Visiting from Arizona and decided to get tattoos as a souvenir. Had the BEST EXPERIENCE from the moment we arrived. Super chill spot and our tattoo artist Charlie was amazing! My boyfriend and I are so happy with our tattoos. If you're looking for a sign to choose Read Street, here it is!! read more

This was my first time getting a tattoo from this shop and it won't be my last! After climbing the staircase, my boyfriend and I walked into a very clean and inviting shop. We were greeted by the gentleman at the front desk and we told him what we wanted. He gave us a quote, informed us about the deposit and wrote it all down. This was unlike the experience that we had at another local shop where we weren't greeted or acknowledged upon entering and the artists were very unfriendly and cold. My bf got his tattoo there but I wasn't having it. Anyway, I returned later and made an appointment for the next day. Hunter did my tattoo and did a wonderful job. He was friendly, asked if I I had previous tattoos, actually had me sign a waiver (something the other shop never had my bf do) and took care of me. Will definitely go back there without hesitation. read more

Read Street Tattoo Parlour - Tattoo Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

This joint is on the outskirts of Mt. Vernon in a clean, beautiful upstairs shop. I have had TWO excellent experiences here in the past week. First when my best friend came in for two very small tattoos and got a discounted price, and next time when I returned for my own small-ish tat after seeing the work they had done on her. Mike did both of our tattoos (on WALK-IN's) and did a fabulous job. He was a great listener, very accommodating, and has had 16 years of experience. It was my first tat, so he talked me through how it would feel without freaking me out or causing me to worry. He took the sketch I gave him and copied it onto paper that eventually was directly stuck on my arm for him to trace w ink. He made sure I loved the placement, letting me look in the mirror and take pictures, then I laid down on the table & got inked right above my elbow. Only took about 15 min. and the pain was minimal. SO worth it. I am so happy with it as it is healing and will definitely be back! This joint is clean, classy, and they know what they're doing! read more

Read Street Tattoo Parlour - Done by MIKE. Moments after it was finished. - Tattoo Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I am getting a cover up of a *cough* trampstamp *cough*... and have searched HIGH AND LOW for 8 months and came across #alex_sabur. Alex and I had a brief consultation on a Friday then I had to wait the longest month ever (he is usually busy which is a GREAT sign) to get started. BEST decision ever. Worth the research, worth the wait and I got exactly what I wanted. Alex is laid back, fast yet careful, professional and beyond amazing at his craft. The most impressive part was that he ignored my threats to our new-found friendship and he overlooked one (failed) swipe at his hand when he was tattooing over my rib. I am not this bad with tattoos, but my back is WAY more sensitive than I thought it would be. It has been less than 24 hours and I have given his information to three people already because they cannot believe how well he did and how clean my skin looks for just having it done. Alex is a solid artist. I cannot *over compliment* this guy he is that good. Mind you - when he is tattooing me in a month - you can toss this glowing review out of the window. I will hate him for a solid 2.5 hours... but when he is finished, I will be SO HAPPY! (until the next and final session) Seriously - it would be foolish to go anywhere else. read more

Read Street Tattoo Parlour - Alex! One more trip (just the koi) and I am donezos. Very happy. Tramp stamp is gone already!!! - Tattoo Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

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My experience at Read Street Tattoo Parlour was AMAZING! I've wanted a small tattoo that incorporates the initials of my two kids for quite sometime now. I was hoping for something simple and classic, but for it to be unique, as well. That's exactly what I got, and I couldn't be happier! Charlie Foos, shop owner and tattoo artist, gave me a few options for fonts and layout based on our initial consultation. Each option reflected my request. It was hard to choose which one I wanted I liked them all so much! The shop staff - Maria, Hunter, Mike and Joe - are so nice! I felt incredibly welcome, like part of the crew. I'm already planning my next tattoo! Can't wait to go back! read more

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I've lived in the DC/Baltimore area my whole life and had searched for somewhere that was actually willing and able to take my ideas, create original art and turn them into tattoos for me. This place is Read Street!!! Originally I went there and had a beautiful foot tattoo done by an artist who is no longer there and have since recommended it to multiple people. I took my mom there two weeks ago to get a tattoo on her back and it turned out fantastic and looked like an artist's charcoal sketch. I went back to have a tattoo done by the same artist, Mike two weeks later. Both he and the shop staff were professional, warm, and just made everything a positive experience. They even had a screen set up for me since they knew I may be shy about getting tattooed higher up on my ribs. I cannot say enough about the art or the artists. read more

