I had my first tattoo done here as a walk-in on a Saturday afternoon. They had someone available immediately to do a tattoo for both me and my boyfriend. We got pretty small tattoos and they were both $100, which was kind of pricey, but worth it. At first, they wouldn't let my boyfriend come back and sit with me during the tattooing, but when we asked again they let him go back there with me. Mike did my tattoo and he was really nice and did a great job! I started to faint halfway through, and he and the girl up front were AMAZING. They had cold presses and lollipops and a table ready for me in an instant. I really appreciated how well they took care of me and I felt better right away. We were only in for about hour and then we were done. Make sure you bring cash though - it's cash only (there's an ATM across the street though). Highly recommend! Read Less

Had a cover up done by Violet. She did an amazing drawing and a perfect job of creating a piece that captured all I wanted. The pricing was very fair and she completed it quickly. Healing was better than expected and the quality is better than I could have hoped for. She is terrific and I will be back for more work. Thank you very much! Read Less

The atmosphere is great, it's a clean shop, they do walk-ins daily. I walked in with my best friend and Hunter was able to help us immediately. Our tattoos were reasonably priced and he did them speedily. Friendly, chill vibe. Read Less

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 Less

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 Less

So I got a tattoo here and was scarred really badly. My tattoo developed two large sized keloids. I have nine other tattoos from other parlors and this has never happened before. So when I went back three months later to talk to the artist who did it which was Hunter, he asked me "well what do you want me to do about it, sh*t happens". I was in total shock. He was completely unprofessional and very nonchalant. I would not recommend this place at all. Read Less

My friend Geff and I got the front and back cover (respectively) of the Lungfish album Pass & Stow yesterday from Hunter. Super friendly, fast, and affordable. The shop accommodated our walk-in with only a 2 hour wait. I'm in love with this tattoo and this shop :) Can't wait to go back. Thanks!!!!!!! Read Less

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 Less

I called around, i read reviews on different places that do tattoos, i shaw this tattoo store on the corner just passing through down town Baltimore, iam sooo happy i choosed this place omg its beautiful just beautiful, clean like omg you wouldn't think it look like a museum inside,the floors r to die for,the rest room is beautiful, the customer service is outstanding, i promise you go here for service you won't go anywhere else,the price was right,i had a budget an they worked with my budget an my tattoo once she finished was just beautiful....i will be going back... Read Less

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 Less

I walked into Read Street Tattoo Parlour based on reviews of friends. From the moment I walked in, I felt so comfortable. Hunter did an AWESOME job covering up a tattoo on my neck. I showed him my ideas and asked him to run with it. I'll definitely be back for more!! Read Less

I just got work done by Violet — She did tattoos 12, 13, & 14 (from Read Street) This is the only place I get work done. Charlie is a great owner and he is always engaging. Read Street is the best Tattoo studio in town. Read Less

The guy with the stripper name of Hunger Spanks needs to retire. I've seen the same shaky hands on plenty of coke fiends but at least they aren't grossly overpricing their shaky, amateur craftsmanship...and what an attitude. Read Less

Love this shop, i am ex air force and have had tattoos from different artists. Charlie is definitely the best, he always goes out of his way to make me comfortable and keeps me informed during the whole process, like what color we are doing or how much we have left. He is very patient with my whining and telling him he is my least favorite person during the tattoo. I highly recommend the shop the entire staff are nice and make you feel welcome, which is sadly not the normal atmosphere in many tattoo shops. Read Less

I have had charlie tattoo me multiple times, two of my pieces by him are cover ups, they are amazing tattoos. I get compliments all the time from strangers about the work he has done. Everytime im in his chair he makes me feel like im family and puts forth extra effort to make sure im comfortable every step of the process. I highly recommend read street tattoo parlour. Read Less

I was staying in Baltimore for two days and knew I wanted a Edgar Allen Poe tattoo while here. I found Read Street via a Google search, then checked out their Instagram. Once I found Hunter's Baltimore work, I knew I wanted him to do my tribute. From greeting to final handshake it was nothing but an amazing experience. I was fully informed on price, when he was available and more. I was in full control of my piece and Hunter never tried to take over like other artists can do. I've always wanted to get a tattoo while traveling, based on the location I wass visiting. This was the perfect place to complete this wish. Read Less

