Reviews of Strictly Tattoo (Tattoo Shop)

Venice Tabernero

I regard Horiryu as one of the top Irizumi Masters in the world. His craftsmanship transcends to his apprentices.

Jason Smith

My first Kanji tattoo was crafted by apprentice Marcus. He made the experience exceptional because of his charismatic professionalism. His sense of humour made the process less painful and more enjoyable. I am looking into getting some more pieces done at Strictly in the near future.

Kris Y

One of the worst tattoo experiences ever, I'd suggest you go elsewhere. Long story short, I had a family member pass away out of country. Gave three weeks notice before next tattoo session that I can't make it due to my issue. Says they called me three times yet, when you're out of country you wouldn't have cell reception/want to pay for long distance. Lost my deposit due to "artist not interested in finishing my project", Aswell as breaking contract coming every month. End of the day, people have other stuff to deal with. No wonder why they call it strictly. STRICTLY TATTOOS MATTER IN LIFE, NOTHING ELSE BUT MAKING MONEY FROM YOUR TATTOOS. UPDATE: Never once was there a time they offered to give me my deposit back, they asked me to give them MORE deposit to "keep the artists interest" in continuing tattooing me.

Selena Lu

Nothing but great for things to say for Strictly Tattoo! I started going to Horimomiji a little over a year ago and will continue going for many more! The craftsmanship & passion for the tattoos they do always make me feel confident as a client that I will get amazing work done. I’ve never gone to a tattoo studio that offers their clients snacks and juice ???? for those who don’t understand or agree with their strict policies please remember that these are thousands of dollars worth of art & a whole bunch of people who no show, never reply and never finish their pieces. 5 stars!!

Tanner S

Just overall. Always a fantastic fantastic place to go. Art work is very well done, friendly staff as well.

Jeremy Clarke

Clean and professional with private, walled off workstations. A fun atmosphere and stunning tattoos from both Chris and Ben. I love that I was immediately given a juice box as soon as I came in

Chad Perry

Horiryu is an amazingly gifted artist whom has devoted his life to his art! I was very pleased with my experience, my tattoo and especially love the vibe of the shop and Horiryu's upbeat personallity. I wouldnt go anywhere else!!! ♡♡

604 Trap or die

Top notch best traditional japanese artists in Canada and vancouver.

Kelly Whiteside

I came to Michi with high expectations and a vague, complicated idea, and he exceeded my expectations. He's an incredibly talented artist who can do a wide range of styles, but his watercolour and portrait work is exceptional. The studio is very clean and the staff go above and beyond to make you feel comfortable; I was offered juice, got to watch Netflix, and they even shared some pizza with the clients at the end of a long day.

nicolly c

Eric was super nice! My tattoo from three weeks ago is healing great thanks to his advice!

Quinn Muylaert

Unrelated to tattoos but I was recently being followed home by a man while walking nearby. I ducked into their studio to ask if I could just wait inside for a little while. Everyone there was more than kind and understanding of my situation. I was brought water and a juice box, they sat with me until I calmed down and even went out of their way to drive me home, making sure I made it there safely. I'm truly taken back by the kindness I was shown in this studio. Big thumbs up to strictly tattoo!

Temia

I got a tattoo from Kamagu in feb, I first of all love my tattoo. as it was one of my first ones, he was very patient with me, explained everything I needed to know and just made my whole experience a positive one. I have recommended him to all my friends and to people on social media. this establishment is very professional and has a very relaxed feel when entering. would highly recommend !!

Coura Pigozzo

I came to this studio because a few years ago I had received a free tattoo from Momiji when she had first started out. When I came back with my ideas for additions, she recommended me to Gumi. I am very happy with my result from Gumi. She was very polite, provided juice and snacks and did wonderfully clean lines. She maintained good communication and made sure I understood exactly what needed to be done. Despite my highly sensitive skin, it was an overall a pleasant experience. At the end of the appointment I was given a handout on after care and provided a sample of Aquaphor which they suggested for after care. The studio is within walking distance to my home which made it all even better. I thoroughly intend on coming back here for my next tattoo

Mandy C

Tattooed by Michi, very friendly and professional, amazing service.

