REVIEWS FOR BILLY
Caleb N. 9/13/2024
Friday the 13th, Mr. Billy helped me out today and provided an excellent service. The staff is very friendly and I would highly recommend coming here. Went here the day before on the 12th and staff was very helpful with their flash!
Robyn H. 9/5/2024
I’ve been here twice for myself and once for my daughter. Billy tatted us all three times. The tattoos we got were pretty simple considering Billy’s talent. Just look as his portfolio, he’s amazing. He’s friendly and easy to talk to. He has a light hand too, I’ve had many tattoos over the years and they don’t seem to hurt much at all. I 1000% recommend Billy.
Ryan H. 8/31/2024
My artist Billy was very friendly and talked and made jokes through the process, he drew out a modified design of what I wanted and edited it according to me and the tattoo ended up very good!
Bryce J. 8/30/2024
I cannot say enough good things about my experience with Billy. Billy has tattooed me 7 times in the past year and a half and every time has been a beyond great experience. I trust Billy enough to where I can throw out an idea and let him have creative freedom and the tattoo always turns out great.
Tim W. 8/26/2024
Billy sarno is the man! He's been covering up some old work of mine and let me tell you, you wouldn't even know what's underneath. Clean shop, great location and nice atmosphere. Recommend Billy 10/10.
Heather H. 8/26/2024
Billy Sarno is the artist I've been happily going to for over 10 years. He's done tons of work on me (and my partner too). He actually listens to my ideas and throws in his advice to make them come to life. He even tells me if something won't work or wouldn't look right, which I really appreciate. He has skill in every type of style. One of the things I like about him is he's just a normal, nice guy, easy to talk with, funny and genuinely cares about your comfort and satisfaction. Did I mention, he's got the lightest hand of any of my previous artists!? That's big! Also, they play cool movies so you can zone out and relax while getting worked on. Great pricing and great work.I highly recommend Billy, you won't be sorry!
Crystal M. 8/24/2024
I’ve been coming here for years for multiple tattoos. Billy has been amazing, helping us come up with designs and executing them beautifully. My mom, aunt, and I came to him with a couple vague ideas for a memorial tattoo for my grandpa. Billy put together an amazing piece. My mom and I also have matching full sleeves from him. My husband is getting a sleeve from him too. I absolutely highly recommend him because his skills go far above and beyond being able to tattoo well!
Annie R. 8/10/2024
BILLY took me in last minute and did an amazing job on a signature from a concert. Very professional. Very kind and great company and affordable. 10/10
David V. 8/10/2024
Very welcoming environment. Billy does a great job visualizing your idea and determining how it will look on your skin. Definitely would recommend.
Nikki N. 8/6/2024
I’ve been going to mechanical concept for the past two years to see Billy! He has done most of my sleeve and I cannot recommend him enough. As a young woman, mechanical concept creates a safe and comfortable environment for me to go and get tatted alone or with friends! Billy is the best, the collaboration and execution of each tattoo I get from him is immaculate. Big shoutout to mechanical concept, local shop with a heart of gold.
Robyn H. 1/14/24
I wanted a simple tribute to my dad tattooed on my arm. I checked out all the artists' work online and I knew I would not be disappointed with any of them. I went in as a walk-in. Luckily, Billy tattooed me. He is a very professional, personable and talented artist. I am so grateful. The tattoo came out better than I had envisioned. The shop is clean. They have TVs at each station. Billy even asked if there was something I wanted to watch. This was a great experience for an emotional tribute. I recommend this place 1000%. Thanks Billy
Cruz I. 7/31/2023
Wonderful & clean shop , artistic in everything they do , this is my 2nd time going to see Billy , he's very professional I highly recommend him
Gini M. 7/02/2023
I absolutely love the tattoo I got for my granddaughter. Billy was the artist and does amazing work. Mechanical Concept Tattoo shop is a clean and was very comfortable. The shop is located in Huntington Beach on Warner and Springdale. A hidden find! I can't wait for my next one!
Ray K. 6/01/2023
Billy took my doodle and made it a reality, awesome work, thanks again!
