Looking for a new place to get inked? Golden Iron Tattoo is one of Toronto’s best tattoo studios. Vv Magazine’s Amanda Phuong gives you an inside look at the parlour and its humble beginnings.

Golden Iron Tattoo has been designing quality work since 2011, with two locations in Toronto: one in the heart of Chinatown and a new 2-level studio on Yonge Street in North York. Alongside a dedicated team of 11 artists, owner Cysen has built one of the best reputations in the city’s tattoo scene.

What differentiates Golden Iron from stereotypical studios is the irrevocable passion behind the shop’s driving force. Cysen has been drawing since the age of four. And while his affinity for the arts led him to college for fashion design, he had an unmistakable talent for tattoos – a development he credits, in part, to his best friend (a tattoo artist in China,) and an old colleague at a neighboring studio. Fast forward years later and Cysen has been recognized nationally for his unparalleled work at industry conventions across North America.

That recognition is one theme that carries throughout both shops. Dotted along the walls and shelves of both locations are awards won from Canadian and American tattoo conventions, something Cysen is constantly encouraging his team to take part in. “You don’t need to be a perfect artist,” he tells us, “there’s always room to learn and no limit to growing.” And he’s certainly right. Alone, Cysen has won 99 awards – his goal is to have 100 by the end of the year. Members of his team also contribute to the ever-growing rows of plaques, trophies, and awards, setting their standards of skill high.

And while some shops specialize in specific themes, Golden Iron’s feat lies in the diversity of its team. Cysen specializes in black and gray, Asian traditional and realism tattoos, while other members champion alternative spectrums of design. With a band of artists that grows as Golden Iron progresses, there’s a tattooist to suit every client’s dream and desire.

Aside from skill, Golden Iron enforces a no-nonsense policy that ensures drama gets checked at the door and customers never leave with regret. That same approach is how Golden Iron has managed to dispel negative stereotypes within both shops. Their ultimate goal is to create an environment that is comfortable and inviting. An environment where clients feel they can be open about what they want, whether it be a cover-up, completion of another tattooist’s work, or a completely original piece of art.

Depending on the design, Golden Iron typically charges by the hour, with rates for small tattoos starting at $50. Both locations accept walk-ins and scheduled appointments. The Yonge St. location features a separate room for clients who request more privacy.

Golden Iron is open every day from 12pm to 8pm April through October and 12pm to 7pm November through March. You can find a collection of their works online and on Instagram.

Have you been inked by Golden Iron Tattoo? How was your experience? Let Vv Magazine know in the comments below or tweet us @ViewTheVibe.

Amanda Phuong

Amanda Phuong is the former digital content creator and Editor-in-Chief of Vv Magazine and StyleDemocracy.com. When she's not furiously typing away, you'll find her trying on shoes, hanging with friends or slurping back oysters.