Humble Beginnings

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2 years ago

I've been following this shop for a while because I love their variety of different styles and artists. I came in on Friday the 13th to get a flash tattoo, and I have to say it was one of my best experiences at a shop. All the staff were nice and patient with the customers, and their system for the discounted flash was efficient. I would definitely come back once I have ideas for my next piece- Thank you Jake for my salt shaker ! read more

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Jaiveer B.

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8 months ago

Great people and vibe. Walked in to schedule and next day got simple lettering. Only gripe was I wasn't too sure about parking. read more

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Kyianna C.

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1 year ago

this place is fire!!!! i had the tattoo artist lavinia who is so sweet and caring and knows her stuff! she is very clear and thorough with made sure i really liked my first tattoo! if you have a tattoo with similar style highly recommend her!!! thank you humble beginnings and i will definitely be back!!! vibe is chill and feels like home! read more

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Jo Ann D.

322

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4 years ago

Chris started tattooing me years ago and I'm always so happy with his work. Def a master of his craft and makes the ideas I have in my head into beautiful pieces. Shop is clean and easy to get to in Walnut Creek. read more

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Michelle V.

1036

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1464

4 years ago

This review is for Jake! Big thanks to him for making the experience so enjoyable. We talked almost the entire time and I felt very comfortable despite how nervous I felt getting tatted in a painful area. I couldn't send him exact reference photos for my idea since canaries aren't popular tattoos and it was hard to find them in flight in photos, but Jake definitely studied the bird and the ideas I sent him! I loved how it turned out. I book a consultation in May, spoke in July, and got tatted in December. Definitely don't be scared to double text when planning. Came in at 10am on a Saturday. The setup took pretty long and the breaks in between were super long. I left around 2:30. The rate was $180/hour. I was charged a bit over 2 hours. The time went by fast! I was super impressed by the difference in styles from the artists around the shop. They are crazy talented! read more

Humble Beginnings - canary in flight by Jake - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

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Yee W.

Elite 26 All-Star

38

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1230

6 years ago

This review is for CJ who did my shoulder tattoo. He was very professional and made sure I was comfortable the entire time. He drew exactly what I wanted (a snake wrapped around bamboos). It's probably my favorite piece on me and I have a lot of tattoos. I wish I knew about this shop and CJ earlier because I would of just stuck with him for all my tattoos. Anyways, the shop is nice and clean. I love the energy and vibe I get when I walked in. It's a chill, cool place. CJ is seriously the best! He's been tattooing for more than 10 years so his skills/talent is unbelievable. Thank you! read more

Humble Beginnings - By CJ - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

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Arlene P.

58

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5 years ago

I want to thank the staff of Humble Beginnings for accommodating my family. My nephew died recently and we asked Chris if they could accommodate a lot of us. We wanted a simple tattoo to honor our departed loved one. They took us in the following day and treated us really well. Nine of us got our tattoos and we were happy with the results. We can't thank them enough. read more

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Lily D.

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2 years ago

Vee was amazing, I really loved their energy and they were so kind and amazing to go to! I'll only wanna come here for them!!! everyone in the shop as well was really kind. read more

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Janet L.

3

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4 years ago

Had a consultation with Toti last Saturday and he's booked 'til April-May next year. Luckily, someone cancelled this month and I was able to get my tattoo today. When I asked about what his plan is, he said that he didn't have an idea yet. I was so curious but my husband said just to trust Toti. He started drawing on my leg and the layout looks fine. After almost two hours, my tattoo is done. Toti did an excellent job! Even my husband liked the outcome. For a first timer like me, the pain was not that bad, except for the knee part but it was tolerable. Now I understand why he's fully booked. read more

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Q Q.

0

7

1

4 years ago

This is my fourth tattoo shop, and it is by far the best! Now that I know this place exists, I can't imagine going anywhere else. Chris is the best! He is thorough, has great attention to detail, works very hard, his technique is gentle and precise, and he is a high-character guy. I can't speak any higher of Chris, he exceeded all expectations. I really enjoyed my time with Chris, and everyone at the shop. They really make you feel like family. It is very clean and very comfortable. The vibe in the shop is the best that I've been to. I highly recommend this place. Thank you, Chris, and the entire crew! read more

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Wendell E.