Skylar D 5/20/2023
Went to this place on a whim with my two friends while on vacation and they were amazing! Billy was so funny and my tattoo turned out amazing! We came in a little late so they ended up staying past closing but he was so nice about it and didn’t rush us out of there. I will definitely be coming back to this place next time I’m in town! 10/10 definitely recommend this place to anyone wanting a tattoo!
Karen H 2/20/2023
I’ve been to Billy before but this time I wanted a bigger project and Billy did not disappoint. I asked for his advice and he gave me great direction, keeping with what I told him I wanted. My sleeve is almost finished and I’m so happy with the result! Thank you Billy and mechanical concepts tattoo!
Allen P. 11/14/22
Have been seeing Billy Sarno for over 7 years now, he is my go to artist in the OC. Keeps me coming back, if you need a tattoo done he is your guy!
Rebecca A. 12/7/21
Me and a couple friends came in for walk-ins and got the opportunity to work with Billy. He had plans with family that made it so he couldn't get us all done in that day, so he came in on an off day to tattoo myself and my friend. He was incredibly kind, talented, and professional. Would definitely recommend this shop and Billy!
Austin W. 4/24/21
Went in for a consult with Billy, and within a few weeks had my idea drawn up. Went in for the appointment, got right down to business. Super down to earth guy as well as all of the other artists in there that day. Overall, the shop is super clean, all the guys working there are standup, and made everything go by super quick and (mostly) painless. Thank you again Billy for the amazing chest piece!
John O. 6/29/20
Just got my first chest piece by Billy Sarno over at the Mechanical Concept Tattoo shop. I'm very impressed by the super clean and comfortable shop.
Billy's work was fantastic, excellent pricing and I couldn't be happier with my new tattoo.
Highly recommend for someone looking for a professional, kick ass place. Thanks!!!
Kina L. 9/12/19
Wonderful experience with the owner Brian. Billy did such an amazing job with my tattoo. I was kind of nervous because it has been a while since my last tattoo. However Billy made me feel comfortable. I will be back
Kimmie L. 2/22/19
This is a great place to get a tattoo. They are really fun to be around and they listen to what you want. They are very professional and I would send anyone to them to get a tattoo. Billy has done both of my tattoos. Just got done today with my second one. It took three sessions, due to me only able to handle two hours at a time, but each session I enjoyed not only the work but the professionalism that he had. I highly encourage anyone to see Billy about getting work done, you will not be disappointed. I will be going back. I have attached a picture of my latest and greatest from Billy. Hope you enjoy it as much as I do. Thank you Billy for your hard work. You made me very happy.
Melissa B. 11/27/18
Love this tattoo shop! Billy has done an amazing job on my leg/side floral tattoo. He was always open to my ideas and created a beautiful piece for me over 5 sessions together. The shop itself is very clean, comfortable, and non-threatening like other tattoo shops in the area. There is no flash art on the wall, no screamo music, and no scary tattoo artists; just Billy putting on Deadpool 2 for the 100th time that week! I would recommend this shop to any of my friends or family looking to get a great piece done. I will definitely be back soon!
Matt P. 10/8/18
Got this done with Billy a few weeks ago. He's really professional and a very nice guy. Made me feel comfortable even though I was nervous. Check this place out!
Yvonne B. 6/9/18
After doing months of research I decided to get the hubby a tattoo gift card for his bday at Mechanical Concepts. Initially called, spoke to Brian and he gave me the info I needed. Next day I was in the shop where Billy helped me with the gift card transaction. Fast forward to 1 week later, gave him his gift card and off we went to the shop. We looked through the portfolios, and decided to both book appointments with Billy. (Yes, both) lol
Day of, we previewed the designs Billy put together and got started. He was extremely professional, detailed, reasonably priced and an overall cool cat. Between my partner and I we now have 5 pieces of Billy art between us. More to come too!!
We definitely recommend Mechanical Concept tattoo shop, and Billy.
