Cancel

    Open app

    Search

    Pastime Tattoo

    4.9 (61 reviews)
    Closed 12:00 pm - 8:00 PM

    Services - Pastime Tattoo

    Tattooing

    Pastime Tattoo Photos

    You might also consider

    Recommended Reviews - Pastime Tattoo

    Your trust is our priority, so businesses can't pay to alter or remove their reviews. Learn more about reviews.
    Yelp app icon
    Browse more easily on the app
    Review Feed Illustration

    Reviews With Photos

    Ernie G.

    Love this shop and me and my wife have both gotten pieces from here. Ben and Nate are who we've worked with but all the guys here are pretty cool and do some cool work. Great concepts and lots of cool stuff on the wall. I first came here last year and got a "get what you get" tattoo from the gumball machine from Ben and have since been back and had him do a couple more pieces on the same arm. Highly recommend coming here for your first, 10th or hundredth tattoo !

    Tattoo - first time!
    R K.

    Ben was amazing during consultation, preparation, the design process and in his client/customer care. The vibe of all the artists in the shop was really comfortable and welcoming. Given that this was my first time getting a tattoo, Ben was really thorough in exploring the process and putting my concerns at ease while being very honest and transparent. I chose Ben because of his artistry, but more importantly because I sensed his trustworthiness and kindness. Here's to many more tattoos with a great artist!

    Outside the shop
    Kayleen R.

    Wow. Where do I start!? So grateful for my experience today. We were treated amazingly and felt so comfortable. I'm a tattoo newbie and Buddha made me feel so ok with the whole experience. From the occasional "You've got this, Queen!" To his well timed breaks, I felt encouraged and supported. I got a memorial tattoo for my dad. It was artfully designed, placed, and shaded. I am over the moon. I cried when I saw it. The crew were joking and shooting the shit which created a great vibe in the shop. Fun, welcoming, low key, real. Good vibes all around here. Will post a healed pic soon...

    Tattoo 1993
    Richard N.

    Came here for my first tattoo had the privilege of being tattooed by Ben . Clean and professional workplace. Happy with the outcome of my tattoo excited to come back for more tattoos from Ben and the team . Highly recommend a first timer coming to this shop .

    Steven T.

    Local shop with several talented artists to choose from. If you're not sure what to get, they have a "get what you get" machine that gives a random image for a reasonable price. Appointments are always best, with walk-ins when time permits. Very clean shop and very professional. Quality work from custom designs to off the wall flash. Stop by and check it out!

    Shark tattoo by Ben
    Shaine F.

    Ben is such an amazing tattoo artist and I would love to get more work done by him. He's a great dude and fantastic at what he does! If you're on the fence about going to him, I'm here to tell you to do it! His artwork is incredible and you won't regret anything done by him or any of the other awesome artists at Pastime! Highly recommend Pastime to anyone interested in getting tattoos!

    My back piece by Ben
    Heather W.

    I have been going to this tattoo shop since they opened. I've gotten tattooed by Nate, Buddha and Ben and each time I've gone I've felt welcome, listened to and left with amazing work! The shop is right in downtown San Leandro and easy to find. All the artists are pretty active on social media so it's easy to see their work, ask questions and book an appointment with them. I am finishing up my back piece with Ben and I am so excited with how it's coming together!! He has been super nice, respectful and patient throughout the whole tattoo process which I'm grateful for since part of the tattoo goes in my butt which at first I was nervous about! Lol. I couldn't recommend going here to get tattooed any more! I come all the way from Walnut Creek to get tattooed here! If you're looking for a spot for your first tattoo, a big piece, just some flash, this is the place to be! I'll update this review with photos once my back piece is complete!!!

    Haku piece done by Jin
    Hanako T.

    I came here for my second tattoo and the whole experience was great. The shop is clean and there's a ton of flash/artwork to look at. Jin was very patient when consulting about the design and it truly felt like a collaborative process. The rest of the guys are also super chill and friendly. Will be back when I have more ideas :)

    If according to this post he canceled on us and should of had it drawn up that weekend because we paid our deposits and trusted him.
    Shikira F.