I went here back in may to get my nose pierced, and my friend got her nipples pierced. The environment was very friendly and the artist that did both of our piercings made us feel comfortable. Great costumer service! read more

After coming from Triple Crown tattoos in Towson, Read Street Tattoos was a breath of fresh air. The front desk woman was extremely helpful and super kind overall. Two artists I met, Matt and Andy, we're more than accommodating in doing my friend and I's tattoos. I had Andy as my artist and I want to express how gentile he is with his machine. It was effortless for me to sit there and get my tattoo done. I felt nearly nothing in comparison to other artists I've been tattooed by. Andy is now my go-to and I won't be visiting other artists while I'm still living in Baltimore!! Andy if you see this, you're the man and I appreciate you! If you can PLEASE come here, they're pricing is reasonable and without a doubt the ambiance makes you feel safe and the staff is just so sweet and I wouldn't trade my experience for another shop any day of the week. I got my tattoo done for $120 just for reference ! read more

Read Street Tattoo Parlour - Andy's work! - Tattoo Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I have been fortunate enough to enter the world of tattooing as an artist and connect with some of the most talented tattooers of the modern age, who have served and mentors and influences, as well as just plain old guys who I love to get my body art from. And I would get art for anyone at Read Street at anytime. Read Street has long been on the list of Baltimore's Best, as both a tattoo studio and gallery. Once owned by Seth Ciferri, it was always know for art of the highest caliber and for it's safe, professional approach to the art of tattoo. Seth has since sold the shop, but he still works there on occasion and Read Street Tattoo Parlour (though it's not located on Read St. anymore) still maintains it's standard of excellence. Now located on Park Avenue, the studio is on the second floor of a historic corner building, brightly lit by large windows and an open uncomplicated floorplan. The new Read Street has an impressive collection of old school flash to choose from but each and every artist is gifted and able to create custom works as well. Of course, my heart belongs to Seth (he also builds incredible machines for artists and I adore mine) but the list of permanent and guest artists is always impressive. When in Baltimore, do as the beautifully tattooed do, visit Read Street. read more

I walked in to Read Street tattoo and asked if they could help me. They were all very nice. Joe took a picture I had come in with and made it better. I will definitely recommend them to everyone! read more

Read Street Tattoo Parlour - Tattoo Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

I have my fair share of tattoos, some big, and some small. I have been getting tattooed since the law allowed me. For most of the time, I had gone to shops here and there, but never found somewhere I could call my "tattoo home". That was until I got my first tattoo at Read Street back in 2010--I knew I had found my "home". The staff are all great, very nice and very accommodating. The prices are what to be expected for quality work. Whenever people complement my tattoos (which they do often) I always, always recommend them to go to Read Street. My go to artist there is J Ranno, who is a very polite and awesome dude. I have a friend who wanted a very major back piece done and I did not hesitate in telling her to please go see J. That said, I have seen the other artists' work and they also look like they do amazing work. I think that recommending a tattoo business is no light consideration, as when you are in the market for a tattoo, it's for life (well, unless you get it laser removed I suppose....) So I can most certainly, without a doubt, recommend Read Street tattoo for anyone looking for a great experience and piece of body art. read more

Violet was amazing! She did an on-the-spot design for me over a year ago to honor my sister who died by suicide. This tattoo is a reminder to me and my colleagues in healthcare that mental illness is brain illness and deserves just as much attention and care as "bodily" illness (in fact it is bodily illness of the brain). Thank you Violet! read more

Read Street Tattoo Parlour - Tattoo Near Me - Baltimore, Maryland

Cool shop, nice people. Violet Fivel is my favorite artist here, she made my experience great. Great font work. I've recommended her to others and they have all had great experiences! She did my ribs and my friend's neck and throat. read more

