Incredibly happy with my experience at Mars Ink. Came in for a consult about 6 months ago after finding Mike on Instagram. Gave a brief overview of what I was looking for, some photos of other artwork that showed some of the inspiration and met with Mike who was friendly, informative and knowledgeable. Lucked out and scored an earlier appointment after a couple of months due to a cancellation and came in a couple weeks ago. I was getting a cover up on my chest from something I did when I was young and had wanted covered up for years. The day of went smoothly. I arrived and Mike showed me what he had come up with and even did a different mock up just to see what it would look like if we tried another design. In the end we went with his original design and got right to work. He made sure I was comfortable the whole time and did a pretty good size tattoo that covered the left side of my chest and up on my collar bone and shoulder in 5 hours. I was so pleased with the end result that I booked 3 more sessions for a sleeve tattoo early next year before leaving. Pros: ConvenientNot too pricy compared to some other artistsClean shopFriendly staffEasy parkingComfortable space.Cons:Shop could use a little more privacy but it's a smaller location so it's probably not an option. They also do a pretty good job with what they've got. Appointments are booked out pretty far which could also be a pro. Any good artist is going to have jam packed books so I guess it just comes with the territory. Overall, I highly recommend Mike and his team. Read Less

My experience at this shop has been very positive! Came in for a consult and mike was very friendly and helpful. The shop is very clean and I was greeted by everyone there it was a welcoming atmosphere. While i was waiting for my appointment date i had a lot of questions and concerns in which i kept sending multiple emails (Sorry-Cynthia) and she was more than helpful and quick in returning answers to my concerns. Came in on a Sunday for my appointment with mike and he explained the process to me. I wanted to add last minute changes to my tattoo and mike had no issues adding in to what he already came up with. All in all this was a great experience and I can't wait to come back for mike to take care of a cover up project i have and grace my arm with his art! Thank you! Read Less

Came here to get my mother's day gift from my sister. Got matching Gemini infinity tattoos that represents sisters and the month we were born. Emmanuel was our artist. He was so good that it was over before it began. I mean I was thinking we would be there more than 2 hours but it took about 30 minutes for both my sister and I. I felt to pain and I love his work. I am definitely coming back to get more work done. Read Less

Had such an amazing experience with my tattooer Emmanuel. I got a thin line tattoo and it turned out so amazing and beautiful. The experience was smooth and enjoyable and I would definitely go back!! Thank you Mars Ink and Emmanuel for the awesome experience! Read Less

I got two small tattoos done by Emmanuel and he was literally the best. He was patient and made the smallest changes according to what i wanted. He was super chill and easy to talk to. Highly recommend him and the shop! Read Less

I meant to write my review a few weeks ago. But now that I got the chance, I just wanted to say I really liked this shop. I was looking for another tattoo shop (just because my go to shops minimum was too much for the piece I was asking for). I happened to come across this shop many times as I pass by leaving from school. I did all my research and checked reviews & the IG page with all the artists work. I came to Yelp to post a question and right away I received a response from Cyn (one of the owners). She was very polite & was even able to give me a recommendation of who would be best be available to do my tattoo. This piece is small but has a lot of sentimental value because it was for my grandfather that had just recently passed. I was able to contact the artist Emmanuel via email. He also replied right away. Was SUPER NICE & patient with answering ALL my questions. I was booked and had my appointment within just a couple of days. Which I really liked. The shop was very clean. It is small, so definitely enough room for 1 tag along, instead of an entourage (they even note that on their website). But everyone was very friendly. Emmanuel was very nice & made sure I was comfortable & that the tattoo looked even and fit my exact mental image of it. Definitely recommend to anybody. This will be another tattoo shop I would want to come to, forsure. Read Less

