I got my lip piercing done here a few years ago, don't remember who but the experience couldn't have been more pleasant. He was very nice and talked me through the whole thing. The pierce was over before I knew it, no pain, just a small pressure and it was over. He definitely knew what he was doing!
Got some more holes in my ears, super quick, pain free, healed quickly.
Then 2 years ago I got a lip tattoo done. The writing was beautiful and better than I had imagined, it was clear and is still there with no fading to this day. I am satisfied with all the work they have done. I highly recommend this place!
My first rebel piercing was taken place here: Tongue piercing to be clear! It was done so quick that I didn't even realized that a fat needle was just pierced through my tongue. The person that pierced my tongue, I forget his name but he was very informative and friendly. To be detailed about him, he's a nurse that does tattoos and piercings! That's a plus. At least you know he knows what he's doing with your body.
Came back here to get my belly button pierced like twice. I guess my body rejects belly button piercings. I would definitely recommend this place. I remember they have specials randomly $20 for any body piercings!
The place is super clean and inviting. Stephen especially is super nice and amazing!!! He hooked it up with a nose piercing which looked super legit!!! This place also does tattoos which I am planning to get very soon too. I like The work i have seen so far i definatly recommed this place. Â Defiantly coming back soon!!
Review Source:My first 5-star review on Yelp! And the honors goes to Above All. Hands down one of the best shops in San Diego to get your piercings done. Came in here with a friend today for a navel piercing, and couldn't be happier with the results. Steven, the piercer, took his time to make sure everything was perfect, and the whole process was quick, easy and comfortable. Seriously one of the chillest guys and super nice--he made conversation with me the entire time, I barely felt the pinch of the needle. Definitely recommending him to anyone who's looking for a safe, professional, quality piercing experience!
Review Source:Came here last year to buy an L-shaped nose ring. Cost me $10. When I got home and opened the bag I found a nice coat of snot and a small booger on it. I am not kidding. I took it back the next night and showed it to them but they said only the piercer who sold it to me could refund me or exchange it and that he was not there at the time, so I could come back the next day.
Uh, no. Really, they could not sacrifice $10 to a) acknowledge their unsanitary wrongdoing or b) satisfy a reasonable customer request? I have and will never, ever go back, and when people ask me where the good shops in San Diego are, I tell them specifically NOT to go to Above All in PB and why.
I originally came in to get one out of two of my cartilage piercings re-done, because I didn't like the placement of it on my ear (done at a different shop). When I showed the piercer, Steve, what I wanted done, he told me that actually both of my piercings were done incorrectly. He was nice enough to re-do both my piercings for me for the price of one (maybe he felt sorry for me that my piercings sucked the first time). The process was quick, extremely sterile, and easy. If I ever decide to get another piercing, I'll definitely come back here and have Steve do it!
Review Source:I returned to Above All today because I had a cover up done a little over a year ago by Lalo, and it was a great experience. Today, however, it was a different story.
I went in today to set up an appt for a tattoo, put a deposit down, etc. There was one gentleman in the lobby already waiting, but otherwise it was just me and my hubby. We waited for about half an hour and no one at Above All even acknowledged us. I know some of the artists were busy tattooing, but two employees came out to the lobby several times and didn't so much as say "Hi, we'll be with you shortly" or anything.
Anyway we ended up walking out and going down the street and ended up at Sideshow Tattoo. Appt is all set and ready to go for next week with them. Sorry Above All- you lost a repeat customer! The least you could do is acknowledge your clients-- even if you're busy! As much as I really enjoyed Lalo's work, I'm doubtful of ever returning to Above All because the service was so poor today. There are too many other tattoo shops, even just in PB, to waste time at a place that doesn't even greet you.
I saw another yelper posted a review of the same thing happening to them at Above All just three months ago.
Took a  friend to get her belly button piercing and Steven did a GREAT job. He is super nice and down to earth. He made sure to get the piercing done straight. Im heading down next week to get my nape pierced this week!.
The shop in general is really cool place that is super welcoming and makes you feel right at home.
Came here last night for a piercing and the atmosphere was super laid back and everyone was very friendly. Steve pierced my ears and he was very gentle and made me feel at ease during the whole process. I will for sure be coming back to get a tattoo at a later time, all of the portfolios are outstanding. It is unreal how much talent these artists have today. Thank you guys love what you represent.
Review Source:I went to Above All to get a rib tattoo. I had shopped around a bit and people were saying it'd cost anywhere from $450 to $500 to get what I wanted done. I decided to try one more shop and walked right into Above All. Serendipitous occasion aside, I let the guy at the front know about the design I wanted (about 5" x 3") and he directed me to Angel.
