The customer servive here is outstanding and the people here are really nice and friendly. They take their time to make sure your tattoos are precise and are great quality. I will be comi g back to get more tatts Read Less

Visiting from Out of town, and this location had a very friendly staff (when it comes to NY culture).   The decor is very nice, and sleek for a tattoo shop, however, we weren't able to see anyone come out with new ink.  The goal of this visit was to check this place out and see what it looked like.  Next time we'll visit the location where they shoot for VH1.  Decent experience, I hope the art adds up to their reputation.  Great place to visit if you're getting a tat, however, only stop by if you're in the area and want a photo op. Read Less

I went to this place because I falsely trusted that a tattoo studio that is known because of reality tv would only hire tattoo artists who know what the fuck they are doing. Had an intricate design done, which ended up a mess with slightly crooked lines. Okay fine, I could live with that. But now I am being told by other artists that I ended up with the big black mess that it is now, because my artist used too big of a needle, put wayyy too much pressure and went over parts too many times and it can never ever be fixed! also: why the hell do y'all have kids running in and out through the back door walking past your chair and stuff like that. Read Less

The owners and managers were so nice to allow my friends visiting from out of town to come in and take pictures even though they were closed for filming.  Beautiful location!  This is the original location! Read Less

I went yesterday and the receptionist (who originally said he was the shops manager) was very rude and aggressive. He made the shop feel cold, stuffy, and uncomfortable. He acted as if he did not know who my tattoo artist was and that I’d come to the wrong place. He made me wait in the sitting area, making it a problem when I tried to talk to my tattoo artist Kevin about what I wanted done. But after all that my artist Kevin was great he completing warmed up my experience and did a wonderful job tattooing what I wanted. It was exactly what I invisioned; he was very professional, friendly, and clean. Read Less

I just came from the 125th location.It's easy to miss (FYI). Walked up and immediately saw the "no stupid people past this point" sign at the door. I chuckled - it was fair and makes sense. It's a glass door. I go to open it and it's locked but I clearly see people there and it's like 3 something PM. I look at the girl, I'm assuming receptionist, and she looks at me as I'm struggling to open the door. She didn't budge so I left because as a smart person I assumed maybe there was a private event. NOPE. I leave and check their hours (9a -9p OPEN NOW) so I call. It's loud in the background and I told the person on the receiver what service I wanted to get and then asked if they were open because I just came and the door was locked. She's like yea, come in we're open.So, Black Ink, if you're open, the doors shouldn't be locked unless there's a buzzer - which clearly wasn't used when I tried to come to your establishment. Read Less

I only rated one star because I can't give zero. I got a tattoo right above my left elbow in red ink, nothing too intricate just 2 words "pack light". While it was healing I could see what I thought was the white meat, I called Gem who did the tattoo and he ensured me that it was just a part of the healing process and this was normal for red ink and I should just continue keeping it moisturizered with A&D ointment. It has now been 3 weeks and my tattoo is not visible at all because the whole thing and about a cm of skin surrounding it is so dark, about 4 shades darker than my actual complexion. I will have to get a cover up which is frustrating because I have wanted this tattoo in this spot for over 5 years. They need real artist here, this isn't henna, I'm not here to be experimented on I'm so pissed. I want a refund ! Read Less

Doors locked ever sunday even though it says open.....i been canceled on 2 times by 2 people at the same shop once without notice and once 1 hour before appointment and its my fault for not wanting to get my tattoo there still if you asked me on being proffesional and keeping apps go to another shop Read Less

Walked in and reception was so bad that I walked out. Ambiance is sketchy, could not hear the receptionist (her normal voice is a whisper), artists were "out to lunch" with no return time, and card machine was broken. Read Less