Words cannot express how grateful I am for Mike Aveeno's talented tattoo and artistry skills. I came upon his portfolio through a friend who previously got a piece done by him. While I was looking at his work, I noticed he had some of the most beautiful owls that I had ever seen. I've been looking for an artist who does awesome owls, because I previously got a horribly done owl piece on my back. For years, I haven't been able to fix it until I found Mike and Mars Ink. Fortunately, he said he was able to re-work it and bring it back to life. After putting a deposit down and waiting the customary 6 months since he's always booked (that's a good sign people), the day finally arrived to fix my back. I gave Mike complete creative control of the piece, because I clearly had no idea how to fix it. 6 hours later, Mike was able to resurrect my back tattoo from the dull life it previously led. Now I can confidently show my back again and let people know that they need to go to Mars Ink! Read Less

I went to a few other tattoo shops in the area to have an old tattoo detailed. I was told by these other high rated shops that I needed to cover my tattoo that there was nothing that can be done. Well they were wrong! Mike is a true artist and was able to do a complete transformation. This shop is clean and welcoming and the real deal. Read Less

Mike gave me one of my best tattoos that I have. Long process but Mike made every day and appointment worth it. Would go back to him for my next tattoo, and the next after that. Great work, clean lines, and an awesome dude. Nice shop, and clean work space. Definitely recommend seeing him if you want to be happy with a tattoo piece for the rest of your life! Read Less

So hands down, Mike is a badass tattoo artist. I was struggling with finding a tattoo artist that could make what I wanted come to life. Luckily, I found the awesome Mike; he tattoos at Mars Ink in San Jose. I saw the sketch and I thought, wow, this is happening. Then when he added the background, I lost my shit. I was super ready to get my first tattoo! Throughout the session, he let me know his input on what I wanted and threw in his own style which I was more than happy with. For my first tattoo, it wasn't bad until the very end. After 4 and a half hours, we finally finished and I was in love! It's only day one of my new tattoo and everyone is loving it!Thank you Mike for your awesome skills! You truly accomplished what I was looking for! I will definitely be back for round 2! Read Less

For my seventh tattoo, I went to MARS Ink. I was immediately greeted by a friendly staff, an adorable chihuahua, and an art-filled and clean facility. I had been in contact with them via email ahead of time, and was impressed with their quick and helpful responses. I ended up doing a walk-in and was so pleased with the experience. The artist was kind, sanitary, and very talented. I will definitely be back to MARS Ink again! Read Less

Only place to come get a tattoo. Mike and Pedro are super talented artists. In in the process of my second one and it is better than i could have imagined it. Very friendly and welcoming. Clean shop, just the best atmosphere to get a tattoo done. Update from before. Finished my other tattoo came out awesome. The colors are so vibrant and the spiders really come to life. Brazilian pinkbloom, and greenbottle blue tarantula and a black widow. If you want the best, come to MARS ink. No place better.. Read Less

I got my second tattoo done here yesterday and I couldn't have left happier. Mike does such clean, detailed work and truly made sure I was happy with the sketch. I love that he took the time to go over it with me and made changes to fit my liking. Not only was he an awesome tattoo artist, but his wife was so helpful to me. My phone crashed during my session and while I was getting my tattoo done she was trying to fix it! So so sweet. The atmosphere and the people working there really make it so you're comfortable and relaxed during your session, and if you're lucky like me, you'll get some amazing tamales to snack on  Overall, I'm so happy that I came to Mike for my second tattoo and can't wait to come back! Read Less

This review is definitely overdue! The owner Mike did my first tattoo and have been coming back to add more and more on - actually still in progress ! The shop is always professional, clean, comfortable and respectful. I really appreciate all the hard work and art. Make sure to book your appointment early as they are typically scheduled out a few weeks! Read Less

I was looking for an artist that could do some good work and touch up some 30 year old tattoos. I was referred by a friend at which time I scheduled a time to meet with Mike. He spent about an hour talking to me about what he could do for me and showed me some of his work. I felt at home because first impression means a lot. Shop was clean and the atmosphere was inviting. I just completed my 2nd session and I'm about 6.5 hours in. All the work he has done met and exceeded my desires.  I am scheduled for 2 more sessions and will continue to frequent Mars for my skin work. So bottom line if you are looking for an artist that is passionate about his craft hit Mike up you won't be disappointed. Read Less