313

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9 years ago

Tip for parking. When you see HBTat2 on your right make the next available right turn into a small parking lot behind the buildings. Location is beautiful , easy to get to, safe, clean, warm & welcoming. CJ is the man. Always on time, professional, personable, and a SICK artist. He's gone to San Jose HBtat2 for me because I wouldn't be able to leave work in time and this time he came straight from the airport to the shop for our appt today. Can't wait to start our next journey Cuhja! You the MAN!! read more

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Shannan L.

13

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338

10 years ago

Highly recommend this place. Artists are very talented and easy to work with. Location is convenient right off of the freeway and the shop is very clean. Came in for a consultation for our son and booked an appointment for the following week. The knowledge of tribal tattoos and the meaning behind them impressed me the most. Our son got his first tattoo here and we will be back to get a few more done for sure. read more

Humble Beginnings - Love the vintage decor at this shop! - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

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Kristina P.

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7 years ago

4 of my sessions with Chris have been at the San Jose location, but man was I glad that he took on the shop in the Walnut Creek area because the 20 minute drive is much nicer than an hour and a half. I came back to Chris to add to my shoulder, and of course, again, he did an amazing job. If you look at my review of the San Jose Humble Beginnings, his quality of work hasn't changed at all, and you'll know how much I love his work and respect this establishment, but this Walnut Creek location needed some yelp love too. The place is clean and such a great vibe, they make you feel really comfortable. Wouldn't trust my tribal tattoo with anyone else. read more

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Tessa V.

27

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8 years ago

Chris did beautiful work on the memorial tattoo on my back/shoulder for my sister-in-law and father-in-law. I've gotten many compliments on it. He was personable, made me feel very comfortable, and the space is very clean. Very happy with my experience and definitely recommend him to everyone. read more

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Glenn C.

547

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8 years ago

My tattoo Artist is Chris Gonzales. Let me just say his work is amazing!!! He free handed the samurai on my leg, and it came out spectacular. read more

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Angela G.

1

42

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9 years ago

Great tattoo experience. Matching Tats for mom and I. We LOVE them! CJ was amazing, patient and completely open to talk ideas. Can't wait to go back for my back piece! Thx CJ for making moms first tattoo experience a pleasant one! read more

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Ashley N.

6

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8 years ago

CJ is definitely the man you want to go to! He did a amazing job on my cover up ... you can't see the old tattoo at all and his chilled personality makes you feel at ease! Thanks CJ! I'm already getting so many compliments! read more

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Louie S.

14

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9 years ago

Great experience with the artist, Toti Tatau. needed to be creative with a arm piece ive had for many years. He's very informative on what patterns/Symbols he uses on your custom tribal piece. The shop is very clean. The other artists that work here are very friendly and professional. Great easy going vibe feeling when you walk in! Super easy to get to if need to take BART. Will definitely be back!! read more

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Dawn C.

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3

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4 years ago

Great clean shop artist Owen was recommended to me and in return highly recommend him

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Ron S.

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14

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8 years ago

Drove from San Jo to get work done by Chris. Almost all my work is from him. As usual extremely happy!! Thanks Chris!! See you next time. read more

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Eric H.

Elite 16

311

517

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10 years ago

New East Bay location. This East Bay extension of Humble Beginnings in San Jose will be run by Chris Gonzales. His work is beyond exceptional and was the reason I went to the San Jose location to get work done. I will be coming out her to finish the chest piece Chris has been working on for me. The soft opening seems to be a hit, all the San Jose Humble family came out for this event. I can already tell this new location will be a hit with how many people have come out to support this new location. With Chris at the helm here amazing art will flow. All in all I recommend this tattoo shop for all your body art needs. read more

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Anjelica C.

184

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9 years ago

Got my second tattoo from Langky Lefty Jake. We came by the shop a while back and let him know the main idea of what we wanted. He drew up a few designs and we came back a few weeks later and got them done. Everyone was really great and friendly. Getting something that's forever can be overwhelming, but the environment made me feel comfortable. Jake did an amazing job and his line work is so clean. Already thinking of what to get next. read more

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Sid S.

