10 Best Tattoo Shops in Los Angeles (Location, Reviews, and Services)
In the City of Angels, where creativity and self-expression reign supreme, it’s no surprise that the tattoo scene is as vibrant and diverse as the city itself. From hidden gems to world-renowned parlors, Los Angeles boasts some of the most exceptional tattoo shops in the country.
Whether you’re a first-timer looking to dip your toes into the world of ink or a seasoned collector seeking the next masterpiece for your canvas, our curated list of the 10 Best Tattoo Shops in Los Angeles is your ultimate guide.
Delve into this comprehensive breakdown, exploring each shop’s unique location, rave reviews, and remarkable services, as we take you on a journey through the eclectic and captivating tattoo culture of LA. Get ready to discover the perfect spot to turn your body art dreams into reality!
High Voltage Tattoo
Location and contact information: 1259 N. La Brea Ave., West Hollywood, CA 90038 | Website | (323) 969-9820
Owner and background (Kat Von D):
- Owned by Kat Von D, a famed tattoo artist and television personality
- Star of the reality TV show “LA Ink”
- Author of “High Voltage Tattoo” and “The Tattoo Chronicles”
Tattoo styles and services offered:
- Specializes in various styles, including black and gray, color, and portraits
- Custom designs tailored to clients’ preferences
- Offers vegan-friendly ink options
Reviews and notable clientele:
- Known for its gothic interior and celebrity clientele
- High-profile patrons include Miley Cyrus, Demi Lovato, and Bam Margera
- Receives consistently positive reviews for its talented artists and welcoming atmosphere
Shamrock Social Club
Location and contact information: 9026 Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069 | Website | (310) 271-9664
Owner and background (Mark Mahoney):
- Founded by Mark Mahoney, a legendary tattoo artist dubbed the “Founding Father of Black and Gray”
- Pioneer of the single-needle technique
- Over 40 years of experience in the tattoo industry
Tattoo styles and services offered:
- Specializes in black and gray fine-line tattoo style
- Custom designs catered to individual clients
- Offers both walk-ins and appointments
Reviews and notable clientele:
- Frequented by celebrities and rock stars like Johnny Depp, Lady Gaga, and Dave Navarro
- Featured in numerous publications and documentaries
- Commended for its high-quality work, professional artists, and stellar customer service
In the following sections, we’ll continue to explore more exceptional tattoo shops in Los Angeles. Keep in mind the importance of matching your desired tattoo style with the right artist and shop. With a plethora of options, finding the perfect fit for your ink vision is just around the corner.
Studio City Tattoo
Location and contact information: 11032 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, CA 91604 | Website | (818) 769-4049
Owner and background information:
- Award-winning shop with over 25 years of experience
- Features a team of talented and diverse artists
Tattoo styles and services offered:
- Specializes in a variety of styles, including traditional, Japanese, and tribal
- Custom designs based on clients’ preferences
- Piercing services also available
Reviews and accolades:
- Known for exceptional customer service and high-quality work
- Winner of numerous awards and recognitions in the tattoo industry
- Highly recommended by both local and international clientele
Alchemy Tattoo
Location and contact information: 2854 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026 | Website | (213) 989-1975
Owner and background information:
- Established in 2009 in Silver Lake
- Features a team of skilled artists with diverse backgrounds and styles
Tattoo styles and services offered:
- Offers a wide range of styles, such as realism, traditional, and geometric
- Focuses on creating unique, custom designs tailored to clients’ needs
- Walk-ins and appointments accepted
Reviews and customer experiences:
- Praised for its clean, comfortable environment and friendly staff
- Artists receive high marks for their attention to detail and creative designs
- Consistently positive reviews from satisfied customers
True Tattoo
Location and contact information: 1614 N. Cahuenga Blvd., Hollywood, CA 90028 | Website | (323) 462-4745
Owner and background (Clay Decker):
- Founded by Clay Decker, a renowned tattoo artist with over 20 years of experience
- Decker’s work has been featured in various tattoo publications and exhibitions
Tattoo styles and services offered:
- Specializes in several styles, including American traditional, Japanese, and black and gray
- Talented artists provide custom designs to suit clients’ preferences
- Both walk-ins and appointments are welcome
Reviews and notable clientele:
- Attracts a diverse clientele, including celebrities and local tattoo enthusiasts
- Known for its skilled artists, quality work, and welcoming atmosphere
- Receives glowing reviews for its commitment to customer satisfaction and artistry
Stay tuned as we continue to unveil more of the best tattoo shops in Los Angeles, each offering unique styles and services to cater to your personal tastes.