Saturday I had a great experience at Black Ink on 125 ... I called prior to my arrival since this was not a planned visit and to my surprise a very nice young lady by the name of Ryan answered the phone and said I could come in right now I was extremely excited .... when I arrived Omg it was dope everyone was smiling and friendly and most of all clean. That day my artist was Berto at first I wanted to be picky but I was so overwhelmed by the experience I just said ok and but the great experience didn’t stop there this guy was amazing top notch equipment that I like afterwards there was no pain and his work was that of a perfectionist will definitely be going back to him for more work... 10 stars to Black Ink.. Read Less

Had a great experience..staff was awesome , professional and at the same time fun.. they made my sister and I feel relaxed and at home Mr. Martinez has a great talent ...great hands.... and very informative.. will definitely be going back!! Read Less

Came here and they showed me a lot of love...located on the second floor...it's not too small of a shop and not too big ...I came because boogz who's a well known tattoo artist was in the area and hes allowed to use there shop when he's in town, and do tattoos...what he tattooed on me was amazing, from the lines to the shading....A1 black and grey piece on me..I'll let the tattoo speak for itself Read Less

Went to Black Ink as a walkin. My friends and I arrived as the shop was opening. "Feasy" introduced himself as the manager. He was slick talking and sarcastic but humorous. He initially suggested tattoo artist Ray but artist Chrystal arrived b4 anyone else so Feasy suggested her. I was super skeptical bc I wasnt feeling her vision of what I wanted. After some back and forth I let Chrystal do my work. Outcome: I loved what she did, I loved our convo, I loved her professionalism and I loved that she takes pride in her work. I Pray that she stays on top. Thanx Chrystal! Expect to pay some money at this shop! Read Less

They were fucking GREAT!!! Got a Black Ink Original done by that Boy Jimmy..good company. They continuously ask if you're ok or do you need anything. They cater to all types of people so the vibe was thru the roof! They will do my boys first ink work. Will visit every time I touch down Read Less

The cast wasn't there... the prices for the tattoos are way over priced... it's not handicap accessible you will have to travel up an entire flight of stairs. The guy that checks you in was nice and the actual shop was very clean. I was just disappointed in the prices. Read Less

So it was my first time visiting New York. I called to ensure that they were still open because it was after 6pm. The guy who answered the phone was supposedly the Manager was very rude and unprofessional. I still went just to see how it was and even in person he was rude. The shop was EMPTY and the tattoo I wanted wasn't even the size of fifty cent piece and they charging $100. TF?!? Never not never! The dude sitting on his behind was the receptionist not the Manager! Read Less

I went a few weeks back to get an infinite tat, spur of the moment.  I got there and the receptionist was absolutely delightful, respectful and patient.  A gentleman name FRESH did my tat and he nailed it. He was pleasant and friendly and very professional. The atmosphere was quiet, it was on a sunday. I told Fresh I would definitely be back for the next and I even DM'd Ceasar and told him such.  Keep up the good work Black ink! I would without a doubt recommend friends to the shop for their tats.  I was very pleased!! Read Less

I have not personally been to this shop, however the most amazing artist I have ever met has just relocated there. @[100001334028248:Chrystal Miztat] has been the only person I have ever allowed to tattoo me, I have received 6 tattoos from her, they are all phenomenal, not just the tattoos quality, but Chrystal as well. You will never meet another person who can be as crazy, sweet, dedicated, and amazingly talented as her. She goes above and beyond for her clients, it takes just one time and I swear you will be hooked. I urge you to go there and get an amazing piece done by her. I know for a fact when I have the means I will be traveling up there from Orlando to get more. Her clientele will follower her wherever she goes, that amount of loyalty from them should tell you that you will never be disappointed. Read Less

I Have several pieces done by Chrystal, each one boasts high quality artwork with a unique flare that only Chrystal can add to it. LOVE LOVE LOVE her use of multiple(seriously a bunch) of colors to get the effects needed for each piece. She's a dope artist to work with, always professional but makes you feel at ease too. Not heavy handed, her machines are always super whisper quiet and clean, it's great that she's local at 125th now, can't wait to stop in and get more pieces done! PS quality piercer too! Read Less