0

24

2

5 years ago

The Best place to have your Tatoo here at humble beginnings. Nice people especially Jeff Quintana and hes's collegues. And nice hospitality. I recommend this place 100%. Good job guys. read more

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Calvin E.

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5

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7 years ago

My very first tat (the artist Eddy) amazing we had two sessions to complete the piece and it was spiritual (plain n all). He is a true artist kind warm and I am proud to show off his work "you should see it ". Awesome Calvin read more

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robbin m.

70

7

5

6 years ago

Jacob is the best!! I had an idea what I wanted but didn't have it finalized. He took the idea from my head and gave me exactly what I wanted! He does great work and is super nice! I highly recommend Jake at Humble Beginnings! read more

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Jessy C.

129

4

3

9 years ago

Shout out to Jake! I was skeptical with the first sketch and was scared it would pain but he did an amazing job with my first tattoo! He took my idea and turned it into a wonderful tat! Such a good first experience! Love their work! :) read more

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Krystelle M.

178

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10 years ago

I called a couple of weeks ago to make an appointment for a consultation. I had a tattoo of my daughter's name on my back already but felt like it didn't have life and hated how plain and boring it was. Its not what represents my daughter at all. Well the person I talked to told me to just drop in since it was just a small piece and see which artist I wanted to do my tattoo. Chris was there and I got to talk to him a little bit. He had actually done tattoos for a few of my friends and other mutual friends. I love how their tattoos turned out so I made the appointment with him. A week later, he went over my existing tattoo with me and sketched over it a little with a pen. I wasn't sure yet what I was looking at but I trusted his work so I said to do what he thought would look best. He didn't even need a full hour (probably 45 minutes) and he was done. I love love love how it turned out. It's so beautiful and it means so much more to me. And let me add that he is super chill and all good vibes - as well all the rest of the whole shop. My experience here was so nice I already referred a few people. Hopefully they'll drop in soon. Thank you so much, Chris. I'm for sure coming back when I decide to add more. read more

Humble Beginnings - Before and after. - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

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Gabe M.

203

1

0

8 years ago

I was meaning to write a review but it slipped my mind. It was my first time ever getting a tattoo and I clearly wasn't super prepared for it. I walked in around 2 hours before they closed, and Jake was available because he had a cancellation. He was willing to draw out what I had in mind for my tattoo, found a good spot on my shoulder for it, and was ready to jump in right away. While he was working on it he was extremely nice and careful with it, and was good at having conversation and easing me into the whole process. I was definitely a bit of a pain when it came to my inexperience but he was patient and I can't stress enough how important that was in deciding to follow through with getting the tattoo. He did a great job and is definitely a great artist and a great guy guy overall. The atmosphere of the place was great with art everywhere and it was really neat. My first tattoo experience was great and I owe it to Jake and the rest of Humble Beginnings. I definitely recommend you check them out, whether you are brand new or are looking for great quality work. Thank you guys! I am definitely interested in coming back sometime in the future. read more

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Cesar M.

68

2

0

7 years ago

I want to thanks my tattoo artist Cj and have the time to highly recommend Humble Beginnings for an exceptional and amazing experience and beautiful art work I had on my shoulder!! I'm in love w my tattoo and the deep meaning and personalization... once again thanks Cj .. u are the best!! read more

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Junior C.

1

19

3

8 years ago

If your looking for a tattoo, this place should definitely be on your list! I've gotten two amazing tats from Orly and they came out exactly how I wanted. On top of that in one of the tattoos he had to do a minor cover up and it came out amazing. I couldn't be happier with him and his team! I will definitely be back soon once I know what my next tattoo should be. read more

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Christian A.

18

20

2

9 years ago

Late responds but thanks to toti Tatau for taking me in after how many shops denied me. He turn my fuck up tattoo into a better one and also did a cover up n everything else he did on my shoulder and my whole forearm is clean. Highly recommend Peair if you want legit work to be done. Worth the drive n toll read more

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Cody T.

