I am so happy I found Godspeed here on yelp. Â I had a tattoo I wanted to have enhanced and had no idea of what I wanted to do. Â Nick B. took care of that. Â I am so happy with what Nick did with it. I am already planning to go back to Nick for my next one. Â Overall, I had a great experience. Â Nick was awesome!
Review Source:I can't recommend GodSpeed Tattoo enough. Kevin Marr and Nick B are great tattoo artist!
Kevin Marr has done 4 different tattoos on me including two sleeves. I couldn't be happier with his work. Kevin is a true master at this craft and vision is unmatched. On top of being one of the best tattoo artist out there, he's an even better person and cool people.
I went in the other day to talk about my next tattoo with him (back piece) and we started talking ideas, his eyes lite up and his creative mind starts working. I can't wait to start my next tattoo.
Side note: give him an idea and give him some freedom in the design. Trust me, he will blown you away with his designs.
Nick B. is definitely coming into his own. I took my mom down to get we first tattoo. She was a nervous wreck to say the least and Nick was awesome with her. Very patience, took her ideas and came up with a great tattoo that she absolutely loved. He truly cares about his craft and it shows.
Either one of these guys will do an amazing job!
Dustin at Godspeed is amazing!!!! I went into the shop with an idea of what I wanted. He asked me to trust him with the three items, eagle/cross/american flag, that I wanted in my tattoo and to come back a few days later. I showed up and the drawing was way better than I could ever have expected. A few hours later I had a killer tattoo. He was really cool and relaxed. I'm so glad that I found him since this was my first piece. Coolest thing was even my wife liked it when I got home!
Review Source:I got my very first tattoo here with Dustin after deciding to do so after one crazy night. My friends and I decided to get our first tattoos together all with Dustin. I dropped by the place for a consultation and spoke with Dustin about what I had in mind. Everyone is usually busy tattooing and in the back but they still try very hard to address every client that walks through, which made me feel a little uncomfortable but happy at the same time. It didn't feel right then and nor did it feel right when I was the one sitting in the chair getting my tattoo. However, Dustin was really good at actually getting out of his station and speaking with the client briefly and asking them to come back or somehow address them later. I really liked that in Dustin. I got a pretty large piece on the upper right quadrant of my back of a wolf howling at the moon with a large tribal as "support". Dustin got the stencil placement head on the first time. The placement of the large tribal aligned really well. I've received a lot of compliments on this tattoo and really like Dustin's work.
Review Source:I came in with a picture of a dove tattoo that I wanted. My sis also came in with a drawing that she wanted tattooed on the side of her torso. Dustin came out and helped both of us, discussing the process and his opinions of our designs.
We came out of this consultation very much informed and appreciated his time and patience with us (he talked to us when nobody else even looked up from their stations). To be warned, he does encourage larger tattoos and try to place it on your body so that you'll have more space for future tattoos on pieces. This was our first tattoo so we didn't want to go as big and weren't concerned with getting many more pieces. We scheduled our appointments and left our deposit (nice that he only required one).
On the day of the tattoo, my sister and I walked in and Dustin was prompt and prepared. He had already stenciled out our designs and finished my sister's large tattoo within 1.5 hours (as was estimated). Though convinced to have the tattoo blown up and get the image larger, my sis was a bit alarmed at just how large it was on her small frame.
Dustin spent a good 20 minutes drawing and redrawing my design and improved it to be very unique and just what I was looking for. I could not be more happy with my tattoo design. I spent 15 minutes placing the stencil on various parts of my back and Dustin was very accommodating and patient. The tattooing went very well and efficient.
1/2 star off for trying to convince my sister and I to get a bigger tattoo (she really thought she would trust the "expert" but she felt a little shocked after seeing how big it really was). 1/2 star off for no aftercare products or directions.
After 3 hours, my sis and I both had our first tattoos and were both very happy with quality and design. I would highly recommend Dustin.
I got my first tattoo done here by Dustin. I came in 2 days prior to check out the place and ask a few questions about getting a tattoo since it would be my first. I met Kevin and he was awesome. He told me for the small quote I wanted that anyone would do a great job with it. I called the next day and set up an appt with Dustin. He made me feel so at ease!! He was calm and made the whole experience amazing. He even let my boyfriend sit there with me! I got my quote written along my rib cage, which I have heard to be super painful. Dustin made me so comfortable it was barely any pain at all!! I couldn't be happier with my tattoo and cannot wait to get another at Godspeed! Awesome work, super clean, and super professional!
Review Source:I could hardly me more pleased! I moved to the area last spring and have been looking for a new shop ever since. There are myriad choices in the Bay area of course, so I had my homework cut out for me. After reviewing all the options I decided to check out Godspeed.
I talked to Nick on my first visit to the shop and set up a time to get my next (my 3rd) tattoo. Needless to say, I had a great experience and I'm really happy with the quality of his work. Nick is a great guy, does high quality tattooing, and is a pleasure to chat with. I've now got a new piece that I love and will definitely be back for more work.
