Very clean and professional crew Great artwork and great atmosphere Easy to park and easy to get to Bayside best read more

Went into Top Shelf with a diagramed tat for my inner forearm. I met with Stephan, who worked and reworked the diagram to my absolute satisfaction. Not only was his art work right on the money, he actually suggested toning down the color scheme I originally had in mind, assuring me if I were not satisfied with the look, he could easily make the necessary color adjustments. Not only was he spot on with his more minimal look, he reduced the previously agreed upon price as a result of less man hours and ink required. Honest and highly professional. And a true artist as well. Highly recommended. read more

I went to Top Shelf because I am fairly new to the area and needed to touch up an old Bad Brains tattoo. Stephan was the man. 100% honest in pricing, completely professional, clean and did an amazing job Shooting me up with Ink. The tattoo he touched up could not look any better and I look forward to going back for sure next time I get a tattoo. I highly recommend Top Shelf and I guarantee satisfaction if you get the same care and outcome that I got. Thanks Stephan & thanks Top Shelf read more

Awesome tattoo artists .. Jef Velasco is amazing.. one of a kind and such amazing line work and colors are spectacular.. booked my next appt already and counting down.. if you want an amazing piece this is where to go :) read more

I got my best tattoo at top shelf! I'm new-ish to the area and I happen to walk by top shelf on my way to sweet sisters nail salon. First impression, it's set up as a classic old school tattoo parlor, (and a pretty typical rate of $200/hr) . I spoke with Tommy a few times and told him what I was looking for and he was amazing. Every time I went into the shop ( to make the appointment, leave a deposit, then my tattoo) I was greeted and treated very nicely no matter who was behind the desk, the man behind the desk the day of my tattoo was very kind and extremely helpful to me. The day of my tattoo was great Tommy is very kind, easy to talk to, and understanding. The tattoo I left with is my favorite tattoo that I have ( I have quite a few large ones and a few small ones) Not only because it's sentimental but the tattoo itself is absolutely 100% perfect. Tommy is truly skilled at his craft and I will definitely be back! read more

I reached out to Jef for a small tattoo and he was super communicative and informative. We worked together on making sure size and placement worked. His shading work is incredible. He was super friendly and worked quickly and well. The shop has a super cool vibe, great area. read more

Five years have past and I have permanent lymphatic damage from Mike. I sued with a lawyer and got 3k back on 10k doctor visits. The ink from the blowout will never fully recover. I also work in the tattooing industry & inkedmag modeling now so I'm around lots of artists who are much more experienced.. This blue thing in my armpit is not laserable. Just a heads up if you're a dainty thin girl please go to a better shop. read more

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My daughters boyfriend arrived in town from Houston with some shaggy looking hair in need of a serious cut. He made his appointment with the barber and was really happy with the outcome. A day later he decided that the top of his hair was a bit too long, so he returned on Christmas Eve for a bit more off the top. He walked in without an appointment and was seen immediately. A few snips later and he was happy with the extra off the top. I would definitely recommend this place to any guy needing a great style. I can tell you that I thought I was looking at a different person after the hair cut. I wish I had a before picture, but I did post the after picture. The cut was amazing. read more

Top Shelf Tattooing - He came all the way from Texas for a haircut! Fabulous barber! - Tattoo Near Me - Bayside Queens, New York

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They did exactly what I wanted - was painless and reasonably priced - already thinking about my next tattoo

My favorite tattoo shop in new york. The staff are friendly, helpful and very cleanly in their tattoo process. Jeff has been my artist for many pieces. He takes whatever time is needed to make sure your tattoo looks the way it should. (You def should take this time into consideration when tipping him! He goes above and beyond the tattoo session). He has a strong attention to detail with all the pieces he has done for me. My only shop I trust in New York for big pieces and extra detail (I've had tattoos from a variety of 7+ places in New York that don't even compare) read more

Top Shelf Tattooing - Tattoo Near Me - Bayside Queens, New York

This was my first tattoo at Top Shelf and it will definitely not be the last. Tom was a pleasure to work with and he created exactly what I had envisioned and more! His skill is top notch and he takes pride in his craft, which is a rarity these days. The price is more than reasonable for the quality of work they produce. Everyone I interacted with at this shop was amazing and after using the same tattoo artist for over 20 years, I've found a new favorite. read more