0

13

0

9 years ago

Jake Aka Lankylefty has done 3 of my tattoos now. He is a great artist and easy to work with. Find you can have conversations while getting a tattoo he's the guy to go with. I hate getting a tattoo and not speaking a word for hours but with Jake I leave every time feeling like he's my best friend :) the vibe in the shop is also chill and not intimidating read more

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More info about Humble Beginnings

2241 N Main St
Walnut Creek, CA 94596
Directions
(925) 448-8210
Call Now
Visit Website
http://www.humblebeginningstattoo.com

Hours

What time does Humble Beginnings open?

Humble Beginnings opens at 10:00 AM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.

What time does Humble Beginnings close?

Humble Beginnings closes at 8:00 PM on Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday.Humble Beginnings is closed on Sunday.

Mon-Sat 10:00 AM - 8:00 PMSun Closed

Payment methods

Does Humble Beginnings take credit cards?

No, Humble Beginnings does not take credit cards.

Services

Is Humble Beginnings by appointment only?

Yes, Humble Beginnings is by appointment only.

Outdoor Amenities

Does Humble Beginnings have bike parking?

Yes, Humble Beginnings has bike parking.

Does Humble Beginnings have parking?

Yes, Humble Beginnings has parking options. Private Lot Parking

Other Amenities

Is Humble Beginnings wheelchair accessible?

Yes, Humble Beginnings is wheelchair accessible.

Does Humble Beginnings have free WiFi?

Yes, Humble Beginnings has free WiFi.

From the Business

Specialties

High quality tattooing

Review Highlights - Humble Beginnings

“Chris did beautiful work on the memorial tattoo on my back/shoulder for my sister-in-law and father-in-law.”

Mentioned in 9 reviews

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Zebra Tattoo & Body Piercing

Family-owned & operated

Service and the overall experience were excellent! My daughter and I both got our noses pierced in…read morelate February, and everything was healing well at first. Unfortunately, my daughter's nose stud fell out twice, and I developed a piercing bump. While neither situation was ideal, I understand these things can happen. When the bump appeared, the piercer recommended a NoPull disc to help it heal and asked me to return in two weeks to have it removed. I followed the aftercare instructions, but unfortunately, the NoPull disc didn't work for me. In fact, it seemed to make the bump worse, which surprised both me and the piercer. We had expected to see some improvement after two weeks, but there wasn't any. Two weeks after having the NoPull disc removed, my daughter and I returned because her piercing had fallen out again. While we were there, I also asked if someone could take another look at my piercing and see whether changing the jewelry might help. That's when Tee stepped in, and she was absolutely amazing. She carefully assessed the piercing and recommended switching to a longer bar so it wouldn't sit directly against the bump. As soon as she changed it, I could immediately feel the difference. The piercing was much more comfortable, and it finally felt like it had the room it needed to heal. I truly appreciated Tee's exceptional customer service and expertise. Despite the few bumps along the way, everyone has been professional, kind, and genuinely committed to helping us. I can't recommend this place enough. Their professionalism, courtesy, and dedication to customer care have made every visit a positive experience.

Beyond grateful for the amazing service and talent here!…read more We came in to get piercings for myself and my toddler and have nothing but great things to say.

Stef Curry tattooing our artist, Nino Lapid :)

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Stef Curry tattoos his autograph on our artist, Nino Lapid

Black Sea Tattoo

Brandon does great work…read more I did find the loud metal-ish music a bit irritating. Made it hard to relax, which is important when getting inked. But happy with the results.

Great shop to work with. Very low touch. Sent Brandon a few pictures, made an appointment. Showed…read moreup. Stencil was ready to go. He knocked the design out of the park! They tattoo quick and everything comes out clean and bright. Truly a good experience. Highly recommend. I personally love the soundtrack in the shop. Metal, rock, hardcore... \m/O.O\m/

Amazing lines

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I mean come on

Diablo Ink Tattoo

Certified professionals

Established in 2007

my friend recommended this place for piercing and honestly could not recommend it more!! The prices…read moreare so reasonable, the quality is great, AND when my piercing started swelling becuase of the way I slept Ricky Lee helped me fix it so easily. Highly highly recommend all 6 people in my friend group have gotten a piercing here and have also had wonderful experiences!!!

