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Adapt Studio
Categories: Beauty and Spas Tattoo Beauty and Spas Piercing Tattoo, Piercing [Edit]
416 University AveSte 201
(between 4th Ave & Brant St)
San Diego, CA 92103
Neighborhood: Hillcrest
(619) 291-0674
- Hours:
Mon-Sat 1 pm - 10 pm
Sun 1 pm - 8 pm
- Price Range:
-
$$
- Accepts Credit Cards:
- Yes
- Parking:
- Street
- By Appointment Only:
- No
- Wheelchair Accessible:
- No
DaveVivian K. said: "DENNIS MILLER is by far the most talented artist you will ever find in the universe. What started out as just a touch up tattoo, turned into a beautiful back piece. He is super friendly, artistic, genuine, funny, and makes you feel…" read more »
25 reviews for Adapt Studio
25 reviews in English
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Review from Michelle W.
San Diego, CA
4/25/2012
I haven't been to Adapt often, but their artists are fantastic and we've been following them around for years.
Matteo is a spectacular body piercer and though being a great piercer has nothing to do with being dreamy, it certainly doesn't hurt. He's compassionate and affordable both important qualities to me for my body modification endeavors.
Want a tattoo? I can recommend Adapt for that too! Nikki has given my wife and I both the majority of our artistic tattoo work. She has developed a skill that is not narrowed to just one type of art. She is successful in creating a wide array of beauty. I don't know if it's in the job requirement around here, but, another hottie!
The location of Adapt is right in the heart of Hillcrest, so following your new tattoo and/or piercing, grab a drink near by in celebration of your new body art! -
Review from Alix F.
San Diego, CA
4/3/2012
could have sworn I wrote a review but I guess I didn't so here I go!
First time coming here, a friend of mine recommended coming into this place to get dermals done because I wanted to get my throat chakra dermal done. My friend referred me to Matteo so I came in with another friend to get work done by him. He was super friendly and super gentle.
I have had other dermal piercings done by Matteo and he has always done a fantastic job. I remember one of the piercings he did slowly pushed out months later (which a lot of dermals do sometimes) and he was nice enough to redo it for free, only for me to tip him a few bux. I told Matteo that he had hands of an angel!
I also go here to sell my feather jewelry to the shop and am able to trade service with my jewelry, which is another reason why I love this shop and the people in it.
If you're thinking about price shopping, think again because this place provides high quality jewelry your body will thank you for!
If you ever wanted jewelry put into you that happens to be out of stock, they will be nice enough to order it for you, or if you don't have the patience to wait, they will also take the time to call other reputable shops to see if they have it. excellent customer service for sure.
Come by this shop if you ever want piercings, tattoos, and feather earrings made by me! -
Review from Lou F.
Chula Vista, CA
3/9/2012
My buddy Ruben was awesome, called him up said I wanted to surprise my girl, he came thru in style, was waiting for us and was very professional friendly but my girl at ease and when I mentioned yelp he hooked us up with a two for one deal.
We couldnt be happier, tha guy is a pro, called him with some concerns and he answerd right away even gave us suggestions and made us feel great.
Thanks man, its been a couple of months since and my girl is flashing her nose and extra ear piercing with a smile.
Keep it up. -
Review from Tawny P.
San Diego, CA
5/14/2012
I've had many piercings in my life, gone to many different piercers to get them done, however I will NEVER go anywhere else after my experience at Adapt. I made several phone calls to check on prices and when I spoke with the gentleman at Adapt he was very helpful and friendly. I walked in and the place had such a calming aura about it. Ruben was going to be my piercer. He took his time, explained to me about the jewelry and how my dermal was going to be done. Nothing was rushed. He made me feel like I was important, which is great customer service! He was personable and overall the experience was almost painless because I felt comfortable and he reminded me to breath and relax. I have asked him several questions since getting the piercing done and he is always more than willing to get back to me very quickly and get me the information I need.
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Review from Leslie S.
San Diego, CA
2/3/2012
If you're looking for a new place to get tattoo work done in Hillcrest, and have no interest in dealing with pretentious attitudes, Adapt Studio is the place to go. The shop is incredibly clean, the artists and piercers well trained and friendly, and the prices so cheap they'll knock your socks off.
Nikki is my artist, and she does exceptional work. From American Traditional to black and gray, she will take your next tattoo idea and translate it into something that looks great on skin.
Deals on tattoos and piercings every Tuesday. -
Review from Katie Q.
Hartford, CT
3/31/2012
Can't say anything about the tattoo side of the business, but the piercers here are great. I have dealt with both of them and both were friendly and helpful. I have gone here for both piercings and to order Jewelry and it has been nothing but great experiences. :)
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Review from Robin S.