    My brother from another mother recommend Brandon aka Buddha. I followed him on IG; I thought his work was cleaned. We, my husband and two best friends booked an appointment with him for matching tattoos. Something custom. Each couple, gave him $100 ($50 deposit per person) . He was ok with each couple giving him $100. First appointment, early morning, the day of , Buddha cancelled because he forgot his shop was closed down on the day we originally made out appointment. So, we rescheduled. No biggie. My friend, reached out to Buddha asking for a draft of what he came up. THEN, he posts a meme and " when you have a reservation at a restaurant in 2 weeks and you call the restaurant to ask the chef if he started making his meal yet" (I wish screen shot it; shots fired!!! How immature!) WE ALREADY GAVE THIS MAN A DEPOSIT, WE'RE NOT GOING TO TAKE HIS DESIGN SOMEWHERE ELSE! I've been getting tattooed for a while now, I should be able to approve something that's going on my skin days before I get it done. A couple days before the appointment, I send an DM on IG and an email. NO RESPONSE! The dude is TAKING WALK-INs how busy could he be?!! A day before the appointment, my friend gets a message from Buddha saying he's going to send the draft AND STILL DOESN'T send the draft! WHAT THE HECK!?! The day of the appointment, I get a message ON MY WAY TO THE SHOP! 20 MINUTES BEFORE THE APPOINTMENT!?! And guess what!?!! There were things we didn't like about the design. So we tell him of course. Get to the shop, Buddha doesn't even show face. My husband and I are communicating with an apprentice?! Instead my artist asking how big I want it... I have this shop help communicating with him. I'm annoyed. (The more I write this review the less stars I give this man.) So, we figure out the size; my husband goes first. Buddha said, I'm going to use pretty much the same colors... Hmm ok?!! But NEVER ASKED IF WE HAD A COLOR PREFERENCE! (During the consultation, my husband did say he wanted a red disco balloon. Fine... no problem.) Buddha starts to shade his balloon and I see that's it's RED. Cool, my husband is happy because wanted red. I instantly texted the other couple, he was on their way to the shop for theirs. And they also DID NOT WANT A RED DISCO BALLOON!?! I looked at Buddha and I said I don't want a red balloon. HIS FACE SAID IT ALL! You should have asked your clients what color preference they were looking for. Don't just assume. Thankfully, my husband wanted red! So he's was happy with that. Do you see where I'm going here?!! Brandon, I'm going to stop calling him Buddha because he doesn't deserve that nickname! HIS COMMUNICATION SKILL SUCK! That's 1/2 your job, IS CUSTOMER SERVICE! POOR CUSTOMER SERVICE= NO CUSTOMERS I purposely believe he DUG INTO OUR SKIN because he could! That tattoo hurt as bad as getting tattooed on my finger. He posts out tattoo and I'm OFFENDED he posted that it was a "coke spoon"?!? WTF! Then a day later he post on his story in regards to why he doesn't send drafts out before the appointment; AGAIN, IMMATURE! Why don't you learn how to communicate with people?!? If you had a problem with it, open your mouth! SIMPLE! Instead of post on social media; WHO ARE YOU, TRUMP!?! I've been going to the same person in the Bay Area for the past 5 years and I'm upset I cheated on him. We wanted to get it done ASAP, Brandon had open availability and my guy is booked up 3 months out! Who's the better artists here?!? Granted, it's always nice to switch it up! I asked him about touch ups, not that I ever needed one. He's like "you shouldn't need one, that dug that color in real good!" I thought to myself, I bet you did! I could feel it. I wouldn't go back to him even if he offered free touch ups. I'd rather pay my guy to touch it up! I want to tell my artist about my experience with Brandon, but I'm so embarrassed... If you're looking dope energy, amazing artists, great music, check Current Tattooing in San Jose. It's worth the drive! TRUST!

    Tattoo by @nate.burrow.ink
    Bethany F.

    I walked into the shop and only Nate was there, I'm assuming Ben had the day off. It was the first time I had gone in and wanted to check out the designs. This isn't the style I usually go for, but I wanted to try something new. Cuz why the fuck not? I wanted a new tattoo. The guys there (Nate and Ben) offer water or soda; which was nice of them to do that. I had never been to a shop that had a fridge open to the clients if they wanted anything. Pros: - very bright colored blue walls. - TONS of flash on the walls and ceiling to choose from. - lots of light in the shop from the windows and overhead lights. - nice greeting when you walk in. - convenient location across from Los Perricos and Game Stop. - Parking in the back or side of the shop. Cons: - Smaller shop than most places. This isn't a bad thing necessarily, just hard to move around when there is a lot of people.

    Sun and Moon from the Mr.FlashMachine ...done by Ben!

    See all

    3 months ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 months ago

    This was my first tattoo and I was scared but Zac was very professional and kind thank you so much the atmosphere was great as well

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Ron T.
    287
    3
    0

    9 months ago

    Ben was awesome! I enjoyed working with him on my latest tattoo. When I get my next one, I hope that he is available.

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of R K.
    15
    22
    2

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    1 year ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 3
    Thanks 1
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    4 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    2 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Bobby M.
    10
    51
    44

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Alex S.
    18
    20
    15

    7 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 1
    Oh no 0

    5 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    3 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Dan H.
    291
    2
    7

    7 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Zach H.
    107
    4
    3

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 1
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    7 years ago

    Helpful 2
    Thanks 0
    Love this 2
    Oh no 0
    Photo of Eden B.
    125
    29
    11

    4 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    8 years ago

    Helpful 0
    Thanks 0
    Love this 0
    Oh no 0

    Page 1 of 2

    Pastime Tattoo Reviews in Other Languages

    Ask the Community - Pastime Tattoo

    How much to get a palm size tattoo done?

