Getting a tattoo is a cool thing but it’s also a lifetime commitment. Chicago is filled to the brim with tattoo shops, some of which have gained notoriety in the area. From choosing the right artist for you to planning out the design (whether it’s a flash idea or a larger piece) there’s a lot that goes into this decision. When you’re searching for the right artist to ink you up, there are a few things you should consider. Keep in mind: depending on the space, some shops allow walk-ins while others require an appointment.
Luckily, the Chicago tattoo scene is filled to the brim with talented, professional artists. We’ve rounded up a few of the top tattoo artists in Chicago! Keep on reading on for all the deets.
1. Deluxe Tattoo
This shop tops the list due to its high number of rave reviews and top-quality tattoos. The longstanding shop has a big roster of artists and has been around since 1997. From simple designs to intricate art pieces, the resident artists here know what they’re doing.
Address: 1459 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60613
2. Tatted By Syd
The generous tattoo artist designs impeccably drawn pieces that are innovative, and beautiful, and keep the customer’s needs in mind. he artist recently announced a private studio ‘Design by Syd’ which operates out of a private studio in Humbolt Park. This particular tattoo experience offers a relaxed, curated experience you can’t get anywhere else.
3. Evergreen Studios
This women-owned, appointment-only tattoo studio operates out of Fulton Market, creating timeless custom pieces. With over 7 talented artists to choose from, this inclusive and welcoming space focuses on creating absolutely show-stopping work within a kind environment.
Address:167 N Racine Ave, Suite 2, Chicago, IL 60607
4. Wish Me Luck Tattoo
Intent on operating a safe, inclusive space for everyone, Wish Me Luck Tattoo in Logan Square recently opened its doors in 2020. Run by Faith, a superbly talented Black, transgender and queer, tattoo artist, this shop is billed as the first of its kind in the Chicago area. Faith decided to open their own tattoo studio in Logan Square, and since then the intimate, accepting space has gained notoriety amongst Chicagoans.
Address: 3323 W Armitage Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
5. Archer Avenue Tattoo
This tattoo shop requires an appointment to get in with talented artists. Known for its stunning black and white designs, from delicate fine-line butterflies to large-scale snakes, and everything in between, this space is known for its kind, involved staff.
Address: 4440 S Archer Ave # 1, Chicago, IL 60632
6. Crispy Aura Tattoo
Known for delicate fine-line designs, this artist dedicates time, energy, and passion to her practice, creating gorgeously rendered tattoos. From personal pieces to flash sheets and more, books are currently closed but open on April 7th.
7. Butterfat Studios
Esther is a highly coveted tattoo artist, operating her business in such a way that’s made her work highly sought after throughout Chicago. You can only book an appointment through her website, with each tattoo a work of art on its own. From realistic floral pieces to playful cat renderings, Esther’s tattoos are always recognizable in a signature style.
8. Ageless Arts Tattoo
The Oak Park location is well known for its high-quality designs and features multiple artists in the shop, including a series of guest artists. They do everything from small intricate designs to piercings, alongside larger pieces.
Address: 2407 S Kedzie Ave, Chicago, IL 60623
9. Logan Square Tattoo
Operating since 2014, Logan Square Tattoo located in Logan Square offers up a bevy of artists, designs, and methods under a single location. They cover everything from single needlework to specialized requests. Walk-ins are welcome, though private appointments are recommended for Sunday and Monday timeslots.
Address: 2352 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago, IL 60647
10. Chicago Ink Tattoo
Known for its wide variety of styles, this tattoo studio operates as an efficient professional environment offering tattoos, piercings, and microblading since 2008. Reviews note having an easy experience and creating a clean environment in which to work.
Address: 5415 W Irving Park Rd, Chicago, IL 60641