Yuki Ochiai (Yooks Yamagucci)

I'm taken by surprise reading some of the reviews below. When I walked into the shop, admittedly I got the impression that my idea of a tattoo piece I wanted was not doable at all because of the clash of the anime concept and traditional Japanese tattoo. I almost didn't feel welcome there, like I couldn't get tattooed there. However, you have to understand that tattoos are not only permanent, but all custom designs made by each and every tattoo artist take tremendous amount of time whether it's consulting with the artist or the artist creating the design specific to your vision and requests...it takes time and it's serious work!!! All of that said, customer service there is awesome! They have artists who specialize in a wide variety of styles. The owner and the staff there are actually super-friendly, and I was pleased to meet my artist Michi, who shares the same vision and ambitions as I do! I cannot wait to go back to visit everyone and get tattooed!

Thomas Gorcak

Ten is currently working on my koi/dragon sleeve and so far i am loving it, He is doing some amazing work for an apprentice, the studio is very clean, nice chill environment with tv’s in each booth so you can watch netflix, they offered me juice and even gave me some fried rice in the middle of the day to stay hydrated and well fed, would recommend anyone who wants to keep it traditional japaense here aswell as they have a couple guest artists time to time who do have different styles, everyone is friendly and was nice, for my first tattoo i had an amazing experience.

Adam

World class shop!

Jojo Saratan

They are so not friendly at all.

Ryan Cowger

Got a tattoo done by Ben and couldn't be happier! Was given a granola bar and a few juice boxes and had some interesting conversations. I'd give a 6th star solely for the fact that Ben informed me of 4% lagers being a great post tattoo electrolyte source haha. Can't wait to come back for more. ????

Aaron B

I normally don't write reviews, but I have to for this one: I emailed Eric about my tattoo idea, one that was really special to me. He drew up a version for me that I loved. Keeping my original version, but cleaning it up with precise lines and easy to see the details, which I really appreciated. When I went for my appointment, he was easy to talk to, super chill and relaxed. During our session, we took a few breaks, and he gave me two (count them, TWO) juice boxes for sugar levels. I mean, who doesn't love juice boxes? (Monsters, that's who). I didn't think I needed them, but it did make me feel better afterwards (he also offered granola bars, but I didn't think I needed one). I know this seems like a small detail, but any other parlour I've gone to hasn't offered any real food items for blood sugar levels. This is my 10th tattoo, and I don't know what it was, but it healed in just a week with very minimum flaking/scabbing. No touch up needed, and it looks awesome. I would definitely recommend this parlour, and specifically Eric, whom I will be going back to in the future. A+++

Google user

Went there for some info and showed him what I had , he then took shots on how bad my currents tattoos were and said he will only do a cover up ! Brutal service

Altrine

Got my first tattoo here and loved it. Horiryu II did an amazing job! Looked after you and offered snacks and drinks.

xStarkJr

Had an awesome experience with Horimomiji. I will totally recommend this location to both friends and family, as well as will be coming back again in the future for more work.

Sam Tahvili

I got my first and only tattoo at strictly tattoo. I had been searching for a tattoo artist for years and had never found anyone trustworthy of placing something permanent on my body, until I met Horiryu 1. He's a master class traditional artist and is absolutely lovely and humble in person. I did a total of 32 hours with him and felt completely at ease in the whole process. The staff was also very attending and welcoming and made sure I got whatever I needed in the process. I highly recommend this place for anyone who's interested in authentic Japapene irezumi. You will not find a better place!

Kent Gray

Couldn't be happier with the professionalism, skill and care I received with Ben on my visit! My expectations were exceeded. Very knowledgeable staff. Would recommend Strictly Tattoo to anyone looking for their next piece!

Dave Luong

Horiryu is professional and dare I say the best traditional Japanese artist in Canada. Hoping to finish my other tattoo by him soon!

Y S

Unprofessional and rude staff. Never replies to emails and calls, not willing to communicate well with customers. Only want to take you money and deposits and that's pretty much it. Thanks strictly tattoo. Not coming back to you guys again. 1 / 10.

Jasmine Yong

Strictly Tattoo was very professional on helping my with my sleeve. The team was definitely very caring about their clients and what they want, they also took really good care of me every single time I was there. I definitely felt very welcomed there and everyone there was super nice. I especially want to thank Horiryu II for helping me with my project. If you ever want traditional irezumi done, strictly tattoo is the place! ????

