels more annoying than painful and shortly after, you will feel like getting another one. If you do, you know where to go! read more

LOVE Jay's work. He has done 3 great pieces on me and I can't recommend him enough. The receptionist is very nice and the other artists are cool too :) if you want SOLID, good tattoo work, go here. read more

Passage Tattoo - My "Weighing of the Heart" tattoo by Jay. LOVE IT :) - Tattoo Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

Came here for my first tattoo and they did a great job, the place was very clean and the whole process was very clear. He (I can't remember his name- over a year ago) was so professional and advised me to get the font a certain way so the characters won't leak onto each other in the future. He was also super patient in the beginning with my mini freak out and my friends being there with me, which I really appreciated! He made me feel very comfortable which is so important. I highly recommend getting a tattoo here! read more

I recently had a tattoo done at Passage. Before Passage, I was considered a loyal New Tribe customer. However, I realized the only thing keeping me there was my fav tattoo artist, Glennie, and when she left, I moved with her. Still, it didn't mean I would get tattooed anywhere simply due to the amazing ability of an artist. So I was a little wary when first stepping into Passage Tattoo. What struck me first about Passage Tattoo is how amazingly clean it is. The reception area is very nice and neat and the people at reception are friendly and approachable. That put me at ease right away. The price of my tattoo was significanly lower than what I was quoted at New Tribe (and it was an original design). I loved that the receptionist called to remind me of my appointment & that I could call and ask any inane question I wished (which I did). She was pretty patient. All in all, I was extremely happy with my tattoo and my experience at Passage. I will definitely go back again. read more

I myself have gotten two tattoos done at Passage, both times I was lucky enough to get appointments rather quickly after my consultation! Both of them were rather small but at Passage there's no judgement and both the receptionist and tattoo artists were awesome! When I was getting my second tattoo there my blood sugar was very low and I felt extremely dizzy after awhile so the tattoo artist being the sweetheart that he was actually went and got me a vitamin water!! My friend has also gotten 2 of her bigger tattoos there. If you wanna get tattooed, I'd say this is definitely the place to go. I will be going back shortly for another one :) read more

I had a loved ones writing tattooed near my collarbone. Kevin was an AMAZING tattoo artist-he was very professional and kind. I have no idea how the made the lines of my tattoo so thin and perfect. The woman manning the front desk was also incredibly nice! I will most definitely be back (very, very soon) and I tell all of my friends to go to Passage. Highly, HIGHLY recommend! read more

Oh man does Kevin Davidson do good work. Friendly guy, great experience. I'm sure we couldn't have had a better time for our first time getting ink. read more

Passage Tattoo - Work done by Kevin Davidson. - Tattoo Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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Only place that my husband and I would go to. Between the two of us, we have had 5 done in the last couple of years. Most were done by Tyson. Receptionist is super friendly and so is everyone that we run into there. Tyson is great. You can bring him a picture of something that you want done as is or you can give him an idea, and he will draw you something. He chats with you the whole time so it seems to go buy fast, even when you have been still for 3 hours. This is the place to go for tatts. read more

I called passage for my fifth tattoo. I had just moved here form California so they hooked me up with Joey. She was absolutely amazing! The tat was a message on my ribs which can be tricky because of natural curves. She took her time getting the font, size and alignment just perfect. It looks absolutely perfect! I would recommend her to anyone and I will hands down be back to see her. read more

Passage Tattoo - Excellent work Joey! - Tattoo Near Me - Toronto, Ontario

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Love the vibe of this place and the beautiful tattoo work. Awesome and professional staff. Rock on!

This place clearly doesn't need my recommendation, does it? Well, I'd like to particularly recommend Passage for folks who have never gotten a tattoo before. Passage did a tattoo for me back in 2013 of a design symbolizing my middle name. I had designed it myself. Well, they did a flawless job, and three years later, I still love how it looks. Really laid-back, friendly folks here. They explained everything very clearly, walked me through the whole process, and it was just an awesome experience from start to finish. read more

I've been tattooed many times by Joey at Passage. She's clean, down-to-earth, conscientious, and most importantly, truly an artist. I am writing this review, though, because of how she went above and beyond when my mother-in-law decided, at age 60+, that she wanted to get her *first* tattoo. I was confident bringing her to Passage because I knew she would be treated well and respected, and I wasn't disappointed. Joey took her time explaining how it works, answering all her questions, and making her feel comfortable. She then did the same tattoo on my husband, and my mother-in-law walked away from a new experience beyond thrilled with her tattoo. read more

