After searching for the perfect artist for my project, I was able to get an appointment with Maddy who was AMAZING and did not disappoint. She took my vision and ideas and turned them into a beautiful piece of artwork. I've had a lot of flaky artists who can't keep an appointment or return a text, and Island Tat exceeded expectations with communications and scheduling. Even the other artists were super friendly and interested in what I had and what I wanted. Would 100% recommend. P.S. This might seem like a small thing, but she freehanded two small parallel lines that were SO perfect and SO straight that I asked her to keep them as is and not fill them in. read more

Had an amazing session with Maddy. Love the time and thought she put in to create my piece. The whole experience was therapeutic for me. Highly recommend her. Beautiful work. read more

Islandtat Evolve - Tribute to My bestie - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

Nice job Pali. Patience is a virtue. A still hand is a creative tool. The meticulous handiwork is superb and far superior to many that ever learned the art of Tatua read more

I searched and searched for a place that respected the tradition of Polynesian tattoos, and am so happy that I found Island Tat! Maddy and I talked and she was able translate my family background, struggles, outlooks and more into a piece of ART on my arm. I had a small, old tattoo to cover up and another to work around, and Maddy was able to create a design that not only covered them up, but perfectly tells my story. If you want a real Polynesian done the right way with meaning, please go see Maddy and the Island Tat team! Can't wait to come back for my leg one day too. read more

Islandtat Evolve - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

Everything about Island TAT from the talented team, to the lovely decorated shop, to the amazing tattooing, to the positive vibes and energy is the BEST! Josh took the time to get to know me first and freehanded a design on my arm including the unique elements that mean something to me that represented my story. He beautifully orchestrated the most lovely design and every time I look at my tattoo I'm moved and smile. Forever thankful that my path crossed with Josh and Island TAT. read more

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Owners were amazing I highly recommend this place to get your work done. Very clean and very nice to be around this family owned business. Please support them you won't regret it. read more

I wanted to thank Maddy for the awesome work. Thank you for the IslandTat team for being so welcoming. read more

Islandtat Evolve - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

My tattoo experience with Josh was EXCELLENT! First of all Josh is very caring and wants to provide the best experience. Josh provided: 1. Strong Engagement/Customer Service 2. High level of professionalism 3. High Level of knowledge. 4. Clear Communication Overall-I would strongly recommend Josh as your Tattoist! read more

Islandtat Evolve - The tattoo I was given by Josh - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

Want to thank Tanner for the great work! Explained everything and took his time and very accommodating! Thanks Island Tat team! read more

So happy with the entire process here. Emailed the booking manager and was promptly replied to with more than enough info so it wasn't too much back and forth. Once told the artists availability for the ones I had requested I was added to the waitlist and put on the schedule. I emailed a few reference pictures for what I wanted using artist pics from island tat and just a few I found that were similar placement to what i was looking for. The day of my appointment the location was easy to find. Walking in the lobby was so cute, there was different Polynesian art and things that represented the islands. Reggae music was playing not too loud but at a good volume. The decor was cute and clean/simple yet comfortable. My artist was maddy and she came out immediately and got me set up for paperwork and brought me back as soon as I was don't to talk about what I wanted. (Consultation is same day) we discussed why I was there and what I was looking for and discussed my family and more background to my tattoo. It came out better than what I was picturing in my head which is amazing. She was able to interpret my Filipina side as well as my Samoan side with the tribal which is exactly what I was looking for. She was understanding when I was struggling during the session as I haven't ever gotten a big piece like this so it was very reassuring that she wasn't getting annoyed or upset at how I wasn't enjoying the actual tattooing part lol. It was "quick" for how big the piece was and how short the consultation was. Will definitely be recommending this tattoo shop and maddy to anyone who asks about it!! read more