San Diego, CA
3/29/2012
Okay Okay I know this is a high rated place, and totally A-Ok, but there are a few details that you learn from experience.... or at least I did that I wanted to pass along.
1. Make an appointment with your artist directly just calling the shop is not going to cut it. I did that, yeah stupid I know should've double checked, but when I got there despite the shop being open and operating only the piercer was there. No tattoo artists on the premises. Odd business sense.....but hey it works for them. A co-op apparently. Groovy! You learn something new every day.
2. Ruben, said piercer, is good at what he does no problems so far with my three ear piercings (and baby was he good to me about pricing). But, he's a bit talkative and I couldn't just chill, for most people this probably won't be a problem but hey thought I'd mention it. Personal preference I guess. He seemed to be trying to get me to get my piercings in a specific way to match his vision, but he was upfront about what would work and what might be problematic and I really appreciate that. He was a little vague on the aftercare (has since been remedied, thank you Ruben!).
Goods:
Nice selection of jewelry
Upfront about prices
Sterile CLEAN CLEAN CLEAN
Right credentials
Nice people, willing to answer stupid questions
Not so goods:
odd scheduling
Ruben is a gem but a bit talkative (again personal preference)
And I may have walked past it on trying to find it.... once!
Maybe I just caught them on an off day, or maybe we didn't click, but it didn't really encourage me to go back. I'll try probably another place next time I feel the craving for piercings (they're probably glad to be rid of my troublesome self anyway), but it shouldn't stop you from checking out the shop.Comment from Cheryle B. of Adapt Studio 4/5/2012
Robin, even though I already sent you a private message, I… More » -
Review from r m.
10/24/2011
Had my first tattoo done by Diana yesterday and I am so so so blown away by how clean and crisp her linework is (I had some san-serif text work done). She took her time figuring out the perfect placement on my inner arm, getting the font sized correctly and I have to say (even though the tattoo was apparently in a really sensitive spot) I was shocked at how little the thing hurt! Honesltly, this lady is magic! Light touch, percise work, checked in with me to make sure I was doing ok... it honestly meant a lot to me to have this done by a person who is serious and dedicated and creative about what she does. This lady is an honest to god Artist!
The shop is really nicely designed, super super super clean, and the folks I met there were no-attitude, chill and really down to earth. I also want to rave a bit about the amazing body jewlery they have in stock; now, I only have my nose pierced, and I usually go for a super minimal flat silver stud in it (kinda into the crisp/clean/minimal thing). I think the reason I never really got into body piercing I think is because I never saw any jewlery I remotely liked (design snob here)... but man, the stone, wood, bone and gold ear pieces and plugs kinda blew me away.. the workmanship on these things... I was thinking about stretching my lobes just so I could pop some of that scrollwork in!
I dunno, this place is Quality with a cap Q! Not overdone, low key, nicely designed and careful... Quality! Can't reccomend it more! -
Review from brianna s.
San Diego, CA
I came in on Saturday morning before work to see Diana.
My work schedule is crazy and she was able to fit me in before I went to work. The tattoo I got this time around wasn't anything too complex, just some wording on my ribs. The font I chose was fancy, and she took the time to make sure it came out perfect with clean lines and no bleedouts.
The shop is upstairs, right in the heart of Hillcrest. It has a lot of natural light that pours in and the shop has a very clean and soothing atmosphere. They have a really nice selection of body jewelry, plugs and weights.. I am going to have to go back and check it out when I am not so rushed.
It took about 2 hours, and she has a lighter hand than most arists, which made my rib tattoo about as painless as a rib tattoo can be. (Which still no walk in the park.) I was out by the time she said I would be and on my way to work even making it a little early.
I simply love the work she did, and plan on returning for my next one. -
Review from Jocquetta H.
San Diego, CA
7/12/2011
I got my first none ear piercing by Mateo today. He made me feel so at ease and it was quick and painless. I am so happy with the result and going back real soon to have the second hole in my ear pierced. Great jewelry selection.
Oh, I got my nose pierced by the way. -
Review from Michelle P.
Bakersfield, CA
1/12/2012
I was visiting my friend at UCSD and we played with this idea of getting celebratory piercings. I had wanted a septum for a while, so after having (what I thought was my last) dinner, we walked around Hillcrest looking for a piercer. We're not the poster models for "informed decisions". Luckily, our wandering came up with something. The second tattoo shop we hit up told us to go to Adapt Studio for piercings.