I am so impressed with this shop! I came in with a tattoo that was done about a month ago in Vegas. I should have done more homework, and I wasted time and money. I wanted some lettering and lines added, the original tattoo left much to be desired. Paydrow took a look and went to work. In an hour he had changed it from bad to amazing. I will definitely be back. Can't recommend it highly enough! Read Less

Went here a month ago to set up an appointment and get a quote and it was amazing; from the beginning it has a good vibe it's very open and bright, it's very clean and the artists are amazing I booked two appointments that day. Both my pieces were amazing!! I'd for sure come back for another piece. Read Less

Went here with my fiancé because she wanted to get a tattoo done with her sister as soon as we walked in the feel was awesome, looked super nice and clean the artists where awesome! We talked to Paydro about the tattoo she wanted and he booked us for a appointment, afterwards I talked to him about getting my first tattoo and he said he could do it for $60 which was awesome and I went in a week later and he did it and it came out awesome, now my fiancé and I live in Washington state but are planning to visit soon and we will definitely be booking a appointment with him for when we go back! Read Less

Omg I can not go on enough about how great this place is! It's by appointment so I feel it much more organized that way. I came into MARS Ink to get a Phantom of the Opera tattoo with Paydrow--it went so well! It's far better than I could have hoped! The detailed shading even the splash of color choice! I'm still in awe of this guy. The shop is modest so they have one or no friend policy to avoid cramped quarters. They offer water, great music, and even Netflix! I sat there for about 7 hours, with breaks in between of course, and I have to say this place was simply phenomenal! Paydrow and Mike are truly the most easy going people I've ever met and I recommend either one of them! I'm definitely going back in the near future! Read Less

Thank you so much Mike. I didn't have an appointment and Mike was able to fit me in.  The shop has a relaxing atmosphere and is very clean.  Great custom service as well.  I will definitely refer family and friends to the shop and looks like I have found my tattoo artist. Read Less

MIKE AVENO is the guy to go to! even if you're confused about the design you want, he can help you figure it out. I gave him a few ideas and he literally came up with an original one-of-a-kind design in no time. I'll never go to another artist as long as this dude is around. Read Less

I walked in on a whim and Paydrow greeted me.  About a week later, I walked out with an amazing piece of art on my arm.  From the minute I walked in  that day and then from the completion of my piece, the entire experience was so pleasant.   I appreciate so much his kindness and easy vibe.  I love my piece and can't stop looking at it.  I will be back and can't praise the people behind the name-  thank you Mars Ink!! Read Less

I just want to say thank you to Paydrow, this was my first tattoo and he was super patient. I was changing my mind on what I wanted and he didn't seem annoyed . He was always smiling. About the place is very clean and they are very professional with their work. I can only say thank you !! Read Less

Mike is very professional down to earth and super clean work, a true artist. I will be loyal and keep going always satisfied with my tattooes! 3 done and can't wait for my next one! 😊Thanks buddy again Read Less

Its an honor to have Mike do our Father/Son tattoo last Friday when my son turned 18. Mike is very professional and he took his time to listen to the story behind our ink. The shop itself is very clean and all the equipment he used are all wrapped individually in sanitized plastic and he make sure that everything that he skin will get contact with are all wiped or wrapped.Thanks Mike!!!! Read Less

Paydrow is an absolutely excellent artist! Fantastic atmosphere, great folks and stellar art work. Have had 2 tattoos done by Paydrow and I could not be happier with both of them! If you are looking for some new ink by great people book Paydrow today. Read Less

Mike and Paydrow are amazing artists! Mars Ink really covers a wide variety in styles. They are attentive and very passionate about their work. Guaranteed to be very pleased with their work. I know I am! Will definitely be back for more! I also love the vibe of the place; welcoming, friendly and relaxed. Read Less