Godspeed - an easily accessible location, super clean shop, and great, talented artists (just check out their portfolios on the web, instagram, and on the walls of the studio - they are fantastic!). Definitely a winning combination. I will return for certain!
I went in for my very first tattoo ever a few weeks ago. I'd done some research on Yelp and visited a few places around San Mateo, looking at the different artist's books. My husband was looking to have a new tattoo done as well. After going to three different places and looking through numerous artist's books, I decided on Dustin at Godspeed. I liked the detail that he used in his tattoos and I wanted a very small intricate butterfly done on the back of my neck.
My husband in the meantime had decided to go with a different artist at another shop, but after watching Dustin do mine, he changed his mind and had him do his as well. We are both absolutely thrilled with the job he did and would highly recommend him to anyone.
My husband's friend had the same tattoo done at a different place in the city, and after seeing the job Dustin did on my husband's arm, he said he wished he had waited and had his done at Godspeed too!
I'm already planning my second one and will definitely go back to Dustin!
I got a terrible tattoo when I was 18 (i am now 42). It embarrassed me and when I inquired about getting it removed, my dermatologist said it would be impossible to do because it was so old and was mostly blue ink. Â So I came up with a new plan. Get it covered.
I walked into Godspeed and met Nick. He was so helpful, we came up with a plan and I went in 3 days later for my tattoo. Â It was an awesome experience all the way around. The place is CLEAN, Nick is a sweet guy and he checked in with me several times to make sure I was comfortable.
What's funny is that my new tattoo is significantly bigger than the one that I hated so much but it's so beautiful that I am madly in love with it.
Thank you so much Nick and Godspeed!!!
My best friend got a couple of tattoos with Kevin and recommended any of the artists. Each of these dudes has a different style which is awesome.
My sister and I got simple cursive lettering from Dustin and it turned out really well, plus Dustin is a total chiller.
They are kind of way out of the way for me, but otherwise the shop is cool. One thing I will say was a bit of a disappointment was when I showed them the picture I want for a back piece and they each said it couldn't be done. I've since talked with two artists from different shops who say otherwise, but maybe Godspeed is less into custom tats?
Either way, check 'em out.
I can't say enough great things about this place. Clean, professional and a kickass crew. I've gone to Nick B. three times in the last month and you can bet your ass that I'll be back again soon, maybe even before finishing this review! If you want quality work done by experienced tattoo artists, this is where you go. And too reiterate, Nick is the bomb!
Review Source:I would HIGHLY recommend this place. My experience here was awesome.
When I walked in, it wasn't busy at all. Showed them the tattoo I wanted and next thing I knew I was booked for an appointment. Very friendly and patient with me since I had no clue what I was doing. 3 days later I show up, there was a few people getting tattooed themselves but I didn't have to wait that long. My tattoo artist, Nick, was beyond friendly. He made me feel comfortable and during the process, he kept asking me if I was Ok and if I needed a break. And during the process, one of his gloves broke, so instead of just putting another one on, he took both off and cleaned his hands again so that he could put on a new pair of gloves. Took him only like an hour and a half to finish (my tattoo was small but with hard detail). And my tattoo came out perfect, just the way I wanted. Pricing was reasonable too! I paid 90$ for mine. I would definitely have Nick do another tattoo for me.
Place is clean, crew is friendly and talkative, and reasonable prices.
I went to see this business after seeing its high reviews on yelp. I took some designs I was thinking of to see if they would put a sketch together. They had no one in chairs so were not busy at all. The guy looked at the first design and Sadi he didn't like it.....? I said I was open for suggestions and he told me to choose a tattoo out of his book or off the wall. Wow! I couldn't believe it. I have since had my work done else where and it is perfect. The tattoo took two sessions and I paid over $900 and tipped him $300. These guys are either lazy or just don't need the work.
Review Source:What a terrific crew they have!!! Â
Everyone was extremely helpful, supportive, and talented!! Â Nick designed, and created for me, a really terrific, intricate, celtic cross, that he then executed, shaded, and colored perfectly, absolutely amazing!! and all thanks to a truly gifted artist. Â Dustin was also extremely helpful in initially helping, and guiding me where to go, and having viewed his work, is also, an outstanding artist and a great guy.
 I cannot recommend Godspeed enough, and thank Dustin and Nick for their tremendous work.  Go to Godspeed if you want truly want a high quality, talented, professional, but relaxed, and comfortable/clean atmosphere, to get your next, valued work of body art!
Wanted to get a tattoo done for a while.
When my friend's mom passed away, i decided to have it done.
I went in and was helped by Dustin.
He looked at my designed and helped modified it. He even caught a mis spelling.
I have received many compliments on it and would highly recommend Dustin for work done.
I'm very happy that I chose the awesome people at Godspeed to do my latest tattoo! As matter of fact I am only going here for all my future ink as well as recommend everyone and anyone who asks for my suggestion. Godspeed is a very professional and welcoming place at the same time they make you feel right at home.