Top Shelf Tattooing - By Tom Wenzell - Tattoo Near Me - Bayside Queens, New York

Amazing!!!!! I got 2 tattoos here, first was the NYC skyline on my ribs. Swan did it. Did exactly as what my friend sketched. Second was the Lion which is I'm sooo obssessed with. Jef velasco did it, he's such a talented artist. Also the price is so reasonable. I would recommend this shop and the artists to everyone. I couldn't be any happier. Thank you so much Top shelf tattoo!!! read more

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What a great place to start with. They make you so comfortable once you tell them what you want. It was my second tattoo which was a Portuguese word that is a recollection of dreams, feelings, love and emotion of people who are gone. So the word itself makes a dead person feel alive. I found that so beautifully deep that I had decided to get that for my grandmother who passed away on December 27th 2015. That way I wouldn't miss her like I did and she will be there next to me guiding me. And they did complete justice to the print. He printed the same exact font and asked me perhaps 5 times if I am okay while getting tattooed. Ofcourse I will be back for my third one down the lane. The price is so legit as well. $80 for the whole tattoo. With the quality and sharpness they give you, nobody could beat it. Well done guys. I am highly impressed. read more

Top Shelf Tattooing - A Portuguese term that refers to the melancholic longing or yearning. My grandmother's date of death underneath. - Tattoo Near Me - Bayside Queens, New York

Seriously? I've had two tattoo's done and I think I've made good decisions, asked the appropriate questions, etc. This place is rude and dismissive. Okay, so me and my friend do not look like "typical tattoo getters" and I get it, we are little giggly Asian girls. But that doesn't mean you get to be inexcusably curt and disinterested in a potential customer. The guy pretty much walked away and hid in the back before we asked a single question. When, finally, he did return - we inquired about a SINGLE body part, but his response seemed so bothersome, we thought we'd save HIM the trouble and just leave. Never again, thanks for nothin~ read more

I walked into Top Shelf about 3 weeks ago and made an appointment for my first tattoo with Tom. Upon my arrival for my appointment yesterday I was warmly greeted and made to feel extremely comfy. Tom understood it was my first, and I was very very nervous. Even though the piece was small, he took his time explaining every step to me. He started off slow, checking in with me every step of the way. Tom was very gentle and worked quickly yet meticulously. I'm thrilled by the way it came out, and I'm already planning the next few. I'll be going right back to Tom, and wouldn't hesitate to recommend him to any of my friends, family, or co-workers. Tom is extremely talented, calm, and caring. It is obvious he absolutely loves what he does, and shines. read more

WORST tattoo experience I've ever had. I would really recommend going elsewhere to get a tattoo, because I've experienced better customer service, creativity, talent, prices, and general respect at every other tattoo shop I've gone to besides this one. This was the absolute worst. The staff was extremely rude and disrespectful, and the tattoo artist clearly did not give a shit about my tattoo. I got a quote, which they misspelled, and were really not remorseful about at all. And it was a really obvious mistake, that they could have caught if they were paying attention to the task at hand instead of joking around with one another. If you want a shitty, overpriced tattoo with a really awkward experience dealing with a bunch of jackasses and bros, go here I guess. But it's a shame to waste the awesome experience of getting a tattoo on paying a bunch of jackasses to basically do the equivalent of taking a shit on your skin. read more

Nikki. Nikki Balls. I lost my tattoo virginity to her. Really awesome girl, I called in on the same day asking if there was any room for me. She asked me the size and what exactly I was getting, and even though she was booked with appointments, she managed to get the job done. The tattoo was done right behind my ear, and it took probably less than 10 minutes. Nikki laid me down and made sure I was comfortable. I'm glad she did :). I'd recommend paying in cash though, there's a service fee if you're gonna pay by card. read more

Showed up one night an hour before closing for a tattoo honoring my cousin that passed away. The guy told me he had a group of three left and that they were going to take him way past closing time. I told him I wanted to get the name "Sean" on my ass and why. He responded by telling me, even tho he was off the next day and that they opened at 11am, he would come in and open at 10am on his day off just to help me out. He clearly had ZERO obligation to do all that but it seems like that's just the kinda place this shop is. It was also nice to get it done with NO ONE else in the shop. Lol. Took him longer to prep than to actually tag me but, it was quick, easy, and came out so much better than I imagined. The customer service AND the talent is second to none and I can't wait to come up with my next idea and getting back in the chair here! No ifs, ands, or BUTTS about it!!! Sorry, I had to. read more