Angel was so knowledgeable and truthfully told me that for the detail I wanted, I would have to go a bit bigger. I was scared about the price but amazingly, he quoted half what the other shops had been saying and after I pulled the trigger on deciding to go larger he went straight to work drawing up the design. Two and a half hours later, I was left with an incredibly beautiful, realistic tattoo that was exactly what I wanted. Angel is the perfect amount of concentration and friendliness...didn't talk my ear off but wasn't stony silent. His work is amazing. Above All even has a Yelp deal that saved me some cash on top of that!
I'm pretty sure this is my third and last tattoo but I will be directing anyone and everyone to Above All...who knows, maybe I'll get a couple of piercings here in the future! Great tattoo shop.
Lalo's the man to see at this shop. They're all really good artist though and everyone who works there was super cool both times we went. I personall haven't been tattooed at this shop or by Lalo but my girlfriend has twice. Although I would definitely get tatted at this shop and by Lalo. Both times she had Lalo do her tatts. The first one was just the luck of the draw but on her second one, she requested him. Lalo is super chill, nice, and kind of quiet but is a great artist who takes time to figure out exactly what you want. He is also very attentive during the tattoo and is always asking how you feel. Lalo is super clean not only in his tattoo work but also in his work space and personal hygiene. No grungy tattoo artist look to him at all. My girfriend says he has a light hand and both her tatts had little to no scabbing at all. The first one healed perfect and I'm sure when the second one's done healing it will be perfect as well. When he's finshed, Lalo makes sure you to inform you eaxctly on how to take care of your new tatt. His prices in my opinion were really good especially for the quality of work. We gave him a nice tip both times because we so impressed with his work and professionalism.
Review Source:This was my first time into Above All Tattoo. Â I was interested in getting my cartilage pierced and one of my friends recommended this place to me. Â Upon entering, the staff was welcoming and attentive. Â I haven't received a piercing in years so was quite nervous as what to expect. Â Steve did my cartilage piercing. Â He made me feel very comfortable and eased my nerves. Â He was attentive and knowledgeable. Â I would definitely go back and recommend him to anyone who would like to get a piercing :)
Review Source:I had a great experience at Above All! Steve did my cartilage piercing and was very professional. He was thorough about after-care, and you can tell this is a guy who is no amateur and really knows his stuff. It is definitely a comfortable but sterile environment, both of which are important and that combination isn't always easy to come by. Â I recommend Steve to anyone looking for true reliable talent.
Review Source:I don't write reviews often.. But I feel like Steve Pure the Piercer here definitely deserved a review. With so many shady shops out there it's hard to trust just anyone.. Steve definitely knows what he is doing, and is one of the most knowledgeable piercers i've came across. 100% Clean, safe and sterile. Â Lots of jewelry to pick from to! I would definetly recommend you go here! they have awesome tattooers too! this shop makes you feel like their best friend. cheers guys!
Review Source:Go see Steve Pure; he's awesome and really knows what he is doing. Above All is super clean, and all three of my piercings that he has done have healed well. I went to see him after I was unhappy about my nose stud (done somewhere else) and he did a great job fixing it. I came back to him for a double forward helix, and it has been my favorite out of everything I've had done. I'd recommend Above All over any other place in PB!
Review Source:Love love love Above All! We live in NorCal and never miss a chance to drop by Above All Tattoo when visiting San Diego's famous Pacific Beach area! The artists and piercers are top notch professionals, the shops always clean, and their Art is second to none! So if you're ever fortunate enough to visit beautiful Pacific Beach and you have body modifications on your mind, stop by Above All Tattoo and give these guys a shot! I promise you won't be disappointed!
Review Source:The first time I came here was just to watch my friend get her cartilage pierced a year ago i was the support person, Â When I decided to get a piercing of my own, this place popped in to my mind. Â They take walk-ins and appointments. Â When I came on a Monday night, it was not too busy . Â Parking is a little bit tricky, but there's plenty of street parking to be found nearby
Took about ten minutes to autoclave the tools used and the jewelry piece I picked out.  In which time, they will go over after-care instructions.  They were very friendly and professional about the entire process and assured me that it was not as painful as I had hyped it up to be.  He cleaned the area, and used a toothpick to mark a tentative spot and asked me if it was okay.  After I approved of the placement, it was on .  I'm not entirely too sure what he did but it was super quick.  It hurt for maybe a second, but nothing too bad.  On a scale of 1 to 10, I'd rate it around a 2 or a 3. he used a  breathing exercise to help release tension so as to relieve some of the pain the piercing may cause.  They take great care of you as well, walking you through the process before actually doing it so there are no surprises.  very clean, fast, and extremely kind.  I would recommend this shop to everyone.
you want to get a piercing in a clean, steril, friendly place, this is your shop.  I've been here many many many times, not just for myself but for friends as well.  I've been pierced by steven pure  and he is very kind and knows his stuff.  They have a large selection of jewelry for you to choose from.
thanks again  i will be back!!!