I had the pleasure in having Nick Bergin work on me and I must say he is a dope artist. Everything went smoothly and pain free (no pun) I had a vision and a picture and he was able to transfer that into an extraordinary piece of work on my calf. If you're looking to get new ink or your first one, I highly recommend considering Godspeed before you commit to anyone else. May I add pricing is beyond reasonable
After reading so many great reviews I decided to take my design idea over to Godspeed. Nick helped me out right away. He asked a few questions, traced my arm and made me an appointment for the next week. At my appointment, Nick showed me what he came up with and I loved it - exactly what I had in mind. I was a bit nervous since my last tattoo was 20+ years ago but Nick was super nice and we got to chat some while he tattooed. He was able to knock out two tattoos (one on each arm) in roughly two hours and did a fantastic job. I absolutely love my new tattoos and will definitely be back to see Nick. Also, the shop is very clean and the artists are professional. I think the pricing is really reasonable too - $150 an hour for good work is perfectly acceptable. After all, this is gonna be on me forever. Anyone that complains about pricing should remember that you get what you pay for!
Thank you Nick!
I had been looking for new tattoo artist for sometime and a friend suggested a different place(not Godspped) and so I went there ready to make an appt. Well after the 4th time of being told to come back tmrw., because all the artists were busy, I had freekin had it. Hey I get and appreciate the whole "artist" thing, but seriously man get a f@#&%n receptionist! Â Jeez train a monkey to put x's on the damn calendar, its not that hard.
Anyway long story short I was determined to get my artwork done that weekend and so I started calling around and found Godspeed. My fiance and walked in; the staff was welcoming, and I was able to get an appt that day with Dustin. He stenciled out my artwork and a couple of hours later I had a great looking piece. I love the piece, getting compliments on it and Dustin was great. Â While we were waiting we had a chance to see Kevin Mars work and must say the full body pieces are just amazing!
I have another piece in the works and I'm going back to Dustin and Godspeed.
Great job, great place, highly recommended.
Stop googling tattoo artist's around the Bay Area and look no further. This shop is clean, everyone is professional, and all the customers who walked in the door feel welcome. Â
My artist is Kevin. Â I gave him my idea and he made my sleeve into a masterpiece. I was recommended to him 10 years ago when he tattooed my shoulder 10 years ago and it is rad seeing how far his business has gone.
It is rad that this shop receives such great reviews...they deserve every star. Â I will be back soon.
I really like this place. I only have 4 tats ,but they are all from here. One was even done by Kevin Mars himself ! The last time I was there was 3years ago when I got my husbands name on me:0) Â my favorite tat is my Goddess one. The guy (Jason or jake...something with a J) designed it and it was very artfully done.
I like this place because of the vibe and look . A long time ago (like 10years ago) they did piercing but they don't anymore.
just an update, BRYN TAYLOR FOR PRESIDENT. The best artist I've ever  worked with STILL. I would follow him to the ends of the earth for his quality of work. He is awesome artistically and a very nice person which counts a lot for me if someone is sticking you with a needle for a long sitting .BRYN BRYN BRYN BRYN and oh ya BRYN
Review Source:First time coming here in September, I think Bryan was the first one I met. I showed him a alibata tattoo that I wanted on my arm. since it was very detailed because of the brush strokes, he was going to charge me $300-$350.. O___O like seriously? effing $300-$350, so I left..
Couple days later I tried to get a different artist and I got Nick, I showed him what I wanted and he said $200 flat. FUCK YEAHHH, that was a huge difference. my tattoo took almost 2 and a half hours to do. He was nice and asked me if I was okay, cause I was falling asleep during the process haha. Nick took his time putting every detail on the strokes, and when he was finished I was impressed! I LOOOOVED it so much, but I didn't really show it.. haha instead I tipped him $50.
I get a lot of compliments from people everywhere I go about my tatt, and my tattoo still looks hella fresh! I'm already planning to get another one soon from him!
If you're looking to get a great tattoo ... Look no further. If you're looking for high quality artwork, the Godspeed men will consistently exceed your expectations. I travel from LA to go to this shop. If you've gone far enough to look at this yelp review, do yourself a favor and stop by sometime.
I came in and Kevin did THE DOPEST sunflowers around my nipples. The colors are so hot and the design really compliments my manly areola's. Kevin had me take off my pants for an upper body tattoo, which didn't make sense at the time. BUT NOW I GET IT.
Is Godspeed a tattoo shop, or a place where a bunch of HOT MEN hang out. Well, the answer is both.
I rate them as follows. Kevin - Funkability? 11. Nick - Funkability? 11.
What does that mean? It means that they are off the charts in terms of Funkability.
What I want to know is when will they come out with a full feature swimsuit  calendar? THE MEN OF GODSPEED TATTOO 2011/2012.
Both my husband and I got tattooed by Bryn Taylor. I had half a sleeve done and I could not be happier with the results and neither could my husband. The shop is clean, with a relaxed atmosphere and everyone is friendly. I honestly think the tattoo that Bryn gave me is my best so far. We're going back in a couple of weeks for more, so I definitely recommend Bryn!