It's a great place to get a tattoo. First tattoo done by Joey the most wonderful person. She is so awesome. Love passage is the best place to getting a tattoo in the downtown. Everyone is so nice here! read more

Long overdue review but looking back at this tattoo I can't believe I didn't do it earlier. The tattoo was done by kate ... I was a first timer but she made me very comfortable. When I look at the tattoo now I know where I am going to get the second one done! read more

I researched for a while to find a talented artist to fix my previous tat and I stumbled up good reviews for Jamie at Passage. I brought him my ideas sketched out thinking they were pretty good but when Jamie did his own interpretation I was blown away. Really talented guy with a great natural illustration ability. He's friendly, nice guy, on point and has great staff working for him. I definitely recommend him. Andres read more

Passage Tattoo gets rated as best in Toronto consistently, for good reason. They do stunning work, in a safe, clean, professional shop. I would recommend this shop to everyone! read more

Passage Tattoo rocks! From booking an appointment through to the last needle-stroke, the entire process was relaxed and professional. Kate Davies was the rockin' artist who took my rough ideas and translated them into a beautiful, colourful tattoo. I could not be more happy with how it turned out! The consultation process was easy and judgement-free, and the tattoo session was as comfortable as it could be, given that a needle was involved... The atmosphere in the studio was light, with a nice sense of camaraderie between the artists. The location is super convenient and within walking distance of both College and Wellesley subway stations. Given the high quality of the work done at the studio, you may need to book well advance for an appointment. Trust me, it will be worth the wait!! read more

I got my first tattoo here on July 2014. I had a guest artist named Caleb do it. I arrived shortly before my appt time and waited about another 20-30mins while he set up. He showed my the outline and off he want again as I waited another 10 or so minutes. As for the shop itself it was a bit tricky to find at first but the place was clean and the staff (???) seemed friendly (at least Caleb and the girl who was on crutches). Finally he took me upstairs and went over placement etc. He put on some music and asked if I was all set and ok (since it was my first). It took about 15 mins (if that) and it was done. I never got a price so afterwards I had to run over to a bank to get money to pay him. So $100 later I had my first tattoo. He gave me healing/cleansing tips and I was off. Didn't hurt nearly as much as I thought it would and he was great asking me if I was ok throughout etc. Just over a month later I called about a touch up since a couple spots are lighter than the rest of the tattoo. Once I told the girl on the phone who did it her reply was "He was a guest artist" to which I said "ok and????" she asked what the problem was etc and said she'd call back. (If they don't do touch ups for guest artists it should be mentioned) She did about 10 mins later with options for the end of Sept or early Oct for the touch up. I took the October appt since I'll be on vacation the date she offered for the end of Sept. I look forward to getting it touched up and have it looking perfect. read more

Amazing experience. Friendly staff. Tyson is just absolutely great and a total sweetheart. Took my initial vague idea and turned into an kickass tattoo that I just love. I will be back here again and again and again. read more

I've been a loyal fan of Jay & all of Passage's for years-- had roughly 70 hours of work done & counting. Both Jay himself and anyone he hires to the shop are absolutely top notch, and it's a family atmosphere. Could not recommend Passage enough. read more

I've gotten a bunch of tattoos at Passage over the years, and am always happy with their work. I'm thinking about getting another one as I type this review, and will be going to them again without a second thought. read more

Passage is one of the two only tatttoo shops in Toronto that I would refer friends to or go to myself for tattoos. Jay is so very patient and easy going that he immediately puts customers at ease and makes the whole experience comfortable. He is a gentle soul who has been tatttooing for many many years and it shows in the quality of the work that he does. Jay has been featured in magazines worldwide and is well known for a reason....he does high quality work. If you are looking for a tattoo artist that is talented, humble and fun to be around ... Jay is your man! read more