Lindsay S. 1/10/18
Ok, I came in a couple of weeks ago for my very first tattoo. The shop was empty so I was able to walk right in that day (tbh I was terrified because I was hoping they would schedule me for another day and I could chicken out). Brian and Billy were working and they were both extremely helpful and chill. The exact opposite of me because I was a MESS.
Billy was the lucky artist who got stuck with me and I warned him I had a very low tolerance for pain, I am a huge baby, a drama queen, and terrified of needles. I even warned him I may or may not puke on him. He handled it like the pro he is. We talked over my idea, he did a little research, drew it up, and I was in love. Blew all of my expectations out of the water.
Then came the scary part! But I think I handled it well, I mean, it hurt, but Billy chatted with me a bit and he had The Office on to distract me. There were gummi bears. The pain was surprisingly much more manageable than I thought it would be and we were done in about 2 hours. Also quicker than I thought it would be.
Billy made sure I was comfortable and at ease, made my first tattoo experience a really good one, AND, much to my mother's dismay, made me think about getting more tattoos...
5/5 stars, I wish I could give more. The shop was clean, the guys were nice, and the work is incredible.
Thanks to Billy for making this a good experience and putting up with me! ALSO, proud to note, there was no drama, no tears, no complaining (no noise at all from me really), and no puking.
Can't wait to come back.
Shaggy R. 6/10/17
So happy with the tattoo I just got from Billy! Finished quickly and totally top-notch. Thank you so much Billy! Will definitely be back, hopefully sooner than later!
Jill H. 11/18/16
In looking for a talented artist in HB, I came across Billy Sarno's work online. I was blown away by his pieces. I saw multiple styles done exceptionally well and knew I could trust his talent.
To make my appointment, I made two calls to the shop and both were met with the friendliest service.
I went to the shop on a Saturday morning and just loved the space. It's open and clean and welcoming. Everyone working there was kind and friendly. I had walked in feeling very shy and vulnerable, way out of my comfort zone in a short skirt (so I could get some leg work done), but was immediately put at ease.
The piece was done beautifully and I've since made a second appointment with Billy. I can't wait to go back!
Jayson S. 9/2/16
Great work done here, Got my first tattoo here a few years ago by Billy on my right shoulder. Very clean and professional work.
Dulce C. 9/14/16
I got my first tattoo with Billy Sarno, and I will be back. These guys are great. Professional, clean, calming, focused and fun to hang out with. Billy gives a higher estimate than how much he actually thinks it will cost. Billy is an amazing artist and props to him on my back. His lines are clean and straight. I gave him my idea and he worked with me on a design he made based off what I wanted. My tattoo is water color and he did very well. He is a funny guy, but tells you straight. They have either a tv show or movie on all the time, and I am sure you can make requests. if you are unsure still, go in and talk to them and get a feel. You won't be disappointed with Billy.
Sean S. 8/19/16
Great shop with nice approachable people. Very cool casual friendly vibe, no pressure, inviting atmosphere. Billy did 2 smaller pieces for me, both black/grey, one on my forearm, the other on my shoulder/upper arm - both came out perfect and he has a soft touch with the needle. I appreciated that he took the time to get all the details just right before inking me up, from size/font to perfect placement. You can tell they care about their work and respect their clientele. Definitely a 5 star experience, thanks guys!
Troy G. 8/6/16
From my first call to the shop I knew that this place was an excellent choice! I went in for a consultation and talked to Billy. I had done a drawing (not a very good one) of what I basically wanted. He got a copy of the drawing and took down notes asking me questions and wrote notes. The friendliness of everyone there, the cleanliness of the shop, the professionalism was on point. When I came in for my appointment he showed me what he had drawn up for me. He had taken my drawing and my ideas and had drawn something 100 times better! The quality of Billy's work is outstanding. I don't know how I could possibly be happier with my tattoo! Without a doubt I am going back to Billy for the rest of my tattoos!