After years of designing and redesigning my first tattoo and visiting different shops in the tri-state area with no result, I was surprised to find the perfect tattoo at Top Shelf. The staff was courteous, helpful, and most importantly really laid back, which was actually the deciding factor for me (I personally hate pushy tattoo shops that just want to slap a tattoo on you for the sake of making money, I don't care how good your work is). Looked through a few books and explained what I wanted, my tattoo artist - Christian pointed to a design and the rest was history. After some minor modifications and an hour of work (felt a lot shorter), I had a fierce dragon tattooed in the center of my upper-mid back, so relieved that I didn't blow it on my first tattoo. Went back to get my second piece on the left wrist about a month later, with Christian again, who btw is very knowledgeable and friendly. Sanitary work stations, excellent workmanship, attention to detail, both tattoos perfectly done, no infections, fast healing, barely hurt at all but I guess that varies from person to person, and a free bottle of cocoa butter after your visit. Prices aren't bad at all considering everything that's mentioned above. I've been getting complements constantly on both tattoos. Will definitely be back, thanks guys! read more

I really liked them. I was a little bit afraid because it was in...well, Bayside but I got over it and decided to go in. It's very clean and the people there are very nice. I was getting a tat on my left foot and even if it was my second time, I was still a bit nervous. My tattoo artist was very encouraging and before I knew it, he was done. He did an excellent job and it came out just how I wanted it. He even gave me a free bottle of lotion to help with the healing process. What I liked most about here was the price. The minimum is around 85 unlike in the city where the minimum is usually 100. If you want a good job done and save money and time, I highly recommend. read more

I have quite a few tattoos from a few places. This place charges too much and isn't worth what it costs. I had gotten a tattoo 2 years ago, it didn't look anything like what I wanted. For this I'm giving it one star. I got a 13 dollar tattoo on Friday the 13th with a guy who doesn't work at top shelf any more but he did an awsome job. Since he isn't there anymore, he took his skill with him and this place won't get another star from me. read more

I've had the pleasure of getting tattooed by three of the guys that work at Top shelf as has my boyfriend, and Each time I'm more impressed with the work. Little tommy, swan, Brummett and all the guys are fantastic. The shop itself has undergone a change in ownership in the past few years, so the older reviews don't really serve the place. In addition, the guys have recently renovated the entire spot and it looks amazing. The decor is sleek and immaculate and the atmosphere is laid back but professional. Lots of cool stuff to look at. And all the guys are friendly and talkative, it's no cool guy bullshit like you might get at shops sometimes They specialize in all styles of art, check out the Instagram to see portfolios. In my opinion it's the best shop on the neighborhood, I highly recommend. read more

I went there 3 different times to ask for cost. The same person gave me 3 times different prices... 5 to 5 inches in my arm...$150, $185, $220.....and I ask them why and they said because the economy and bla bla bla.... and with really bad face. WHAT THE FUCK???? Its the same tattoo.... the same size and everything... So I walk out and I found this AMAZING TATTOO SHOP, just right up to bell blvd... CHINO RICAN TATTOO AND BODY ART.... Chung (one of the artist) is amazing, I have done 5 tattoos before in some other places and I wish I found him before. Don't get me wrong, I like my previous tattoos, but Im in love with my last one. It came out the way I wanted and even better cus he gave me so many new ideas. And also the staff was really nice, I felt like in a Spa, with my drink and I could pick a movie to watch while getting my tattoo... really nice people and really nice place. read more

Top Shelf Tattooing has gone through a change of ownership over the past couple of years. I truly feel that the older reviews do not do this place justice and are a poor reflection of what this business is now. My boyfriend and I have known the current owners and some of the artists for quite a while and I feel like when it comes to tattooing, they really use their skill to create quality pieces. It's unfortunate that some people in the past have said that they've had the worst experience or that they were very unhappy with their new tattoos, because these guys in the shop really take pride in their work and go over and beyond to satisfy their clients and fix mistakes. I've seen even some of the worst tattoos get covered up or fixed by the guys at Top Shelf. I've had three pieces done by two of the artists at Top Shelf, two by Brummett which are large pieces on both of my thighs and one on my tricep by Swan. And I look forward to make appointments in the future to get more done. If you still have any doubts about their talent and the quality of their work I definitely recommend looking through their instagram as they do update it every now and then: http://instagram.com/topshelftattoo P.S. Top Shelf also has a barber section in the back so if you're a guy that needs some sprucin' up, make an appointment with Billy! read more