Came in earlier today for my second tattoo. Had a good experience. Receptionist assured me a lot, and encouraged me to proofread my tattoo before getting it (it was in a foreign language so she wanted me to be extra sure!). Shop was clean, everything was done very timely and professionally. The tattoo itself was a little on the pricier side, and was about twice what I was expecting to pay based off previous experience. However, when getting a tattoo, price should not be your #1 consideration. They take only cash, so make sure to bring enough! Overall, would recommend. read more

We came in completely on a wimb. Everyone welcomed us and were totally cool with taking us, waiting on us to go get cash, and coming back. Violet is lovely and awesome at what she does. Mike is super talented and super cool dude. Hashtag def coming back read more

The receptionist was rude and very know it all. We waited for 30 mins before we were serviced. While waiting to be tattooed my friend and I were watching a Snapchat video and abruptly told no videos were allowed to be watched in the parlor. Her attitude was rude and unnecessarily snobby we left without getting tattoos and will not return to do business. Thanks but no thanks. read more

My friend and I were in town for a concert and had such a good time that we decided to get a couple small tattoos to remember the weekend by. We stopped into Read Street Tattoo Parlour as walk-ins and everyone was cool and easy going. Hunter did a great job on our tattoos and we really enjoyed the conversation. The next time I'm in Baltimore, I will definitely be back! read more

Full disclaimer--I don't have any tattoos and I'm not in the market for any, but I do have a number of piercings and I stopped by here the other day to get second lobe piercings. I called ahead of time to make sure the piercer was in and make sure they don't use a gun for lobe piercings (they don't) before heading over there. I also checked the price because, by the way, they're cash only. The guy on the phone told me 25-45$ depending on the jewelry--seems reasonable. Only, when I got there, she rang me up at 85 for some crappy black studs. I didn't even have that much cash with me. I asked her why it was double what the guy on the phone told me, and she said that it's 25-50$ PER EAR for lobe piercings. I realize some people only get one lobe piercing at a time but I think it's pretty obvious when a person asks for lobe piercings they're generally talking about a pair. Not only that, but 50$ is a bit steep for two lobe piercings, let alone one. I realize this is a high end shop, but you can get lobe piercings at Claire's for $5. So I said bye. Just to make sure I wasn't insane, I called Saints and Sinners down in Fells Point on my way out of the shop. They said they charge 42$ for BOTH ears, including the jewelry, and plus free aftercare solution. Seems a lot more reasonable, right? So I'll be heading down there this weekend to get my second lobes done. And when I am in the market for more piercings and a tattoo, it definitely won't be at Read St. I kind of think the girl might have just been trolling me. Maybe I wasn't hip enough to be spending my money at Read St. I'm giving them two stars just because the shop was cool and it was clean, which is obviously the most important thing at these kinds of shops, but I definitely would not recommend this store to anyone, at least for piercings. read more

I got my first tattoo here, which is just some basic lettering on my wrist: the word "speranza" written in script. The tattoo came out nicely, but only after making the guy redraw what I had in mind about 5 times. He was so intent on making the lettering really ornate and intense and wasn't really listening to what I was saying. He seemed pretty frustrated when I kept explaining how I wanted it, but I was like, Come on dude It's gonna be on my body forever! When the work was done, it came out great, but it was not the most comfortable experience getting there. read more

Wow talk about their tattoo so called artist emily being irresponsible, made an appointment, paid the 60 to save my date, she said to send her pics of what I wanted never even acknowledged receiving them, the front person confirmed she had, I ask to see my drawing days before and nope nothing, call day before my apps to confirm and everything is set , 4 hours before the appt she calls cancelling cause her cat died 3 days ago. Why couldn't u tell me any of the other times I called , thanks for the waist of time I could have already found a responsible true artist to do my half sleeve read more

Having a mid life crisis and Charlie has been there time and time again to accommodate my whims with his artistic ability. Transforming my sometimes vague thoughts into works of art on my body. I can't say enough good things about this place!! Clean, comfortable, reasonably priced and above all else really cool. Having a mid life crisis?? Or just need some cool art on your body go see Charlie at Read street you will not be disappointed!! read more