I got my first Tattoo today by the owner Mike Aveno. I went in last week for consultation, I was greeted by a gal the minute I walked in. Then I spoke to Mike, he is very friendly & kind. I had found this place here on yelp. I was impressed with Mikes work, but I was still scared because I didn't have a personal recommendation. Then his little chihuahua was scratching @ my leg. I then new I was in right place. Mike did exactly what I had  envisioned & then some! Mike has a very gentle touch & his lettering is phenomenal. I LOVE MY FIRST TATTOO & JUST IN CASE I GET ANOTHER I WILL COME BACK TO MIKE. Also his place is very clean & organized that's a plusDiana Read Less

I had the best experience here and I came out with the most beautiful tattoo I have see. I will tell everyone and anyone, who will listen, to go here. I do not have a "best part" of this experience because all of it wall A+ work from the jump. Coming here was the best decision I've ever made! Read Less

What an incredibly awesome, talented, and friendly tattoo artist! Mike was extremely patient as I described my idea to him and then he sketched it out and made my vision come alive! The artwork on my baby Pooh Bear sitting on a book was perfectly created with beautiful straight lines and curves! Mike has a very steady hand and a light touch, making the pain very minimal in the sensitive wrist area.  Thank you, Mike, for your magical artwork! I'm very thankful to have found you on my birthday to make my birthday wish of getting this tattoo finally come true! Read Less

Mike is an amazing talented artist.......I have know him for many years and many hours of ink being blasted on my skin....of not just only myself but my Dad, Brother, Husband, and Step Daughter....I would never trust anyone else.. Keep up all your hard work.. Salamat for all that you do.... Read Less

I got my sleeve probably 2yrs ago, i have both my arms done and Mikes sleeve always gets compliments! He's an awesome guy to work with and great at his job! I keep coming back, he knew how to make my whole sleeve flow and also did my daughters name for me. Read Less

Got INKed for the first time and it was just amazing .. Mike is the perfectionist.. Too good and best thing he knows what he is doing and you can see that.. Very friendly people .. Will visit again for sure .. Highly recommendable.. 10 stars Read Less

Mike is absolutely the best. I came here with a horrible embarrassing tattoo I got when I was really young. I asked him to cover it up with a mandala and lotus flower. His sketches are absolutely unique and beautiful. He gave me tips on what I could apply to help decrease pain. He was very patient with me even while I was cursing and squirming towards the end. I am so emotionally happy on the out come of my cover up. Read Less

This is my second tattoo from Mike and first time at the new studio. I traveled from SF to SJ just to have him tat me up and he did not disappoint. Great work and clean lines as always. It was my wife's first time getting a tattoo and she loves it! The new studio is awesome and clean. We were lucky enough to have one of Mikes friend come in and jam on the guitar. It put my 3 month old to sleep (thanks Abraham lol). The location also is great coz of the 2 hour parking along the street and next door is some good halal food! I will most def come back to Mars Ink for my next tattoo! Thanks Mike! Read Less

The Cover Up Master - Hands Down.  Covered up (still pending and hoping the final product will be badass) my old tattoo I have been dreading for yrs. The only artist I've gone to who will consult with you, pre-draw your drawing and assure you are comfortable before your actual tattoo appointment. Very unique artist. Keep up the good work.Need I say More? Read Less

Man I am so happy with what Mike has done for me. Long story short I  got a tattoo on my chest that I wasn't really proud of. A big one at that. I met with Mike for a consult and we went over different ideas. But in the end I let him pick because I seen his work and trusted in his creativity. 3 hours later Mike turn my the tattoo on my chest into something that I'm very proud of. I'm blown away frankly how the designed turned out. I would definitely recommend Mars Ink to everybody and will come back in the future for more work. Read Less

So much to say about my experience at Mars Ink. Owner and tattoo artist Mike is totally awesome.  Coming from a guy with no artistic ability Mike is able to take my ideas and bring them to life. Very clean and sterile work place always is a plus and they far exceed that. Cynthia owner/shop manager was very welcoming from the time I arrived till the moment I left, making sure I was comfortable, had water or had a snack for our long session. I will definitely be back for more work at this amazing shop. Will be posting pics as soon as I'm all healed upThanks Mars Ink Read Less