Caroline M. 6/13/16
This place is pure greatness! Vacationing in LA over Memorial Day weekend, I wanted to get my second tattoo and hoped to find a shop that defied the traditionally intimidating stereotype. I called MCT after reviewing their Yelp reviews, website and FB pages. Billy answered and I could instantly tell it was the right fit; he was funny yet professional and seemed really enthusiastic about my design - a Phantom of the Opera theme - since he's involved in theater. Walking into the shop reaffirmed my initial impression - it's a very clean, bright and relaxed space. Billy showed me his design and it wasn't quite what I'd envisioned - it was BETTER! He took the elements of my idea and worked them into a design I never would have thought of personally. His creativity and skill are just awesome! He was very patient throughout the process, allowing breaks and checking to see how I was doing. It also definitely helped that they had a couple comedies playing in the background as a distraction. Billy was very focused while working but before, after and during breaks he was really cool and easy to chat with...I felt really comfortable there. He even took the time to touch up my other tattoo, which I really appreciated. I can't say enough positive things about how my Phantom tattoo turned out and how nicely it healed - I'm beyond pleased. I would definitely recommend Billy!
Bequi H. 1/21/16
Billy Sarno is the best!
I had a design for a tattoo that I was very particular about and I needed someone who was great at doing birds. I visited at least half a dozen tattoo shops around Orange County interviewing artists, discussing my design and getting a feel for the places. I was thrilled to find Mechanical Concepts right by my house and looking at Billy's work on the website I was pretty sure he was the right person.
This shop is very clean, very bright and super friendly, a great place for a first timer to go. (This was not my first tattoo but, it had been many years since my last one.) Billy took great care to look over and discuss my design with me, he worked hard to get it exactly right and had me ok the sample artwork before my appointment. The final tattoo is perfect!! I love it!
I also took my two daughters in for tats from Billy. One daughter already has a bunch but, this was my youngest daughter's first tattoo. Billy was so great with her, he was very patient and kind and she loves her tattoo. Whether this is your first tattoo or your 50th, I highly recommend you have a talk with the guys at Mechanical Concepts, I think you'll be impressed.
Cam R. 6/14/15
I just want to start by saying I'm in love with my tattoo. I came in 2 days ago to talk some ideas and 30 mins later I was walking out with an appointment with Billy on Sunday. I came in on Sunday Billy was excited to meet me and got to work fast. He was super helpful and open to ideas about my tattoo. He took the image right out of my head and then added his dash of awesome to it. While I was getting worked on billy played1000 ways to die in the west and talked the whole time with me. I really wish I could give more than 5 stars but yelp won't let that so 5 it is. Billy will definitely be seeing more of me. MCT Is the real deal and Billy did a great job with me I'm super stoked with the turnout. Thank you Billy!!!!!!!
Jazzy J. 6/4/15
Four of my friends and I decided to get matching tattoos and since half of us live in Northern California and half are in Southern California and only here for two days we really needed somewhere that could accommodate five people in a short period of time. A friend has been going to Brian for years but he wasn't available when we needed to come in so we booked appointments with Billy.
Billy was so rad. Dealing with 5 rowdy girls at 10:00 in the morning is probably not any tattooers dream. Some of us didn't know where we wanted the tattoo placed or the size. He was super patient with us and made everyone feel relaxed and comfortable. The shop even moved a bunch of chairs around so we could sit with each other during the tattoos. It was such a great experience and everyone there was super friendly. Also our tattoos were clean and exactly what we wanted. Mine is healing great.
I highly recommend Billy for your next tattoo and his calm, friendly demeanor would probably be great for a first timer.
Richard G. 4/25/15
Billy did my first tattoo last Friday and I love it! Maybe its because I got it on my upper left arm, or maybe it's because Billy is so good, but it really didn't hurt at all. OK there were a few times during some color filling where I crossed my eyes and had to suck it up, but it wasn't that bad.
I've had two friends ask me if I'd recommend Billy and I'd say a resounding yes! MCT is clean, go on a Friday and watch Shannon, that woman puts in the work! Billy made that three hours go by so fast, he's great to talk with, keeps you relaxed, and just makes getting a tattoo a great all around experience! Look no further.