Islandtat Evolve - Final outcome!:) very happy with how maddy interpreted my request for my first tribal tattoo. - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Got a tribal forearm piece from this place yesterday and difinately went above all my expectations from the initial visit, scheduling, price estimate, tattoo artist preference, design, and tattoo execution. The staff there was was very professional and friendly and helped answer all my questions on the tribal piece I was interested in getting. My tattoo artist I chose was an apprentice (Tanner) who was very passionate about his work and specifically designed my piece with meanings to my life and did an incredible job. I difinately recommend this place to anyone seeking tribal tattoo designs. I will difinately come back! Thank you Islandtat Evolve and specifically thank you again very much Tanner for the outstanding work you did. read more

I could not have had a better experience at Island Tat. Maddy helped me create a perfect thigh piece that complimented an already existing tattoo,. The shop is clean and beautiful and Maddy is a true artist with a steady hand and kind heart. read more

I would 100% recommend to anyone who is trying to get a tribal tattoo. I got tatted by tanner and he was amazing! I would definitely book with him again, he definitely took his time and put a lot of effort into my piece. Great vibes all around in the shop and everyone I met was super friendly! read more

You have to go to this Place. The place is so clean, everyone there is so polite, genuine, and with state-of-the-art equipment. My artist was MADDY. She is amazing and so patient. In the beginning, she took the time to know who I am and what I wanted in a tattoo. During the consultation part, she asked about my heritage, kids, my wife, what I do for a living, etc. Unknowingly, the answers I was providing her, she was thinking on what she was going to draw on my forearm. MADDY is so focus on her work, I can see she loves what she does. She is an experience artist, she put so much detail on my forearm, I am very impressed. This is my first tattoo, and I am showing it off to everyone and I am getting plenty of compliments everywhere I go. MADDY THANK YOU SO MUCH I can't wait to get another piece of art from you. I came prepared for a good sitting/laying, I brought my headsets, downloaded a few movies in Netlfix and ready to get tattooed. read more

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Josh is extremely talented and took time to design a meaningful authentic tattoo. I love my sleeve and get so many compliments on it.

I've gone to Islandtat Evolve twice and they never disappoint! The process was pretty easy, just fill out the request form, add some reference photos of what you'd like, and schedule an appointment! Once you're there, explain a little what you're looking for and the artist works their magic to help your vision come to life. I personally shared the reasoning behind my first tattoo and the artist, Maddy, was happy to listen and worked to make sure my tattoo did my story justice. I've gone to Maddy twice and I absolutely love the pieces she's done for me and others as well. Both times her artwork came out beautifully. Side note: don't be afraid to be honest about what you like and don't like about the initial drawings! They want you to love your tattoo and want you to have no regrets about the design. Everything felt like a clean and safe environment, island music was always playing to set the perfect vibe to relax to, and Maddy is super sweet and easy to talk to. I also had the option to watch any of the streaming services they had a on the TV in the studio. These are my first and second tattoos ever and I don't think i'd want to go anywhere else! read more

Islandtat Evolve - Most recent add on to the wrist tattoo by Maddy (Dec 2023) - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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Solid reviews I'm having my 808 tatto touched up here. The staff that I spoke to you was very friendly, good vibe, reasonable hourly rates. read more

Islandtat Evolve - This is the tattoo I'm planning on having them touch up with fresh Ink and sharp detail. - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

My sister and I went to Island Tat in June to get matching tattoos by Kiti Tatau. This was hands down the BEST tattoo experience I've had and my favorite tattoo I have on my body. Kiti made us feel so comfortable the entire time and his work is SO CLEAN. Definitely will be coming back here in the future. read more

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This review is for Kiti at Island Tat Evolve. Kiti did an amazing job incorporating Tongan designs on our tattoos. He was able to tattoo my sister and I on the same day which we were grateful for. What's great about Kiti is he made sure we understood the meaning behind each pattern. Throughout the process, Kiti would gave breaks when needed and provided snacks to make sure we weren't feeling light headed. Kiti's station was clean. He has a tv for you to watch if you'd like. His attention to detail made our tattoos that much more special. Looking forward to doing more sessions Kiti! Malo aupito! For those that have been looking for a Tongan artist who does Polynesian/Tongan designs, we highly recommend Kiti! read more