The tattoo artist I went to before I moved to MD recommended I check out this shop and a particular artist that worked there. I went in looked around (it is a very nice shop), talked to the artist about my idea/design and everything seemed cool so I made an appointment & paid my deposit. I came back couple days later for the appointment and had to sit for an additional 2 hours while he finished up a walk-in (If I remember correctly it was a tattoo of the sate of TX that was about the size of a half dollar) and THEN started to sketch out my design (what was the deposit for if this wasn't done until I came back?). When it came time for the work I had to sit in a straight backed wooden chair, that when getting work on your chest is uncomfortable as hell, for approximately 2.5 hours. Once the outline and shading were complete, at the artist recommendation, I went home to let things heal & I was told to call back and schedule the next appointment after the healing was done. I called about 6x and every time he was not in and none of my messages were returned. On the 7th call he answered the phone & after I told him who I was he said he was "finishing things up" and he took my number to call me back. I've never heard another thing from him. The moral to the story is this: unless you are someone that goes in everyday or a tourist that wants a $50 tattoo, you are not a priority. I recommend looking someplace else. I know I will. read more

After paying some guy in front of the door for a entrance fee,i walk up the never ending stairs to the third floor,and look around for someone to acknowledge me,nothing. Everybody is busy inking somebody. After 15 minutes of waiting,i finally grab someone walking back and forth between tat rooms. 2 hour wait limit. 2 hours? Thats what he says,and i had to pay to put my name on the list...I thanked him good day sir,and walked out of there. Greasy and shady.. Id rather get a prison tat with a ball point ink pen. read more

After more than a few referrals to Read Street, from some tattoo-savvy folks, I figured it was the best in town. I had recently gone to the Museum, and that's a whole other review :-\. Anyway, I made an appointment with J, I think it was, then got a call the day before the appointment saying "something came up" and that we had to reschedule. (Found out later he had gotten a hand tattoo the day before and it hurt. Then don't put someone on your books. Lame!) I had a pretty packed schedule so I decided to just book a new guy, Tomek. I came in with a very set idea of a non-traditional, disproportionate anchor. Lots of thought went into it, and that's what I wanted and I even brought in a drawing. Tomek wasn't having it and changed my idea. Again and again. After I repeatedly told him I didn't want the size/style he drew up. We butted heads for almost an hour and I even let a first-time-sun-on-the-wrist client jump in line ahead of me because I just wasn't happy with the design. I should have jetted when she finished and told me she had asked for it on her wrist so she could hide it with a watch but he did it larger than she wanted and in a visible spot. Anyway, back to me... It should be said, he is a great artist and there were some design elements that I really liked and wanted to incorporate, so I drew up a new picture and wanted him to stencil EXACTLY THAT on me. He still changed it up and I finally gave up the fight and let him tattoo his design. This is not my first tattoo and I understand tattoo culture and that artists want to maintain their integrity. There's a thin line though, between an artist keeping his design aesthetic and being a huge jerk. Bottom line, I am a paying client and I should get exactly what I want since it's going to be on my body forever. I should have just eaten the $60 downpayment and walked out but I didn't. Tomek was a very talented tattooer, no question about that, but he didn't listen to my requests, and now I have a pretty large tattoo that I just feel so-so about...for the rest of my life... If you are open to suggestions or have no idea what kind of tattoo you are looking for, Read Street would be a great choice for you. It seems as though their crew has a set way of doing things and they'll be damned if someone requests something they don't agree with. If you are somewhat strong-willed and have set ideas, I wouldn't go here. Getting tattooed has a stressful element to it, and it's no fun when added stress comes from a bull-headed tattoo artist. read more