Dan L. 4/9/15
I was sent here on a referral with great expectations and they were blown away. I gave Billy an idea on what I want and basically have him all sorts of freedom and he nailed it! We hammered it out all in one day. Great guy, amazing artist, and great choice in movie selection. Thanks Billy!
Ayslin R. 3/20/15
I got a tattoo today from Billy. It was my first, so he was really sweet about it. He talked about tattooing, asked me what I do for a living, and we talked about the tattoo- it is my dad's signature, on my ribcage. He wasn't afraid to talk about his own life and find some things in common with me- he is overall a very likable man. I'll definitely refer my friends and family to him.
Aside from that, the place was impeccably clean, and the receptionist was very professional- I felt like I was having a medical procedure done! Good atmosphere overall.
Side note, you get to watch a movie while you get your tattoo, so that's just an added plus.
Heidi H. 12/10/14
Another great review from me and my mom for Billy!
My mom always talked about wanting a tattoo so I figured what better time than when she comes on vacation to visit. She loved the work on my arm so she finally decided to do it. Billy picked out a great font and was so nice to her as well. Even though it was just a smaller tattoo for each of us, it still was amazing and he was so friendly to the family.
I told my mom once you get one, you are hooked! She keeps saying how much she liked Billy and what a great experience it was. Now she is back home and sent me a text saying she wants another but she only wants Billy to do it! I grabbed a few business cards while I was there so when people ask me about my arm (which is almost daily) I can send them his way!
Kevin E. 11/17/14
Went here the other day and had Billy give me an awesome chest piece. Only took three hours from start to finish and he did an amazing job. All I had to do was give them the idea I had floating around in my head and they took it and made it better! Definitely coming back for more tattoos by either of these guys, worth every penny and then some.
Greg G. 11/9/14
I called in to get some pricing to get my daughters name tattooed on me . Pricing was good and yelp reviews were too . So I went down and talked to Billy . He drew up my daughters name in a font I really liked . Simple tattoo but great guy , clean facility , friendly staff . I felt comfortable bringing my little daughter and wife in . Great shop
Jasmin S. 4/19/14
I got my second and my third tattoo here and I love them so much!!! Billy is exceptional and made me feel very comfortable. I wasn't sure about getting a third tattoo at first. Once Billy finished the second tattoo I booked the third one right after. Definitely recommend this place.
Rachel R. 4/6/14
I got my first tattoo last week there from Billy Sarno. I went into it extremely nervous, but after talking to him and having him help me design the tattoo he made me feel totally comfortable. I felt welcomed by everyone there and it was a great atmosphere. I recommend this shop to anyone looking for great work from awesome dudes. I am for sure coming back for my future tattoos.
Niki S. 11/11/13
I went in for a consult a few days ago about some writing on my arm, and I was immediately impressed by how professional and friendly Billy and Brian were! The shop was very clean. We sat down at the computer and perfected the size, font, and configuration of my piece.
Then today, the magic happened! Billy carefully walked me through everything, monitoring how I felt every step of the way. For my first tattoo, I was definitely in good hands.
Before finding MC, I was generally scared of getting cursive done because you never know how shaky someone's hand may be.... thanks to a friend's suggestion (and Yelp reviews!) Billy did an impeccable job! I hope to be back in a few months for my next piece! :)
Mike M. 11/10/13
Recently finished some work with Billy. Couldn't be happier with the results, he does awesome work. I've been to other shops and this one is by far more professional and cleaner. The tattooing experience is relaxing as you watch a movie. Already talking to him about my next tattoo.
Jenna M. 10/16/13
Just had another piece done here, this time by Billy and he absolutely exceeded all expectations. It is SO good to know an awesome shop with amazing artists!!!
Caitlin H. 9/8/13
Just finished my second tattoo with Billy Sarno. Billy's artistic eye, tattooing talent, and overall kindness are all spectacular. His attention to detail has brought my tattoos to life. I'm a pretty small female and he has managed to somehow create amazingly realistic portraits on my full and half sleeves.
