New York's Best Tattoo Parlors
From the Big Apple to the suburbs, New York is home so some seriously talented tattoo artists. Ranging from tried-and-true Brooklyn shops to low-key Albany parlors, you can get just about any tattoo you could dream about in New York. And it doesn’t matter if it’s your first or fifteenth, expect great quality and positive vibes from the best tattoo parlors in New York.
Nice Tattoo Parlor, New York City, NY
For those going for their first tattoo or seeking an entirely new tattooing experience, visit nice Tattoo Parlor, which offers a completely unique, friendly, and decidedly un-tattoo parlor feel. Nice Tattoo Parlor creates original, trendy tattoos with intricate line work in either color or black ink. In their portfolio, find intricate flowers, micro-tattoos, and impressive outlined portraits. They also offer microblading to create the appearance of fuller brows, with effects lasting for up to a year.
Sena Tattoo, New York City, NY
Step into the functional space at Sena Tattoo and you’ll immediately see the specialty of the tattoo artists here—traditional Japanese. Dragons feature prominently in the designs created by David Sena and the other tattoo artists at Sena Tattoo, but you’ll also find that the artists do beautiful lettering work with steady lines, intricate shaded portraits, and pieces with vibrant, striking color. Sena Tattoo also offers microblading.
Allied Tattoo, Brooklyn, NY
If an American traditional design is what you’re looking for, then Allied Tattoo is the top choice in New York. The artists’ portfolios at Allied Tattoo include old school pinups, recognizable cartoon characters, and brightly colored animals. Work with the professional artists and staff to create your ideal tattoo, and don’t forget to bring cash as cards are not accepted.
Gristle Tattoo, Brooklyn, NY
Get your next tattoo at a shop with a social conscience—Gristle Tattoo uses only vegan ink and holds regular pet adoption fundraisers and events. At Gristle, you’ll find several very experienced tattoo artists with their own personal design flair, but with the overall focus of vibrant, strong colors, careful line work, watercolor, and custom microtattoos. Art shows are also held at Gristle, with scheduled openings listed on their Facebook page.
White Rabbit Tattoo Studio, New York City, NY
Located on the Lower East Side, White Rabbit Tattoo Studio provides a calm environment in which to get a new tattoo and all work is done with vegan ink. Their portfolio includes watercolor, modern art, and abstract pieces incorporating strong black, careful shading, and vibrant colors. In addition to eight studio artists, White Rabbit also hosts guest tattoo artists.
Tattoo Maven, East Islip, NY
For either a new tattoo or piercing, Tattoo Maven offers a clean, cozy environment with private rooms for your comfort. At this shop, you’ll find artists creating photo-realist portraits, American traditional, custom lettering, and cover ups. Several professional tattoo artists are on staff here, and their portfolios can be found online, so you can choose the artist best suited to your dream design.
Lotus Tattoo Studio, Sayville, NY
Five male tattoo artists are on staff at Lotus Tattoo in the small town of Sayville. Most of the artists at the shop create American traditional tattoos, and one artist Johnny Truant tattoos floral, more feminine pieces. Note that Lotus Tattoo Studio doesn’t offer piercing.
Fast Lane Tattoo, Hudson, NY
Open since 2001, Fast Lane Tattoo creates an excellent tattooing experience for clients and also gives back to the wider community by donating profits from annual events to Breast Cancer Research. Seven studio artists can be found at Fast Lane, with artists working together with you to create perfect custom pieces. Here, you’ll find detailed color or black animal pieces, flowers, and cover up work.