Review Source:Nick is my artist. Â He is awesome! Â He has tatted me 3x already and I can't wait to get my next one. Â He has done an awesome job coming up with creative ideas for my tatts. Â I tell him what I want and he draws me up something rad. Â He has fixed up some of my existing tattoos and made them look awesome. Â The shop is very clean and Nick is a great guy. Â Being a girl and getting my back tatted put me in a delicate position but Nick is a nice guy and did not make me feel uncomfortable. Â 5 stars to this excellent shop!
Review Source:Kevin Marr is an exceptional tattoo ARTIST!! Â I am SO honored to have been tattooed my FIRST time by a respected and renowned tattoo artist. Â I have to admit, I was really nervous coming in the day of my tattoo not being able to see the outline sketch of my tattoo a few days in advance... But I was COMPLETELY BLOWN AWAY when I saw my white Tiger and Sampaguita Jasmine flowers all beautifully drawn together! I took one look at the sketch and said, "It's PERFECT!!!" Â My tattoo is now 5 days old.... healing with ZERO scabbing. Just yesterday it started to peel. I've received nothing but amazing awe's and countless compliments on my GORGEOUS tattoo from everyone around me :D Thanks, Kevin! You are awesome!
Review Source:I've had three tattoos before done at another tattoo shop, but I've heard that Godspeed Tattoo was great, so I decided to give it a try. I went in looking to get quoted on three small tattoos and showed Nick my designs. He was very helpful when trying to help with sizing and making sure where i was placing them there was enough room for the tattoo. I was a few dollars short for my deposit, and Nick was nice enough and understanding to let me run to the bank really quickly and take out some more money. Making appointments to get the tattoo done was easy.
When it came to getting the tattoo done, I was a little nervous since one was on the top of my foot. But, Nick assured me that it wasn't that bad, and really it was not that painful at all! I was relieved! During the tattoo process, Nick was really nice and made sure I was doing alright. He is a really nice guy, and will make sure your tattoo is just the way you wanted it.
This Place ROCKS yea sooo i got my Tattoo done here my 3rd one in 2OO7 to represent my daughter being born. Kevin made it happen he did an awesome job on my piece and was very friendly.  LOOKING FOR INK BEING DONE THIS IS THE PLACE TO BE.  I have been a  DALLAS COWBOYS FAN for a long time and got a kick ass tattoo of them AGAIN AN AWESOME JOB ON MY TATTOO. The reason why i keep coming back is the quality and professional work that GODSPEED does.  .  Kevin AND STAFF are really nice  and took the time to listen and understand what i want. If your thinking about getting a tattoo then go here there the I got an appointment again for another TATTOO weeeew. bring your imagination and they will do the rest.
Review Source:I got my first tattoo at Godspeed. I was very impressed with the cleanliness of the store. They have a strict policy about proper use and disposal of the needles and inks used. Great selection of images and they will work with you on an image of your own. They are pioneers in the industry being the first to get laws in place setting standards for tattoo businesses.
Review Source:When i turned 18 in 2008 and i decided i wanted to get my first tattoo. I had thought about it for years & talked to a friend of mine who has always gotten his tattoos done at Godspeed. I took a look at his tattoos & thought they were amazing!
I have gotten all 4 of my tattoos done by Nick & he is GREAT!... he not only does amazing work but be makes you feel very comfortable & is a great person to talk to for 4 hours while the work is getting done.
im sure i could rant and rave much longer, but in the end i would just be repeating myself on how AMAZING & GREAT Nick & the shop is!
highly recommend it to anyone!
Bryn is a rock star. Â My friend and I wanted similar tattoos - we talked over ideas with him and booked an appointment. Â The idea was to email him some examples of things we liked, but friend and I could never truly agree on the best design. Â We went to our appointment empty handed, but Bryn had hand-drawn the absolute perfect version of what we wanted. Â It's like on a decorating show when they say the designer listened to them and it turned out even better than the client thought it could.
Bryn is very professional and exceptionally hygienic (sp?). Â I don't have much experience with tattoo pricing, but it seemed reasonable for the quality of the work and the design.
I got my tattoo done by Nick about a year and a half ago.  I've only just recently joined yelp and  I thought Godspeed deserved a shout-out.  Not just 'cause my tattoo looks great, but also because they were super nice when my blood sugar dropped and I almost fainted during the session.
Now, I take pretty good care of it and all, but my tattoo is brightly colored and despite working in a pool, it has not faded a bit (many of my coworkers' tattoos have). Â The coloring is one of the number one compliments I get about it. Â My coworkers are especially amazed at the quality of the coloring.
The one thing about the place that kinda struck me as iffy was that I was never once asked for my ID nor did I sign any paperwork.  I went ahead with everything since they were so well loved on yelp  (actually how i picked the place) and seemed really clean...
If I can convince myself that by age 80, I won't  regret a tattoo of a pterodactyl on my wrist, I'll be back for tattoo number two!