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I've been going here for over ten years now under the gifted original owner and the talented and super friendly new guys. Immaculate, friendly, fun but very professional, smart place with a gifted, clever and diverse crew, good prices and solid work. Finding a tattoo artist is like finding a dentist. The person has to be personable enough for solid, trustworthy communication and professional and experienced enough to help you make good decisions. It's a collaborative experience, when is right. They've done my sleeves, legs and will be doing my back piece soon. I trust and respect this shop. I feel respected there too and happy and comfortable (and confident) being there. My husband even gets his haircut there by the barber, who's seriously the best barber in Queens! Loads of talent under this merry roof! I love these guys. It's like hanging out why an incredibly gifted family there. I hope they're here forever! read more

My husband and I have been going to Top Shelf for over 6 years. Mike B is professional, courteous and all around nice guy. We have been beyond happy with every piece we have gotten. Every tattoo artist in the shop is talented and professional. I highly recommend Top Shelf to anyone looking to get tattooed! read more

I got my first tattoo here. The prices are moderate and the service is quick and friendly. My tattoo hurt only while being done and after that it was no pain the process of healing was great. The line work is good and coloring as well. I look forward to getting my second tattoo. Over all they do great work. read more

Top Shelf Tattooing - Tattoo Near Me - Bayside Queens, New York

Again.. So impressed. Top Shelf is so professional. They make you comfortable and they are all so funny, nice, and polite. They are laid back but do NOT slack when it comes to professionalism and giving you their best! Very talented!! Absolutely impressed, and so happy I did my second tattoo here. My card says that I was tattooed by Swan! I highly recommend him! He was awesome!! read more

Top Shelf Tattooing - Tattooed by Swan! Love it so much!! - Tattoo Near Me - Bayside Queens, New York

I love Top Shelf and all the people who work there. Each artist is not only super talented in their fields but also extremely professional, placing tons of care into their work. I am in every few weeks for a haircut and have watched these guys create beautiful works of art as Billy gives me my fresh undercut. The shops itself has an edgy style with an extremely inviting and friendly energy. Highly, highly recommend both tattoos and haircuts. read more

Awesome atmosphere. Cool interior design and great people. They are efficient professionals who do great tattoos of any kind. Good for walk-ins. Overall great experience and highly recommend this shop. Friendly and helpful staff as well. read more

Top Shelf Tattooing - Tattoo Near Me - Bayside Queens, New York

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Have had ALL of my tattoos done here at Top Shelf Tattooing, formerly Memphis Tattoo. Bert Krak (Shop owner and tattoo artist) is the man! I've had my tattoos done by Jamie and Nikki Balls... I've had a Celtic cross, my family crest, shooting stars and a memorial tattoo for my father with a music note and his initials underneath in a nice "west coast" font underneath. read more

Top Shelf Tattooing - Can't miss it on Bell Blvd.., hey have a flashing strobe in the window! - Tattoo Near Me - Bayside Queens, New York

Went in here a few days ago for a tattoo. Thomas Wenzell was not only super courteous but extremely friendly. No problem fixing small things on the tattoo design and explained everything to me in a professional and informative manner. Great conversation during the tattoo process and was quick. I would recommend this place to anyone wanting to get a tattoo!!! read more

At first glance, just looking at the outside, I got nervous. Because there was nothing fancy about the store. Stepped inside, got even more nervous. However, as I spoke to someone there (didn't catch his name) I felt comfortable. Let me say the place is CLEAN. Everyone was friendly. Both the person whom I spoke with and the artist that did my tattoo explained the pros and cons. Which was a huge +. The artist that did my tattoo (Anthony) was amazing......I got a tat behind the ear and I didn't feel a thing. His is extremely gentle and the tat came out dope. The price was awesome. I would recommend this place to all my peeps. Actually I'm going back soon, once this one heals lol. Thanks guys. read more

