The 13 Best Tattoo Shops in Toronto [2024]

  • Last updated: November 14, 2023
Best Tattoo Shops in Toronto

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Toronto’s tattoo culture is as diverse as its art scene. From traditional to minimalist, there’s something for everyone. But finding the right tattoo shop can be overwhelming. This blog post highlights Toronto’s top tattoo shops, known for high-quality work, safety, and skilled artists!

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Summary

How Much Does It Cost to Get a Tattoo in Toronto?

You can expect to pay around $100 to $200 per hour for a tattoo in Toronto. Some highly experienced and reputable tattoo artists may charge more, and some tattoo shops may have minimum charges for small tattoos. Keep in mind that getting a tattoo is a permanent investment, so it’s worth investing in a high-quality tattoo from a skilled artist. 

Here are some general pricing guidelines to give you an idea:

  • Small Tattoo: Small tattoos can cost anywhere from $50 to $150.
  • Medium Tattoo: Medium tattoos, such as a design that covers an entire forearm or a moderately sized back piece, can cost anywhere from $200 to $500. Depending on the intricacy of the design, it could take several hours to complete.
  • Large Tattoo: Large tattoos, such as a full sleeve or a large back piece, can cost upwards of $1000 or more. These tattoos can take multiple sessions to complete, so the overall cost can add up quickly.
  • Custom Tattoo: If you’re looking for a custom tattoo design, the cost can vary greatly depending on the complexity of the design and the time it takes to create it. Some tattoo artists may charge a separate fee for the design work in addition to the tattooing.

Again, these are just general guidelines, and the actual cost of a tattoo in Toronto can vary greatly depending on the specific design, the artist, and other factors. It’s always a good idea to discuss pricing and request a quote with your artist before receiving your tattoo.

The Best Tattoo Shops in Toronto

Now that you know a little bit about the cost and process of getting a tattoo in Toronto, let’s take a look at some of the best shops in the city.

1. Black Widow Tattoo

An upscale shop specializing in custom work. With various styles and free consultations, they ensure each client’s vision becomes a stunning reality! They’re not just tattooing, they’re creating experiences.

Business Information:

Website: widowtattoo.com
Address: 64 Ossington Avenue Floor 2 and 3, Toronto, ON M6J 2Y7
Phone: +14165882982
Email: info@widowtattoo.com

Customer Review Highlights:

“ This was my first tattoo and I had the best experience. From the first email all the way to the after care follow up, the team exceeded all expectations. Guido really outdid himself on design and was incredible at bringing my idea to life. The entire Black Widow staff were incredibly kind and their passion for their work clearly shows in how they interact with one another and with clients. Highly recommend and can guarantee this won't be my last visit! “

Pros

  • Free consultation
  • Water and coffee available in the shop
  • Space is very clean

Cons

  • Monday Tuesday closed

2. Golden Iron Tattoo Studio

Born in 2011, this studio boasts three locations downtown. Housing award-winning artists, their passion and commitment to evolution brings breathtaking pieces to the skin. Don’t forget to relax at local coffee shops after your session!

Business Information:

Website: goldenirontattoostudio.com
Email: goldenirontattoostudio@gmail.com
Telephone: +16473479363
Address: 401 Spadina Ave., Toronto, ON M5T 2G6, Canada

Customer Review Highlights:

“ Amazing first tattoo experience here! Stella was very friendly and made the experience really comfortable and smooth. She’s a great tattoo artist and I definitely recommend her for floral designs. (Photos were taken immediately after completion) “

Pros

  • 10+ years of experience
  • Won 100+ awards
  • 10,000+ tattoos applied every year

Cons

  • Has minimum charge regardless of size of tattoo

3. Colibri Tattoo and Piercing

With four accessible locations and over 60 passionate artists, Colibri delivers exceptional service from concept to aftercare. They’re a one-stop haven for quality designs and fulfilling experiences in a serene ambiance.

Business Information:

Website: colibritattoo.com
Address: 1721 A Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6P 1B2
Phone: +16475007789
Email: highpark@colibritattoo.com

Customer Review Highlights:

“Best tattoo place imo so far! The price is super reasonable, probably depends on the artists but I fell in love already. I had an appointment with Drone to get one of his flashes. He was really nice and friendly 🙂 Planning to get piercings here also, there are some kinds of promotion and stuffs on every Tuesdays and Wednesdays if I am not wrong. Definitely recommend this place!”

Pros

  • 4 convenient locations in Toronto
  • Offers tattoo and piercing courses
  • 25% off any tattoo on Wednesdays (exclude fingers)

Cons

  • Closed on Mondays

4. Chronic Ink

From a struggling start in Pacific Mall to being a thriving part of the NIX convention, Chronic Ink has become home to some of the best in the tattooing industry. Their journey shows in their stunning custom designs.