My friend and I went here for our tattoos last week and had the best experience. We both had Kevin and he did amazing work and finished us both in under an hour! When it comes to something like being jabbed with a needle repeatedly I appreciate when someone can cut the time down. A reasonable price for gorgeous art. Would highly recommend.
Review Source:Boy...was I lucky yesterday when I walked into Godspeed hoping to make an appointment with Kevin. Â Kevin came highly recommended from some of my gal pals but they warned me there may be a 2 month waiting period just to get an appointment with him. He was not only there but to my delight available to do my tattoo right away (due to a cancellation) . Â I showed him some pics of the lotus flower I was leaning towards and he drew up a really lovely flower and got to work. Â I can't even tell you how pleased I am with the end result. Â Kevin is a gentle soul with the patience of a saint. I thoroughly enjoyed the experience and would highly recommend Godspeed to get your first or next tattoo.
Review Source:They read Yelp reviews at Godspeed. While my best friend was being tattooed by Bryn, we talked about Yelp a bit and he mentioned that someone complained about calling repeatedly to no avail. It only occurred to me that that person he was talking about is me!
The day we went to get my best friend's newest tattoo, Bryn was the only guy in the shop. Whenever the phone would ring, he would have to stop, take off his glove, answer the phone, put the glove back on and start tattooing again. Now, I totally get it.
Here's my best friend's incredible sugar skull: <a href="/redir?url=http%3A%2F%2Ffarm5.static.flickr.com%2F4135%2F4750833665_de637de11f_o.jpg&s=9bdae00db958b27ce56e5ec8f59fdaa4f7b7a21cdf750fe0d80d884cec03943a" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://farm5.static.flic…</a>
If you ever want a tattoo, come see Bryn. He's got over 17 years of experience, is a really nice guy, listens to good music, and most importantly does great work. Go look at his portfolio: <a href="/redir?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.taylormadetattoo.com%2F&s=eae6540c6ce67a817d4b763732301d2c621c1fbb28f33c881ed221d814580e27" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.taylormadetat…</a>
You have to check this place out if you are looking for great body art done. Im currently getting a full sleeve from Bryn and each session so far have been far better that what i expected. I came to Bryn wid my concept of how i want my piece to be and he was able to capture all of it and then some. You have to trust your artist and Bryn is one artist i truly trust. Place is clean and the set up is private enough where potential clients wont interrupt or see your session. So, if you are looking for a place to get great art work done, whether its your 1st or your 13th one like mine, come and check this place out.
Review Source:I figured, this was the least I could do for Nick and his awesome skills.
I went in last Saturday to get my very first tattoo. Having a brother who started getting tattoos since I could remember, and a bestfriend who got the tattoo bug since we got out of Highschool- It always made me want to get one.
I called at first to try and schedule a consultation appointment- whoever answered the phone was very nice and told me to just come on in anytime during their hours. ( By the way- I did some extensive yelping and this place was the one that stood out the most)
I went in after work and got a chance to meet Nick- SO nice, SO pleasant, and SO accomodating. EASY PEEZY- told him what I wanted, straight to the point- He ran my CC for the deposit and I was on his books for two saturdays after my initial visit.
As Saturday rolled through, Nick was quick, artistic and SOOO pleasant. He was focused with his work, knew what he was doing and very on point. I AM IN LOVE WITH THE PIECE, I CANT STOP LOOKING AT IT, and I CANT WAIT FOR MORE.
I promise to come back to Nick for all my Tattoos and I think I just got my bestfriend to hop on that as well!
I highly recommend this place! Clean, Fun, Vibrant... what else would you want?
For my 200th review I knew I had to do something special. Where had I been that was not yet reviewed? Where was a place I absolutely adored and had not yet shared with my fellow reviewers? And then it came to me in the shower this morning... my most beloved part of my body was the gorgeous blue tattoo on my spine. Aha!
I came to Godspeed for the first time in 2007. I already had a tattoo, but I had a design in mind for my back and on the many reviews I'd heard from my friends I decided to check it out. First of all Godspeed is the quintessential tattoo shop. I love the loud music playing, the personal designs they have out and about, and the great attitude of the artists themselves.
Nick was my artist both times and he made me feel very comfortable and safe. All their equipment is sterilized and everything is very clean. After the fact I was told detailed instructions on how to take care of my tat and if I had any issues to call them immediately.
So clearly when I wanted my third tattoo the next year, I came right back to Godspeed. Since Nick was continuing the same design from the year before he remembered me, and offered to re-color my previous tattoo with no extra charge. This way there wouldn't be a few months in between where one portion would be brighter than the other. I was once again very impressed. I would recommend them to everyone I know, which I frequently do. I can't wait to go back this year to continue my design.
First very first tattoo was here at Godspeed tattoo over 6 years ago. It was done by an artist named Justin (who i believe is no longer there). The service was great and I saw Kevin working on an Egyptian Themed back piece as I was getting my praying hands w/ rosary done. Kevin's work is as everyone states......Wonderful!