We headed over, went up the stairs, and admired the area. It's a really nice place. The design of the area, and sterility, made me feel better about this. At this point I was ridiculously anxious about the whole thing. A tattoo artist (not sure of her name) called up Matteo for us. He was really genuinely friendly, and gave off this self assured vibe. He answered our questions easily and honestly, making us feel comfortable with having him as our piercer. Plus, he gave off this caring vibe that made it clear he loves what he does. Huge kudos for that.
Once on the bench: Matteo took a bit to carefully find the "sweet spot" in my septum. The actual piercing was quick, a pinch, watery eyes, and done. Everything went perfectly, and it looked great. He then (with all the hygienic procedures and multiple glove changings) did my friend's ears, and that went perfectly as well.
It was $55 for my septum + barbell, and $25 for her ears+hoops. Plus, we left the shop with free piercing coupons! Kickass. Matteo is the best! Not just an awesome piercer, he's an awesome person too. Even though I'm a bit aways, I will be returning. I'm sure the rest of the shop carries that same level of workmanship, so I'll be coming back for more piercings, and tattoos. -
Review from Jodi D.
Ypsilanti, MI
8/11/2011
If you're going to get pierced, if you want it to look good, if you want it done right, one of THE ONLY people you need to go see is Matteo Montone. He's been piercing for years now and not only is he damn good at what he does he's the kindest person you'll ever meet. He makes you feel relaxed and comfortable. Because he genuinely cares. He loves his craft and it shows. He's an extremely gifted and talented person who knows how to effortlessly sooth your soul. Like some kind of incarnate Dharma Bum Buddhist Bodhisattva...There's no one better doing what he's doing: PERIOD. 5 stars all the way...
(*He's got nothin' but love and nothin' but talent and it's all good...) -
Review from Drew B.
Baton Rouge, LA
3/6/2011
This place is awesome! I had an upper arm piece done here (you can see it on their website--the one with the globe and the sailor). Mike was very professional and artistic. I came to him with an idea, and he literally turned it into a piece of art.
The price for the piece was very reasonable, and Mike made sure to make the piece perfect before calling it complete. Any place that is willing to work late into the evening multiple weekends in a row just to get a tattoo prefect is far and few between!
If you're in San Diego and want a Tattoo, go to Adapt! Just walk in with an idea, and you will not be disappointed. I will be going back until I run out of skin! -
Review from Tyson V.
San Diego, CA
I got my first (and only) tattoo here and I must say I'm very happy with the result. I had Diana do the work. She worked with me on the design and in coming up with different ways to arrange it. I love how enthusiastic and excited she is when you talk to her about your ideas, makes for a comfortable experience! I have started working with her on my next design and would recommend her to anyone!
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Review from Eirak N.
San Diego, CA
6/29/2011
Mike gave me a fantastic tattoo that I absolutely love! He definitely took the time to listen and work with me to create an amazing design and my tattoo turned out great! Adapt Studio is a great shop and everyone who works there are very friendly. If you want a great tattoo I would definitely recommend Mike at Adapt Studio.
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Review from Leo R.
San Francisco, CA
8/4/2010
My artist Keith Nichols moved over to Adapt recently, so I had to chime in. His Polynesian-style tattoos are among the very best in the country. Surprisingly for someone who does Polynesian so well, he does other styles just as well. He's soft-spoken and listens to what his clients want.
Keith has done my most high-visibility work, including my hands, neck, and face, and I fly in from San Francisco to see him. I can't think of any greater show of confidence in a tattoo artist than to ask him to tattoo your face. He is not easy to get in touch with, but his work is entirely worth it. -
Review from Shanna M.
San Diego, CA
8/29/2010
I've gotten some fix it work at Adapt.
Matteo stretched the piercing on my top right ear a few weeks ago. Although it stung a bit, he was very gentle. I love the fact that all the jewelry he carries is made in California or in support of organic wholesale jewelers. That means it is hand crafted by artisans, not in sweat shops. A socially conscience piercer is priceless.
Mike fixed the color on a squash blossom tattoo I got last year. Prior to his work done today, the tattoo looked flat and parts weren't even filled completely. Now my tattoo has depth and dimension. Mike did an excellent job and gave me a great price as well.
I am definitely returning to Adapt Studio for future tattoos and piercings. -
Review from Alinessa K.
