Top Ink: Our Favorite Tattoo Studios Across the Globe

National Tattoo Day is the perfect time to celebrate the artists and studios that keep the tattoo community thriving. In honor of National Tattoo Day, we’re highlighting the shops that set the standard in artistry, professionalism, and cultural influence. These are the studios consistently delivering standout work and helping push the culture forward. Whether you’re looking for your next artist or just want to see who’s killing it across the globe, these spots deserve the spotlight.

Club Tattoo

Las Vegas, Nevada

Club Tattoo at The Grand Canal Shoppes inside The Venetian Resort & Casino in Las Vegas, is more than just a tattoo & piercing shop. It is a high end immersive experience located inside one of the Strip’s most iconic resorts. Co-founded by Sean Dowdell and the late Chester Bennington of Linkin Park, Club Tattoo has helped redefine what a modern tattoo studio can be by merging music, fashion, and body art into one elevated destination.

The studio features a sleek, open concept design with floor to ceiling glass and luxury finishes, offering a front row view of live tattooing from the casino level. It is a world class aesthetic that includes it’s patented software Interactive Tattoo Touchscreens,  Club Tattoo is renowned for its team of world class artists who specialize in black and gray realism, color realism, American traditional, fine line work, and detailed portraiture. Each piece is fully custom, created in collaboration with the client for something deeply personal and striking.

The studio also offers expert piercing services and the world’s largest curated selection of gold and diamond body jewelry . With top tier build out, equipment, rigorous hygiene standards, and a bold artistic vision, Club Tattoo continues to be a must visit destination for both first timers and seasoned collectors.

NieU Studio

Seattle, Washington

NieU Studio, created by PingPing Li @inkprick, is a creative space located in the heart of downtown Seattle where tattooing is approached with intention, care, and connection. Built on the belief that tattoos are a reflection of identity, NieU offers an environment that supports mindful, meaningful self-expression.

The studio is thoughtfully designed to evoke a sense of calm and inspiration. Natural elements, soft lighting, and an open layout come together to create a space that encourages balance, presence, and creativity. Every detail—from the atmosphere to the energy within the space—invites clients to feel grounded and at ease. Each tattoo at NieU begins with open and honest conversation. Sessions are approached as collaborations between artist and client, with the goal of crafting a design that resonates deeply. Inspiration is often drawn from nature, energy, and the personal narratives shared during the process, resulting in tattoos that are both visually striking and emotionally meaningful.

NieU Studio values presence, trust, and intention. Clients are given the time, care, and attention needed to feel seen and supported throughout their tattoo journey. Whether you’re starting fresh or continuing your story, NieU is a space where art, self-expression, and meaningful connection come together. 

 

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Boston Barber & Tattoo Co.

Boston, Massachusetts

Every neighborhood has a heartbeat, a place that captures its culture and spirit. In Boston’s historic North End, that place is Boston Barber & Tattoo Co.

More than 15 years ago, owner and Master Barber Robert Dello Russo set out to create something different: a space that blended a barbershop, tattoo studio, and coffee shop into one cohesive experience. His goal was to build a classy, gritty, skill-driven environment that reflected the pride and personality of every North Ender and Bostonian.

Today, that vision is thriving. Boston Barber & Tattoo Co. stands as the neighborhood’s most successful barbershop—and its first tattoo shop. It’s become a local landmark, known for its culture as much as its craft. Over the years, it’s drawn A-list names like Conor McGregor, David Pastrnak, Brad Marchand, Payton Pritchard, Dermot Kennedy, and many others. But more importantly, it redefined what a neighborhood shop could be: bold, welcoming, and undeniably cool.

The tattoo studio is home to five resident artists: Jason Pepe, Cat Quintino, Zakk Powers, Juan Cano, and Sebastian Hernandez. Each has a distinct style, from black-and-grey realism to vivid, full-color pieces. Their work goes beyond tattooing; they help clients bring personal visions to life. The belief is simple: everyone has an inner artist, even if they need help expressing it.

Closed Casket Custom Tattoos

Ajax, Ontario, Canada

Closed Casket Custom Tattoos, located at 22 Church St S in Ajax, Ontario, is a modern, top-tier studio redefining tattooing as a form of high art. Built on a strong foundation of craftsmanship, the studio is known for delivering custom work that consistently goes beyond the ordinary.

The team of artists at Closed Casket specializes in a wide range of styles, including Black & Grey Realism, bold American Traditional, neo-traditional, fine line work, illustrative designs, ornamental tattoos, Japanese-inspired pieces, and vibrant colour realism. This artistic range allows clients to find an artist whose skills match their unique vision.

The studio is home to a talented group of professionals: Travis Greenough, Derek Dereksan, James Bond, Amanda Paterson, Brandon Smith, Laura Phoenix, Emma Rose, Hannah Toth, Memi Giorgio, Mike Mullaney, and Matt Gray. Each artist brings years of experience and a distinct creative approach to the table. Visitors are encouraged to explore the artist bios on the studio’s website to learn more about individual specialties and view portfolios.