Hands down, a fantastic and professional experience from the initial phone call to walking out…read moreafter my son's first tattoo. I had been feeling frustrated after being flaked on for several consults, so I gave up on trying to go through someone I knew or a recommendation. I called Diablo shortly after they opened and was told we could come in the same day. My son was able to tour the shop, meet some artists, and have real conversations about his idea for his first piece. We met with Ricky Lee, the owner, and ended up booking with him before we even left. He was honest, knowledgeable, and the overall vibe was just right. 10/10 recommend! The piece is beautiful. I think I even found my new shop.

By Rickey Lee

By Rickey-Lee

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GreyScale Art Collective

4.8

(19 reviews)

1.2 mi

This is the only place I ever want to get tattooed at ever again.!…read more Amazing job on my cover up tattoo, absolutely love it. Shoutout to SMOKE my tattoo artist; He took it to a whole new level. The line work on my tattoo is flawless the design is perfect, SMOKE captured my vision perfectly.! The shop has such a great atmosphere and vibe, everyone was very friendly and welcoming. SMOKE, Incredibly talented and friendly tattoo artists with exceptional work . Great experience and would go back for more anytime! Highly recommend!

I booked with Marina after finding the shop and her page on insta. I'd seen the shop show up and…read morehad been waiting for it to open because it's so close to home. We designed the perfect piece via text and when I showed up for our appointment I found the shop to be clean and cool. Parking isn't bountiful so plan ahead. The vibe is laid back and friendly, I was there alone and have never been more comfortable my first time in a new shop. Marina was amazing and I already cannot wait to get back in her chair!

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Sugar City Tattoo Company

Certified professionals

Locally owned & operated

My second time seeing Monica at Sugar City, and she just does amazing work. Her line work is crisp…read moreand gentle, and her coloring and shading is intricate and eye-catching. This time she adapted a piece of my best friend's art for tattooing, and it's definitely my new favorite ink. Monica, you have a client for life in me. And as for the shop itself, it's comfy, clean, and has the absolute best playlist. Everyone makes you feel like a regular, even if it's only your first or second time, and the whole vibe feels so authentic to the people who work there. A true 11/10 joint that I recommend to anyone I can.

I'm not gonna give the full details because everyone has a different experience. But I'm taking…read moreaway my five star review and I must say I'm very pleased I have found a tattoo artist to finish my piece and continue the rest of the work that was supposed to be done. Though the artist I worked with, he is an amazing artist professionalism is not there and I don't believe it's a safe place for women.

Tattoo by artist Kristina

Pocket watch Tattoo By Sorin

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Watercolor starfish by Kristina

Bright Side Tattoo

5.0

(3 reviews)

5.7 mi

On mine and my husband's 40th wedding anniversary in June , 2024 I found this Tattoo parlor really…read moreclose to my house. I called and explained what I wanted and gave him a time I could be there. Unfortunately, we were at a restaurant that kept us a bit later, and Joshua (the owner) was very flexible and we came a bit later. He did everything that I wanted and even added a little extra the next day. His technique was very gentle, it didn't hurt me one bit. I have two other tattoos from famous tattoo artist Lyle Tuttle in San Francisco that I got back in 1975, before women were getting tattoos. However, I am quite pleased with the thin lines and colors he used on my tattoo. Check out Joshua at Bright Side Tattoo!!

Wow! Such a simple tattoo I got today of my grandsons name the day he was born! This artist is just…read moresimply amazing! I have over 63 tattoos and this place is clean and welcoming. He was extremely knowledgeable about the art world and what it takes to make a tattoo last and not last! His line work is unbeatable!! My tattoo was in a small tricky spot, but it was perfect!!! See photo!!! I'm so happy I'll be back for sure!!! The next time it will be much bigger... stay tuned!!!!

Tiger & water/floral sleeve for sushi Chef ,Micheal! Soon to be continued with left sleeve. Custom work by resident tattooer Joshua Teska

Tiger sleeve

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Tiger sleeve

Final Sin

Had my last 14 tattoos done by Nick at Final Sin. Easy to work with, very creative, and the nicest…read moreguy. Tip: best to make an appointment. I know they take some walk ins, but it's best to have your allotted time. I have gotten so many compliments from Nick's work.