My experience with Crystal was memorable. She was able to take what I wanted and add a twist to it that made me want to get the tattoo even more. Great artist with a personality too match. I would definitely get more ink from her! Read Less

Black ink is home some some awesome artist including Chrystal. Her artistry professionalism is what makes me keep going back to her. She puts her heart into every piece she does and strives to make her clients happy I've yet to be disappointed in any of the eight pieces she's given me. I can't wait to get some more from her she's dope!! Read Less

Black ink is home some some awesome artist including Chrystal. Her artistry professionalism is what makes me keep going back to her. She puts her heart into every piece she does and strives to make her clients happy I've yet to be disappointed in any of the eight pieces she's given me. I can't wait to get some more from her she's dope!! Read Less

A big disappointment!!! I came all the way from Texas for this tattoo. I paid $100 for a tattoo that only took 15 minutes. I had no beef with the price because I thought I was getting exceptional work done. Big mistake! Fast forward a month later and the tattoo lines are not sharp/clear. The coloring is uneven. I can see my skin through it. And part of the tattoo has faded completely away. I've only had it for a month! I've now got to go to another shop (one I know is reputable for sure) and pay more money to have them correct Black Inks poor work. I wish I could include a picture for you all to seeRead Less

So we came into shop , we where greeted and treated well I got three word tattoos de Envy - who was cool and it didn't hurt - my husband got a that'll from oh shit(Richard ) and it is exactly what he wanted with more details of course!!! This was a great experience and I guess we are on our way to Atlanta for next black ink tattoo ���� Read Less

Richard (O'Shit) was very rude! I visited the shop on my trip to NY yesterday and he was in the shop and when told Someone wanted to meet him, he was rude and didn't acknowledge us. Made me think different of the show and shop. Will definitely not come here anymore nor give the show ratings. Read Less

I love the decor and the waiting area feels like a living room. A place to kick your feet up, talk to great people and be around talented artists. From the people you see on the show to the artist who are not, it's all great energy. Read Less

The shop is set up very nice ad clean the receptionist he was very nice and friendly we chatted with him ,we asked why he wasn't on the show,he said that he wouldn't ever do it , then Cease walked over and we took a couple of pics together he was very nice I really enjoyed my black ink experience!!! I�Ceaser this is why I came from Starke Florida to New York!!! #04/10/18 Read Less

I really like it there. Classy atmosphere, proper etiquette and great customer service. They're very patient with you, they don't rush you to make decisions, they show you lots of options and also have two really good freehand specialists. Also a black and gray specialist that works really well with dark skin. Last but most importantly and the FIRST thing I checked out, it's VERY CLEAN in there, and the fact that they have autoclave machines for their stainless steel tools really impressed me. Being that I just started my cover up, I will be back here once it's done, so that I can give a full review and critique of the job that was done on my free handed cover up. ✌🏾❤️ Read Less

I stopped by the shop while I was in town on business and Envy took the time to sit with me and here my story & vision of the the type of tattoo I wanted to create, he gave me a piece of paper told me to do the best I could & he turned my doodle into the most beautiful masterpiece that expresses all that I am! Even after a busy and long day he stayed late to make sure the job got done! Have much respect for that! Everyone was professional, kind and fun to hang out with! Read Less

Treated like a king in Harlem. They are professional and courteous unlike what you see on tv. I was joking around with the staff and they made me feel like we were long time friends. Cobra from Black Ink Chicago was there and we talked and joked the entire time. Everybody here was cool and I'll be back very soon to add more ink. Read Less

I've actually been here TWICE . I was visiting from D.C. With a couple friends so we stopped at the shop . Both of my Tats were done by someone who no longer works here . He didn't end up lasting too long but my experiences were actually pretty good despite that . The secondTime I went I wanted a set of blue lips on my shoulder & Dutchess suggested I get my own lips instead of just googling some . The vibe was cool everyone was nice & tattoos still look great til this day (thanks kelvin) I would still go back for more work ! Read Less

