Best Tattoo Shops In Chicago

“I’ve been referring to Jaclyn at Cyprus since they first opened their doors. She is hands down the best cosmetic tattoo artist in Chicago. Put yourself in the absolute best hands possible and go see Jaclyn!“

“Got my very first tattoo with Ranae and it was the best first tattoo experience I could have asked for. I was pretty nervous going in and she made me feel super comfortable and walked me through every step, including after care. I did a custom design and the design Ranae came up with was beautiful, even better than I imagined. I’m super happy with how the tattoo came out and was particularly impressed that she had specific colored inks for deeper skin tones. I’ve already gotten multiple compliments on the design and vibrancy of the colors. The space itself was comfortable and clean, and the atmosphere was really friendly and supportive! Highly recommend this spot for anyone looking for a beautiful tattoo and good vibes :)“

“I had a mixed experience at this shop and wanted to share my honest opinion because it didn't match how they represent themselves or what these other reviews say.Good: My tattoos came out great. I'm especially happy with my snake tattoo, which is exactly what I imagined.Not so good: I wanted some slight tweaks on my second tattoo and the artist was kinda rude about it. They were very clearly annoyed about having to adjust the design that was gonna go on my body forever. I only asked for changes to the sparkles around the design, so I feel like it would have been VERY easy to ask me some questions and show some different options, but they made the whole thing feel like such an inconvenience.I ended up with a design I like, but didn't appreciate the artist's attitude and it was disappointing since this shop bills itself as a super welcoming space. I think an inexperienced person would have been pressured into just accepting it. Putting a design on your body permanently (and paying a lot for it) is a big deal for most people, so I wish they'd be more understanding of that.“

“Artists Lindsey & Vanessa were very helpful, attentive & easy to talk to about what I wanted & gave great suggestions. Will definitely be going back once I figure out my next Tat“

“After deciding I wanted a tattoo, I looked on Google and found this shop. I called to see if they accept walk-ins, which they do. I spoke to Kalm, who ended up being my artist. When I arrived, Kalm was very professional and thorough, making sure I was happy with everything before we began. The tattoo turned out exactly as I wanted, and I love it. I will definitely return to this shop and recommend Kalm for his exceptional work.“

“Beyond 5 stars for my brow experience with Elsa! For context, I never write reviews (my bad…I should) and Elsa never asked for a review. That’s worth something. Despite my initial concerns about pain and not knowing the outcome, Elsa made me feel completely at ease and delivered results far beyond expectations. Elsa’s warmth and professionalism are unmatched, and I couldn't be happier.“

“Anna was amazing! Loved the experience and would definitely go back!

Cleanliness: The atmosphere was very relaxing and clean.“

“I loved how my tattoo came out, had a great time getting it and was given a very helpful after care bag. Will be visiting for more in the future!“

“Got my lobes and nose pierced by Flacko and it was quick and painless. Excellent piercer definitely recommend!!!“

“Walked in and was able to get tattooed almost immediately! Brandon did my tattoo and was incredibly talented and kind and did it perfectly! Also loved the vibe of the entire studio. Would highly recommend!“

“I had such a great experience going to Revolution Tattoo. My artist was Cris and he was super chill. He was able to get me in earlier than originally planned which definitely helped consider I was a tourist lookin to get fresh ink. He was super friendly and super informative about sizing, pricing, and after care. 10/10 would visit Revolution Tattoo Chicago again.“

“The first time tattooed, Louis B. covered my wrist. I'm super happy with the results as well as the healing process. I was scared about having permanent ink on me for the rest of my life. I have zero regrets and could not be happier with the finished product. Would highly recommend…getting bombarded with positive feedback. It's flatteringServices: Fine line tattoos“

“I got three piercings from Adrian, and they were amazing. Great service, and nice experience!! A while back I also got a tattoo from Andrew and months later still looks awesome (:“

“Recently received my 2nd tattoo from Richard. I consider both excellent works of art. Richard’s work is detailed, relatively painless, reasonably priced. Couldn’t be more highly recommended

Requested style: First tattoo was the iconic Jimi Hendrix setting his guitar on fire at the Monterey Pop Festival. Second tattoo reproduction of my gold top Les Paul Gibson