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Had the best experience here. Kendall came up with an awesome design and it was exactly what I wanted. He explained all of the meaning and made sure I was comfortable the entire time. The shop was super clean and all of the communication leading up to the appointment was prompt. My new tattoo is healing great and I couldn't be happier. It is small, feminine, and holds meaning unique to me. If you are thinking of getting a piece done here, you should! read more

Islandtat Evolve - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

I really really enjoyed my incredible experience at Island Tat. If you're in San Diego and looking to get a piece done, Island Tat is the place to go and make sure to see Maddy!! Upon walking in, I was struck by the cleanliness of the studio and also as to how welcoming the space is. With reggae music playing in the background, the Polynesian displays, and the friendly staff, it gives it a beautiful natural warmth to the studio. My vision for my tattoo was to incorporate two cultures, and that being Polynesian and Taino. Not only did Maddy incorporate my ideas and inspirations, but she also added original elements to make it a genuine piece of art and story. Maddy's creativity, and meticulous skills are off the charts!! My tattoo tells a beautiful story, and art that comes to you naturally. My tattoo is really beyond words and the experience was soulful. Mahalo!! Gracias!! read more

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Artist - Josh I live 3 hours away from San Diego, but the drive was well worth the work these guys do. I found Island Tat Evolve in November after stumbling on their podcast "TATtalk" after doing some tattoo research. I saw Josh on this and after watching more, and seeing him being a great tattoo artist himself, as well as from the Big Island (where my family comes from), I knew this was the artist I wanted to go to. I walked into the appointment not being exactly sure what I wanted at all, and Josh helped me bring my ideas to life, and visualized exactly what I wanted. The process was smooth, professional, and comfortable all throughout and the final product could not have been any better. If you are looking for top-tier work and top-tier customer service, this is the place. read more

Islandtat Evolve - Thank you to Josh for making this awesome piece that represents myself and the lineage I come from - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

Will definitely be coming back for more at Island Tat. They were super communicative from the moment I booked, which was months before the actual appointment and going forward they always got back to me in a timely manner if I had any questions. Kiti is an amazing artist who cares about educating you on the the meaning behind every symbol that you're looking to get which is super important and something not a lot of artists do. Super blessed to be able to get tattooed by him. read more

Islandtat Evolve - Photos were taken by Kiti - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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I got my first major tattoo from this amazing place. The vibes were so relaxing, and everyone in the shop is extremely hospitable. The shop was a 10/10 in cleanliness, the museum outside was top notch, and the decor fit the island vibe so well. I sang the whole playlist while I was getting worked on, since it was all island reggae which I love. Kendall did my tattoo, and the minute I was in there he got to know a little bit about me, and it didn't take long for him to come up with a beautiful piece to explain my story. He knew exactly how to place my tat to flow with my natural curvature of my body, and freehanded my design with ease. He finished this piece in one sitting. He paid close attention to my body language, and ensured I was always comfortable, and it was astonishing how efficient he was, once he put the needle to my leg. He only took 4 hours to complete this masterpiece. I will definitely be back to have him finish the rest of my leg. Kendall was very pleasant to chat with, and he has a lot of cool life experiences that brought him into this shop. If you're not into good conversation with your tattoo artist, they have lots of things around like snacks, TV, chargers for your phones, water, extra masks, and merchandise. I had to get one of the hoodies from here, it was definitely an important time in my life to always remember. Thank you Kendall and Islandtat, I look forward to working with you guys again soon! read more