Client safety and comfort are a top priority. The studio is health-board approved, wheelchair accessible, and follows rigorous hygiene protocols. Clients often highlight the welcoming atmosphere, clean environment, and smooth communication—particularly with shop manager Matt, who is known for providing helpful support and a seamless booking experience.

With consistent praise such as “incredibly welcoming and professional,” “super clean,” and “artists bring ideas to life,” Closed Casket has become a go-to tattoo destination in the Durham Region for both first-timers and seasoned collectors.

Embassy Tattoo

Washington, D.C.

Located in the heart of Washington, D.C.’s vibrant Adams Morgan neighborhood, Embassy Tattoo is proud to serve the Nation’s Capital with top-tier body art services. Home to a talented team of award-winning artists, Embassy Tattoo is dedicated to providing each client with a professional and personalized experience. Their artists specialize in a diverse range of styles—black and grey, realism, color, fineline, and more—designed to bring any vision to life. In addition to world-class tattooing, the studio also offers expert piercing services, all performed with the same commitment to precision and artistry. In an industry where details matter, they deliver every time!

Born This Way Body Arts

Knoxville, Tennessee

Born This Way Body Arts is more than a studio—it’s a sanctuary for self-expression, artistic excellence, and unapologetic authenticity. Founded on a commitment to inclusion, quality, and innovation, the space has become a destination for those seeking top-tier body art in a welcoming, judgment-free environment.

At the heart of the studio is a powerhouse team of tattoo artists who are as technically skilled as they are creatively visionary. Each artist brings a distinctive style—ranging from bold neo-traditional to hyper-detailed realism—while sharing a devotion to craftsmanship, hygiene, and client-centered care. They don’t just create tattoos; they create meaningful, lasting works of art with soul.

From consultation to aftercare, clients experience thoughtful, collaborative service that honors both their story and the art itself. Whether it’s a first tattoo or a fiftieth, the team ensures every client feels heard, respected, and thrilled with the final result.

Located in Knoxville, Tennessee, Born This Way Body Arts has earned a reputation as a trailblazer in the industry—not just for the quality of its work, but for its ethos. The studio champions body autonomy, celebrates diverse identities, and aims to set a higher standard for what a tattoo studio can be.

This isn’t just ink—it’s identity. And Born This Way Body Arts is here to make sure it shines.

White Rabbit Tattoo

New York City

White Rabbit Tattoo Studio is more than just a place to get inked—it’s a community of dedicated artists who take pride in their craft. Each member of the team has been carefully selected for their exceptional talent, ensuring clients receive high-quality, custom tattoos that reflect both personal style and artistic excellence.

The studio believes a tattoo should be a meaningful, transformative experience. With a diverse range of specialties—from traditional styles to modern and abstract work—White Rabbit’s artists work closely with each client to bring their vision to life. Whether booking with Nyah, Gee, Batu, or Maddie, clients can expect precision, creativity, and attention to detail. Artist portfolios can be explored here.

Designed with comfort in mind, the studio offers a serene, welcoming environment that helps make each visit relaxed and enjoyable. Located in the heart of New York City, White Rabbit Tattoo Studio has earned a reputation as a premier destination for top-tier tattoo art.

To begin the process, visitors are encouraged to fill out an inquiry form or stop by the studio in person to start creating the tattoo of their dreams.

Live By The Sword Tattoo

New York City

Like the city it hails from, Live By The Sword Tattoo is a melting pot of some of  the most talented tattooers and piercers from around the world. Like the Big  Apple, LBTS is a behemoth with three huge locations across New York City. LBTS is home to NYC’s largest body modification community. With over 40  tattoo artists specializing in every style imaginable, and over 40 piercers on staff,  LBTS is able to provide same-day walk-in service for both tattoos and piercings.

Whether you choose a design from their library of flash books with thousands of  original tattoo ideas, or want a custom piece, LBTS has you covered. With no  appointment needed, no miserable hoops to jump through, and a friendly staff,  LBTS is ready to help make your vision a reality in a New York minute, all without  breaking the bank.

Hate to wait? Their robust online experience offers online booking to make sure  you spend less time waiting in the shop and get right down to business. Their  flash books are also published online for easy browsing before you get to the  shop. You can even use their online “Try Before You Buy” feature to see what  your tattoo will look like on your body to help with both placement and design  selection.

With its client-centric approach, reasonable prices, capable staff, and beautiful  facilities, LBTS has become a city favorite, and the undisputed heavyweight of  NYC tattooing and piercing.

