Chicago’s 10 Best Tattoo Shops

It’s for life, never going away, forever, yada yada ya. You get the point. We know you’ve put the thought in but all we’re trying to say is, your tat better look good. 

Photo via Facebook/Deluxe Tattoo

1459 W. Irving Park Rd. – North Center

Deluxe Tattoo is one of the most widely respected tattoo shops in Chicago. Expect top quality from all of the resident artists here, no matter how complex or simple the design. 

Photo via Facebook/Pioneer Tattoo

3513 N. Lincoln Ave., Suite C – Roscoe Village

The artists at Pioneer create nature scenes so realistic, you’d swear you could lean over and smell the fresh flowers inked on one of their clients’ shoulders. Their style is instantly recognizable, with smooth black & grey shade shading and subtle, muted coloring. Co-owner Tim Biedron’s detailed tattoos reflect his fascination with the natural world, incorporating insects, birds, and botanicals.

2150 S. Canalport Ave. – Lower West Side

9 Mag Tattoo has been around since 2013 and was featured on VH1’s Black Ink Crew Chicago. This popular spot is frequented by Hip-Hop artists, athletes and even celebrities. They specialize in freehand tattoos and have many artists for you to choose from. Check out the website for more information about the shop.

Photo via Facebook/Code Of Conduct

14 E. 11th St. – South Loop

Code Of Conduct tattoo shop sits tucked directly under the El tracks at State and 11th streets. Don’t worry. Passing trains never rattle the hands of these skilled artists.

Photo via Facebook/Revolution Tattoo

2221 N. Western Ave. – Bucktown

Revolution Tattoo’s staff of artists are available to work with you on anything from a quick walk-in banger to an elaborate custom piece. Need a place to kill time before you get inked? Check out Sideshow Gallery next door; they carry everything esoteric and occult, from crystals and tarot cards to skulls and taxidermied animals.

Photo via Instagram/Wish Me Luck Tattoo

3323 W. Armitage Ave. – Logan Square

Get that new tattoo you’ve been thinking about getting at Chicago’s first Black-, Trans- and Queer-owned tattoo shop in the heart of the Logan Square neighborhood. Click here to make an appointment.

Photo via Great Lakes Tattoo website

1148 W. Grand Ave. – River West

Been wanting to book a session at Great Lakes? Beatdown is your dude to go to when you’re looking to emblazon your body in the bold, graphic styling of American traditional tattoos. 

Photo via Facebook/Taylor Street Tattoo

1150 W. Taylor St. – University Village/Little Italy

Taylor Street Tattoo is always dishing out deals to its patrons—from $20 Tuesdays to a design lottery system that will make you feel like a kid again—a kid with full-length sleeves. 

Photo via Facebook/Speakeasy Custom Tattoo

1935 1/2 W. North Ave. – Wicker Park

Speakeasy Custom Tattoo isn’t the place for a quick, flash sheet tat. The appointment-only Wicker Park shop is more concerned with making sure you’re walking out with what you consider to be a real work of art on your skin.