Have to take a minute to shoutout Rising Dragon Tattoos and Jason Barletta It's my third time there second time I sat for a session. Going in yesterday was only supposed to be for a tattoo and I left in stitches. Not the literal kind, but the kind you get from laughing from beginning to end. The banter and vibe was so chill I overlooked the fact Jason was doing what he does best. Skilling some artwork. He is hands down one of the dopest artists I've seen, body art and canvass. Highly recommend anyone looking for some work check them out! read more

Beautiful second tattoo. It covers half of my calf and it took about 3.5 hours to actually tattoo (Darren would have done it in 3, but I was a wuss). The shop is a bit hidden, but clean. The receptionist was nice and Darren was a cool dude, as were the rest of the artists. Darren is super fast, kind, and professional. I can't wait to get another calf tattoo (despite the pain lol) from him. I worked with him ahead of time for sketches, so if you have any ideas, get with him so he can bring your ideas to life! read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Dragon tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

It was my first tattoo and Alfred explained everything well and really worked with me to get the design I wanted. It didn't even hurt much. His work is beautiful and he's truly an artist. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - My cherry blossom tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

The shop is amazing,everyone is very friendly, and willing to work with you and whatever design you have! I put together a tree design and the artist Darren was able to give me something even better, highly recommend! read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

The staff at rising dragon were extremely kind and extremely talented. Being inexperienced with tattoos they made me feel comfortable! I also got a sweet ass tattoo. read more

I got my first and second tattoo ever at Rising Dragon and couldn't be happier with the resulting artwork and experience. Darren and his talented crew are absolute pros -- made me feel comfortable the entire session and provided expert after care tips. Jace, a visiting artist, did my very first tat of David Bowie kitty on forearm back in 2019; more recently, Alfred took my vision of Totoro and turned it into a beautiful piece of work. I can't recommend them enough -- if you're thinking of getting inked, Darren and team got you covered! Literally and figuratively ;) read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Latest work done at Rising Dragon, this time by Alfred - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

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Got a tattoo done by Darren, absolutely stellar. Very professional and great at his craft. Place was professional, and every artist was great at what they do. Highly recommend read more

I had a great experience here. I met Sue the day before my appointment and she was so cordial and patient in understanding my design. The next day, she helped check the size and position of the tattoo very patiently. She gave me lots of insight on the tattoos appearance and how it interacts with different layers of the skin. She did an amazing job! I couldn't be happier! The saloon is great - they were very responsive, clean & from my experience they charge fairly for their work. I've had bad experience of being overcharged in other places in Manhattan for less intricate work than this, so for that, this place is amazing!!!! read more

Rising Dragon had the best and most warm reception to my request. I had a few minor burns on my arm (including one that *appeared* like a healed knife wound) that I wanted covered up and I knew I wanted a dragon to cover it. Darren was very approachable and had impeccable precision with conceptualizing and executing my dragon. Things were very well done, sterile and safe. Even the shop feels welcoming--calm environment and minimal wait. I'm over the moon with the piece and I'm really happy I chose this shop to execute, it couldn't have been more perfect! Thanks again Darren! read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - My finished dragon tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

This place has been around for a long time. They have a decent size space with 4-6 tattoo artist and also have guest artist pop up. Each one of their tattoo artist have a specialty. The place is clean and the decor is cool. The employees are professional & respectful. Prices vary per artist and wait times for an appointment also vary per artist. Definitely recommend them, I have got a lot of work done there. read more

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I got inked by "Jace", originally from Spain. He spends some of his Summers tattooing in NYC's 'Rising Dragon Tattoo'. I got a Hannya tattoo by Jace. It is AMAZING. I will wait for his return, next season, in order to either adorn/put a background on the Hannya or create something new. Can't wait! The man has a very nimble, soft hand. I believe his quality of work is excellent. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - After 3 hours! By Jace. - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