Got a beautiful memorial piece for Mom. I came in with a sketch and Violet Fivel turned it into an American Traditional masterpiece! She even saved my 2nd tat ever (so many years ago) with excellent thought on placement. She does beautiful clean lines and has a very light touch -- parts even tickled! The shop is full of natural light, everyone is very professional and friendly. I have many tats from difference artists and this shop is really fucking awesome. Thanks Violet! Read Less

I can not speak to the quality of the craftsmanship, but I can tell you that the customer service sucks. I arrived with two friends at 1:30. We emailed our art and were told to take a seat. We explained that we had to be out 5:30. At 3:00 they asked us to approve the art work and we were given a price. We had to go down the block to a 7-11 because they are a cash only business. When we returned we paid and were told we'd all be done by 5:00. At 5:10 the first person was finished. Don't know why it took over 90 minutes to make a stencil. Needless to say, I didn't get inked. Not once did anyone explain why it took so long to get started or apologize. Never going back there. Read Less

I got my two tattoos there and loved them both. Charlie took two images and merged them together that made me teary eyed because it was exactly what I wanted and the importance of them was captured perfectly. He's the best. Place was clean and fun, staff was nice and very reasonable prices. I'm planning my third and fourth one very soon and hoping to have Charlie again. Love them. Read Less

Nipple piercings were accurately aligned, sterile utensils, and clean, modern, up-to-date surgical equipment at clean and sanitized environment. Great prices, ample care/aftercare jewelry and tools, and convenient jewelry change available. Recommendable!!! Emily is fast and great!!! Slight pain, but fast relief after piercing!!! Read Less

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 Less

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 Less

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 Less

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 Less

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 Less

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 Less

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 Less

This is  the best shop in the area. Everyone there is super professional and very talented. .  Charlie is super talented, has great ideas and knows his shitIf  anyone is wondering I have many tattoos and have had work done by Chris Trevino and would him in the same category as a great artist.. Read Less

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 Less

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 Less

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 Less

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 Less

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 Less

I had one of the most wonderful experiences getting a tattoo at ReadStreet Tattoo. I called to make an appointment with Charlie a few monthsprior. I came in from Brooklyn NYC. Charlie came in on his day off totattoo me. He was there on time "NO WAITING" . Charlie has one of thebest touches going that I fell asleep, I trusted him that much! Thecolors  are vibrant and outstanding. My friend got their first tattoodone by Jeff and also had a great experience. They also recommended agreat place to eat that was fantastic. I am looking forward to the nextroad trip for more ink. Keep up the great work. if anyone is down in theBaltimore area and looking to get inked Read Street Tattoo is the placeto go. Read Less

Everyone was very friendly. The place was very clean. Tomek made sure I was happy with the design and the tattoo turned out great. This wasn't my first tattoo but it was by far my best and I plan on getting all of my future work done at Read street. Read Less

This is going to be long, but they deserve an excellent, detailed review. I'd been to Read Street before in 03 and had a pretty good experience, so I went back to have a half sleeve worked around the piece I had already gotten there 6 years ago. On first walking in, I really liked the atmosphere of the new location, and it was very clean and well kept One or two people have written reviews that they didn't feel the artists were friendly, but I had the complete opposite experience, like most other posters. I've been to other shops for other tattoos, and have always felt that the artists act elitist, but this wasn't at all how I felt at Read Street. I talked with Jeff about what I wanted and he came up with a really beautiful design that worked well with that I already had. He was really receptive to my ideas and made a lot of good suggestions, and made me feel very comfortable. I've completed 3 of 4 sessions to date, and have spent about 11 hours there so far, and I can say that the other artists that work there are equally respectful and friendly, as I've seen them interact with me and their own clients. I would recommend this shop over any other. They are all phenomenal at their craft and are also cool, down-to-earth guys. I'll definitely be back. Read Less

I have been getting tattooed at read street for years, they do great, clean work, are extremely friendly, and willing to work with you on the design. it's always fun getting tattooed there and, and I always leave feeling more than satisfied with the work. This shop does the best work in the city, so even if you're just considering a tattoo, this would be the place to check out. Read Less

