Stepping into the realm of ink and artistry in New York City, I recently stumbled upon a tattoo studio that truly captivated me: Kings Avenue Tattoo. It was a serendipitous discovery on a weekend trip, and what I found was more than just a tattoo shop; it was an experience, a hub of creativity, and a testament to the enduring appeal of tattoo culture. Located at the vibrant corner of Spring Street and the Bowery, Kings Avenue Tattoo immediately caught my eye, beckoning me to explore what lay within its walls.
Upon entering the second-floor studio, I was immediately struck by the atmosphere. It wasn’t your typical sterile or intimidating tattoo parlor. Instead, Kings Avenue Tattoo exuded a welcoming, almost familial vibe. The spacious studio was thoughtfully designed, featuring comfortable leather couches arranged around a stylish area rug, fostering a communal and relaxed setting. What truly set it apart was the open workspace concept. Artists were diligently working on their craft right there in the open, creating a dynamic and inspiring environment reminiscent of a mini tattoo convention. This open layout, combined with the palpable artistic energy, gave Kings Avenue Tattoo a unique, old-school charm that was instantly appealing.
Alt text: The welcoming and open interior of Kings Avenue Tattoo’s New York City studio, featuring artists working in a communal space with leather couches for clients.
The story of Kings Avenue Tattoo began in November 2005, with owner and visionary artist Mike Rubendall. His ambition was clear: to establish a tattoo studio that would not only be successful but also profoundly influential within the global tattoo community. He chose his hometown of Massapequa, Long Island, as the birthplace of this dream. Rubendall’s vision was rooted in a deep respect for tattooing’s rich history, combined with a forward-thinking approach to its future, all while prioritizing exceptional customer service. Starting with a tight-knit team of just three artists, the Long Island location quickly gained popularity, and the burgeoning demand soon signaled the need for expansion.
Alt text: Portrait of Mike Rubendall, the founder and owner of Kings Avenue Tattoo, a highly respected tattoo artist known for his expertise and vision.
In April 2011, Kings Avenue Tattoo extended its reach into the heart of New York City, opening its doors on the Bowery. This location was particularly significant, as the Bowery holds a legendary place in tattoo history. Overlooking the iconic Manhattan cityscape, Kings Avenue Tattoo NYC quickly mirrored the success of its Long Island counterpart. The “Kings Avenue family” of artists expanded rapidly across both locations, earning significant respect and critical acclaim within the tattooing industry. The studio regularly hosts a rotating roster of highly sought-after guest artists, including renowned names like Tim Hendricks, Horitomo, and Henning Jorgensen. These collaborations have further elevated Kings Avenue Tattoo’s reputation, solidifying its position among the elite tattoo studios in New York City and beyond.
Alt text: Close-up shot of tattoo artist Grez focused on creating a detailed tattoo at Kings Avenue Tattoo in NYC, showcasing the studio’s artistic environment.
Even with its growth and increasing renown, Kings Avenue Tattoo remains steadfast in its commitment to integrity and exceptional quality. The studio prides itself on its carefully curated team of professional artists, hand-picked from around the globe. These artists represent a diverse range of specialties, including the timeless artistry of Japanese and American traditional tattooing, the striking contrasts of black and gray work, and the intricate detail of realism. Each artist at Kings Avenue Tattoo is driven by a passion for creating unique and original pieces, ensuring that every client receives a truly personalized work of art. Alongside Mike Rubendall at the New York City studio, you’ll find a stellar lineup of resident artists: Grez, Justin Weatherholz, Chris O’Donnell, Phil Szlosek, Rose Hardy, Matt Beckerich, Zac Scheinbaum, Jason June, Clark Seiger, Matt Adamson, Becca Genné-Bacon, Chris Fernandez, and Will Lollie. With such a diverse and talented roster, Kings Avenue Tattoo confidently caters to virtually any tattoo style and preference.
Alt text: A collage showcasing various tattoo styles offered at Kings Avenue Tattoo, including Japanese, American traditional, black and gray, and realism, highlighting the studio’s versatility.
For those considering getting inked at Kings Avenue Tattoo, it’s helpful to know their policies. Walk-ins are welcome, availability permitting, but securing an appointment is the best way to guarantee a session with your preferred artist. Appointments require a deposit, ranging from $100 to $300, depending on the tattoo’s size and complexity. It’s important to note their deposit policy: while 50% is refundable if you decide against the tattoo, deposits become non-refundable once an artist has begun drawing for your appointment. They also require a 48-hour cancellation notice for rescheduling or cancellations to avoid forfeiting the full deposit. Regarding age restrictions, New York State law mandates that individuals must be 18 years or older to be tattooed, without exceptions for parental consent. Pricing at Kings Avenue Tattoo is not fixed; there’s a shop minimum of $100, and final costs are determined by factors like size, detail, and placement. The studio recommends consultations with their artists for accurate price estimates.
The studio itself is impeccably maintained, boasting a level of cleanliness that surpasses mere sterility. My visit left me with a strong impression of professionalism and hygiene. Kings Avenue Tattoo NYC is open Monday through Saturday from 12 pm to 9 pm and Sunday from 1 pm to 7 pm. They are located at 188 Bowery, second floor, New York, NY 10012, and can be contacted at (212) 431-5464 or via email at [email protected]. For those in the Long Island area, the original Kings Avenue Tattoo location is at 844 N. Broadway, Massapequa, NY 11758, open Monday through Saturday, 12 pm to 9 pm, and Sunday, 12 pm to 6 pm. They can be reached at (516) 799-5464 or [email protected].
In conclusion, my visit to Kings Avenue Tattoo was an enlightening and impressive experience. From the welcoming atmosphere to the undeniable talent of their artists, it’s clear why Kings Avenue Tattoo has earned its esteemed reputation. Whether you’re a seasoned collector or looking to get your first piece, Kings Avenue Tattoo offers a premier destination for high-quality, expertly executed tattoos in New York City. I highly recommend checking them out for your next tattoo endeavor.