The place is clean and immaculate........
It's definitely a place I recommend for people to get their body art done.
Since my last review, I've been tattooed by both Bryn and Kevin, both tattoos turned out fantastic and went above and beyond my high expectation. What more can I add? The artists at Godspeed are truly professionals in the art of tattooing and they are patient and genuinely care about their art. Pictures speak for themselves so I'll put up pictures soon!!
My side note tip is that even if you are coming from San Francisco, the trip is worth it. Go here!! Besides, you don't have to worry about street parking because out of the dozens of times I've been here, street parking is always right in front of the shop.
I've been coming here for 3 years. I have had them do all my tattoos except one and that one turned out horrible but Nick worked his magic and now it is one of my favorite tattoos. Therefore, I consider that the amazing talent at Godspeed have done all 13 of my tattoos. Nick, Kevin and Bryn are all exceptionally talented artists and I will never trust anyone else to do a tattoo on me. I'll keep coming here for years and will stop getting tattoos if they *knock on wood* ever go out of business.
Review Source:Kevin Marr is a Tattoo God....
It is quite obvious by the number of 5star reviews that Godspeed Tattoo is by far exceptional in all calibers. The store is awesome with private cubicles, professionalism, great attitudes; they are patient and passionate, incredible artists and they truly make sure that your experience is a positive/memorable one. I had a couple of individual pieces on my back and I wanted to blend it all into ONE complete work of art. Having known Kevin and the quality of his work ...(as you can tell by his portfolio).. I could not imagine anyone else to make it all happen for me...
I explained to Kevin that I wanted four turtles, (I love Hawaii and there are four in my family), bamboo (which signifies such values as longevity and friendship or a sacred barrier against evil), and water (a deeply spiritual symbol representing the "water of life" or the "flow of life."). Kevin absolutely amazed me from start to finish, from our consultation, to waiting with anticipation on what he drew weeks later, and bottom-line the overall experience was 5stars+.
No matter what angle that I admire my back piece on ... I am speechless- it is a masterpiece with so much representation of my life into it and significance behind it all for me is incredible and I am so grateful to Kevin. ( I added a partially back photo.. but you get the idea)
I endured a half a dozen sessions (2hours each - 2 hours of pain is all I could endure) and through it all I will miss Kevin :( and there is Bryn who is such a talented guy too and sooo funny & if you get them both on the same shift - you will be laughing.... But do not laugh too hard otherwise you will mess up your tattoo.
So stop reading the reviews, stop clicking on the photos or the website... call today, stop by and get that tattoo!!
THANK YOU KEVIN!! :)
No words can describe how great Kevin is in his art!!! Â Every couple of years I get a itch for ink, and I always, always, always go to Kevin--more recently just last night. Â Kevin magically blended three designs I brought in to flow along my hip bones. Â He is Tattoo God! Â
If you have been looking around for an ink artist, look no further. Â Go see Kevin at Godspeed.
Thank you so much Kevin! Â Yiwen
I got my first tattoo 10 years ago by Kevin and it still looks great, I've been to other places since then I love my tat's but not too happy with the artist. When it came time for my fourth Tattoo, I travel 4 hours from my home in Visalia to GODSPEED. I met with Bryn Taylor he was professional, nice and made it a great experence. Thanks Bryn See you next time!!
Review Source:I was referred to Kevin but he said he only did large pieces so he referred me to Bryn. Bryn was super nice, professional, listened to what I wanted, and his drawing was more than I could have imagined. He seems to have a way to make you feel at ease. I walked in totally nervous and as soon as I started talking to him I was just ready to get started. I would recommend Bryn to anyone and will for sure be going back in a few months for another one. Godspeed is a very clean shop, has reasonable prices, and they do great work!
Review Source:I was going to write something, but Conor C. said it best:
"Awesome, professional shop. Great artists with good communication skills and a skill of putting people at ease. Competitive prices, and a strong ethical commitment to not giving shitty tattoos. You won't find this combination at many Peninsula tattoos shops. These guys just keep getting better every time I come back."
not to mention they are all friggin HOTTIES!
Bryn Taylor is the BEST tattoo artist I've ever had do work on me. I have five tats, but in both artistic quality and execution, Bryn far outranks all the other artists I've had tattoo me. Professional, sweet and with a wonderful touch, Bryn is amazing. The tattoo he designed for me is sooooo cool! I told him I wanted an expiration date put inside a skull and what he came up with is so beautiful! I get tons of compliments on it wherever I go. If I get another tat, I'm coming back to Godspeed and I'm having Bryn do the work. Outstanding work!
Review Source:I've been going to Godspeed for the last few years and absolutely adore Nick, who has put several tattoos on me. From the first day I walked into Godspeed, I liked the place. Everyone was cool, there's a good vibe, the shop is super clean, and they absolutely take the time to really understand what you want. Nick has tattooed my foot, my lower back, and my shoulder/upper arm. All of the work he's done has been nothing short of awesome - clean lines, great colors, perfect placement - and I get tons of compliments.