Nicky Anderson

An apprentice there needed practice for tattoos. While in talks with her about details of the tattoo it seemed like parameters continued to change. Originally told I could pick whatever colors, then told I couldn't and given a list of what I could select from. Then the color combo I selected was apparently unable to be done but we came to an agreement of what two colors. After confirming the colors, time of session and date I was contacted and asked to change the colors of the tattoo to black and white. I get that this girl is practicing and needs to do certain types of tattoos but I do not feel like a tattoo should be confirmed and booked, 100% agreed upon colors and design then suddenly go back on that. If black and white was needed then just be honest from the start. Its poor organization and communication within the business itself. Again, I do not blame the apprentice, I simply think there's poor communication within the business and that she should not be confirming appointments, design and colors without approval from her mentors at this point. Cancelled appointment since I do not like black and white tattoos and she insisted it was that or nothing without apology. Again, those are her mentor's rules for what tattoo she has to do, but it came across as a little rude and curt too how she went about asking if colors could be switched. Mind you it also wasn't exactly asking since it was the switch or cancel. Not exactly a choice on an already confirmed and agreed upon design and color set.

Jay Castro

Very professional and friendly tattoo studio. I had a custom piece done and the artist really captured what I wanted for my first tattoo.

Eric C

Marcus is the worst artist to work with, bad attitude and very rude, did not even want to get tattooed at this shop

Fawkes Urquhart

Awesome place. Clean and proffessional, great place for japanese style tattoos or any tattoo really.

Matthieu Pierrepont

Greats artists! Amazing work

MrChangCJ

Cory Crosbie (@cocotatts) does not value clients that are of “low value” to him. I am an example, a first timer, foreign student, with little influence in the city. I did not really feel valued as a client for a custom piece. He takes a long time to reply simple messages and this continued after I paid the deposit. Being a first timer, I was cautious and polite but he postponed appointments and remained uncommunicative. Eventually the tattoo was done and a month of healing later, some spots naturally required touch up. Some other spots were blown out and some lines were of inconsistent thicknesses. I contacted him politely with pictures asking for advice but he ignored them despite having seen them. After more patient prompting, he finally agreed to do a touch-up but wanted me to pay more. I obliged but he never followed up with an appointment. A week later, I prompted again, and yet again he did not reply despite having seen the message. At this point I gave up trying, disappointed.

Perry T

So this was my very first tattoo, I made a consultation appointment and met up at the store on the day of. I had discussed my vision with the artist ten. We mutually were excited to take on the task. So then I placed a deposit and made an appointment for the tattoo to be done. On the day of he had created a rendering of what he had created. He was very open to making changes to it if necessary, although it was amazing I made one small change and even he agreed it enhanced the image. The whole place is very family orientated and friendly they make you feel very comfortable even the owner says hello to everyone who comes in. Ten himself is very down to earth and friendly. Your station is private and sanctioned off and has a tv for you to watch while the artist works. The work speaks for itself, flawless. Just look at their IG account and see for yourself. Perfection.

Gustav Ekelund

I have been seeing Jarret for my tattoos since 2016, and every time he has exceeded my expectations in taking my rough ideas and translating them into works of amazing wearable art. Definitely recommend him to anyone wanting big custom peices. He is currently tattooing my second sleeve and will be continuing my business with him for years to come! As for Strictly Tattoo, I haven't had a more welcoming experience in any tattoo shop. The artists are friendly and respectful, actually making conversation while I wait for my appointment instead of awkwardly sitting around like in some other shops I've experienced. Look forward to coming back for my future appointments!

K Yuen (Karin Strife)

Horimomiji is the perfect artist. Not only is she skilled and meticulous in her craft, but she is professional to the utmost degree. I felt completely comfortable during my sessions with her and I know I was in good hands. I was a bit of a baby when it came to certain spots, but she was patient and encouraging throughout the whole process. Her line work is crisp and clean and her colour tattoos are bold and eye catching; if you're in the market for a tattoo, be it in a traditional Japanese style or otherwise, you won't regret paying her a visit.