I absolutely love Above all! I have been coming here since my 18th birthday, I have gotten my nipples, tongue, noes, back dermals, top and bottom belly button all pierced here. The piercer Steve is not only really nice and does a great job of making you feel comfortable but is extremely professional, and takes the time to explain the process of what he is about to do, what tools he is going to use and how to clean it! I am moving up to LA next week but I still think I will be commuting to Above All for all of my future piercings. If you are thinking about getting pierced there is no other way to go other than Steve at Above All!
Review Source:Been here many times, not only cause the work is great but the guys are great as well! Started getting tattoos from Arty... he does excellent line work :)
Now getting pierced from Steve. Both guys make you feel very comfortable and at ease, they know what the eff they are doing. Â I bring my friends there and will continue to go there myself!
I walked ut of this place without getting anything done because they were inconsiderate and did not even acknowledge me as I waited while the counter person took care of someone else. Then when I was next, again the counter person was not professional and started looking me up and down. No thanks, you're not looking at my body for anything! Not sure what his name was, but he had very dark hair and seemed to prefer sitting behind the counter.
Review Source:I just moved to the area and decided to get my first dermal piercing. Â On Garnet, there are obviously many places to choose from, but settling on Above All was the best choice I could have made. Â I really had no idea what to expect, and despite having several tattoos, I am kind of a weenie when it comes to pain. Â I met Steve, and he made me feel so comfortable, and explained the whole process before I went through with it, so I would know what to expect. Â The shop itself is clean and the staff is super friendly. Â Steve was very professional and very precise, making sure that the placement on my chest was to my liking. Â When it came time for the actual piercing, deep breath in, deep breath out, and it was a done deal. Â I was given thorough after-care instructions and after a few weeks, my piercing looks great, and is healing like a champ. Â I was so happy with it, I went back to get a second, and I am just as pleased the second time around.
I would definitely recommend Steve to anyone looking to get pierced. Â I obviously don't have much to compare it to, being as it is my first, but I can't imagine that another experience would be any better than mine. Â When getting a tattoo or a piercing, there is nothing worse than someone who seems annoyed by doing the work or is just a straight cocky A-Hole, and I definitely did not get that feeling by anyone at Above All.
All of a sudden I decided to get a Dermal Chest Piercing, it just came to me. The main point of my reiew, that I found a really good tattoo specialist. His name is Steve, he's never rushing, with soft hands and completly clean tools. Before sticking the needle, he explained me all the details, showed after-care techniques and waited patiently while I was figuring out the right spot. The whole process took less than five minutes. I do like how it turned out. Don't hesitate to try it too, remember this is just a new experience and you always can go back to default appearance by taking it off.
P.S. Steve, thank you so-so much for your work.
Dermal ended up rejecting and the diamond head came off and the actual anchor started to travel in my chest, had to go to another place to have it dug out with a scalpel only be told the piercing jewelery was cheap crap worth 99cents and next time only get a dermal if they use neometal!!
Review Source:Got my first tattoo here a few days ago. Overall it was a really good experience. My artist Richie was really cool and gave me a really, really good deal. It hurt like hell but I couldn't be happier with the result. Definitely going to see Richie again once I muster up enough courage and cash to do it. The place itself was really clean and inviting. Everyone there was really cool and I would go back for sure. :)
Review Source:My girlfriend and I spontaneously decided to get a tattoo last weekend. We were a bit nervous because we are from L.A. and know the importance of finding a good artist. We went to several shops which were nice enough, but just didn't feel right. But walking into above all tattoo we knew we were in the right spot. We could easily tell they wanted to give us the best tattoo possible and that was unique to us. Â Arty did an amazing job! I loved my experience in this shop. I don't care that I live all the way in Santa Monica, I WILL drive all the way back to get more!! #addicted
Review Source:I absolutely love this tattoo shop, I'v been many times and they always do brilliant color work, better prices then Avalon across the street 2. Iv been with multiple friends to this location for tattoos and they all loved it. See you soon!!! Can't beat the location!!! Get a hookah to celebrate
Review Source:Wrote a similar review a few months back that apparently isn't showing up, so here goes again.
