Exploring the diverse neighborhoods of Queens, NY, often leads to unexpected discoveries. During one such aimless drive, a tattoo parlor caught my eye on College Point Boulevard. This wasn’t just any parlor; it was Mean Street Tattoo Studio. My interest, fueled by a newfound fascination with tattoo culture, prompted an impromptu stop. Luckily, my girlfriend, a fellow enthusiast of skin art, was equally intrigued. Inspired by the Van Halen track “Mean Street,” this studio promised a unique experience.
Stepping inside Mean Street Tattoo at 1846 College Point Boulevard, the first impression was of immaculate cleanliness, contrasting the heavy Asian-inspired décor. It felt less like a typical flash-art-cluttered tattoo shop and more akin to a meticulously kept room, perhaps with a nod to Feng Shui. While an interview wasn’t scheduled, I had the pleasure of speaking with Johann Florendo, a talented artist at the studio. Choosing to remain incognito as a writer, I observed genuine customer interaction and a distinct lack of ego. Johann’s welcoming demeanor immediately set a positive tone.
Johann shared insights into the studio, mentioning the other resident artist, Tommy Murphy. Tommy, he explained, is available for tattoos every day except Sundays and Tuesdays, preferring appointments but accommodating walk-ins when possible. Johann, on the other hand, operates on a stricter appointment-only basis, a testament to the demand for his impressive artwork. Mean Street Tattoo operates from Monday to Saturday, maintaining consistent hours of 1 p.m. to 9 p.m. – typical for tattoo studios.
Intricate fish tattoo by Tommy Murphy at Mean Street Tattoo in College Point, NY. Showcasing detailed black and grey ink work.
Mean Street Tattoo prides itself on being a custom shop. Clients are encouraged to bring their own designs, fostering a collaborative environment. However, Johann and Tommy also readily create original artwork, ensuring each tattoo is unique and personalized. They prioritize client consultation, dedicating time to understand and fulfill individual tattoo aspirations. For client safety and peace of mind, Mean Street Tattoo strictly adheres to autoclave sterilization for all needles. Furthermore, and importantly, they maintain a firm policy: all clients must be 18 years or older and possess valid photo identification. No ID, no tattoo – a commitment to responsible tattooing practices. If you’re seeking a professional and custom tattoo experience in College Point, Mean Street Tattoo is definitely worth considering.
