Best Tattoo Shops In San Francisco

“Viktoria was the best. She executed our tattoos to perfection. We cannot wait to visit her again. She will help you with any design ideas you may have.“

“I just stopped in to have help putting a piece of jewelry back in. Although it was a small thing- these folks are just clearly good folks. It was friendly, professional, fun, good humored, and the artists are clearly talented and top of their game. I highly recommend you stop in!“

“It was my first time at 13 Bats. I've had work done by 4 different tatt artists over the course of my life but Amanda was hands down the best. They are very professional and thoughtful. They made the whole experience easy and smooth. Time flew cuz it was a delightful experience. Amanda is great at their craft and have excellent customer service. You can trust their expertise. Don't hesitate to book with Amanda for your next tatt! Booking was also super easy! The rest of the staff is also helpful and friendly. Make 13 Bats your next destination for a tattoo or piercing. If I could I'd give this place more stars than allowed.“

“Quality artists, reasonable price, good vibes all around, I absolutely will be going back there. Alieisia is an incredible tattoo artist who was able to make my tattoo idea become a reality.“

“Came into the shop a few months ago for a nose piercing & to get my ears re-pierced. Alex was my piercer & he immediately helped me feel at ease. He was kind, knowledgeable, & funny! Nose piercing was so easy, & he talked me through each step. Looking forward to coming back to the shop in a few months once it’s fully healed to swap out the stud for a ring“

“Walked in and got helped right away! Henry was amazing—very kind and professional. Will be going back again in the future, highly recommend.“

“From the moment I walked into Monomoon, I immediately felt the welcoming atmosphere and positive energy that Sany created. She was incredibly patient and understanding throughout the stenciling process, which I especially appreciated since this was my first large tattoo and I was feeling a bit nervous.
Sany guided me through every step, making sure I was comfortable, hydrated, and well taken care of the entire time. Her artistry and professionalism were truly impressive, and her work inspired me greatly.
Overall, my experience with her was exceptional from start to finish. I would absolutely return to Sany in the future and highly recommend her to anyone looking for a talented and caring tattoo artist.“

“Idexa, was absolutely incredible, she worked with me to bring my idea for my tattoo to life. She is patient, insightful, and just an overall good person. The shop itself
is well located, and very clean. I will be coming back!“

“This was my second time being pierced by Chris at Cold Steel. I’m from the originally from the East Coast and have been pierced at high-end studios in Philadelphia, New York City, and Los Angeles.

I never write reviews, but I wanted to write a review to express my gratitude and appreciation for Chris’s attention to detail, professionalism, and thorough approach. After my last visit in April 2025, which was with my sister who was visiting from Oregon, we both agreed he is in a class of his own re:piercing. I returned to get my conch pierced today and was once again so happy with my choice and our exchange. Chris will have repeat customers (both my sister and I) for as long as I am residing in SF. Highly recommend!“

“Walked in today at 12:30ish. I had no appointment and was no issue. Dora immediately provided the best customer service. She shows care and compassion for her work. Always nice to experience an individual who takes pride in what they do. Dora kept the conversation going and made me feel extremely welcomed. She did a fantastic job, can't be happier with the results. She did all this while I was holding my 7 month old baby on my lap the whole time. I know the shop wasn't expecting to hear miss racheal today when they came into work, but no one made a big deal of it. I am super thankful to the entire staff and Dora's amazing patients with my son. Sorry for the messy crackers on the ground he left behind.

Been two years now. And the tattoo still looks the same as day one! I have several tattoos all over and this is by far held up and looking the best! Highly recommend!“

“It's rare to find a Tattoo artist who not only excels in their craft but also connects with you on a deeply personal level. I recently had the immense pleasure of being tattooed by Svetlyo of Dream Masters in North Beach, San Francisco who is truly remarkable in both regards. Not only is his artistry nothing short of amazing, but he possesses a compassionate soul that shines through in every interaction. I have had several tattoos at Dream Master but working with Svetlyo is a whole new level of tattoo. All my tattoos have significant meaning and for the first time, I felt heard. I felt connected as Svetlyo wanted to understand the story behind my tattoo, the person and my journey. Svetlyo takes the time to listen, truly listen, to the personal significance of my design, asking thoughtful questions that demonstrate genuine interest and empathy. This wasn't a rushed consultation; it was a collaborative exploration of my vision and its emotional roots.

The actual tattooing process was a testament to his skill and sensitivity. He was incredibly attentive to my comfort, checking in frequently and making adjustments as needed. But beyond the technical precision, there was a palpable sense of respect for the journey I was embarking on with this tattoo. It felt less like a transaction and more like a shared, meaningful experience.

