Vice : (n) [vahys] a bad habit; a guilty pleasure .
It has been said that it’s always the things that are bad for us that we want the most. Perhaps it is this old adage that makes Vice Coffee and Ink so sinfully seductive. Located in 104 Aguirre Street, Legaspi Village, this coffee shop and tattoo parlor is a unique staple in the Makati scene that anyone and everyone must visit.
Opening around February of this year, this coffee shop/tattoo parlor is a product of passion and dedication by David Rapaport and Raoul Olbes. Self-confessed tattoo fanatics, they had their first tattoos done when they were just teenagers; it was then that their love for body art started to be cultivated. From their travels abroad, they also grew to be more aware of the world-class talent that our local tattoo artists have. Upon returning to the Philippines, the seeds of ideas that will become the establishment that Vice is now slowly started to sprout.
The desire was brought on by their observation in the lack of mainstream tattoo parlors available in the local scene. They first began to bring their dream to life by searching out artists that share the same vision that they do in helping promote it the tattoo industry, and also establish the laid back, fun atmosphere which they hope to accomplish. Their searching culminated in assembling the team of talented and experienced tattoo artists which their shop now has. The team of artists includes those very much respected in the tattoo community, Marlon Capuno, Julie ann Grafia, Jun Marco and Jhun Esmaquila.
Although, coffee and tattoos may seem like an odd pair at first, the idea for the coffee shop is an answer to the observation that only true tattoo fanatics can get from experience. They know that most people who get their tattoos done always bring along a friend or two, and so they accommodate not only those who are getting their tattoos done but also to their friends by providing a place where they can all hang out.
Even though Vice Coffee and Ink is first and foremost a tattoo parlor, more than that it provides an empty canvas for artists not only in the field of tattoo but also of visual arts. Its walls being decorated by artwork of up and coming young painters, the edgy feel of the place provide the perfect venue for young artists to display their vibrant products of self-expression. In that sense, it is a place where artists and art lovers can be themselves, enjoying what they love the most.
Open from 8 AM to 8 PM, don’t forget to drop by this artists hub. Schedules for tattoos can also be made. For more information call: 632.964.1250 and 0917.844.8423 or email This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it . Visit their website at http://www.vice.ph, http://makatitattoo.com and http://manilatattoo.com.