Above All is hands down the best shop around. If I could give fifty more stars, I would. I love this place so much. Everybody is so friendly, talented, and experienced. I would recommend Above All to anybody
I first started going there a few years back for piercings. Ian was the greatest - he did such a good job, always professional, super skilled and knowledgeable. Unfortunately, Ian's gone, but who I go back for now is Arty. He's super chill, ridiculously talented, and is yet to disappoint. He's really thorough with his questions about what I'm wanting and where I'm wanting it, and interjects with suggestions and experienced advice where he sees fit.
I've had tattoos done other places before Arty and have shopped around since, but when it comes down to it, I wont go anywhere else but to him and Above All.
I went and got my navel pierced by Ian and I was so impressed and I really liked it. He was nice and funny and got everything done quick and efficient. However he seemed to be the only nice one there. I brought a friend to get her navel pierced and yet again, great job.
I went back about a year later to maybe get a conch piercing, but Ian was not there and there was a different piercer. I got a weird vibe from him and something felt off, the front desk guy also seemed annoyed that we came in. After that I will not be going back.
I went with a fellow co-worker to get her sons initials tattooed onto her wrist, she had a modern design that she wanted and Chowder immediately put her at ease. She was nervous and freaked out, I had just gotten my nipples pierced so I didn't plan on getting my second tattoo that night, but Chowder showed C and I a picture of a peacock feather he had done, I had been looking for an artist that could make a Truffula Tree look real, I had finally found him. I was getting tattooed in the window and it was on my ribcage. 40 minutes after C was done with her tattoo he had designed the Truffula Tree of my dreams. He kept me as covered up as possible and was very conscious about my newly pierced nipples. Considering we were both walk-in's and we both left the shop extremely happy I gave him 5 stars. He charged her 80 and me 100 for a custom piece. I will definitely be back to see him for my next tattoo.
Review Source:Best Tattoo Shop in SD!!!! SodaPop is amazing - he's talented, easy to talk to and has a light touch. He does all my work and I'll never go to another artist. Above All is a clean shop with an awesome staff. If you want a superior tattoo ask for Soda. He's been working on me for years and I get compliments from random strangers all. the. time! Remember folks, you're going to have the ink for life, don't cheap out and get a crap tattoo. And don't forget to tip your artist!
Review Source:I loved the service I received here! I got my belly button pierced here almost a year ago by Ian, who came highly recommended by my coworker. He was awesome and super laidback while managing to maintain a high level of professionalism. The piercing and jewelry came out to a cheap $30. (I got 2 cartilage piercings for almost double that when I was 18 at another place in PB and the jewelry was only free because it was my birthday!) I was pretty nervous about the piercing but he really helped calm my nerves just through friendly chit chat. I got his number from my coworker and when I had questions about the healing process he answered them promptly. He even helped to put in a new ring when I woke up one morning from a party at my friend's house and freaked out when I found that my belly ring was missing (don't ask me how this happened, to this day it's still a mystery - must have been one epic party though!). My piercing still hasn't healed completely and its one year anniversary is quickly approaching. I'm not sure if my body's just being lame and taking forever to heal or if it was the way it was pierced. Either way I don't want to point any fingers as it doesn't hurt or look nasty, but other than that I really enjoyed doing business with Ian. If I didn't already meet my personal piercing quota, I would totally come back again! :)
Review Source:I came here on valentines day for the free heart tattoos they were doing. I had never got a tattoo from here but have heard of them so thought this would be the best time to go and try out thier work. I got a heart on my left wrist with wings, when the tattoo artist (i dont want to give names, if they want to look me up in their files they can) Â put the sketch on my wrist he asked if i liked it, I said i would like the wings to be even and for it to look good he said "you are talking to a professional " so with that being said i thought it would look good. plus i asked for white on the tips of the wings. well when he finished i looked at it and saw that the wings were not even AT ALL not even close but i figured you know what ill give it a few weeks to heal and maybe it will look nice. NO! super wrong. niether of the wings are even there is barely any white on only one side of the wings and no white at all on the other. plus the heart outline lines are sloppy as well. im so disappointed and now have to go pay someone to fix this mess on my wrist......
plus not to mention i was literally one of the first ones to get my tattoo done and there was no line behind me, so no reason to rush and be sloppy. also felt un welcomed and like my artist was annoyed with me.
DO NOT RECOMMEND.