The final piece is, simply put, breathtaking. The detail, the color, the way it perfectly captures the essence of what I wanted to express – it's all beyond my expectations. But what makes it even more special is knowing the care and understanding that went into its creation. Svetlyo doesn't just create beautiful tattoos; he creates beautiful connections.

If you're looking for an artist who will not only bring your tattoo vision to life with incredible skill but also honor the personal narrative behind it, I cannot recommend Svetlyo highly enough. A true gem in the tattoo world.“

“My first tattoo was acquired here at the hands of a very talented artist, InkCache. She was phenomenal throughout the entire process, from booking to aftercare and really helped me to feel comfortable and knowledgeable for my first tattoo experience. Her art speaks for itself, and the Mythrium space is crazy good. The whole vibe is chill and quiet and just all around relaxing. The other artists are equally amazing and everyone loves to see your new work and show off their own! Very friendly, they all make you feel at home with them. I HIGHLY recommend getting work done from any of these artists (though I AM biased to InkCache)! I traveled over 1,700 miles just for this and it was worth every penny spent and more!

Additionally, I forgot to leave this review before I left San Fransisco, but now 2 months later, the tattoos are still stunning and have healed beautifully thanks to Cache's work and aftercare instructions!“

“Stopped here for my daughters' 16th birthday (first time) and we loved it. Staff was super chill, inviting and knowledgeable. Shotout to Zach and Analouise. Will be returning!!“

“Taylor (Thursday) has become the official tattoo artist for the Way 2 Beautiful Wiffle Ball team. Many of us have traveled from NJ to have him tattoo our team logo. He is professional, kind, and very appreciative to have us choose him. If you are going to San Francisco and are looking for a tattoo, you need to visit Taylor at Tuesday Tattoo!“

“I have already reviewed Clayton at the other location in Oakland, at I Love You Tattoo on Piedmont. I went to this location to get my 26th tattoo. I'm gonna do a second session at the end of summer to get the shading and color done. This piece was so well done, that it healed with just over a week. Clayton has been super faithful and easy to communicate with. Super flexible on pricing and sizing.“

“Professional, luxury, clean, knowledgeable & calm. Everything you want in a piercing parlor. Took my kiddo here for her first piercing for her birthday. The team made her experience unforgettable and so fun! This is a parlor you pay top dollar for, but there is something for everyone here. 100% recommend.“

“Danny gave me my first tattoo ever and it’s sick, I love it. I thought for years about it. His calm demeanor and clear proficiency at his artistry made it such an enjoyable experience. We bantered a bit about the shape and where to put it—totally chill. Now I’m addicted and want more.“

“I am heavily tattooed. This is one of my favorite shops that I've ever been to. The staff is friendly and funny. The art hanging up is a mix of punk and psychedelia. Salem did an incredible and quick job getting my back piece started.“

“I was soooo nervous to get my nose pierced, Jay and everyone there made me so much more comfortable by explaining the process and telling me how to maintain it. Would definitely go back for future piercings!“

“Dave the owner has been tattooing me for almost 30 years and I really feel he’s more of a friend then just a tattoo artist. He’s done about 15 tattoos for me over the years and very little fading. People don’t believe me when I tell them how old some of them are. Recently we started a massive full back piece (Medusa) and while it’s just line work I can tell it will be amazing he and his staff are always polite and show they really care about your vision. No attitude or primadonnas

They aren’t the cheapest but take my advice, I’ve been getting inked for 30 years,
Don’t go cheap, you will regret it

Thanks Dave for dedication to your craft and being you!’“

“Got my first tattoo with Theo at this shop and it was a wonderful experience. He talked me through the design and process very clearly and I was able to share the thoughts throughout the whole process. During the tattoo, he was super helpful and patient with all the last minute changes and breaks I needed. Highly recommend him because he’s equally kind and talented!“

“Got full highlights with Adel. He did a masterful job. They’re subtle, perfectly blended, and give my hair ethereal shine. Lovely place!“

“A very pleasurable experience with Kat! She made me feel welcome and comfortable during the entire process.“

“I had an amazing experience at Diamond Club Tattoo! I came in for a cover up, and Paul absolutely exceeded my expectations. He took the time to listen to my ideas, worked with me on the design, and managed to completely transform an old tattoo into something I’m truly proud of. His attention to detail, creativity, and skill made the whole process smooth and comfortable. The shop itself was clean, professional, and welcoming. The owner as well is super friendly and very knowledgeable. If you’re considering a cover up or any kind of tattoo work, I highly recommend Paul at Diamond Club Tattoo, you won’t be disappointed!“