Islandtat Evolve - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

I recently lost my sister to cancer and wanted to get a tattoo to remember her forever by. She had a tattoo of two feathers on her neck and I decided to get the two feathers combined on my arm. I wanted to get it by the same artist so i reached out to Josh here at Island Tat. He remembered my sister and was saddened by what happened. He told me he was booked out for months and wasn't taking any new clients, but would find a time to get me in as he remembered my sister. About a week went by and he reached out to me and he had an opening. I truly appreciate that Josh made the time for me. I love this tattoo so much. Josh is a great person and an amazing artist would absolutely recommend him. read more

Islandtat Evolve - Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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I'm going to try to give as much detail as possible in this review because it was the best experience I have ever had. Ill strat by saying I went to him because he did a huge chest piece on my husband over 10 years ago that I love and he gets so many compliments on. It still looks so great too! I got my tattoo in March by Josh. I had an idea of what I wanted but didn't know how to tie it all together. The day of my appointment, I sat down with Josh and I was met with a chill, calm demeanor and he then took his time getting to know my story, who I am, why I want this tattoo and what is important to me. I loved that part of the consultation so much because it was then that I knew he was going to come up with something unique, not just a copy/paste tattoo. Then placement was really important to me, so he took his time and listened to what I wanted and found the perfect spot. He was very professional throughout the entire process and made sure I was as comfortable as possible. I was under the needle for a total of about 4.5 hours straight but that was my choice. At the end I was left with a beautiful piece of art that I get to keep forever. I am so grateful for the gift Josh as and hope to get more work from him in the future. read more

Islandtat Evolve - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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If I can give 10 stars I would. Josh and his team are beyond AMAAAAZING!! I am soo in live with my piece. It's actually my 2nd one by Josh. I was soo happy to hear back from Rosette and him to get me in when they did. Mahalos for such a gorgeous piece to add to my collection! read more

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If you are looking to get a Polynesian style tattoo, stop looking this is the place. You can feel the culture and history as you walk in. Josh was my artist, we sat down for about 30 minutes to talk about what I wanted, who I am, and what I value. From there Josh took my story and turned it into a masterpiece. Josh explained the meaning of each symbol and how it relates me. This is by far the best tattoo experience I've ever had. read more

Islandtat Evolve - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

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I just recently got work done from an artist here, Keaka is his name. I'm super stoked and satisfied with the artwork he tattooed on me. I gave him my ideas as to what I wanted and he freehanded all of it and it looks great. Super friendly crew and really makes you feel at home. I was accommodated with in booth entertainment with nice drinks/snacks and clean bathroom right around the corner. Overall great experience and can't wait to have my follow up session. read more

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Keaka was my artist! He's super chill, easy to talk to and talented! Such a positive experience for my first tattoo, I'm so in love with my wedding ring tattoo! It's dainty, feminine, and simple, all things that fit me and my personality! Would give 100/10 stars if I could! read more

Islandtat Evolve - Wedding ring tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

I had a tattoo done at Island Tat back in 2014 and was amazed by how beautiful the remodel turned out. Very welcoming and clean spaces. This time I only wanted a small tattoo to commemorate my Mom & Dad who passed away. Kendall was great about modifying and placing the design. It totally makes me smile. read more

Islandtat Evolve - 1 Corinthians 13:13 - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

Josh After searching for 4 years in LA and Orange County, I had to broaden my search area. I finally found Island TAT Evolve. I stood back for a couple months to see what product was being produced. I was really drawn to Josh's style. Me and the wife decided to reach out and was put on a waiting list which took 8 months to be seen. But, the wait was totally worth it! The shop is really clean and well taken care of. All of the artist were professional, really chill and all had positive vibes. That's what set the shop apart from a lot of other tattoo shops I've been too. Josh sat us down and we discussed our story while he took notes. He was open to hear any requests we had. Josh then created custom pieces for my wife and I from our story. We left the shop very satisfied. Knowing that these tattoos represent us and no one else will have the same, makes our tattoos special to us and we are grateful. Mahalo Josh for the great experience to remember. We love them! We would definitely come back to Island TAT Evolve & would 100% recommend it to anyone who is looking for a one of a kind Polynesian tattoo! #godfirst read more