Feel free to email me, I know an amazing artist in el cajon and now know to only and still continue to go to him. Ill give you his info. LESSON LEARNED.
email:
<a href="mailto:vondalopez2010@yahoo.com">vondalopez2010@yahoo.com</a>
Got a dermal done here in 2010. It healed well and I loved it. Cheapest place to get a dermal in pb at that time too. Steve removed it when I was done with it and it was FAR less painful than what I expected. He also pierced my Monroe which was almost completely painless. And cheap too. $40 with jewelry. I got one tattoo done in 2011 which I love and it completely perfect other than the fact is was $80 for a pretty small plain script tattoo. Great quality!!! Very professional and knowledgeable. I love coming here and would recommend to anyone. Thanks above all ! I will return for much more.
Review Source:My sister brought me here because of the great deals. I got both nipples pierced and an industrial on my right ear. The piercer did it so fast it seemed almost careless, but i figured; hey, he's a professional. He knows what he's doing.
After a few days, I noticed my nipples were completely unevenly pierced. One is slanted and more shallow than the other nipple.
My industrial  was so painful and would not heal. The bar ended up cutting into my ear itself because of the swelling. I went to another shop in Berkeley to get it checked out. They asked me where I had gotten it done because it got so bad. The industrial ring he gave me was apparently too large for me (he seemed to carelessly just pick a standard size) and told me there was no way it would heal and I had to close to top hole, but could salvage the second hole.
Even after salvaging the second ear hole, it continued to be infected for months.
Yeah the piercings were cheap (Both nipples including jewelry for $50 and the industrial with the jewelry for $30) but the end results were TERRIBLE. Even with the good prices I would still expect quality, and PROFESSIONAL service and results
Never coming back here again.
I've trusted Arty since 2008 when he did my first tattoo at a different shop. He's done my entire sleeve, fixed a tattoo I got done someplace else, and the rest of my ink.
I will ONLY go to Arty since his work comes out completely amazing. I've sent a few people his way already as I get daily compliments on the work he's done, and will continue to do so!
Arty is an amazing artist as well as an amazing person. He has done work on a bunch of my friends and well as myself and we all have been super stoked on his work. He has a gentle hand and is just a sweet heart. The shop is clean and comfortable, important if your going to be sitting for a few hrs. And all the guys there are pretty cool. Fair pricing and good vibes... I'd recommend him to anyone.
Review Source:First of all I was in the Mission Beach area and wanted to get something pierced, however, their piercer wasn't on site but a nice guy directed me to Above All Tattoo. He even drew me a map with an address and phone number, told me to ask for Doctor..aka Ian.... I had my tragus done for 35 bucks a lot of other places were asking 45. The price was right so I jumped on it. My souvenir from my awesome vacation in San DIego. I got good vibes here compared to other stuck up places , so giving you business was a pleasure. Thanks Doctor.
Review Source:Got my second tattoo done here while I was visiting SD. Â I was very impressed with how professional and supppeerrr nice the staff was. Â I don't get why a lot of tattoo shops have douche baggy workers. Â This place is definitely not one of those we-are-better-than-you parlors! Â I got a quote done on my rib cage by Mike Chowdah. Â My friend got her tattoo done the same day by Jake. Â We are both very happy customers.
Review Source:First off the whole shop is amazing. They pride themselves on being very attentive to their customers and I have never felt out of place. Ian is the best piercer in San Diego in my opinion. I have had him do a few piercings on me and anyone that asks I send them straight to Ian. Anyone I have sent nor myself have ever had any issues with the piercings after the fact. The best part is he makes you feel extremely comfortable. He is super sweet and makes the idea of a needle going somewhere in your body like cake (not that makes sense necessarily but the ideas of eating cake to most is more fun than a piercing. And ians service is comparable.)
I've also had friends go in to the shop for tattoos and been extremely pleased with the outcome of the tattoo and service.
All these guys have great attitudes and are excited to make you happy with the tattoo or piercing of your choice. The only place in town I trust. :)
I've gone here for all my piercings (navel, nose, and cartilage). Ian is great! He makes sure that all the tools are sanitary, and he does a quick, relatively painless job :). The pricing here is also very affordable compared to other places I looked at. I can't remember how much I paid. I just remember that the navel piercing was the priciest, and that was $40-45, not bad at all.
Review Source:I got my first tattoo today with Kris and he was extremely nice and made sure that I got exactly what I wanted. He sketched out my design beforehand, asking me if I wanted to edit any details, and pressed the image onto where I was getting my tattoo so that I would know how it was going to look like and if I wanted to change the angle and whatnot before we begun. He was very professional and easy going at the same time. My best friends were also there with me getting tattoos and he would keep conversation with them to distract them from the pain. Afterwards, he told us each about how to take care of the tattoos and to contact him if there were any problems or if we had any questions.