The Honorable Society Tattoo Parlour & Lounge
Location and contact information: 8424 Santa Monica Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069 | Website | (323) 654-2440
Owner and background information:
- Located in the heart of West Hollywood
- Offers a luxurious, art deco-inspired interior that sets it apart from other tattoo shops
Tattoo styles and services offered:
- Specializes in various styles, including black and gray, color, and lettering
- Talented artists create custom designs based on clients’ preferences
- Appointments and walk-ins welcome
Reviews and unique features:
- Known for its comfortable and upscale atmosphere
- Artists are praised for their professionalism, creativity, and attention to detail
- Consistently receives positive reviews from satisfied customers
American Electric Tattoo
Location and contact information: 2518 W. Sunset Blvd., Los Angeles, CA 90026 | Website | (213) 413-6532
Owner and background (Craig Jackman):
- Founded by Craig Jackman, a tattoo artist with over 30 years of experience
- Jackman has a strong reputation in the tattoo community
Tattoo styles and services offered:
- Offers a range of styles, including traditional, Japanese, and tribal
- Focuses on custom designs tailored to clients’ individual tastes
- Welcomes both appointments and walk-ins
Reviews and customer experiences:
- Praised for its clean and inviting environment
- Artists are highly skilled and committed to delivering quality work
- Consistently receives excellent reviews from happy clients
Unbreakable Tattoo
Location and contact information: 11356 Ventura Blvd., Studio City, CA 91604 | (818) 763-5910
Owner and background information:
- Established in Studio City
- Features a team of experienced tattoo artists with a passion for their craft
Tattoo styles and services offered:
- Specializes in various styles, such as realism, traditional, and watercolor
- Artists work closely with clients to create unique, custom designs
- Appointments and walk-ins are both welcome
Reviews and customer satisfaction:
- Known for its friendly, welcoming atmosphere and talented artists
- Receives consistently positive reviews for excellent customer service and quality work
- Clients often return for additional tattoos and recommend the shop to others
As we continue to explore the best tattoo shops in Los Angeles, remember to consider the unique styles and services each offers to find the perfect match for your tattoo vision.