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Rising Dragon has a plethora of talented artists that each have their own specialties. I personally worked with Darren, who is not only an amazing artist, but a great human being as well. I've gotten to know him throughout many sessions and tattoos throughout the years. He not only does the most intricate, detailed, and aesthetic work. I've gotten many compliments on my pieces. Darren has also become like a big brother and mentor to me, which demonstrates not only that he cares for his clients, but about the work he does. I would highly recommend Rising Dragon to anyone looking to get a tattoo. read more

Hidden gem for sure! My friend and I drove from VA to NY for the weekend for a mom vacation and we had the honor to step into Rising Dragon Tattoos. My artist was Chris, first tattoo so I played it safe with the tiny tattoo. Literally took 2.5 minutes, set up was longer... but, Chris was really cool about it. He cracked jokes and made the experience a breeze! -Look, the picture of my tattoo below didn't do justice for this mans talent I know, but walking into the shop having bubble guts and sweating out of fear of needles! Chris, a tatted angel sent from the tattoo gods calmed me with his tattoo gun harp and jokes! So I'm going to flaunt my tiny diamond of a tattoo and assure you reviewers that this tattoo shop is worth the visit! My friends artist was Nino, not her first tattoo but she was still nervous. Nino helped her choose the location of her tattoo, and also made her feel comfortable with everything! He brang that Florida sunshine to NY for sure! Really dope artists, and really cool laid back people. Highly recommend this gem to any tourists and locals! It's a small shop with big talent I promise! Thanks Chris and Nino! Next trip up Rising Dragon Tattoos is our first stop! read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Friends tattoo Artist - Nino - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

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Met with Darren to add to a piece that was done by one of his former artists, and boy did he do a great job. I have dark skin, so I never thought about adding color to a tattoo, but after speaking with Darren, he's shown me that certain colors can be added and the tattoo will still pop. I'd definitely recommend him to anyone looking to get some work done. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

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Daniel was amazing! I walked in today and was immediately helped, and got exactly what I was looking for. I will definitely be coming back! read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

My boyfriend and I had the pleasure to work with Eddie on creating an original tattoo that pays homage to my boyfriend's profession as a firefighter . After our first consultation with Eddie he assured us that he could complete the tattoo sketch exactly how my boyfriend requested. We received the sketch from Eddie in an email and although there were minor changes we were pleased with his work . After two sessions the tattoo was complete and my boyfriend and I were extremely pleased with Eddie's work . He is extremely professional and an absolute pleasure to work with . read more

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I got a tattoo here with a man named Eddie in 2017. I have gotten so many compliments and when I travel especially it seems to really catch people's attention. Since then I have gotten two more, a smaller on on my lower back and an ankle tattoo. All with Eddie. The place is very clean and the staff are friendly. Eddie is especially caring and an amazing artist. I am so above and beyond picky, he even re did the stencil For me a few times till we got it down perfectly and I have always been madly in love with the work he creates. If your looking for an awesome, chill vibe with great work and not outrageous prices, I strongly recommend this spot. Go see Eddie. He is very chill, polite, takes his time but most importantly he's very artistic and will give you what you ask and being photos if you can. Best wishes and thank you Rising Dragon, and Eddie. read more

"Darren the Dude" the owner of the shop is a genuine artist. Darren did my first tattoo on my entire rib cage, 2 sessions almost 12 hours was totally worth the test of manhood!! Darren also did two half sleeves and the compliments on his talent is overwhelming. I can't imagine ever going elsewhere. professional and truly talented artists at the RISING DRAGON ..... 5 stars seem inadequate, 10 Stars I'm al thinking of my next tattoo! read more

I went in for a consult with Eddie , he was very professional and instilled in me a sense of peacefulness. I was able to have a lengthy consult with him and he went over every detail regarding what I wanted , I have not done my tattoo yet but so far I've been very happy with the entire process. Also , he even squeezed me in for a quick tattoo on my wrist without even having a tattoo appointment, just a consult appointment, I can't wait till 11/25/17, that is when I will start the cover up with Eddie , I am certain that he will do an amazing job , loved this place , and loved Eddie . I would highly recommend this place and specifically Eddie . The pictures below are of the quick tattoo he did during my consult visit . read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