Business Information:

Website: chronicinktattoo.com
Address: 252 Eglinton Ave E, Toronto, ON M4P 1K2
Phone: +14165440311
Email: info@chronicinktattoo.com

Customer Review Highlights:

“I've been looking to get full sleeves done on both arms, and have multiple sessions scheduled from October 2022 to May 2023. The photo I've shared is from my first session. They have some extremely talented artists, and the staff are very friendly and welcoming. Contacting Chronic Ink with your tattoo idea and providing reference images helps them pair you with the right artist.”

Pros

Cons

  • Some complaints on slow to respond to inquiries

5. Matchbox Tattoo

Evolving from a shipping container in Market 707 to two thriving city locations, they cater to all tastes. With excellent aftercare and a vast flash selection, every tattoo experience is unforgettable.

Business Information:

Website: matchboxtattoo.com
Email: ink@matchboxtattoo.com
Telephone: +16477808966
Address: 707 Dundas St W #5, Toronto, ON M5T 2W6, Canada

Customer Review Highlights:

“ Got my third tattoo from Hunter and this studio was great! Professional, clean, and safe. Everyone was super friendly and it was a comfortable experience. Would definitely go back as some of the other artists' works caught my eye as well! just a great group of people and studio all around “

Pros

  • Walk-ins are welcome
  • Open Mon-Sun
  • Offers piercing too

Cons

  • $50 non-refundable deposit required to confirm an appointment

6. New Tribe Tattoo + Piercing

Ensuring the highest hygiene standards, this shop offers a range from fine line to airbrushed tattoos. Staff are passionate about preventing cross-contamination, safety is their priority, and create peace of mind for your tattoo journey.

Business Information:

Website: newtribe.ca
Email: newtribetoronto@gmail.com
Telephone: +14169772786
Address: 232a Queen St W 2nd floor, Toronto, ON M5V 1Z6, Canada

Customer Review Highlights:

“ I got my first tattoo done at New Tribe, and I absolutely adored the custom that Sara, one of the artists, did for me! She was quick, relatively painless at times, and I love the way it came out and is healing right now! Love their designs, my friend goes here for piercings and reports the same thing. I would 100% come again to get future work done here, New Tribe made it an amazing first time experience. “

Pros

  • 7 full-time tattoo artists
  • 28+ years of experience
  • Open everyday

Cons

  • Few complaints about customer service

7. Tattoo People

Intertwining Korean culture with Annex’s cool, this shop provides unique tattoo experiences. They are accommodating and happy to explain pricing and aftercare. Come for a cool, friendly art vibe.

Business Information:

Website: tattoopeople.ca
Email: info@tattoopeople.ca
Telephone: +16478505977
Address: 1071 Bathurst St, Toronto, ON M5R 3G8, Canada

Customer Review Highlights:

“ The staff at this spa are so friendly and welcoming. They're happy to answer any questions you might have about pricing, services offered or aftercare products! “

Pros

  • 8+ years of experience
  • Known for their detailed tattoo designs
  • Open everyday

Cons

  • Closed on Mondays

8. Flow Tattoo

Here, ideas flow into tangible skin artworks. Dynamic, meticulous, and welcoming, this shop ensures the perfect mark on your canvas. Tattoo dreams become a beautiful reality here.

Business Information:

Website: flowtattoo.com
Email: inquiry@flowtattoo.com
Telephone: +16473520878
Address: 685 Queen St W Second Floor, Toronto, ON M6J 1E6, Canada

Customer Review Highlights:

“ Got a tattoo done from Dee here. She was really accommodating on the design and sent me multiple versions without any hesitation. Studio was very comfortable and I'm super happy with how it turned out.They play some great music too 👌 “

Pros

  • Free Consultation
  • Open 7 days a week
  • Guarantee free touch ups for 60 days

Cons

  • ​A non-refundable deposit is required for all appointments.

9. Toronto Tattoohaus

A charming all-female parlor doing everything from fine line to colour tattoos in the hub of St Clair West. High hygiene standards and vegan aftercare products promise a lasting, quality ink experience.

Business Information:

Website: torontotattoohaus.com
Email: torontotattoohaus@gmail.com 
Telephone: (647)-345-3549
Address: 1081 St Clair Ave W Unit B, Toronto, ON M6E 1A8

Customer Review Highlights:

"Hands down the best tattoo experience I’ve ever had! I cannot say enough great things about this place and the wonderful ladies who work there! They sure know how to make you feel comfortable, safe and like a friend. My artist was Jules, and though she’s a junior artist, she is a force to be reckoned with, super gentle, quick and precise, her lines are practically perfect, and shades in a way that makes the art come to life. Can’t wait to come back for more ink! Thanks for a great afternoon ladies!"

Pros

  • Consistent hours
  • Comfortable space
  • Quality ink work

Cons

  • Closed on Mondays

10. 905INK Tattoo Shop Toronto

With a distinctive taste for art, they view tattoos as a form of individual expression. They transform your ideas into a masterpiece that commemorates your experiences on skin.