Cleanliness: I did not notice any exceptions to standard industry cleanliness standards

Stylist: Richard was informative, kept me at ease, and is a talented artist“

“Full sleeve from Rob and he did a great job. Some was clean skin, some cover up, and some refresh involved, all of looks fantastic.“

“Excellent super hygienic service!Excellent work in everything you do, highly recommended!!“

“Yener did an amazing job on both of my tattoos! It was my first time getting a tattoo and he made me feel extremely comfortable. He even offered/suggested shading when I didn't previously consider this and I'm happy to say it was an amazing choice! He was also so genuine when answering questions. Great place to get a tattoo! Would recommend.“

“I had to come get a cut while in Chicago for work, and Johan did above and beyond! One of the most thorough cuts I've gotten in a while and the customer service was on point as well.
The vibe of the shop was 10/10-- great music playlist and I was able to get some work done via the customer wi-fi since I was early for my appt.

I will definitely be back!“

“Was lucky enough to come across Abe (AQ) on Instagram and I'm glad I did. We came up with a very cool Gundam piece that is stellar. He was flexible, professional and really put in the work for my amazing tattoo. The shop was professional and rad. Shop had incredible art up and a great vibe.

They do not have TVs, just so you're aware, nothing wrong with that of course but some people might expect to watch TV while getting work done. This was not the case here so be prepared to bring a tablet or use your phone if you're big into media while getting tatted. I look forward to coming here again.“

“This is now the 3rd piece I've done with Joe, and he is an absolute legend. He is a perfectionist, does such beautiful fine line work, and is really a master of his craft. The studio is beautiful and peaceful. I honestly don't trust anyone but Joe to do this type of detail work. I read through the other comments on here, and regarding the 1-star reviews, this has never been my experience. All I can say is that Joe is wildly creative, he has a process and a vision. You go to Joe because of his style and his expertise in his style. You give him direction, but you trust that he knows best what's going to work. He has the vision you won't necessarily see or understand. I show him pics as inspiration, we talk about my like/dislikes, then I let him go and do his thing. That's what I'm paying him for! I'm not bringing in a design and asking him to copy it. You don't go to someone like Joe for that. You go to Joe bc you love his work and trust that you're going to get a design that is unique and specific to you. I've never been disappointed after 3 pieces, and I have plans to go back for 2 more. His current pricing at $250/hr is 100% worth it and reasonable. He's been tattooing for a long time and is a pro.“

“My best friend and I wanted to get matching tattoos to commemorate our 40+year dream to drive cross country and stay in the redwoods. We finally did it last year, along with our husbands and her son. Tattoo Boulevard made it possible for us to do it while she was in town, and Bill, our tattoo artist, adjusted our picture to add one more tree (five trees to represent the five of us). Bill did an excellent job, and was genuinely interested in the significance of the tattoo for us, and our trip. We are doing the Route 66 road trip next year, and will be coming to Tattoo Boulevard for our tattoos to commemorate that trip. So glad these two senior citizens found both the place and the artist who know how meaningful tattoos are, and craft the perfect one. I smile every time I look at it.

Cleanliness: The studio was very clean and Bill took great care in keeping it that way.

Stylist: Bill was our stylist, and he was awesome. He took great care to make sure our tattoos were exactly what we envisioned and that the placement was perfect. Bill was also very personable and fun to talk with during the process.“

“The best in the city! Very talented artists and super nice people! They take their time to make sure they understand what you want and aim to get it right!“

“I am thrilled with the work I had done at Burnt Tiger. Chris Rodas was able to create some beautiful artwork for me to cover a unfortunate tattoo that I got from someone else. It was a complicated undertaking - and Chris took so much care and effort to make sure that I had a tattoo that I love and can be proud of. I'm extremely grateful and highly recommend his work. The shop is also very welcoming with lots of beautiful plants, the attitude is laid back - no attitude - just great artists and good vibes. 100/10 stars! Thank you Chris!“

“Very kewl spot. Solid. Fire.

Requested style: A lot of styles, they can do it all.“

“Love my tattoos. My son's all have them done by him. Took my cousins, my nieces. Everybody loved them. Great atmosphere. Very friendly. Never go anywhere else. I'll drive the hour.“