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I wanted to get a tattoo to commemorate several life-changing events, and a friend recommended Rising Dragon. Place is clean, nicely set with comfortable waiting area. Great location on 14th & 6th - close to subway & buses, and they open on weekends! I considered designing this piece myself, but on the end decided to pick a style and surrender artistic freedom to the artist. I am glad I did. I tip my hat to Paolino's talent, drawing skill, easy-going attitude and patience of the saint with me being a rookie in tattoo world. Actual tattoo took couple sessions and came out absolutely beautiful. Rock on, Paolino - and grazie! read more

Where do I even begin? I had been to Darren, the owner, 6 years ago for my first tattoo at the old 23rd street location. I was 18, terrified, and he made me (and my best friend who accompanied me) feel ridiculously comfortable at the time. Flash forward to this past friday. I arrived at my appointment with one friend in tow, as he as getting a tattoo at the same time by Wendi. My tattoo session was 4 hours but it only took 3 1/2. Still, i was nervous about such a long session. Darren was beyond gentle, really funny, and kept me in conversation from time to time to get my mind off the pain. They surely don't joke when they say your endorphins run out after 2 hours or so, i was in straight pain after. Darren always made sure I was alright. We took breaks when my legs got shaky and he had no qualms when both my friend who just got tatted and a second friend came to the back to keep me company. His work is phenomenal. He took a drawing I brought to him and turned it into something beautiful (not to say the original drawing wasn't amazing itself). I had come to him with a black and white pencil of an angel and butterflies, in memory of my mom (the picture of which is in the gallery), and he brought it to life with color. Also, side note, Wendi did a fab job on my friend, who had a poem stanza tattooed on him in an old English style font. It was done beautifully. Everyone who has seen it since has asked me where I got it done. I highly recommend this place if you want quality work, a comfortable environment and tattoo artists with great personality. The place is clean, high class, and very welcoming. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Angel and butterflies in memory of my mom, done by Darren. - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

I'm basing my review pretty much solely on on working with Wendi. My interactions with the various desk people, etc, was totally neutral and I don't think I would have chosen to go to any of the other artists there, personally. Not that they aren't talented, but I was looking for someone very specific. I could have done without the super loud, fast music an hour into my tattoo which was selected by another artist there, but it wasn't the end of the world. So, Wendi. She is fantastic. Before I even knew what tattoo I wanted, I knew that it needed to be girly and expertly done. Nothing but super crisp lines and deep, saturated color would do for me. I spent countless hours reviewing portfolios and always came back to Wendi's, as her aesthetic and skill as an illustrator was evident in so many of the pieces she had up on the site. I got a feeling for which ones she designed herself as they were the exact artistic aesthetic I was looking for and had rich, amazing color. So, when I went in for my consult appointment, I was sold off the bat. She's friendly and personable - I felt totally comfortable. I went in with some inspiration pieces for a few different ideas I had but it became clear that I was strongly biased toward one - a blackbird. However, I didn't want just a big, dark bird on my arm. We worked together to come up with exactly what I wanted as my vision evolved and she was totally gracious about it. I'm a control freak and didn't really know at what stage I should expect a final sketch, so there was a lot of back and forth and she was always sweet about it. If I'm honest, when I went in for my final appointment I was nervous about the final sketch. I didn't want to back out but wasn't going to go forward if it wasn't perfect. Luckily, it was! I gasped as soon as I saw it. She totally captured what I wanted in the bird! He's a beautiful, graceful and also adorable piece of art. We talked through colors and I was fairly comfortable, though not 100%, but now that all is done I see why she advised what she did and its so much better for it. If you want a tattoo, but are not into the usual ugly tattoos and want something modern and cute, I completely suggest Wendi. I feel like I have an amazing piece of art on my arm now and am so proud of it. Its so expertly done that, while its sure not to look this new forever, right now it looks as if someone just drew on my arm with marker and I'm scared I'm going to be able to wipe it off! I'll post a picture of my bird right after it was done in the pictures. He's the black and gray bird with bits of blue and green that is singing. Oh, also, super affordable! It cost way less than I was prepared to pay. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Blackbird, singing - 9/11/11 by Wendi - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