Business Information:

Website: widowtattoo.com
Email: TORONTO@905INK.CA
Telephone: (416) 546-3373
Address: 1386 Gerrard St E Unit #2, Toronto, ON M4L 1Z2

Customer Review Highlights:

“I had my tattoo of the Hubble space telescope with water color space clouds done by Bahar. It turned out amazing, it's exactly what i had envisioned. Even accommodated my request for UV ink stars! Thank you to Bahar and the rest of the crew at 905 Ink!”

Pros

  • Perfect 5 star rating
  • Great suggestions for designs
  • Staff are very patient

Cons

  • Closed on Mondays

11. Anbu Tattoo Studio

Specializing in a variety of designs – from the simplicity of black and grey to the vibrancy of old school styles – Anbu is an inviting and friendly parlor, ideal for your first-time tattoo experience. Their skilled artists cater to clients’ individual preferences and navigate them through the process effortlessly.

Business Information:

Website: instagram.com/anbu.ink
Email: anbutattoostudio@gmail.com
Telephone: +14165882982
Address: 941 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6H 1L5

Customer Review Highlights:

“Anbu is honestly the best tattoo shop i’ve been to! I had a tattoo done previously at another shop, however the atmosphere and vibes at Anbu were completely new and refreshing. Everyone is super nice, welcoming and knowledgable. I had two small tattoos done by Nedo during the flash summer sale which I brought in the designs for. Next I got a larger piece that Nedo designed himself and tattooed for me. I will 100% be going back to finish my half sleeve with Nedo. :)”

Pros

  • Great for realistic pieces
  • Consistent hours
  • Great customer service

Cons

  • No walk-ins

12. Lucky 13 Tattoo Studio

With over 30 years in the tattoo scene, Lucky 13 Tattoo Studio has proven its commitment to offering the highest quality tattoos in a setting that blends professionalism with warmth. Their team of versatile artists, proficient in various styles, bring your unique visions to life!

Business Information:

Website: lucky13tattoo.ca
Email: info@lucky13tattoo.ca
Telephone: (416) 537-7376
Address: 880 Bloor St W, Toronto, ON M6G 1M5

Customer Review Highlights:

“I came in for a tattoo with Jessy and had the best tattoo experience. She is extremely precise, her artwork is beautiful, and she will not let you leave disappointed! I drove in 6 hours for an appointment with her, and it was well worth the trip. Jessy is extremely knowledgeable and gave me great advice on how to make the tattoo age well and design suggestions. She is my most trusted tattoo artist! I cannot recommend Lucky 13 enough.”

Pros

  • Open everyday
  • Great place to get your first tattoo
  • Comfortable space

Cons

  • No longer offer piercings

13. Ink & Water Tattoo

Beautiful narratives await you on your skin with their intricate designs from versatile artists. No matter your style or idea, they can bring them to reality without sacrificing safety and comfort.

Business Information:

Website: inkandwatertattoo.ca
Email: inkandwatertattoo@gmail.com
Telephone: (647) 341 – 4030
Address: 300 Campbell Ave, Unit 214, Toronto, ON M6P 3V6

Customer Review Highlights:

“I had an amazing experience. The space is very clean; There were complimentary drinks for blood sugar. They had a comfy little area for waiting and a cool photography corner. Everyone was super friendly and it was nice to see the artists and staff interact with each other. The vibes were immaculate!”

Pros

  • Walk-ins accepted
  • Open everyday

Cons

  • Does not offer body piercing services

FAQs about Tattoo Shops

Tipping for a tattoo is customary and appreciated in the tattoo industry. The standard tip ranges from 15% to 25% of the total cost of the tattoo. However, the tip amount can vary based on factors like the complexity of the design, the artist’s skill level, and your overall satisfaction with the service.

The popularity of tattoo designs can vary by region and trends. Currently, some common tattoo themes include minimalist and fine-line tattoos, geometric designs, floral patterns, and meaningful symbols like hearts, stars, and animals. However, the “most common” tattoo can change over time as trends evolve.

The popularity of tattoo designs can vary by region and trends. Currently, some common tattoo themes include minimalist and fine-line tattoos, geometric designs, floral patterns, and meaningful symbols like hearts, stars, and animals. However, the “most common” tattoo can change over time as trends evolve.

Pain perception varies from person to person, and what one person finds painful, another may not. However, some areas of the body tend to be more sensitive and potentially more painful for tattoos. These areas include the ribs, spine, inner arm, wrist, and areas with thin skin and many nerve endings. Pain also depends on your pain tolerance, so it’s best to discuss any concerns with your tattoo artist before getting inked.

Conclusion

Toronto is home to some of the best tattoo shops in Canada, offering a wide range of styles and services to suit every individual’s unique preferences. From traditional designs to intricate and innovative pieces, these tattoo shops boast skilled and experienced artists who can bring your vision to life. And if you’re looking to get rid of an old tattoo, check out our article on the best tattoo removal clinics in Toronto.

Moru Li

Moru Li

Meet Moru, a talented marketing manager who has called Toronto home for over a decade and truly adores the city. Learn More About Moru

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