    I am a customer not a tattooer. In my experience it all depends on the artist and their personal hourly and shop rate. Most shops have an $80-100 minimum. Depending on intricacy, generally you might expect to pay $300 (not including tip) for a palm… Read more

    View All 4 Questions

    Review Highlights - Pastime Tattoo

    I chose Ben because of his artistry, but more importantly because I sensed his trustworthiness and kindness.

    Mentioned in 31 reviews

    Read more highlights

    You might also consider

    Verify this business for free

    People searched for Tattoo 8,077 times last month within 15 miles of this business.

    Verify this business

    Revere Tattoo - Deceptive front entrance for how chill this vibe is

    Revere Tattoo

    4.8(209 reviews)
    5.3 mi
    $$

    You know how people always say they "have a guy" for things? I've always wanted that... and then I…read morerealized I do. Tony is my tattoo guy. I've gone to him time and time again for a majority of my work and he can't miss. This last visit in April was extra special because my daughter asked if we could get matching tattoos for her 18th birthday. It was her first and what's this mama going to say, no? Couldn't be me. There was no one else I would trust with that process, especially when it comes to something so precious. We sent Tony our inspo pics and he absolutely nailed it, plus added his own feedback in all the right ways. The detail? On point. The linework? CLEAN AF. Plus, everything healed beautifully. And the compliments? Nonstop. Everywhere we go, someone's asking who did them, and we're more than happy to show them off. Tony and the team also just moved into a new location and the vibe is immaculate. Super laid back, really comfortable, and not intimidating at all. It actually feels like a place you'd want to hang out. No ego, no weird energy, just solid work from someone who clearly cares. Grateful to have found him... because now he's not getting rid of me anytime soon :)

    Coming from Hawai'i. Hands down great tattoo shop all around. Went through a few full days with…read moreTony and it was almost like I was at home. The tattoo came out killah and great hospitality and vibes from everyone in the shop. I would recommend this place to everyone. Mahalo

    Photos
    Revere Tattoo - Butterfly tattoo with a lotus it was a cover-up from my old Tattoo from the 80s. Did the most awesome job. !!!

    Butterfly tattoo with a lotus it was a cover-up from my old Tattoo from the 80s. Did the most awesome job. !!!

    Revere Tattoo - Finished product

    Finished product

    Revere Tattoo - Solid line work!

    See all

    Solid line work!

    Ink Medicine - black and color geometric sleeve

    Ink Medicine

    4.8(53 reviews)
    1.8 mi
    $$$

    This was my favorite tattoo experience ever! For my sixth tattoo, I wanted a type of algae, but…read morewith amazing color, and most of the artists I found did black and grey algae. I expanded my search to the Bay Area (I live in Monterey), and found Micah, and am so so so glad I did. From the beginning, Micah makes you feel comfortable, and is transparent with how they work, what they charge and it makes for a great collaborative experience. They have a cute, comfy studio, and really take the time to listen to you, figure out what's important, and make an amazing piece of permanent art. After 2 separate 2.5 hour sessions, I came out with an amazing bull kelp tattoo, with coloration that was both true to life, and out of this world. I cried after I saw the finished piece, and cried again when I removed the bandage that night. It's an amazing piece of art, and Micah is both an amazing artist and human being. It was worth every hour of traffic, and every dollar I spent, and I'm already brainstorming for the next one.

    Micah is a nuanced and dynamic artist. They work collaboratively and intuitively with clients…read more Their rigorous care is overt from the moment they start working with you. If you're serious about and open to carrying Micah's art, and embracing it as your own, get in contact with this amazing human! Their styles and skills are diverse - I'm fortunate to have natural content with beautiful colors shaped across my body by micah. Others have intricate lace, abstract pieces, and so much more. As a queer and trauma'd human and body, I have felt honored by Micah's contact and thoughtfulness. Micah's conversational style and dynamic listening has helped me move through pain, while they also reduce the physical pain proactively.

    Photos
    Ink Medicine - Recently completed no black floral sleeve

    Recently completed no black floral sleeve

    Ink Medicine - Abstract mountain and sun themed calf tattoo

    Abstract mountain and sun themed calf tattoo

    Ink Medicine - Black and grey asparagus forearm tattoo

    See all

    Black and grey asparagus forearm tattoo

    Pastime Tattoo - tattoo - Updated May 2026

    Loading...
    Loading...
    Loading...