Paolino is a Milanese deity, there's no other way to say it. I went to him because he did fantastic work on my girlfriend's ribs, and I couldn't be happier with the work he did on my arm. Islamic geometric design is fussy, labor-intensive, and precise, but he really did it up... The shading, which was totally his creation, took the design to a whole other level. I can't wait for the 3rd sitting for him to do yet another level of detail. There's a reason he's booked a month in advance. The shop itself is clean, organized, and hygienic, which is all you can really ask for in a studio. The prices are reasonable considering the quality, and really, this is not an area in which you want to skimp; this work will be on your body for the rest of your life. You get what you pay for, so be deliberate about your planning, then dive in. This is not a place for flash art, or writing your significant other's name on your neck. Go to one of those sketchy booths on St. Mark's if that's what you want... These people are artists. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Islamic Geometric design: sitting 2 of 3 - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

I am in love with my first tattoo! Jason redid an idea that I had on paper with patience because I wasn't 100% certain about it and he made the perfect piece for me. He was also funny and kept me calm since I was so so nervous. Highly recommend Jason! I had gone to three kings prior to coming to Rising Dragon and met the most pretentious artist who was recommended by Gotham Magazine. Jason was calm natured and humble which meant so much to me and I happily booked an appointment with him. Who wants a cocky artist tattooing you? Go Rising Dragon! P.s. The secretary was also very warm to me. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

I've been wanting a dragon tattoo for a very long time. I couldn't find an artist that was professional and could deliver what I wanted. Up until I met Darren the dude. He is the most professional artist I've met. He drew out a dragon for me and when I saw it, I absolutely fell in love. He knew exactly what I was looking for. He was great communicating with me and giving suggestions. The shop is very clean, comfortable and friendly. It's the type of place you want to get tattooed at. He is by far the best tattoo artist I've met. There weren't 100 breaks in between or having to wait hours for him to prepare or waiting weeks for him to get back to me with a design. He is passionate about his craft and it shows. He was perfect. I have dozens of tattoos and this one is the most beautiful and meaningful because of his skill and work ethic. Darren the dude is the best out there. Thanks Darren. I'll definitely be going back for more read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Dragon by Darren the dude - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

I'm not quite sure how this place gets LESS than 5 stars. I came in earlier this evening from a recommendation from a friend and this place was great from the initial greeting! The receptionist made me feel welcome right off the back. I've got plenty of ink from some of the greatest tattoo shops in Brooklyn, Chicago & Houston. This may trump them all. Pros: Quality Artist (Thanks Nino!) Empathy to Vision Quality Ink Decent Prices Clear Communication Simplicity Clean Facilities It's a cross the street from a DAIRY QUEEN! Cons: The Pain (Tattoos Hurt!) Thanks to Nino, the artists and the others staff members I would hands down recommend this place. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

I LOVE THIS place!!! From the beautiful spirited woman with the "Khori" tattoo at the front desk to Jason who did my tattoo...I LOVE this place! I visited Rising Dragon Tattoos as a result of a tattoo visit gone bad at Moon Sheen. Nevertheless, I'm happy about that visit that didn't go well at Moon Sheen as I wouldn't have become a "baby dragon" as Jason affectionately named me. This place is phenomenal. They were patient and answered all of my questions. Jason was committed to giving me the tat that I wanted in size, color, and detail and I couldn't be more satisfied. I'm looking forward to my next visit for my peacock feather and I will request Jason! read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - My tattoo done by Jason. Near the wrist on the forearm. - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