Overall, I was really satisfied with everything. My tattoo was better than I thought it was going to be; it was more detailed than I image that I gave him. He has a lot of paintings and drawings all over his area, he loves art and spends a lot of time doing it, so trust that he'll make sure your tattoo look amazing. My tattoo isn't very big and is simple, so it only cost me $70, which was a really good price compared to the other shops that me and my friends were considering going to. I will definitely be returning for my next tattoo!
I've gotten 2 large pieces done here. Â Both by Soda Pop. Â They guy is talented, I like the traditional black/grey style, and that's his specialty.
Soda Pop Worked with me on designing my chest piece for my father who passed away. Â Came out great. Â He has a light hand, and healing is easy. Â Definitely a talented guy.
The shop is always Perfect. Â Clean, nice, modern.
Well it all started on a drunken Sunday Funday evening...and this is where we ended up. Â So usually I hate tattoo parlors because the artists are usually complete assholes, but they weren't here--they were really nice. Â Or maybe I thought so in my drunken stupor. Â
Anyhow, I was convinced by my morally corrupt cousin to get a tattoo because her logic was, "When is the next time you're going to be in another place like this, just do it!" Â Okay, twist my arm. Â She was already getting a couple so I followed.
I think his name is Kip and he did our tattoos. Â Really nice dude and he did a good job. Â Not that mine was very difficult...I don't think, but the points are sharp and not too thick. Â I think I need a touchup though because I probably bled a little more than I should. Â He let me know that he does free touchups, so I'm guessing it's expected.
This place used to be called Toxic Shock.
My very first tattoo was with Jamie. She rocked an awesome right shoulder blade tattoo of roses with my Chinese name. I was amazed that she did the Chinese letterings right since she had told me she had never done them before (ekk!), but she nailed it, yay! The whole process took 3.5 hours, and she was proud and impressed that for a rookie, I was able to sit there completely still without whining or crying. And she said to me "Wow, you didn't once crying or anything. Yea, you're definitely the type to come back for more tattoos." Which was true, I was ready for my second tattoo, but found out from Michael, who was my next one, who had told me that Jamie had moved back to Pennslyvania - bummed.
With Michael, he was also a master of his skills. By this time, Toxic Shock was now called Above All Tattoo. The dragon tattoo he did on my left shoulder blade with the Chinese symbol "Lucky," on it took 3 hours to complete. He was even knowledgeable of the different number of toes an Asian dragon had to tie in with the right culture of his client. Since I was Chinese, five toes did my dragon have, heheh.
The whole experience with Michael was completely peaceful and zen.
Both he and Jamie did an amazing job on my tattoos. Both artists made sure that I was using the right lotion, Â and how to take care of my tattoo during the shedding process. But sadly, both their times there were up. However, the experience that both these two left on me to commerate my years in SD, and while attending SDSU (Go Aztecs!) were completely worth it! Now, if I can just figure out what tattoo I want next to head back there, lol...
NEVER COMING BACK HERE AGAIN!
i saw all the great reviews for piercings so i figured i would give it a shot.
got my tongue pierced...TWICE. the first time it came out horribly crooked and the second time it was only slightly crooked but still not perfect. i don't understand why he didn't mark where he was going to pierce and ask if the location was ok...my friends have gotten better tongue piercings at sketch tattoo shops for $20.
and this guy was notttt helpful at all. he doesn't tell you about the healing process, how to take care of your piercing, and doesn't seem knowledgeable of any of the risks that may follow having a piercing.
save yourself from extra pain and go to enigma. yes, it's pricey but it's QUALITY. i don't know why i didn't go there to begin with.
Took the boy with me to get my first tattoo today. Â It was not busy at all (3pm on Tuesday) and Kip was able to see to me right away.
It was a simple Omega design that took about 15 minutes to finish.
Kip was very kind and not at all threatening. He explained the process without making me feel like an idiot ( like other tattoo artist have when I went in to consult). Â He was precise and smooth- it really didn't hurt at all.
The place: Clean, sterile, portfolios at the front desk.
My friend and I came here to get our piercings done (tongue and lip) and overall, I had a pleasant experience! First, it took us a while to find street parking but it didn't take too long.. When we walked in, all the guys were very nice and friendly and told us that we had to wait a bit because there were a few girls getting their piercings done. Â But the wait ended up being about 20-25 minutes.
The guy that pierced my lip and my friend's tongue was so chill and was very informative. My lip piercing only took about 1 minute to get it done and I paid $35.