There is a $100 minimum, yes, but that's not totally uncommon if you do your research (lots of shops have a minimum). They do prefer that you come in to make an appointment, yes, but that's also not entirely uncommon. Frankly, if you're going to put something on your body that will last forever, don't you want to at least meet the person who will be doing the work first? If you're on the peninsula and looking for some ink, or even thinking about it, go meet Nick and the rest of the guys at Godspeed.
My last two tattoos have been at Godspeed by Nick Bergin, being that I live in SF I always get the question why don't I just have it done here, but the work he does is well worth it. Â He has the lightest hand and works quickly, he did a decent size chest piece, color and all in 3 1/2 hours. Â Every time I've gone it I've let him do what he wants w/ my basic idea and it's come out amazing! Â He lettering is spectacular and he is extremely helpful. Â Everyone that has seen my tattoos by him has wanted to get there next one there if that says anything. Â He is the only tattoo artist Ive used more than once and I'll continue to use him.
Review Source:I have been going to Kevin Marr since 6/2008 and let me tell you.... he is AWESOME! Everyone's professional and easy going. Very humble environment. My tattoos have a lot of deep meanings behind them  and Kevin executes them perfectly. I don't have to get into details with him of what I envision...  I give him my ideas, and he knows exactly what to do with them.  My fiance also got a full sleeve done by Kevin and in the process of getting his other sleeve done. This is his passion and it really shows!!!
Review Source:Bryn worked on a small tattoo for me (my second) and I have to say he was pretty great. We spoke a bit about the meaning behind it and he got my references to Alice in Wonderland and understood my odd tattoo. We worked on it a bit to get it just right all the while he remained a perfectionist even checking to make sure that the circles would be perfect even when I move my wrist around -- which is a good mark of someone who really cares about what they are doing. He's attentive, patient, and even asked me to come back after a week to assure the tattoo was perfect. It was -- but I was pretty surprised at not just the quality of work but concern.
I will note though that I was a walk-in; I had to schedule an appointment a few hours later so obviously bear that in mind.
My girlfriend and I went in, met Nick, made appointments for a few days later, had a blast for the 6 or so hours he masterfully decorated our bods, and left super happy and ready for more. Mine was a straight copy from a font template, hers was one that he custom drew that was gorgeous -- way cooler than we had in our heads. He is awesome!!
Review Source:Awesome, professional shop. Great artists with good communication skills and a skill of putting people at ease. Competitive prices, and a strong ethical commitment to not giving shitty tattoos. You won't find this combination at many Peninsula tattoos shops. These guys just keep getting better every time I come back.
Review Source:So I guess I am not the first to post that Bryn Taylor is the coolest. He spent tons of time talking to me about the best tattoo design for a coverup on my shoulder, sketched a beautiful design, and carefully placed the tattoo so that you can't even tell it's a coverup. Bryn is also a fabulous conversationalist  and my girlfriend and I loved his company. Talented, down-to-earth, and gentle with the needle.
Review Source:I took my mom (59) to get her first tattoo at Godspeed since they had come highly rated from people I randomly talked too. Â
I met with Nick a week prior to go over her design and pay the deposit - I think it's smart they require a deposit because that weeds out the flakes and allows appointment times for people serious about getting work done. Â
The night before her appointment I needed to push the start time back by an hour and Nick was totally accommodating. Â He helped my mom with the design and helped with colors as well. Â He was great and put up with my family's "shenanigans" and with my mom's "I MUST HUG YOU" -ness after he was done... Â
Her tatt turned out great! Â It's a small cascade of stars, colored in great jewel tones, and it's on the back of her neck. Â Thanks Nick for taking good care of my mom! Â :)
I love this place. Â I have several tattoos and of course like many was told I needed to go to the city or Berkeley to have the best things done. Â But this is close to home and I walked in with an idea once and the staff were so friendly and helpful I wondered why I ever listened to such advice. Not that I don't like my others. Â I have a wrist and back tattoo by Nick and go in on Sunday for another by Bryn as I read here he does good work. Â As I said everyone is friendly including the young lady that is often at the front desk. The atmosphere is clean and fun and welcoming. I highly recommend especially if you are in the peninsula or venture on down. Â While you are there stop at Aldo's for real homemade pizza and you can't beat the dollar store and small town Key Market. Â Go go go I say. You won't be disappointed.
Review Source:This is the only place I get my tattoos. Â I love all the guys here. Â They are very gentle and considerate. Â The last tattoo I received was by nick. Â He has now put a few on me. Â The tattoo is located very low on my stomach/hips. Â He was very considerate and made me feel very comfortable. Â My first tattoo was done by Kevin quite a few years ago. Â It still looks great. Â All of my tattoos look wonderful and have not really faded in the 8 years I have had tattoos. Â There is no place better than Godspeed.