Worst tattoo ever. Came to NY for girls trip and getting tatted was suppose to be the highlight of my trip but ended up being the worst experience.  My appointment was at 8, Caesar didn't begin until after 10:30.  Didn't apologize for the wait...I bought  in pic of what I wanted but he felt he could do something better.  Finished result looks like two year old drawing.  I called to ask for some type of compensation he refused.  How disappointing.  This is definitely not one of his better pieces.  I will be getting it coved soon as it heals Read Less

I would go again. This review is of the new Harlem 125th location. It's as Ceasar described just without the "classical music ".They only lose a star because the online appointments  is not accurate. CALL instead. The manager was helpful, although I was requesting Dutchess or Ceasar,  I was informed they were out of town , he recommended "Q", and made me an appointment. Everyone is generally cool & they even put on 90's hip hop music ( I hate the new stuff)I told the artist I wanted a firefly & he gave me 3 samples. I wanted color that shows well on brown skin and something feminine . The tattoo looks great. Great colors . You can tell "Q" is serious about his work. His work is very clean. You can see his work on Instagram as @qsavedyou. I can't speak on the old location,  but as long as "Q" is there I would go again. This review is from a Harlem girl and medical profession. I would not give good reviews if they werent doing things right. Glad to see Ceasar given other artist place to shine .They just need to update the website. Read Less

When I say I had a very enjoyable experience that is an understatement!!!!!.......It was my first and it was a very sentimental piece so INITIALLY I was nervous and skeptical. An artist by the name of Jeezus did my tat and not only was his work stellar... but he actually managed to turn the worlds biggest crybaby into a champ lol....he calmed my nerves and coached me through the Tatoo....By the time the tatoo was done I felt a trust in him and definitly want More Tatoos......As for the other details: the equiptment was clean the needle was brand new and the customer service was AWESOME!!!!! Ted was there...he was actualky a great guy very down to earth and cool he even entertained My Aggy cousin who followed him around the shop the entire time! Read Less

Looked at some of the work and it looked great but the atmosphere and smell of the... recreational activities... was overpowering and as a non toker, it just is not something that I could tolerate while getting a tattoo so I left. Read Less

Came here with three of my friends to get a very deep and emotional matching tattoo. The moment we walked in everyone greeted us and helped us feel comfortable. The tattoo artists are hilarious and extremely talented. I had no doubt in my mind about their skill. Not only were they supportive of our idea, but of the situation. They brought light to a very dark situation...and the tattoos came out perfect. Read Less

I just wanted to say me and my wife are from Dallas tx we went to black ink to get her tattoo . it was her birthday this past Valentine's Day ceasar , dutchess  Walt ,Jamal and chicken wing the whole black ink staff that day were cool and down to earth they took pictures with us and videos we had an amazing time and my wife's tatto of my zodiac sign came out great we will be back soon to get my tatto thanks black ink crew Read Less

Big fan of VH1's Black Ink. My hubby and I took  trip to New York just go to Harlem and get a tat. The place is clean, and receptionist was friendly. Just as we were waiting, OH S@$T comes in!! I was excited to find out he would be doing my boos tattoo!! The tat was great and it is healing nicely. Great tattoo shop and he even posed with me!!!! Read Less

At first I was a little hesitant to go but I'm glad I did. Please don't believe the other reviews that you read, Eli went above and beyond on my tattoo. He made my tattoo come to life again. The only reason why I didn't give it 5 stars is because of the small space and how tight it was, they need to make the space bigger. Read Less