San Diego, CA
9/25/2011
So my friend P decided that tonight was the night she got her nose pierced (4 nights ago) heading there around 8:40 pm cutting it real close to 9 (closing time) The ambiance couldn't be more perfect that night...There's cute restaurants that lead the way then after the hip new Italian Restarant (forgot the name :-/) We saw the Adapt Studio banner on top and staircase. As we get there a young Tattooed and pierced man Ruben greets us and ask what he could do for us. P responds with "I would like to get my nose pierced". After that Ruben asked the right questions and listened. His points were valid as far as what kind of nose jewelry would heal better, faster, sizes...etc. Im not going to lie for the sake of yelper's like myself...the kid knows his stuff. He's also a very cool guy. He made us feel comfortable right away. There's definitely something good about his energy that allows you to sit, relax, breathe in, breathe out, listen and get pierced by him. Two thumbs up to Ruben.
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Review from Mackenzie S.
San Diego, CA
11/19/2011
I got my first tattoo done by Diana a few weeks ago, and I absolutely love it! I met with her once before to discuss what I wanted done, where, prices, etc. She was super helpful/nice. After finally getting up the courage to get the tattoo done, I made the appointment and don't regret it at all. She guided me through the process and made everything comfortable. The tattoo looks GREAT. I wanted the EXACT sketch done by another individual, and she made it look exactly like it. She even charged me the minimum price too. I can't recommend her enough!
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Review from aisling m.
San Diego, CA
7/19/2010
I had the pleasure of going into adapt to get both a peircing and a tattoo within the last week and both experiences definitely deserve five stars.
Matteo did a great job of making me comfortable for my peircing and checking in with me to make sure i was getting pierced exactly how i wanted. I have had numerous piercings from matteo and keep coming back for more becuase of his professionalism, great quality jewelry and friendly personality.
Mike gave me my third tattoo. This is a tattoo i have been wanting for going on three years now and have consulted with a lot of tattoo artists on before finally going with mike. He was very nice and all about making sure that the tattoo was angled right and spent a long time getting it exactly where i wanted. I couldnt be happier now that I finally have the tattoo i've been dreaming about and it came out perfectly!
This whole studio is filled with great folks and you should definitely check it out! -
Review from Aimee M.
San Diego, CA
10/9/2009 1 photo
I recently had the pleasure of getting a spectacular tattoo from Mike at Adapt Tattoo. I loved the work that he did. I brought him a simple picture of something that I wanted, and he turned it in to a work of art. I have received a countless number of compliments from strangers everywhere. Mike is very professional and I was very comfortable sitting with him for hours. And the best thing was that he created a piece of artwork that I will be happy wearing for the rest of my life. Pay him a visit if you are thinking about getting a tattoo....
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Review from Theo S.
Tucson, AZ
8/22/2010
matteo is the shit. awesome piercer. awesome guy. and everyone else is pretty amazing too. the bee's knees.
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Review from A N.
San Diego, CA
8/2/2010
I was pierced by Matteo Montone, who told me he's been piercing for years now. I came here on my birthday to get a second lip piercing, which I now have perfectly even snake bites! He made my experience very quick and painless and made me feel very comfortable. I'd definitely recommend Matteo and this place for anyone looking to get pierced. I really liked the artwork and design of the studio. Adapt is neighbors/connected to a hair salon as well. Matteo will kindly give you $5 off on your birthday too!
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Review from Kim B.
San Diego, CA
6/16/2010
Mike at Adapt is awesome. I got my first tat and he was talented, patient, and I love the outcome. I will definitely get my next tattoo from him also.
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Review from Tiffany S.
Poway, CA
2/28/2011
Everyone at Adapt is very friendly and approachable. You don't get that "ugh, what do you want?" vibe like you do at other piercing/tattoo places. Everyone is happy to answer questions if you pop your head into one of their rooms. My hands down favorite artist is Diana. I've been following Diana around Southern California, getting tattoos, for the past 5 or 6 years. Like a fine wine, she's only gotten better with time. From her apprentice days to now, I've felt extremely comfortable each and every time we've worked together. Obviously she doesn't pass her shader over for me to try, but she's really good at working with you to make sure you get exactly what you want. She takes her time and doesn't try to push you out the door to squeeze in another client. If the rad idea you have in your head won't work out quite right on skin, she'll tell ya. If you can't articulate exactly what you want, don't worry she's got that covered. If that picture you drew looks like hell, she'll jazz it up. If you can't visualize the colors she's suggested, she'll color a little picture for you. If your old rose tattoo looks like it's wilting, she'll bring it back to life. I've become a walking Diana portfolio. I've received countless compliments on my pieces from your run of the mill scenesters to little old ladies in the grocery store. My family is decked out in Diana art, my friends are decked out in Diana art, and you should be too. What are you waiting for? Swing by for a peeksie at her portfolio and a consultation!