However, when my friend got her tongue pierced, we realized that it was very crooked.. So we had to walk back in the shop and get it re-pierced (for free of course). She was a little frustrated because she had to get her tongue pierced twice but the second time was very straight and good. And she paid $35 as well. Because of my friend's experience, 4 stars. But overall, very friendly environment and very clean!
I got my tragus pierced by Ian at Above All Tattoo a couple weeks ago. Â He was incredibly professional and patient. Â He prefaced my piercing experience with facts and such so I felt more comfortable and relaxed. Â Since he was so quick and precise, I felt much less pain than I had expected... it actually wasn't bad at all!
Ian is absolutely great and I have nothing but great things to say about him. Â Go to Ian, you won't regret it!
Just had my first tattoo done here today and I must say the people here are pretty chill and friendly.
I had my sugar skull sketch upgraded by Kipp which then he tattooed and it is great!
Although Above All wasn't my first choice Avalon just across the street was, when we got there though the guy that greeted me and my mom was actually rude and made excuses about touching up a tattoo she got about 12 years ago saying it was actually good and didn't need it when it was clearly fading.
I know now when I want a awesome tattoo and also at a good price I'll go to Above All:)
I got my first tattoo at this shop!!!
Let's just say ARTY is amazing and his name fits his skill!!! I wanted something very small and not so noticeable, but whats the point of getting a tattoo if you aren't going to show it off right? Exactly!
So I told ARTY what I wanted and within 10 minutes... I had a freelanced cute little tiara w/ my initial on the top. I know girly and super random, but hey I believe in every girl there lies a little princess... and that would be me!! :) Well I'm def my daddy's lil princess!!
We definitely went to this shop because we were recommended by one of our friends who goes here ALL the time, but I didn't think that day I was going to get a tattoo... but I trusted ARTY because he did my sissy's tattoo first and it was both our first tat experience and he made it a good one.
I'd go there again!!! :)
**piercing review**
Ian rocks! So much so that I went to visit him last week, and again one week later today.. and i am iiin love with the piercings he did for me. Â I got 2 cartilage piercings... even though they are relatively mild piercings (compared to probably a lot of other ones he does) he still treated me the same way I'd expect he probably treats someone that is getting a much more painful and nervewrecking piercing. Â He is super sweet, down to earth, and friendly .. and he does a quick and relatively painless piercing job. Â I'm definitely recommending him to anyone else looking for a reasonably priced, professional piercing job in SD!
When I was there today, the place was poppin.. lots of people getting tattoos today. Â I don't know much about the tattoo artists in SD, but for some that may be an indication that they're worth considering?
I LOVE IAN.
Worked up some guts to get my nose pierced today, and it was a SPLENDID experience. Ian was super nice, reassuring, and overall a cool dude. Made me real comfortable. It was almost painless and I'm very satisfied with it. My friend and I came back an hour later to get her lip pierced!
Highly reccomend.
My friend and I walked by and saw a sign outside that said "Piercings $20" so we thought, what the heck. Little did we know that was not including jewelry which it ended up being $35. & he made us wait about 15 minutes so he could "go down the street" then set up.
First, Ian didn't let my friend check the location of her piercing. Next, he would say "one deep breath" and in the middle of the sentence BAM, he pierced us which made it hurt even more. Then we both started bleeding and he did not even offer to clean it up or check the piercings after.
Last but not least, we did not receive any Care instructions whatsoever which makes us sketched out. Now I am sitting in my room with blood all over my hair and ear. Lovely.
Not coming back.
I really like this place. The only time I have come here is to get a lip tattoo. Now I know what you're thinking, " why in the H-E double would you wanna get a tat there?!?" Well let me tell you that I wanted a tat but also didn't want it in the classic slut place ie tramp stamp, chest etc. And also for the fun of it.
Anywho this is the only place in PB that will actually do a lip tat. Most of the shops won't do them because they are said to peel off or fade a lot faster than on actual skin. Well mine didn't. I have had no problems after the FREE touch up session and I am going on two years with it now. I was a walk in and sketched out what I wanted and the guy had it on my lip in under a half hour. It turned out exactly how I wanted it to and was super happy I got it.
The only thing that sucks is that my tat is no bigger than a quarter but it cost me 100 bucks. And this is because the artists don't like to mess with them. I called around to places in El Cajon and Mission and they were all around that price range without a free touch up. But still that is pretty darn expensive for what it is but hey I like it, so I am glad I did it.
P dot S dot: For your information, it did not hurt AT ALL and the tat I got was the love and basketball symbol, yeah google it.
Well I went back for another piercing and yeah that's the last time I'll be headed over there.