From day one I was in contact with the shop via email AND phone conversations. I was flying out to NY from Hawaii and wanted to get a tattoo done with Ceaser. After numerous confirmations that he'd be at the shop during a certain time frame, I was told to pay a non refundable deposit. I wanted 2 tattoos, so it's $50 per tatt for the deposit. Since I decided to just get one tatt, I expected a paypal invoice of $50, but they sent me one of $100 (which goes to the cost of the tatt anyway). I find out Ceaser will be traveling out of town the day after I arrive, so I was told to go DIRECTLY to the shop upon landing at JFK. I flew in with my family so I had pay to get 1 car to take them to the hotel upon arrival, and since I needed to go straight to the shop, I had to pay a 2ND car to take me to the shop. Keep in mind the flight from Hawaii is well over 10hrs and my daughter was tired.I call the shop as I enter the car in a rush to get to Black Ink, and find out Ceaser aint even in NY anymore. Apparently he flew to "North Carolina" before I even left Hawaii.No one called me to let me know. No one emailed to let me know. I made special arrangements and paid for a car service to accommodate Ceaser's schedule, and got shafted. The $100? Non refundable... so that's GONE. "We can have another artist work on you"... uhh NO. I never seen any of their work until I got to the shop. Walt gave me ONE T shirt, a few magazines off their table, and a wrist band. Walt was cool about things, but Im out $170 with no tattoo.. $100 for the deposit,$70 for the car service. This was the WORST experience I ever had with any business whether in NY or Hawaii.... Read Less

Went here a few months back to get a small tattoo on my inner forearm. It looked great right after the artist was done however it's been three months and what I initially thought was a bruise turned out to be a blowout. I'm scheduling laser treatments to fix my tattoo now. Hugely disappointed and will not be going back here again. Read Less

Though i was initially hesitant based on some of the other reviews here, i decided to take a walk over (as it's close to my house) and vibe it out, and go from there.At first glance, it seemed a tough crowd (besides i was the only white guy for blocks ... ) but straight away, folks were friendly, chatting me up. Someone greeted me promptly, and i spoke to an artist quickly about what i wanted. And shockingly, i was getting tattooed within 30 minutes.The piece i had done was the ZoZo symbol from one of the Led Zeppelin records, and when i showed it to Angel, he immediately said "Led Zeppelin!" so i knew we were on the same page (pun maybe intended) and no further explaining necessary.The mood was festive, people shouting, joking, but the work was serious. Hip-hop was playing loud, but amazingly, when it came time for my tattoo, they changed it to hard rock (thanks guys).Angel is a real artist, this is not a phase or a fad for him, this is his life. He's committed, and deep. That said, he's personable and funny as well, and made me feel very comfortable. The tattoo came out exactly how i envisioned it, and the work precise and meticulous. Also, the price extremely fair (considering the celebrity status of the shop).In the end, it was a very cool, very New York City experience, and I can truly say I was satisfied on all fronts, from the first moment, to the last.And I will certainly return for more. Read Less

If you're looking for the authentic Harlem Black Ink experience, THIS IS IT.  Great artists, hip staff, and great tats!  I went with my friend for a piercing and it was amazing.  The tats I saw in the other rooms were amazing too.  *As far as the woman filing the lawsuit - IT'S BULLSH*T - She clearly didn't keep the tat clean after her appointment.  That's what happens to dirty people.  #moneyhungry #lookingforahandout Read Less

So I am a watcher of ratchet TV, and although I never intended of even being in the area of black ink my friends came down to visit because they wanted Dutchess and Caesar to do their tattoos. Unfortunately when we arrived yesterday we saw they were headed to CIAA weekend and a guest artist Damien was going to do the work. Well Dame was dope and did beautiful work on my friends. I wish I had made up my mind prior to coming in on what I wanted so that he could have done it.The overall shop needs some work. First off there was absolutely no heat. Zip zero. I don't understand why because getting a permanent scar should come with some comfortability right? Right. Everyone left sniffling. The rooms are small. Not made for the claustrophobic type. Side note* I was especially nervous when I needed to use the restroom after seeing that episode..... But it appeared to be one of the cleanlier areas in the entire shop. Read Less