Review Source:I got my Japanese-style shoulder/bicep tat here, and it's awesome. Â Jason was the artist, and throughout all of the 6 sessions (from September to January), he was polite and professional. Â The music selection is great, and the artwork on the walls is ridiculously cool. Â The best part about the art is it's primarily the art of the 3 artists in this studio. Â It also reflects their sense of humor (come visit and you'll see).
At the beginning, I provided some reference art. Â Jason looked at it, and made some suggestions of his own. Â It became clear that he was familiar with the art style I was interested in (Japanese style dragon, water waves, clouds, air waves, cherry blossoms), and drew up a sketch in a couple of days. Â The sketch was phenomenal, but not nearly as awesome as the final product with all of the shading.
Don't hesitate to go here if you live in the Peninsula and are looking for a quality tattoo studio.
Kevin did my half sleeve 5 months and his work was so amazing I wanted to turn it into a full sleeve. If your reading this after the last mediocre review of kevin please disregard it. He is  one of the best artist's in the bay area and his work shows it. If your thinking about getting a tat make sure you go to kevin don't waste your time with any other artists!!!
Review Source:first tattoo done here and i am extremely happy =)
definitely will go back again or bring my friends there
the tattoo shop itself it really awesome looking with blood red walls
and awesome artwork with cool skulls and bones
kevin did a really good job on my first tat, i love it, its perfectoo!
jason did my friends first tat and she loves it too
godspeed rocks
Let me just say that I had a f*#ked up blob of ink on my inner forearm, black, almost impossible to cover, came here expecting the usually "you want me to do what?" (oh, and I did get it) BUT...Nick was down for a challenge. Â And for what it is, it's perfect. Â That was a while ago, but a friend of mine continues to visit Kevin and he always comes back with amazing art. Â Skip the city drama and crying sob story tattoo shows and get your ass down here if you are thinking of getting ink!
Review Source:So after many years of tossing the idea around I finally decided I wanted to get my first tattoo. I made an appt for a consulation for last night. When I got to Godspeed, Nick looked at my design and listened to what I wanted, and to my surprise said he had time to do it right then!
I had expected to bring my posse for moral support, but Nick was so nice and so easy to be around that I just went for it. I was nervous and chattered at him through the whole thing, and he just let me talk and was very sweet and interesting to talk to. The tattoo is small so it didn't take very long, but the results are absolutely perfect and exactly what I wanted! Nick is not only sweet and very comforting, but what a talent! I'm glad my first was done by him, I will definitely go back to Nick but maybe won't talk his ear off next time!
The young man whom I currently spend much time with recently got a beautiful tattoo done here. It was a peacesign done in brick work and river rock.
Kevin, you did an AMAZING job. There was NO SCABBING. The tat in less than three days looked like it had been there for weeks. WOW.
The place looks great too. They have an open glass casket with the remains of a young man who was in Jesse James gang and there is orignal artwork everywhere on the walls. Plus, the three of us who were there for tattoo day heard about the crews love of the one and only "Frank Stallone" (fun factoid: did you know that Frank has been in more movies than his more famous brother, Sly?). Entertainment and good tattoos? What could be better?
godspeed tattoo is the COOLEST tattoo shop i have ever been to. we are lucky to have it right here in the best city in the world, san mateo, in the best neighborhood in san mateo, shoreview.
first of all, the ambiance of the shop is breathtaking. the walls are painted a delicious blood red and are covered with amazingly beautiful artwork done by kevin marr. there's a lot of satanic imagery abound and chances are there's going to be some insanely good music blasting from the stereo, whether it be three six mafia, anal cunt, or frank stallone. though it may seem like it's just a bunch of crazies hanging out and raising hell, godspeed prides itself on its professionalism, cleanliness and sanitation, and of course, its brilliant artists.
there are three artists working at godspeed: kevin marr, the owner and the one who has been tattooing the longest; sailor nick bergin; and jason murphy "the egg," newly trained apprentice turned tattoo artist.
every artist here is fantastic! kevin is obviously the most skilled as he is the most experienced. he does everything, and is consistent in producing excellent, high quality tattoos. i would say he is particularly good for large pieces, japanese-style tattoos, biomechanical art a la h.r. giger, and anything satan-related. i haven't personally been tattooed by him, but i know tons of people who have and they are all 100% satisfied customers.
nick is an awesome artist and one of the nicest guys i know! he will totally work with you to customize your dream tattoo. he specializes in  traditional work; he does great shading and clean, solid lines. Â
jason, my personal favorite, is a tattoo prodigy. he is a highly talented and creative artistic genius who was obviously born to tattoo. he is excellent at traditional as well as detailed, realistic work. he is also just a really amazing guy with a crazy sense of humor and a heart of gold. give him a lot of creative control and he'll draw you up a masterpiece. Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â Â
godspeed is open from 12-8 every day and will take walk-ins depending on artist availability. check out their myspace page at <a href="/redir?url=http%3A%2F%2Fmyspace.com%2Fgodspeedtattoo&s=ca273defde2b58d8fec589b7592b405baae80c3e05e63471f38468f3fb5e4778" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://myspace.com/godsp…</a>!
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