I came across Read Street Tattoo while researching reputable tattoo shops in the area. I came across Dawn's review here about Alex Saber doing her cover up and I was intrigued. She was gracious enough to invite me to one of her sessions with Alex since this would be my first tattoo and I was a nervous wreck about following through. After meeting both of them and spending about two hours with them, I made a consultation appointment, showed Alex my reference photo of what I wanted and made an appointment for my first session. Consultation: I met with Alex for approximately 20 minutes to discuss with him what I wanted and placement. What I liked the most is that he's honest. We both agreed on the design and flow of the tattoo but when I mentioned what covers I wanted, he was kind enough to let me know those colors would look muddy (I have darker skin). I was somewhat disappointed to know I couldn't get my favorite color but overall very happy that he gave me his honest and professional opinion that he should not do those colors. After all, he is the professional and knows what he's talking about. Sessions 1-3: About 3 weeks later, I came in to have my line work done and I was nervous. He showed me the design, of which was perfect, we confirmed the placement (mid-back to lower thigh), and got to work. Because of the placement, I'd have to be sporting my birthday suit only, but Alex set up a partition for privacy and did his best to make me feel comfortable throughout the entire process. He encouraged me throughout the line work, cracked jokes and we talked a lot throughout the roughly 3 1/2 hour session. I walked away sore but very happy with the end result. He gave me great aftercare instructions that I followed for proper healing then returned for the shading and color. Each time I came back, I was thrilled to see the end result. Each time very professional, funny and all around fantastic to work with. Although I said I would only get one tattoo, if I break my own rule, Alex will be the person I go to. I am NOT disappointed with my experience. Shop itself: very, VERY clean from the door to the back of the shop. The staff is professional and friendly. Photography and kids are not allowed in the shop so leave both at home. They only accept cash, so beware and don't play yourself. If you're looking for an appointment with Alex, it's best to schedule an appointment. He's usually so busy that you're lucky if he can take a walk-in. I've been here with a full house and music playing and it's still pretty quiet. No one screaming bloody murder. Overall, a great place to get your artwork done. Thanks, Alex! (Pics to follow when I'm fully healed.) read more

Had my Japanese sleeve started here by Dana Helmuth and I have to say my first session was very enjoyable. After Dana put the 2 stencils on he then started drawing the rest of my tattoo out freehand which was great. It took him about 35 to 40 minutes of him drawing it on and looks amazing. Throughout the entire time I was being tattooed he kept making sure I was ok and if I need anything. The other artist in the shop were also checking in making sure I was ok and seeing if I or Dana needed anything. During the breaks I had time to talk to the other artists and all of them were very friendly and easy to talk to. The shop itself is very nice and very clean. I can't wait to go back for my 2nd session. read more

Best tattoo parlor I've been to in Baltimore hands down. They have a very professional staff & environment. Charlie has been my go to guy for years and will be for years to come. Definitely a great place to get high class work and I'd recommend anyone in the market for tattoos. read more

Violet Fivel is a pleasure! Go see her. She is quick, but thorough and willing to take the time to discuss all the different approaches. She is extremely sweet and very capable of delivering a 5 star experience. read more

I went here primarily because I live right around the corner and I didn't know of any other place nearby. I tried to go get my monroe pierced a couple of times, but the peircer was never there. I finally went back on a day she was there and it was an average experiece. The people weren't that friendly and it cost over $60 (probably because they don't really want to do piercings but it's easy money) which is the most I've ever paid to get one piercing. The shop is nice and I hear they do nice tattoos, but I won't go back. read more

Called and asked about getting my first tattoo. The receptionist was super chill, friendly, and helpful. Instead of going in to make an appointment, I decided to attempt a walk-in on Saturday, right when they opened at noon. The environment at Read is clean, full of natural lighting, and very chill. I had to wait fifteen minutes for the next available artist, J, so I went to the Rite Aide next door to withdraw some cash - cash only!! I was happy with the pricing - $80 for six words on the side of my forearm. J was great. I brought a printed copy of the font I wanted, and asked for his advice on the sizing, if I should add extra embellishments, etc. He was very helpful, told me we should go a little bigger, and keep it simple without embellishments. He was gentle, quick, and made it a great first-time experience. Totally recommend! read more

I went in to get my septum pierced this past Thursday and the employees were phenomenal. Emily, the piercing artist, was so accommodating and incredibly friendly. The place IS cash only, however I had only brought my cards. The staff allowed me time to go to an ATM to get the jewelry I wanted. I get a bit woozy when I get tattoos and piercings and I told Emily this before she started. She allowed me to lay down as I requested and we spoke about our schooling for a good bit. Overall, super friendly staff, fair-priced, and amazing people. I will most definitely be back in the near future. read more