When I was 18, I got about six tattoos at final sin and they guarantee touchups for lifetime. I…read morerecently went in to see if they could touch up some of my faded, tattoos, and the owner provided me his cell phone yet never responded to any of my messages to set up an appointment. I've since gone elsewhere.

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Oni Mask tattoo

Tattoo Lab

Zach did an amazing job on my memorial tattoo for my daughter. He listened to exactly what I was…read morelooking for and added some suggestions that made it perfect! I was able to get in quickly which was a bonus.

Honestly this place gets five stars just for how f-ing fast this guy (John) was. My husband and I…read moreboth have had more than a few piercings each so neither of us wanted to waste time answering a bunch of questions or hearing the aftercare speech. Between the phone call and walking in I think I answered like 3 questions total, and the needle was in my nose within the first 2 minutes. He talked the whole time and moved so fast I didn't even realize he was done until a couple minutes later when he said, "you can get up now" lmao. My husband got one too and that was just as quick. When I tell you that we were there for a total of ten minutes, I mean that we got out of the car at 6:25 and it was 6:35 when we sat back down to leave. Dude was a character, but we like that. If you're looking for someone to do it right and do it fast, this guy is your man lol.

I tattoo the real deal no pozerz

For my daughter

Tattoo by John

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Zebra Tattoo & Body Piercing

Family-owned & operated

Established in 1984

Overall, a lovely experience. Zoe walked me through the different jewelry options. She was great.read more

Polite staff, lots of choices, great selection of jewelry. Sammy was very supportive in my choice…read moremaking.

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O Tattoo Studio

Arie was amazing to work with!…read more I reached out to her via email for a custom design and everything went really smoothly. I sent her lots of reference images and the tattoo she created was exactly what I wanted. Her communication was consistent and she got back to me quickly whenever I had questions. I wanted a fine line design with some ornamental touches and I'm so happy with my result. The studio is very welcoming, clean and comfortable. My tattoo was pretty large for my first one, but I felt fine the entire time and Arie checked on me consistently. Applying the stencil took time, but I'm grateful for that because the placement was exactly what I wanted. We ended up going bigger day of and seeing the piece on my body with a stencil was super helpful in getting it right. I really appreciated Arie's calm demeanor & attention to detail! I get so many compliments on my tattoo, and I'm already planning to come back for more. The healing process was a breeze and my skin was never irritated, even immediately after my tattoo was completed. Highly recommend working with Arie and visiting O Tattoo if you're looking for a beautiful piece, that's done by a qualified, artistic professional.

I got a tattoo here May 2024 with KG. She was great throughout the whole process! I sent her my…read moreidea of what I wanted my tattoo to look like and what exactly I liked if each reference and she nailed it. She was so sweet and the vibe of the studio was also so calm. I would totally refer her to other people looking to get tats done in and outside of Oakland!

Fresh photo of first tattoo. Thanks Siri!

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Line work by Siri

Beauty Zone Nail Spa

Certified professionals

Free estimates

First time and I will be back!! Ask for Michael, he is the best! I got the gel pedicure deluxe…read more(Jasmine) and he was just so detailed in cleaning my feet, between my nails, and the gel polish itself. End result is so clean. The deluxe came with a sea-salt scrub, hot wax, callus treatment, and ended with an amazing hot stone massage. He took his time and was so thorough with his work. Thank you Michael! I'll be back!

I walked in after checking Yelp reviews as I just needed one nail's gel (cat-eye) removed for a…read moremedical procedure done. The place is huge and neat. A lady came over to help me and refused to charge me! I'm very impressed and grateful. I'll be back to replace the color once I completed my procedure!

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Soultree Vegan Nails Mobile Boutique

4.9

(27 reviews)

54.0 mi

Nicole provides absolutely amazing mobile nail care! She is incredibly sweet, made me feel…read morecompletely comfortable, and the quality of her work is better than any nail salon I've been to in any city. Her communication is very clear and she is right on time. If you prefer booking or coordinating, text responses work best with her! I'm already planning a ladies' day to have my mom and grandma join in next time. I can't recommend her mobile services enough!