With new owners, Charlie Foos and Jeffrey Pitt, Read Street Tattoo Parlour has raised the bar for expert custom tattooing in Baltimore. Not only is the atmosphere welcoming, but their work is unmatched in the area. With a recent addition to the team, you will be blown away by the mutual and individual talent of Read Street. If you are looking for quality and a range of expertise in both Eastern and Western styles of tattooing, look no further. Charlie designed a sleeve on my right arm that he recently shaded and I'm not kidding when I say that everyday I randomly get stopped on the street with admiration for his work. It's AMAZING!!!! Read Less

My first visit there was a nightmare when my 300.00 tattoo disappeared 3 days later. The tattooist blamed it on bad ink initially and I later learned that he used gray wash instead of black ink. A friend's daughter had the same thing happen and recently a colleague was blown off for his appointment after spending thousands of dollars getting work done by the owner, Jeff Pitt. The original owner is now in Portland and the business has suffered exponentially since his departure. Sad, but true. Read Less

i must agree with the other two reviews. I went with a friend who wanted to get something from off of an album. when he presented this to the artist, the guy seemed like he was all for it, but we overheard him say that he did not want to do it because he only does custom art. Great work does not compensate for a terrible attitude. Read Less

Hail Loop, I'm sure you remember the guy who offered to do your tattoo? I'm his girlfriend, and I'm black. So I would be REAL careful about making those sorts of assumptions about people. As far his questions to you, you just assumed he was coming down on you for being a black girl in a LZ shirt - get over yourself and realize when someone is simply trying to make conversation.... Moreover, if you want good artwork going on your body, you need to let the artist prepare it first. tsk, tsk, tsk......... Read Less

I got tattooed here a few times and it was great! to the girl with the led zeppelin t shirt, i bet noone wanted to do your tattoo because you wanted something completely asinine. Or something that would not work as a tattoo. And i have a feeling you are just upset that you got called out on wearing a shirt of a band you know NOTHING about. You are a poser so go get a terrible tattoo at any of the other lame shops around town. Anyone that wants a REAL tattoo from a REAL artist, go here. There is a reason this shop is world renowned... Read Less

The previous ""reviewer"" obviously has no idea what kind of operation Read St. is. They most likely pointed you to some books for reference, to gain a starting point, as they do with pretty much everyone who goes into their shop. they keep an immense library of reference books on hand, to make sure that each tattoo's particular subject matter is thoroughly researched. You will not find any instant tattoos at their shop, nor will you find anyone working there, who feels they can handle every person's requests. If you were directed to some books, you might want to consider that perhaps you werent being clear as to what you wanted, and the artist needed a point of reference. I'm thrilled with the service and the work at Read St., and will continue to have all of my work done there. i have always felt that my artist understood me, and never did i feel blown off, or that they were ""stuck up"" Perhaps you're better off getting tattooed at a ""museum"", if you can't understand how it works at a real tattoo shop.Read Less

Went there because I was told they were good. Had a vision for a back piece. The guy didn't really want to listen to me, but instead pointed me to some books. I did not want to get a McTattoo so went somewhere where they actually listen to the client. Read Less

Baltimore got really lucky when Seth decided to open his shop here in 1999. Read Street Tattoo offers truly world class tattoos, in a city where something so special could easily be overlooked, perhaps in favor of a lower price, or ease of obtainability. I first got tattooed by Seth when he worked at a shop in randallstown, and have since followed him to Read Street, where he's completed three large pieces on my back, chest, and lower leg. I cant express enough, the amount of compliments i get on the color and detail, and people never believe that my tattoos are several years old, many thinking that they are fake! I recently went back for another tattoo from him, and found him to be booked solid for about 5 or 6 weeks, so he referred me to one of his co-workers, Hunter, who did an awesome job on my new tattoo! He walked me through the design process, placement, color choices, and longevity issues. (some of the lines were too close together), and the whole time, he was SOOO patient with me! He was such a sweetheart! i will come right out and say that these guys are not the cheapest place in town, but they are EASILY the most skilled and most friendly. I will also say that it's best to AT LEAST call ahead if you plan on getting a tattoo. They have portfolios visible on their website, and personally, I'd be wary of places which dont offer to show the work up-front. Read Less