What I wanted and what I got were two different things. I asked several times before he pierced about the placement and I was reassured several times that it was the right place. Several times!
I trusted and yeah...it didn't work out in my favor. I guess it's my fault because I didn't trust my gut.
It was a jacked up piercing that fell out a few days later. Luckily it was only surface so it didn't get infected or worse yet hit a nerve. I later went to another piercer and got exactly what I asked for.
Everything else that I said in my previous review still stands...good, clean shop and all that other jazz but yeah missed the spot dude.
Even though this is a tattoo parlor, I give 5 stars for the painless piercings, clean environment, and awesome people!
If you are considering any type of piercing, go see Ian! He is AMAZING. Ian pierces people so effortlessly it's as if he's drinking a cup of water or breathing. He knows his stuff and his funny and helps make the environment very relaxing. Â I have officially dubbed him the fierce navel piercing guru. He reminds of a pierced and tattooed teddy bear. Who knew tattoos and body piercings could be so adorable?
The prices are super reasonable. With jewelry its only about $20 - $35 depending on what you pick.
Too bad I only have one belly button :(
I love Above All even though I have only been there once. Got my cartilage pierced by Ian who is super nice and friendly. Everything is sterile and clean as it should be. Ian is very attentive and professional. He gave me advice on after care and even offered to help me if anything goes wrong with the piercing.
Review Source:I got my first tat from here and it wasn't the best experience. Â The guy that did work on me had a small anchor near his eye and he wasn't very friendly. Â Especially since he knew it was my first, I think he could have been a little more comforting. Â He has slightly a heavy hand so your lines might come out thicker than anticipated. Â My best friend from high school also got her first tattoo here and she got this really nice guy and he seriously made my friend feel at ease about it. Â So I guess my best advice is to avoid the guy with the anchor.
Review Source:What was supposed to be a weekend free of tattoos and piercings turned into 3 tattoos and 2 piercings after hanging out with the cool cats of this place :)
Kris, Arty and Ian all did a fabulous job on my tattoos/piercings as well as the tattoo and piercings my friends got.
Definitely gotta stop by this place next time in in town!
If I ever wanted to get a tattoo, this would be the place. My friend has been going to see Mike for years now and her tattoo is a work in progress. It's like a garden that winds all around her body and ends at her butt. I kept her company for 5 hours as Mike drew the flowers that she wanted and then proceeded to tattoo her. I'm not the tattoo-type, but even I was impressed by Mike's artistry. While most tattoo artists make a stencil and trace it, Mike actually drew everything himself. While my friend's tattoo is still a work in progress, what was completed looked very nice. The people here are friendly and know what they're doing. Apparantly other people know this too since you have to book Mike at least 3 months in advance for a tattoo!
Review Source:Above All rocks my world. I got my lip re-pierced there a couple of months ago and couldn't have been more pleased; the store is clean, the staff are friendly and knowledgeable, the prices are reasonable and they REALLY care about their customers.
Ian, the piercer, did a great job and gave me a foolproof cleaning regimen. He then proceeded to give me his cell phone number and said to call if I had any problems. Two weeks later, when my dumbass started over-cleaning it, he gave me advice which fixed the problem immediately.
One extra star because Ian told me a hilarious story about a drunk bum doing high kicks and toe touches as he was changing my stud.
NOTE: Bring cash if you want to buy extra jewelry, Ian sells out of his own kit which is separate from the store.
I just got my ear cartilage pierced there on Saturday by Ian who is an amazing piercer. He was really quick and very good at calming me down cause I totally psyched myself out! He just told me to breathe in and breathe out and he was done! He used a needle which is really important when getting cartilage pierced since a gun can shatter the cartilage which causes a longer healing time.
And although $40 may seem a bit pricey for one piercing, I think it's worth it to have an experienced piercer and a clean place-everyone I know who got piercings at Claire's always end up with infected cartilage piercings...so the money is definitely worth it!
All the guys there were really nice and the whole place had a great atmosphere, not to mention everything was very clean and sanitary.
I'm definitely going back to get more piercings (and maybe my first tattoo) and recommending the place to my friends!!!
what? This girl Christine that wrote that review should have got  " im an idiot " tattooed on her fore head, no wonder she got kicked out, lmao Â
Ive been pierced twice and those guys are super cool, they dont use a piercing gun, what a liar..sheesh!
Three of my friends got pierced there and my boyfriend got a bitchen tattoo there. Everyone that works there is way cool, i forget the piercers name but he was such a pro, but i was sober when i went, im not dumb enough to even go into a tattoo shop while im drunk.
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