Nicole is a true professional! She exceeded expectations by adjusting her schedule at the last…read moreminute to provide mobile pedicure services due to another company ghosting me at the last minute. She was forthcoming about her services rendered, her fees, her suggestions that would be best for the health of your feet and once she arrived, we chose to have an engaging conversation while she was working. She did a great job on my feet. My feet and legs felt cleaner, refreshed and rejuvenated. I am using Nicole again and I recommend her to all!

Rose petal pedicure

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Manicure

Urban Beauty Bar

Leah's Korean Beauty Salon - would recommend!…read more It's the weekend before Christmas, was honestly expecting every salon to be fully maxed out. Was able to get a same-day appointment! In fact, I was down the street and was in the chair within 10 minutes of calling. Eun Joo kept my length, did only a trim with long layers, exactly as requested! I am always fearful more will be taken off than I want, as that is normally what happens. SO THANKFUL that was not the case today! She took off just around 2 inches, kept the length, added long layers, and light face framing. Very thankful for the refresh just before the holiday. Thank you, Eun Joo!

My 7th grade son has been wanting a new style of haircut for a bit and his 2 previous visits to…read moreother barbers/stylists left him disappointed. A friend of mine (he's a dad too) said that he took his son to UBB and got a cut from Leah. We have Asian (thicker) hair and wanted a particular style (low taper fade with texture cut up top). My son went with 'low' expectation but after the cut was completed, he was thrilled at the outcome. Just as he wanted (and showed on his phone from the various research that he did). The haircut came with shampoo and blow dry too. It was very, very responsible in terms of cost too ($40 + tip). The salon is also very chic with seating, beverages as well. I will likely come back for my own haircut as well. *Note: Leah's English is a bit limited so just be aware.

Permanent Brows by Marie -After

Hair Extensions -After

Before -Hair Extensions

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Face and Body Day Spa

I've been going to Tiffanie for over a year now for gel extensions and I love the way my nails turn…read moreout every time. She takes her time and is always down to try out a design for me. Plus she's super sweet and I always get some moscato or tea or some beverage while there. Never have a problem w the nails at all

Best nail artist I've experienced in Oakland... Tiffanie is incredibly talented, personable, and…read morewill impress you every time even if you bring an abstract idea. Appointment availability with my current work schedule have made it harder to see her consistently but I miss her and recommend FAB Day Spa to anyone looking for a nail artist in Oakland. Jelly pedicures are also amazing. Support black women business owners!!! Attaching a pic of one of my favorite sets she did for me.

"Rockstar" nails and design

Nail design

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Nail design

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2 reviews that are not currently recommended

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Christine K.

0

33

32

9 years ago

This is the only shop I'll go to for tattoos! I'm loyal to Chris (I used travel to the San Jose location to see him but grateful he opened a shop in Walnut Creek because it's so much closer to me) but would trust any of the other artists to do work on me. They're all amazing!! The environment is super clean and friendly. I love the decor. The process (of scheduling and getting in) is usually easy for me, but for some, it may not always be the case. Remember, these artists are humans too and have lives outside of the shop. They don't have secretaries making appointments. Be patient and follow up if they don't get back right away. Trust me, this shop is worth the wait! I highly recommend anyone here! read more

Joshua S.

214

12

49

9 years ago

Chris is the man. That's all I gotta say. They take their time and you can see it in their work.

Humble Beginnings - tattoo - Updated July 2026

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Brandon does great work…read more I did find the loud metal-ish music a bit irritating. Made it hard to relax, which is important when getting inked. But happy with the results.

Great shop to work with. Very low touch. Sent Brandon a few pictures, made an appointment. Showed…read moreup. Stencil was ready to go. He knocked the design out of the park! They tattoo quick and everything comes out clean and bright. Truly a good experience. Highly recommend. I personally love the soundtrack in the shop. Metal, rock, hardcore... \m/O.O\m/

Final Sin

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Had my last 14 tattoos done by Nick at Final Sin. Easy to work with, very creative, and the nicest…read moreguy. Tip: best to make an appointment. I know they take some walk ins, but it's best to have your allotted time. I have gotten so many compliments from Nick's work.