I couldn't be happier with my kick ass tattoos and my experiences with Mechanical Concept. Billy and Brian have created a super clean, inviting, comfortable, and fun atmosphere to be tattooed in. I will continue going back to Billy from here on out for any future tattooing needs! Thanks for being so great!
Cat D. 8/9/13
I couldn't be happier with Billy Sarno and his work! I had a terrible outline of an owl that I got years ago from someone else and he was able to fix it to perfection'! I never expected It to look as good as it does! I let him do whatever he thought would look good and it was the best decision ever!! The shop is extremely clean and has a very good vibe... You will not regret getting getting your art done here!:)
Vanessa S. 2/11/13
I was looking to get some script on my wrist covered up so I goggled tattoo shops around the area. I came across Mechanical Concept Tattoo and looked at Billy's work. It didn't just look like a tattoo artists work but an artist who chose tattooing as a medium. I called the shop to see if anyone could take me and I talked to Billy himself. He was SUPER professional which is always reassuring when dealing with someone who is about to permantely change your body. I walked in the shop and it looked very clean and I was welcomed right when I came in. I met Billy and like on the phone he as very professional and thorough when talking to me about what is realistic and was honest about how the outcome of my cover up would be. He asked what kind of movies I liked and put one on that went with what I told him. I mean come on, when does that ever happen? Amazing. Him and his team were super friendly and accommodating. We decided on using two roses to cover up my script. He researched roses that would best hide my existing tattoo. He took time and effort into making it the best it could be. The tattoo turned out unbelievable. I'm going in next week for my second session and cannot wait. The rose turned out super realistic and you can tell he took his time to make sure it would. I am more than happy to have found this tattoo shop and Billy as a tattoo artist. I would highly recommend this shop to anyone looking for an ideal tattoo experience.
Alaina C. 2/7/13
Billy and Brian are simply amazing at what they do. I've been going to Billy for almost two years for his services, and I won't let anyone else put ink on me. He loves what he does for a living, and gives his honest opinion... both of which I value very much. He's done large pieces for me and I've been 100% satisfied with them. I give him a small idea and he translates it to paper beautifully... which for me is awesome, because I am the complete opposite of artistic.
They create a great atmosphere in their shop, which if you've ever been in a tattoo shop, you know that's pretty rare. If you live anywhere near HB you should check it out... you won't be disappointed.
Jeremy C. 12/5/12
Great Shop! Excellent Artist. I went into Mechanical Concept after talking to a couple other tattooists in the area. I met Billy when I went in and since this was my first tattoo, a little nervous. Billy made me feel comfortable and in one hour transformed my idea into a cool little manstamp and got my first tattoo. I got to watch Zombieland on the big screen and had a great conversation with Billy about his tattoo history. He did such a great job I went back 3 days later and got my second tattoo. FUN! Relaxing and professional! Check these guys out. They are great.
Yonna N. 8/25/12
Billy Sarno is a fantastic artist! I have almost a full sleeve of "50's" Pin Ups on my left arm all done by Billy! He works with you every step of the way on your tattoo. He is very clean and beyond professional! My husband is in the Military so we move alot and I have had well over 1000 people say how beautiful and realistic my tattoos are then they say "where is your artist?" And when I say HB they look pretty sad..
I will not let anyone tattoo me but Billy so I will drive over 1000 miles to have my sleeve finished! For a beautiful, creative, distinct tattoo, see Billy Sarno
Beth F. 8/24/12
I was recommended to Billy S. by a friend of mine and that was the greatest advice I've gotten in my life! From the minute we started discussing my tattoo he let me know how excited he was about doing it. He does terrific work, so it really meant a lot to me to know that he was as excited about doing it as I was about getting it. It's a blue rose on my shoulder, which he drew from a picture, and the additional detail was drawn by hand on my body to make sure it flowed properly. It looks like there is a real rose on my shoulder, the detail is that amazing. I recommend him to everyone I know that wants a tattoo, even ones that don't, so they can tell their friends. I can't wait for my next tattoo to be done by him!!!! GO SEE BILLY!!!!!!!