Shoshana Burton

Henry is an outstanding tattoo artist. He is patient, gentle and highly skilled. Love the results and the fact that it was painless... I literally fell a sleep!

Lauren Tesch

Had such an amazing experience getting my first tattoo with Ben at strictly tattoo. He listened to all my ideas and drew up a bunch of different images for me to choose from. They’re super professional and kind in the shop. And if you’re looking for an great traditional artist with a bit of a darker edge look no further than Ben at strictly. Thank you for making it such an awesome experience. Love my tattoo and will definitely be back.

Kristian De La Cruz

Just had a long tattoo session with special guest Aki .. amazing work ! The staff there are so nice and caring , they ensured I was comfortable during my tattoo. Their shop is clean and their location is really convenient. Would highly recommend this tattoo shop to anyone looking to get Japanese style tattoos.

Žan Pražnikar

Started a tattoo with Henry this week and its already absolutely amazing, can't wait to go back and finish it!

David

Was originally going to get a piece on my ribs but Horiryu and Ten highly recommended that I not get one there, very glad I listened to them! Decided to get a chest piece and the detailing was really well done. Everyone working there was very nice too! If you're looking for a Japanese style piece, I'd recommend Strictly for sure.

ThatoneWerewof

Last year I got a full sleeve/chest piece done by Horiryu and this year he did my other sleeve and I just need to finish my left chest. He is an amazing artist and actually quite fast....he is NOT cheap. I don't mind paying for quality as I have lived with a nasty old tattoo for years that cost me more in laser removal sessions then the original tattoo. For those complaining about Horiryu and how he would not work around an existing tattoo but only do a coverup. This is NOT unusual as the GREAT tattoo artists do not want their name associated with crappy tattoos others have done. Some artists will outright refuse to even work on you so you should be happy he offered to do a coverup.

Corrie Murray

I am very grateful and happy with Gumi’s work! She is very professional! Organized! Attentive and a VERY Talented artist!! Gumi apprenticed on 2 of my tattoos! Colourful , beautiful and detailed!! in exchange they were free! I have full confidence in her work as she is training under World champion artists. Gumis mentors were by her side constantly. I had no problem with her choices of colours. After all it was free! Thank you so much Gumi and mentors! Can’t wait to come back! I

S V

Henry is attentive in his consultation, his work is thorough and he is very sanitary. Love both my pieces. Looking forward to completing the rest. Highly recommend this guy.

darrien pike

Horrible customer service, I would not recommend ! If you have a complaint the owner PRETENDS to not know how to speak English just so he can try to avoid dealing with you and the issue at hand. Please, do yourself a favor and stay far away from this place !!

Sharlene McBride

Thanks for the tattoo, you are great, but for a very long time.

jessica norman

By far the best experience I’ve had getting a tattoo! Thank you Michi for for hard work in creating masterpieces for myself and my partner! We will be coming back for all our work in the future! I recommend this shop 100% , excellent work!!

greg l

Marcus damaged my skin so badly I had to wait a year to get my tattoo finished. When I went back to get it finished his recommendations conflicted with other advice from other shops . Wouldn't recommend

Brady

They treat you first class , great artists and apprentice's. highly recommend any of there artists if your looking for high quality work! ????????

Dan B

Got a sleeve done by Horiryu II. This was my first ever tattoo and I couldn't be more happy. From start to finish, everything was almost perfect. You can tell Horiryu II puts in the time to perfect his craft. He's full of great ideas but he's also very specific and caters to the client. Great vibes throughout. I learnt that tattooing is more then just the piece of art on your body. The experience is equally as important. Because of Horiryu II , I will definitely be getting some more work done! See you soon bro

Gurjot b

I had an amazing first time experience at strictly tattoo. My tattoo was a script in Punjabi writing going down the side of my ribs with Artist Kamagu who took on this challenging piece confidentially. Kamagu was professional, kind and made sure I was comfortable throughout my session. He would reply to my emails regarding the tattoo very efficiently as well and would keep me updated about any changes or ideas frequently. I am so happy with my tattoo and appreciate the effort he put into this special piece, during the session he would make sure the tattoo detail was according to my standards and would also get it looked at from his senior staff. He has such amazing talent and I’m excited to see where this journey takes him, I look forward to booking with him very soon !