When I was 18, I got about six tattoos at final sin and they guarantee touchups for lifetime. I…read morerecently went in to see if they could touch up some of my faded, tattoos, and the owner provided me his cell phone yet never responded to any of my messages to set up an appointment. I've since gone elsewhere.

Bay Area Inkspot

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Jorel is an amazing artist and always makes us feel at home! These 2 tattoos are the 3rd and fourth…read moretattoos he has done for my family. My daughter wanted her grandmothers writing in a saying she used to always say to her before she passed. We didn't have the actual words in her writing, but we told him the saying and we had something she wrote, so he was able to quickly copy her writing and create this simple but meaningful tattoo. Thanks for always keeping us happy!

I went to Mike Kim for my first tattoo. He explained the process very clearly and kept asking if I…read morehad any more questions. The shop was super clean and everyone working there was nice. I have no regrets going to Mike. He gave me exactly what I asked for and made little adjustments I asked for with no problem. 10/10 recommend. Thank you!

DV8 Tattoos

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(77 reviews)

Amazing work. My coverup? Amazing (didn't think it could be done). My realistic raiders chola?…read moreFlawless. People compliment it all the time. I definitely recommend. The guys are so nice in there. The owner even got along well with my mother (rip) which is why I'll go back. Good vibes.

Nate is very professional and a great artist would recommend 10/10!…read moreKevin is very attentive and kind!

Silver Needle Studios

4.2

(129 reviews)

I went in for a tattoo appointment, and during my first visit, everything was very clear --…read morepricing, communication, and expectations were all straightforward I was told I would be given a fair deal with fair pricing . However, my second visit was a completely different experience. As a mixed woman, I felt extremely uncomfortable with the casual and repeated use of the N-word in the shop. The way it was used -- playfully and loosely -- made the environment feel highly unprofessional. That word should never be used in a professional setting, and it was especially unsettling because it was being used casually by the Mexican artists in the shop. It's not about being overly sensitive; it's about basic respect and professionalism. I worked with Bryan, who I initially thought was nice, but I ended up feeling taken advantage of. He spoke in a very manipulative, mansplaining tone, as if I didn't know how tattoo pricing works -- even though I've had multiple tattoos done before and have never been treated that way. On top of that, the environment was chaotic: the music was so loud you could literally feel the floor shaking from the bass, conversations among staff were often inappropriate, and there were constant cigarette breaks that delayed the process and made it hard to focus. I honestly think that's part of why it took so long for my design to even be made. While my tattoo itself turned out nice, the overall experience was uncomfortable, unprofessional, and not something I'd ever want to repeat. I would never recommend this shop to anyone -- professionalism, respect, and boundaries should be a standard in any tattoo environment, and unfortunately, this place missed the mark completely.DONT GO HERE!!

Jacky is amazing! @jacky_moreno_ I truly love her work and am beyond satisfied! This is the first…read moreactual professional piece that I've gotten done and you can really tell the difference. Her skill level is high for such a young artist. The quality of her work is just great, I am so happy. They often have flash specials for certain holidays and Friday the 13th. I have received tattoos from a couple different artists during these events, but my most recent artist @ceaztattoos was also amazing. His line work was great and his flash book has lots of nice pieces. I would definitely go back to him for some bigger work.

Diablo Ink Tattoo

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my friend recommended this place for piercing and honestly could not recommend it more!! The prices…read moreare so reasonable, the quality is great, AND when my piercing started swelling becuase of the way I slept Ricky Lee helped me fix it so easily. Highly highly recommend all 6 people in my friend group have gotten a piercing here and have also had wonderful experiences!!!

Hands down, a fantastic and professional experience from the initial phone call to walking out…read moreafter my son's first tattoo. I had been feeling frustrated after being flaked on for several consults, so I gave up on trying to go through someone I knew or a recommendation. I called Diablo shortly after they opened and was told we could come in the same day. My son was able to tour the shop, meet some artists, and have real conversations about his idea for his first piece. We met with Ricky Lee, the owner, and ended up booking with him before we even left. He was honest, knowledgeable, and the overall vibe was just right. 10/10 recommend! The piece is beautiful. I think I even found my new shop.

KeAloha Designs

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