Three Kings London

London, England

Three Kings London is the UK outpost of the renowned NYC tattoo studio, bringing over 17 years of artistic excellence and inclusive ethos to South East London. Led by Amanda Rodriguez, an experienced artist hailing from the Brooklyn shop, Three Kings London upholds the same commitment to high-quality tattoos, professionalism, and a welcoming experience for all clients. The team features a diverse group of artists with specialties ranging from nature-based illustration and American Traditional to blackwork, realism, and anime styles. More than just a tattoo studio, Three Kings is a creative space built on mutual respect, artistic integrity, and global collaboration. With deep ties to both NYC and the UK, the shop reflects the best of both cultures; forward-thinking, inclusive, and rooted in quality. Whether you’re after timeless designs or bold new work, Three Kings offers a tattoo experience that’s both top notch and unforgettable.

Earth Altar Studio

Orange, California

Founded by artist and educator Justine Almaraz, Earth Altar Tattoo Collective is a global alliance of women fine artists and eco-conscious tattoo studios grounded in fine artistry, healing, and sacred expression. The collective views tattooing as a ritual that transforms the body into a living altar, marking both personal history and future growth. Each tattoo is approached as a collaborative piece of art, blending abstract, freehand design with emotional depth and self-expression.

The international sisterhood includes artists such as Alexandra Husmann in Los Angeles, Justine Almaraz in Orange County, Jasmyn Hambln in Sonoma County, Sammi Lee in Eugene, and Katinka Lucas in Périgord Vert, France. Known for their inclusive care, abstract paramedical tattooing, and advanced technique, Earth Altar is more than a group of artists, it’s a conscious movement reshaping tattooing as a sacred, intuitive, and deeply personal legacy.

Queen Street Tattoo NC

Wilmington, NC

Queen Street Tattoo NC believes tattoos are more than just ink—they’re personal stories, permanent marks of meaning, and bold expressions of identity.

Located in the heart of Wilmington, the studio serves as a creative hub where artistry and self-expression come together in a professional, welcoming environment. Since opening in 2020, Queen Street has grown from a private studio into a busy walk-in shop, known for both its atmosphere and talent.

The studio is home to a team of experienced, award-winning artists who specialize in a wide range of styles, including traditional, neo-traditional, black & grey, realism, fine line, Japanese, and custom work. Whether it’s a first tattoo or one of many, the team works closely with each client to bring their vision to life through thoughtful, personalized design.

Pride and Glory Tattoo

Nashville, Tennessee

Located in the heart of downtown Nashville, Pride and Glory offers a distinctive tattoo and piercing experience rooted in expert craftsmanship and a welcoming atmosphere. Housed in a former fire station transformed into a rustic industrial space, the studio stands out as a one of a kind destination. With a diverse team of artists from around the world including Codey and Amber (Nashville TN), Francky (St. Maarten), Sarah (Jacksonville FL), Rayne (Kentucky), Brian (Boston MA), Spencer (NYC), Morgan (Georgia), Jane (Knoxville TN), Dave (Nashville TN), and Pete (Kansas City KS), Pride and Glory specializes in a wide range of tattoo styles and provides personalized care from start to finish. The shop proudly serves tourists, locals, and members of the downtown industry scene, with a strong focus on friendliness and top tier customer service. Every visit is designed to be a memorable experience in the heart of Music City.

Speakeasy Custom Tattoo

Chicago, Illinois

Speakeasy Custom Tattoo, founded in 2008 by artist Patrick Cornolo, is a hidden gem located in the historic Flat Iron building in Chicago’s Wicker Park neighborhood. With over thirty years of industry experience, Cornolo has built a team of exceptionally talented local and international artists and continues to host guest artists from around the world each month.

The shop operates by appointment only and offers a wide range of custom tattoo styles in a clean, relaxed, and discreet setting. From Japanese and realistic to fine-line, traditional, abstract, and cover-up work, Speakeasy Custom Tattoo provides a collaborative experience where each artist works closely with their client to create a piece that reflects the client’s personal style and artistic vision.

More information about the artists and available services can be found here.

Tattoolicious

Waikiki, Hawaii

In the heart of Waikiki, Tattoolicious stands as Hawaii’s premier tattoo destination, offering an art-forward experience inside a stunning, architecturally designed 7,000 sq ft studio. Celebrating 25 years in business, the moment you step in, you’re surrounded by bold energy, tropical modern design, and an atmosphere that sparks creativity. Home to 14 resident artists and a rotation of guest talent, Tattoolicious specializes in everything from Polynesian and Japanese traditional to fine-line florals and full-color realism, ensuring each tattoo carries the spirit of the islands.

Since opening in 2000, Tattoolicious has been committed to making tattoos a true collaboration, creating personal art while honoring Hawaii’s cultural heritage. Clients leave not only with world-class ink but with a story rooted in aloha and artistic excellence. For those seeking more than a souvenir, Tattoolicious delivers an unforgettable tattoo experience within one of Waikiki’s most impressive creative spaces.