Simply put: find another place to get your tattoo. This place is very unprofessional. Today, I was told to go finish my sleeve elsewhere after spending at least 2000$ with them, ultimately because the artist was extremely insulted that I had some of the work filled in at another parlour while living across the country. This wll be long, but the jist of it is, if I behaved this unprofessionally at work, I would lose my license in a heart beat. I had been working on a sleeve with Tyson for about 2 years in total, give or take. Before I could finish it, I moved to Alberta. Initially, I would have more work done at Passage every 4-6 months when I would fly back to Toronto to work. Eventually, the cost of the flights and hotels became too expensive. So I looked to alberta artists to finish it---very very reluctantly. They did some minor filling and that's it bc I wasn't thrilled with their work & circumstances changed and I had to move back to Toronto. First appointment back: confusion about having work done vs remeasuring. Didn't look at my arm, booked another appointment a month later. Second appointment: Artist only then realises he's already done the piece he wanted to do that day. I asked if he needed to re-measure anything-no. booked another appointment a month later. I've had to call ahead of time to remind them of what I wished to work on for our upcoming appointment because nearly every time I'd come, we would work on what he wanted and I didn't have much say in the matter. My gentle reminders were brought up today as "how dare I call ahead and remind them or make any requests"---that was the feeling I was left with. Today, I show up thinking we're finally gonna get some work done, instead I'm pulled into a room and told "I'm done with this tattoo". The artist was extremely insulted that I had even a little bit of work done on my arm by someone else. He said something along the lines of "you have some work done elsewhere after all the effort I put in, not charging you for planning, stencilling, you see that it's shit and then you come back to have it finished when you realised this". I said I understood where he was coming from, artistic possession and all and how it could be seen as rude. I showed some understanding, and then went to explain my side of things. How a 600-1000$ flight across the country + hotel and other expenses + tattoo in Toronto was too much for me, and at the time I thought I was going to be in alberta indefinitely. Fell on deaf ears. Didn't bother to listen, guess he didn't wanna hear it because he already had a narrative in his head about how things "actually" went down. He said an email was sent to cancel this appointment ---never got one. I check my junk mail folder regularly--it really wasn't there. I'll take them at their word that they did send it. But I also have text messaging and a fully functional voice mail. Not a word. I politely wished them good luck, and walked out. So, here I am with an unfinished sleeve I've spent at least 2000$ on and no prospect of having the original artist finish it. Now, I either have to find someone who's willing to finish it, or just black out the whole arm. That's my experience with Passage Tattoo. If you're looking for a good environment , filled with professionals doing their job, this isn't the place for you. read more

i can't believe i've yet to review passage! shame on me! i sing jay's praises all the time, so i can't believe i haven't yelped about it. jay is f-ing fantastic! he did my first tattoo 10 years ago and i've been to him almost exclusively since (the only time i strayed, it was to see another artist at passage). he is gentle, he plays great music and he whistles while he works (my favourite part of being tattooed - is that weird?). custom pieces are jay's forte, so don't expect to walk in and have some flash tattooed on you the same day. jay is very much in demand and there is definitely a wait for an appointment. he is definitely worth the wait, though! having said that, if you don't want to wait for jay, give one of the other artists at passage a try! if they're working at passage, they're definitely talented! as for the shop, passage is super clean and uber sterile and the people kick ass - which is exactly what you want in a tattoo shop! read more

Passages is just amazing. I got a small simple tattoo however the entire experience was great. From the consultation to the tattoo itself, everyone in the shop is so welcoming and it's just a great vibe. Kevin did my tattoo and he is awesome and so friendly. Thanks a bunch!! Passages is the best for a reason. read more

No wonder this place is a 5/5, it's fucking amazing!! The lovely tattoo artist, Joey did a beautiful tattoo on my arm a few weeks ago, I love it so much!! The front desk was also very friendly, you definitely feel so welcomed once you walk in and everyone is very knowledgeable about tattoos. I look forward to coming back!! read more

I agree with Monica! Shame on me for not reviewing this place earlier!!! Chris has been and will continue to be the only person who inks my body... Period! He's done my cover-ups and other artwork I've asked for... Go here if you don't want to go home and search yelp for laser removal... Just saying... read more

Friendly staff, cool vibe - none of that pretentious, holier-than-thou non-sense that you get at some other shops. Work is terrific. I have had two sessions with Kevin and will be going back for more. My new go-to place in the city. read more

Passage is one of the best shops in the city. Jay who owns the place is amazing and runs a tight ship full of great artists. Spotless, professional, very welcoming and comfortable - everything you need in a quality shop. Call ahead and book a consultation first. If you are looking for large, complex, well thought out and cleverly designed pieces - Passage is your place. read more

Kevin is the man! Came here for a consultation, and he was friendly and professional. And when I finally went to get my tattoo done, he showed me his sketch and changed it according to my liking. Got everything done in less than 30 mins. I would definitely recommend Kevin and/or Passage in general. It's clean and you'll have an amazing experience. read more