Top Shelf Tattooing - Clean... - Tattoo Near Me - Bayside Queens, New York

Jef is the absolute best!! He listened to my idea, took his time drawing it up, and did an awesome tattoo for me. Everything used was new and the shop was very clean. read more

I have been a customer here for years and so has my family. I never had a complaint and I always spoke highly of them. Last time I got a tattoo it was by an artist I've never had a tattoo done by before, the tattoo did not turn out great , the line blew out and the color faded leaving spots. I understand it can happen , so I figured at some point I'd go back in and get it touched up. Fast forward to recently, I went in about a month ago to make an appointment for a small tattoo. I was able to make an appointment with the artist I wanted this time and I ended up leaving a deposit. The day before I confirmed my appointment with them and sent them a picture of what I wanted as they suggested. The next day was the day of my appointment , I had to call the shop a few hours prior to my appointment to tell them that I had just tested positive for COVID therefore I could not go , I mentioned that I did not want to lose my deposit and that I wanted to reschedule for another day with the same artist. The guy that had answered the phone said that because I called them the day of I would lose my deposit. I thought it was bullshit because for a situation like this people should be accommodated. I still said fine and asked to reschedule he tells me to reschedule I would have to come back into the shop to do it, meanwhile that makes no sense he could have rescheduled over the phone, they already knew what I wanted and what artist I wanted. Not only was he rude even after I said fine to losing my deposit I still wanted to reschedule, but apparently I would have to go back into the shop. This was inconsiderate of them and not fair since the circumstances were due to a medical reason and even after the fact I was still willing to reschedule but I will not be taking my time out to go back into the shop to make a simple appointment that could have been made over the phone. It's disappointing and unprofessional. After years of going here I will not be returning. You guys should really try to be a little more compassionate and understanding. I understand businesses are having a hard time due to this pandemic but treating your customers like this that want to support you isn't going to help your shop. read more

immediately as i walked in, i noticed someone getting a piece done. so i assumed the tattoo artist was busy, and being polite, i asked if anyone else was available to help me. he rolled his eyes and told me, "well i'm right here but if you want someone else you can sit there and wait" and went about his business. what the fuck, right? thankfully, someone else came up (the guy who did my tattoo CHRISTIAN) was extremely nice and courteous. he was super friendly AND did an excellent job. prices are whatever. pretty average. their standard fee Is much lower than usual but their pricing per hour which is $185 is high for an area like bayside. so for future reference, if you ever wind up at Top Shelf, ask for Christian. avoid the balding guy with thick black frames 'cause he has no sense of customer service. read more

Completely worth taking two trains and a bus to get to. Go see Bert Krak and get a real man tattoo. Plus there's a White Castle on the corner. The fuck are you doing still sitting there? read more

I would give them 0 stars if I could but that's not an option!! Top Shelf Tattoo parlor in Queens is probably the most unprofessional tattoo parlor in NYC they canceled on me 3 times kept screwing up my schedule and didn't even apologize or understand that there behavior was unprofessional! I felt like I was dealing with a bunch of teenage boys who have limited understanding of waft it means to run a business! Do not put your body in the hands of these idiots! Find a place that is professional and reliable!!! Do Not Go Here!!!! I finally gave up and had to go back there to retrieve my deposit after 3 weeks of rescheduling with them! Don't make the same mistake I did!!! And find a tattoo parlor with professional tattoo artist and a professional shop owner!!! read more

Got a cover-up tattoo done here in April by Jamie. Wasn't exactly sure what I wanted & told him my idea, he drew out a sketch for me. When I wasn't completely happy with it he redid the sketch which I fell in love with. Very helpful, prices are reasonable & clean. A few of my coworkers also came her for their firsts and everyone is extremely happy. I would highly recommend it! Make an appointment & use cash! read more

If you don't have many tattoos, or don't look like the typical "dude bro" with "edgy tattoos" on your face or hands, don't bother going here. They were rude, and seemed so disinterested in making sure you knew what you wanted. They weren't helpful at ALL with suggesting anything, and I asked to see something a little different and they rolled their eyes. It was like dealing with a bunch of teenagers who work at McDonald's and hate their jobs. If you're so disinterested and don't care about your customers, why bother tattooing at all? read more