I walked in with my mind set on a tattoo (so I thought I did) and Chris helped me actually pick out a better image and helped me with a better placement to make sure I 100% loved the outcome of the tattoo. I ended up loving the new idea we came up with and he was very friendly and awesome to talk to. I was super nervous for this was the biggest tattoo I've gotten and my first color one and his energy calmed me down so much. The place itself just makes you feel comfortable and the people who work there are awesome to just talk to and laugh with. Chris did an amazing job with my tatt the outcome was more than even expected it was amazing. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

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These guys are amazing. I've had Jason work on me twice and he's awesome - I suspect that I'm a tattoo shop's least favorite customer, someone looking for something small and uncomplicated, and had felt judged at the last place I'd gone. Jason is cool about whatever you want to get done, makes sure it's about you being happy, and makes you feel comfortable during the process. My friend came in with a specific idea and, understandably, was nervous it wouldn't be what she was really picturing. She left thrilled with what she got. I went in with the attached and got exactly what I wanted. The owner, Darren, even struck up a convo at seeing the drawing (it's of my dog, and it turns out he has the same breed) and we chatted about dog breeds and New York neighborhoods while we were there. I'd recommend this to anyone going in for their first piece or the seasoned pro. Their artists' work is incredible and they're the nicest people. You really can't go wrong with these guys. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

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Awesome. Just an amazing time. Daniel was great. My sisters and I all got 3 tattoos. Amazing time. Love it. Def recommend.

Decided to pick Rising Dragon as the spot for my first tattoo, based off of positive reviews/location/timing/etc, and I am so glad that I did. They responded quickly and coherently to my emails, were super friendly and communicative. Motoko booked me with Nino after we discussed what I was looking for, and he absolutely killed it. Not only did he make my first tattoo experience comfortable and super chill, but he gave me more than what I asked for. I'll definitely be back for more ink, even thought I don't live in NYC. These guys deserve the praise! read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

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I wanted to get my first tattoo for my birthday and the experience I had at this place makes me want to get even more tattoos in the future! I made a request for a consultation on their website about 2 weeks before my birthday and my request was answered within the day I submitted. They have great communication and customer service. I went into the consultation with a few reference pictures and an explanation of what I wanted. I got paired with the artist Chris (who is amazing). He took everything I showed him and came up with 2 custom designs that I fell in love with immediately. He gave me a chance to marinate in my decision of placement then got right to work. He made great conversation the entire time and made me feel more relaxed. I would definitely recommend this place to everyone for their first tattoo. I had to pay a $100 deposit but since my tattoo didn't take longer than an hour I didn't have to pay any more at the actual appointment. However, Chris did have aftercare sets for $15 that I brought. read more

After several years of having an unfinished tattoo I decided that it was time to have it finished. I interviewed a few different artists at different shops around NYC and decided to go with Darren at Rising Dragon. He and his shop stood out for a couple reasons: 1. The quality, quantity, and diversity of the work that the shop produces. 2. The passion, interest, and the interactive nature of Darren was both refreshing and important to me. I like to know that my artist is not afraid to really look at my tat from different angles, touch the skin, and ask me what I want, all during the consult but also during the session. Also, I value that he clearly listened to me and valued and integrated my input. 3. The brightness and cleanliness of the shop itself. So important to have good lighting and safety/cleanliness protocols in place. 4. The convenience of the shop location. 5. The reasonable rates. I got four hours done on (what I call) my sock of 20+ hours. I feel as though Darren captured the essence of what I wanted, which was for my Phoenix to pop with flaming color, to fill in some cloud transitions, and make my moon look more like a moon. During my session Darren had a nice balance of concentration and chit chat, and made sure that I was comfortable. I had a very positive experience at Rising Dragon and would definitely recommend them. I love my "new" tattoo and will proudly show it off forever. read more

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Came here last night and am very pleased. My best friend and i had originally planned to do Friday the 13th tattoos in Williamsburg but the wait was atrocious so we felt it would be better to get better quality ones. It's my first tattoo ever and got a small black cat done by Danny on the inside of my forearm. It was really very fast and minimal in terms of discomfort. I spent at most 15 mins total getting it done. It's pricey but well worth it because the guys are true artists here. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Black cat on the inside of my forearm. Done by Danny. - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