Ever heard of the saying "don't judge a book by its cover"? Well I have & I did. I never wanted to step in because of all the "reality drama" (I watched the show once). Today I just decided I needed 2 of my much thought about tattoos - been wanting these for a yr or so. Since I live around the corner & it seemed kinda empty I figured I should put my judgement aside & give it a shot. Glad I did. I was able to walk in & talk to David asap. He was great. Cool guy who seemed interested in what I wanted. Very professional. Not to mention he did both my tatts in less than 30min & they look great!! The receptionist was nice & the place was clean. Good music if you like rap, LOL. I've been to LES for tatts & they play hard rock. I could care less. Price wasn't bad at all. So 4 stars, not 5. But is any tattoo shop perfect? Read Less

I'm a connoisseur of ratchet reality TV and have enjoyed many hours of Blank Ink on VH1.  Based on the show, I had no strong inclination whatsoever to check this place out for a tattoo, but a friend of a friend got a few tattoos, including a very large and intricate back tattoo, done at Black Ink and had great things to say.  So the BF and I decided to get tattoos and figured Black Ink would be a easy choice given the convenient location and recommendation.  When we walked into Black Ink on a Thursday in the early afternoon, it was clear that we did not need an appointment.  The artists who eventually did our tattoos (Angel and Jeezus (sp)), and others who may or may not have been employees and/or loiterers, were hanging around the waiting area.   We discussed our tattoo ideas and were directed towards prospective artists.  The cost was $120 for the both of us -- very cheap based on my experience and that of my friends.The BF got a Bible reference and was directed towards Angel.  Angel is obviously very experienced and knowledgeable.  He guided the BF in considering various fonts, suggested types, placement, things to think about given pain and skin tone, etc.  The BF likes his tattoo and overall had a good experience for his first.Jeezus is on the younger side.  Because I was getting something that was relatively basic, he searched images and suggested a few.  I'm generally extremely indecisive, but he was patient as I changed my mind, suggested alternatives, etc.  I was very pleased with the image I eventually decided on.  The tattoo was on my back, not the worst place (my first ever tattoo is on my ribs, which I got Adorned and was freehand script and took about 90 seconds), but still pretty painful.  Angel had a good attitude and was a pleasure to work with.  Overall, I was pleased with the results.Although the BF and I were relatively happy with our tattoos, we also wanted fairly simple tattoos and honestly could have gotten them anywhere.  I hold back on giving Black Ink a very positive review because it's not the most professional or customer service oriented place.  The folks who may or may not have been employees were really loud and causing a ruckus.  They were also a little sketchy about the payment situation.  When we asked if the took cards or if it's cash only, we got a very vague response that was like, "Yes cards and fine, if you have to pay with a card."  It took several rounds of questions for the receptionist to convey that they prefer cash.  I thought that was a little weird.Lastly, and most importantly, the aftercare instructions were very confusing.  First of all, my bandage was only plastic wrap (fine, places differ on that), but my boyfriend's included a paper towel and plastic wrap.  Somehow, a paper towel does not strike me as super hygienic.  We were given conflicting information on how long to keep the wrapping on.  The instruction we were given were obviously for a mystical person with 50x magnifying vision.  It was literally 1/6th of a standards sheet of paper, written in 5 point font, all caps and like 300 words.  I kid you not.  It was also extremely poorly written and confusing with portions of the instructions faded out/poorly copied.  I had to rely on WikiHow and friends for instructions on how to take care of my tattoo.  Overall, I think Black Ink is fine for a basic tattoo, but I think they are lacking in some front office/administrative ways that make them a less attractive choice. Read Less

The name has slightly changed and there's a new phone number.  Since yelp is going to take forever and a day to update their contact info, I'll just post it here:Black Ink Studio (formerly Black Ink Gallery)phone              646-360-4512email               [email protected]              @blackink113instagram      _blackink_open Mon-Sat from 12-9pm and Sundays from 12-7Sanitary, clean, electric tattooing. Read Less

i think that this tattoo shop has a lot of talented artists. i got a tattoo from a guy name mike and let me tell you he did a beautiful tattoo on me. on top of that i thought he was gorgeous i fell in love with him at first sight strange but true.he is sweet and so are the other guys that work there. i give it 5 stars and recommend people to get tattoo by them! you wont regret it! Read Less