The Warren Tattoo
Location and contact information: 8776 W. Sunset Blvd., West Hollywood, CA 90069 | Website | (310) 659-3502
Owner and background information:
- Situated on the iconic Sunset Strip in West Hollywood
- Features a team of renowned tattoo artists with diverse backgrounds and styles
Tattoo styles and services offered:
- Offers a wide range of styles, including realism, traditional, and dot work
- Focuses on creating custom tattoo designs that cater to clients’ individual preferences
- Both appointments and walk-ins are accepted
Reviews and custom tattoo designs:
- Known for its clean, stylish, and relaxed atmosphere
- Artists are praised for their creativity, attention to detail, and professionalism
- Consistently receives positive reviews for high-quality work and excellent customer service
Broken Art Tattoo
Location and contact information: 2400 Hyperion Ave., Los Angeles, CA 90027 | (323) 661-4777
Owner and background information:
- Located in the trendy Silver Lake neighborhood
- Features a team of skilled and versatile tattoo artists
Tattoo styles and services offered:
- Specializes in various styles, such as traditional, Japanese, and neo-traditional
- Artists work closely with clients to create custom designs based on their preferences
- Walk-ins and appointments are both welcome
Reviews and welcoming environment:
- Known for its friendly, laid-back atmosphere and talented artists
- Clients appreciate the shop’s cleanliness, professionalism, and commitment to quality work
- Consistently receives positive reviews from satisfied customers
How to Select the Right Tattoo Shop
Finding the perfect tattoo shop for your needs is essential to ensure a positive experience and a tattoo you’ll love for years to come. To help you make the best decision, consider the following factors:
Research Tattoo Shops and Artists
- Explore online portfolios and social media accounts to gauge each artist’s style and skill level
- Read client reviews and testimonials to learn about others’ experiences with specific shops and artists
- Ask for personal recommendations from friends, family, or colleagues who have tattoos
Consider the Shop’s Atmosphere and Cleanliness
- Visit the tattoo shops in person to get a feel for the environment and vibe
- Look for cleanliness and proper hygiene practices to ensure your safety and well-being
- Choose a shop that makes you feel comfortable and welcome
Assess the Artist’s Style and Expertise
- Match your desired tattoo style with an artist who specializes in that style
- Look for artists who have experience in the specific type of tattoo you want, such as portraits, lettering, or intricate designs
- Don’t be afraid to ask questions about the artist’s background, experience, and artistic influences
Discuss Your Tattoo Design and Vision
- Communicate your ideas and expectations clearly with your chosen artist
- Be open to the artist’s suggestions and modifications to ensure the best possible outcome
- Ensure you have a mutual understanding of the design, placement, size, and colors before starting the tattoo process
Consider the Price and Scheduling
- Keep in mind that quality tattoos can be expensive; invest in a talented artist and quality work rather than looking for the cheapest option
- Discuss the cost upfront to avoid any surprises or misunderstandings
- Book an appointment or walk-in based on the shop’s availability and your preference
Aftercare Tips for Your New Tattoo
Once you’ve found the perfect tattoo shop and artist in Los Angeles, it’s essential to take care of your new ink properly to ensure it heals well and maintains its vibrant colors and sharp details. Here are some aftercare tips to follow after getting your tattoo:
Keep the Tattoo Clean and Moisturized
- Follow your artist’s specific aftercare instructions regarding cleaning and moisturizing your tattoo
- Gently wash the tattoo with a mild, unscented soap and lukewarm water, then pat it dry with a clean towel
- Apply a thin layer of unscented, alcohol-free lotion or ointment recommended by your artist, typically 2-3 times a day
Avoid Submerging Your Tattoo in Water
- Keep your new tattoo out of pools, hot tubs, and bathtubs until it’s fully healed
- Limit your showers to brief, lukewarm water to avoid soaking the tattoo
Protect Your Tattoo from Sun Exposure
- Keep your new tattoo covered and out of direct sunlight during the initial healing process
- Once healed, apply a high-SPF sunscreen to your tattoo to prevent fading and damage from UV rays
Let Your Tattoo Breathe and Avoid Tight Clothing
- Wear loose, breathable clothing that doesn’t rub against your new tattoo
- Avoid covering the tattoo with tight, restrictive clothing or fabrics that may cause irritation
Don’t Pick at Scabs or Peeling Skin
- Allow your tattoo to heal naturally and avoid the temptation to pick or scratch at scabs or peeling skin
- Picking at your healing tattoo can cause damage and affect the final appearance
Conclusion
Los Angeles is a city rich in artistic talent and offers a diverse range of tattoo shops to cater to your unique tattoo vision. By researching and considering the top tattoo shops in Los Angeles, you can find the perfect artist and shop to bring your ideas to life.
Keep in mind the factors mentioned in the “How to Select the Right Tattoo Shop” section to ensure a positive and enjoyable tattoo experience. Finally, follow proper aftercare guidelines to protect and maintain your new ink’s vibrant colors and intricate details.
With the right artist, shop, and aftercare, you’ll be able to proudly show off your tattoo and cherish it for years to come.