I went to Read Street because I had some body piercing done at another place that didn't go very well. I wasn't healing and was in a lot of pain. I've had other body piercings done in another city that went great, so I knew that something was wrong. Emily was AMAZING. I saw her a few times to try to salvage the piercings. She made a point to call her teacher for additional information since I really wanted to save them even though the odds were against me. In the end, I decided to abandon the piercings. Emily gave me all the information I needed to make the decision I felt good about, but I never felt pressured either way. She's not only professional and really knows her stuff but also she also exudes friendliness and calm. I'd definitely return to her. She's aces. read more

Great experience! Everyone here made this first timer comfortable from the time I entered the place. Mike was awesome during the process, working with me on design and placement, and he eased my mind about what to expect. He's also an incredible artist, giving me a finished product that exceeded what I envisioned. I definitely recommend him and this parlor. read more

I got my septum pierced on Tuesday and was very nervous about it. I went to Read Street with a friend and immediately felt comfortable. The atmosphere was very friendly and clean and the piercer was super nice and very accommodating. My friend was allowed to come back with me to help me through the piercing and it was over in seconds and very well done. She even gave me a little aftercare kit and gave me detailed instructions on how to care for it so it healed properly. I'll definitely go back there for future piercings! read more

I was tattooed by Ryan Arnold, and I am very happy with my tattoo. I brought in a drawing of mine, and asked him to redraw it and make it look better. He did, and I love the piece he did for me. The shop is really nice, and everyone I spoke to in there were very kind. I was recommended by a friend who had a half sleeve done there. I also had stopped people in the past to say, "you have a SWEET tattoo- where'd you get it?" And on multiple occasions people had said Read Street. I'm really proud to now be able to say the same when people ask where I got my tattoo. read more

My boyfriend and I called pretty last minute to get a tattoo! Violet and hunter made it work and we're so awesome! Made me feel very comfortable and did an AMAZING job! Can't wait to go back for more read more

J. Ranno did a cover up piece for me and it is beautiful, flawless. He freestyled it completely, I've never experienced that. My previous work was all traced on, then tattooed. He drew it first with a marker before the tattoo. Amazing. I'm done (I think), but if I ever wanted more work done, I can't go to anyone else at this point. He's great. read more

Pretty disappointed in this place. I heard some wonderful things but then I went in to get my nose pierced. Emily knew this was my first nose piercing and Without telling me she pierced my nose with a 14 gauge rather a standard 18" 20" gauge. If I ask for a nose piercing then maybe they could not use a labret stud for piercing? Oh but if I go in they can switch it out for 10% off wow what a deal. I gave her a 10 dollar tip and this is the help I get afterwards. I would go somewhere else read more

Pick another parlor. I had Emily and besides the fact that she was pushy, rude, and rushed me far too much while preparing the stencil, she did a terrible job on the tattoo itself. The line work is scratchy, none of the circles are circular, the lines bled together within a couple weeks. I actually don't understand how she did such a bad job. I have other tattoos that I'm happy with but this is going have to be a cover-up in the near future and I am extremely displeased. read more

I could not be happier with my experience at Read Street Tattoo Parlour with Charlie Foos and his staff. Moreover, I am so pleased with my anchor tattoo (and piercing) and lucky to have been referred by a friend, another happy client of theirs. Charlie bar none knows what he is doing (understatement). All of the staff I came in contact with were low-key, consummate professionals, not to mention, organized and taking ownership! Not only did Charlie go back a couple times to redesign the artwork for my tattoo after consulting with me, he did so without hesitation, being annoyed or any reserve. His ONLY concern was that I would leave there with the most amazing tattoo I desired and that is exactly what I have. That made me feel confident, not to mention, taken care of. I appreciated that! The receptionists at the front desk area are warm and accommodating. You can tell they are a thriving, organized shop of true artists who own their craft and continue bettering themselves to create amazing tattoos. Additionally, the parking is easy and the shop is spotless and without clutter. I am happy to recommend Charlie Foos to anyone looking for the highest quality artist and best in the business out there. Compared to any other tattoo I have gotten and experience surrounding, well - there really isn't a comparison at all! It's hard to give your trust, especially with something that is permanent and I can say with 100% certainty, that you will be in GOOD HANDS with Charlie Foos. I wouldn't consider going to another shop ever again. Read Street Tattoo is legit! read more