It seems like every town has at least one tattoo shop these days. If you’re struggling to make a decision where to get tattooed then finding out which are really the best can not only save you time and money but can also make sure that the tattoo you get is exactly what you want. Choosing a shop has a lot to do with finding a place you feel comfortable and an artist you can trust so even if your local doesn’t make this list they might still be a great place to get tattooed. Here are some of the top shops in the US right now.
Nice Tattoo Parlor, Brooklyn NY
493 Court St, Brooklyn, NY 11231
A fresh, unique studio that looks more like a homey apartment than a studio. It’s full of abstract, enamel décor, and white lamps in a simple theme. It’s clean, and female. Everything in the shop is designed by a woman, chosen by a woman, and the studio is run, you guessed it, by women. The attitude is another thing that’s unique as you won’t find any of the in-your-face know-it-all attitude that tattoo shops are known for.
Sacred Mandala, Durham, NC
405A East Chapel Hill Street Durham, North Carolina
It’s unusual for a new studio to make any “best of” list but when the opening artist is Al Lott whose dotwork mandalas are worth every hour of pain you can understand why. The shop itself is visually beautiful with a Gothic black and white that is as simple and to the point as Al himself.
Nite Owl Tattoo, Northampton, MA
110 Pleasant St, Northampton, Massachusetts
A crew of talented artists and a colorful group of people. This shop has more of a traditional shop vibe but is tucked away in NoHo. The shop boasts some award winning and experienced artists like Timmy B and has rave reviews about its customer service.
Kustom Thrills, Nashville, TN
1000 Main St #107, Nashville, TN
A low-key atmosphere and a traditional rockabilly feel. This studio is jam packed with things to look at, bright walls, and a “come and get it” attitude. They’re the original “bad ass” tattoo parlor that everyone expects with bright and talented artists that have been the subject of several national shows and a consistent 100 on every health department evaluation.
Monarc Studios, Los Angeles, CA
Private Studio
An appointment only studio that is arguably the best black and gray Japanese in the country. This is a personal experience that goes far beyond the typical “shop” where you’ll have nothing but one on one from the inquiry through to the aftercare. This is a “top” level studio that combines some classical sculpture with a brutal minimalist black and white interior. This is star treatment, and the tattoos are well above the quality you can expect from your local shop.
Asylum Studios, Roanoke, VA
4179 Electric Rd, Roanoke, Virginia
A little town studio with a New York feel. The owner Daniel Jones is booked up well in advance and with good reason. His portrait work is some of the best around and his prices are very reasonable compared to similar artists found in bigger cities. The studio is cozy and has all the comforts of home as well as a friendly and varied staff.
Mayday! Tattoo Co. Chicago, IL
1610 W Grand Ave, Chicago, IL 60622
Owner Carolyn Elaine, the self proclaimed “Lady Tattooer” uses clean lines, bold colors and keeps her studio the same way. It’s a bold, clean place where you should expect to wait a few weeks to a few months to even get a consultation. With an artist about to compete on this year’s Ink Master competition it’s understandable why.