Ryan Travis

Best service I've ever had at a shop. Gumi tattoo'd my girlfriend and I and both came out perfect. Couldn't be happier and couldn't recommend the shop more!

Sheila Marie

Got my first tat here 2 hours ago. I soooo love it! Credit to the lady artist Simmone and the other artists are very friendly and accomodating. Shop is clean and organize. Highly recommended ????????☺️

Joyce Aldred

Henry did a bang up job on my tattoo 3weeks ago,not a huge tattoo but a beautiful tattoo,absolutely love it.

Gavan Dhillon

Amazing experience with the team at Strictly. horiyu2 is insanely talented and anyone looking to get Japanese style ink should check out his page on IG and definitely book a consultation.

Edward Kung

Professional. Give respect, receive the same. If I get more ink, I'll be back. Would send my kids here ????

Jhay Why

Got my full left sleeve to chest done by horiryu. He's an amazing artist and doesn't rush on details. I've recommended friends to go to him as well. Very talented artist!

jenny

I love Strictly Tattoo Gallery! I had the luxury to get tattooed by Horiryu and Horiryu 2. Both experiences were great! Horiryu is very detail-oriented and his years of experience shows through his adamant work and work ethic. We had a little chat prior and he drew up the sketch from our discussion, he has a very good sense of style and really shows it through his work as well I was very happy with all the meaning behind my piece and it looks awesome as well! My custom sleeve from Horiryu is amazing! Horiryu 2 is also very amazing. He was very attentive to all my concerns since this piece was a little more complicated. I listed all my concerns and questions and he is very knowledgeable, answering everything I asked very patiently (thank you!! It was a lot of questions). I was very indecisive since this was an add-on to an already existing tattoo I had from another artist but Horiryu 2 helped me finalize what I wanted and Im glad I trusted him. I’m very happy with the outcome of the line work so far and can’t wait for my next appointment! Thank you so much for the amazing work, I really love the vibes at this shop and appreciate the professionalism of everyone I’ve met here.

SJ Young

Horiryu2tattoo, was tattooing my bf who told me his tattoo artist smelled like alcohol and came into work visibly hung over, very unprofessional.

leo yang

I usually don't make reviews on anything but I went to strictly tattoos and couldn't have had a better experience! This was indeed my first tattoo ever and my artist was Eric. Amazing person. He gave me a great experience talked me through what he was doing throughout the tattoo making sure i was ok and checking in on my constantly. I was even late for my third session and he was very understandable. Words don't justify the experience I had! 10/10 would recommend strictly tattoo as well as the tattoo artist Eric, thanks for the great experience and hopefully i can finish the sleeve soon!

Ron Dio

Henry's THE man. First session in the books, had a blast with him. It blows me away how detail oriented and professional he is 11/10 would recommend him to anyone who wants a quality tattoo. If you let the man do his work, trust his skills (quit it with the micromanaging), you'll end up with a beautiful piece. I'm still in awe how every single cherry blossom on my arm is unique, I'd say not a lot of people have the time and patience to do something that detail oriented. ALSO, do your research before getting tattooed by the man! There are so many neat things you can have him work on if you put in the time to look for good references. The studio was fantastic, clean and professional. Everyone around was friendly, professional, and had a vibe that everyone puts their heart and soul behind their work. Heck, they even offer juice boxes for you. I felt very comfortable and taken care of, probably the best studio in town. I'd recommend anyone here.

steve shig

I realize they have a policy for the customer providing a cancellation of one week, but considering I have come in 3 times in the last 3 months, paid $1,500 and gave the artist almost $300 in tips and called in SIX DAYS BEFORE MY APPOINTMENT, they wouldn’t mind rescheduling for me! I was sadly mistaken! I will be looking for another studio to finish my half sleeve and a full sleeve on my other arm.

Ryan Fowler

Authentic Japanese style tattoo work done by experienced artists with quality ink. This place specializes in large pieces such as full back pieces, full sleeve and chest/body suit tattoos.

Michael Lim

Had Kamagu..he's an apprentice. But his artwork and skills say otherwise. Very understanding and patient with what i wanted. Definitely recommend the shop and him as an artist.