I couldn't be happier with the tattoo Nino gave me! When setting the appointment 2 weeks ago, I came in with printed images of the Spotted Salamanders that live in my hometown of Amherst, Massachusetts. The pics weren't too great as the salamanders only come out at night, but I asked Nino to create an image of two salamanders. The next day I emailed him after I realized I wanted some foliage, which he graciously agreed to do. When I saw his final design, I was blown away. The salamanders were beautiful and anatomically correct, and the leaves tied the whole piece together. Actually, the leaves were my fiancee's favorite part. They were so lush and green and curled like the ones you might find an Amherst salamander walking across. Nino has skilled hands, applying both shading and color in very subtle ways. His friendly demeanor makes him approachable, so he's a great guy to get a sentimental tattoo from. Check his work out! I have no personal experience with the other artists, but some of my favorite tattoos I've seen in the city were crafted in Rising Dragon. There's no place in the city I would rather go when I get my next tattoo. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Cushman Salamanders on my arm, designed and executed by Nino. - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

Having reached that age of regrets, I finally decided to get a tattoo. I had something very specific in mind. and it included a full sleeve.....yes my first tattoo. I chose Horisei, who honed his skill apprenticing with a Japanese tattoo Master in Japan. He is very skilled and focused. After a consultation, we met today, and he started my piece of artwork. It was painful, no mincing words, but it came out beautiful. I'll have a few more sessions with him until it is done, but I can't wait!! Professionalism, serenity, hospital sterility, and true lighting focus is what you will find. I completely support this institution, and namely Horisei, for any future tattoo work. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Dragon and octopus, session 6 (of 7). - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

This place was amazing!! Sent a Yelp request for an appointment along with an admittedly vague request of what we were looking for and Darren got back to us quickly recommending Jason. My husband and I were getting our first tattoos ever and Jason was AWESOME!! Based on a few photos we sent along, he did thoughtful research into the exact design we were looking for (Alkaline Trio heartskulls) and gave so much well-needed consultation about placement, color choice, etc. Jason was also amazing when it came to "bedside manner" - he took great care of us and was just an all-around great guy to get to know. Thank you guys so much!! We'll be back and can't wait to get Jason to design our next piece of work. read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

So I went here to get my first tattoo, just two initials on my wrist. They were welcoming, not too forceful and understanding, and had great hygiene standards. The guy was nice - the one thing is they add 10% for cards. Also, their minimum is $100. But I don't think that should take away from the fact that they were kind, welcoming, funny and very patient... a good experience to remember for life! read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - H and B initials linked together... my first tattoo! - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

My sister came in for a tattoo while she was on break from college. Called ahead and were told there would be a spot for us at 3:30. Went in as a walk-in at 3 but were told that we'd have to wait till 7. No problem, we just ended up walking to St. Marks for food. We get there at 7 and within 10 minutes, we're upstairs and talking to the artist. Horisei did an amazing job and made us laugh quite a couple of times, helping calm my sister of her nerves, despite the fact that she's been tatted up before. He's very quirky and funny, I don't think I've ever been more relaxed at a tattoo parlor before, and my sister agrees. Sat there for a good 2 hours, but it was worth it. Well done, and I will definitely come here next time for my own tattoo! :) read more

Rising Dragon Tattoos - By Horisei - Tattoo Near Me - New York, New York

I don't usually give reviews but after just getting a tattoo here today I had to give credit. I decided to come here out of no where on a why not let me get a tattoo kind of thing. It was my first tattoo and after reading the good reviews I decided to come here. I showed the receptionist what I wanted and she quickly told me jason was the one. I made an appointment for two days later and came then. Jason made me feel so comfortable and made me feel like I was with a friend. We cracked jokes and did the rose I pictured I'd always have. He let my whole family sit and watch while I got the tattoo and everything was sooooo chill. I appreciate everything Jason did for me, and I do plan on coming back. read more

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