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Worked with Keaka, the "apprentice" who also happens to be one of the most talented artists I've ever had tattoo me. This shop is insane!!! The most client centered experience of my dozens of tattoo experiences by far. Each room is private, private AC, tv, electronic tables and everything you could ask for. Hell they even gave me chilled water and snacks!!! About Keaka. The dude is like a long lost brother to me. Very very kind, patient, and most importantly, brave enough to take on my terrifying cover tat. We worked for an hour just to come up with a design that made sense (the tattoo was kind a mess from last artist). Then we did 5.5 hours of work together. Keaka had such a light hand, and was very clean in his work. By all means, the two "apprentices" that work there could be off on their own by now. However, the owner Josh is still actively improving their skills and mentoring them. Such an awesome place. They operate like a family but still very professional. Already have my next appt. booked. read more

A list of why they are on top of their game. 1. Cleanest store I have seen and the amount of time to create such a beatiful experience is one of a kind. 2. Staff is very helpful and makes you feel welcome. 3. Each artist takes so much pride in there work. 4. Keaka has been my artist since I have been here and just want to thank him for taking the time and making my experience one of a kind. read more

Great place! Don't let the outside fool you. I got my tattoo done by Kendall. He took his time to understand what I wanted and I love the results. Very excited to get it shaded in. Make sure to book your appointments asap, because he's usually booked out for months. read more

Islandtat Evolve - Polynesian tattoo. Shoulder to half sleeve. - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

Kendall was great to work with and did an amazing job adding onto my existing half sleeve. This is my third piece from Island TAT and highly recommend for anyone looking to get work done. read more

Islandtat Evolve - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

I asked for an appointment Wednesday for the very next day and was surprised they had someone available. Came in today at 10:30 had got my piece done by Keaka. Cool guy and he slayed what I wanted. I'm very happy with his work and would definitely come back and recommend him. read more

Islandtat Evolve - Tattoo Near Me - Lemon Grove, California

4th visit update: place is still the same!!! Great service, great guys, make you feel at home... shared my stories of visiting maui and they were so humble and nice!! Joshawa is the best! Al most done with the sleeve then comes the chest Update... went for my third session and still feel the same about this place.... great guys I have no words that can truly express how I was treated and how the work came out.. First I read all the reviews, best line of communication is via their email. Ask everything you can they will answer it all. Suni answered my question and was beyond nice when I met him in person very patient man and super humble and nice... I choose joshawa for my tattoo for the reason I loved his style. This tattoo was to remember my younger sister who passed away a month ago. First it's hard to figure out where the studio is at but ask in advance how to find it. It's not a walk in studio you have to make an appointment for consultation. Don't let the exterior of the shop fool you it's very nice inside. The lobby makes you feel like you very relaxed with the music and the nice stained floors. I was lucky enough that someone canceled and I got to take their spot a few days after my consultation.. I'm from out of town so time was an issue. The tattooing area is split so you have full privacy, super clean and organized, relaxing environment and a nice touch of island feel. They give you a tablet to watch net flicks which truly helps.. I choose this shop after doing a lot of research and the reason is they specialize in modern and old school Polynesian tattoos... they ask many questions about your life before they tattoo to make sure the symbols tell a story and resembles your life... my tattoo means the world to me and it resembled a lot of who I am. Joshawa is very talented person very nice and humble beyond words.. he likes to clearly explain the process even though you have had experience before with tattoos. Very to the point and organized. I told him my story and he did an amazing job explaining each detail of the tattoo and why. His background is amazing g to here and very approachable in conversation. His art portfolio and clientele is pretty impressive. In all I'm very satisfied and my tattoo came out amazing even though it's not even done... it's missing some details. I will be traveling from a far to finish my piece and that speaks words especially when you live in Puerto Rico and Florida. I again would like to thank suni and joshawa for everything and can't wait to see you guys again. read more

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Needed an old tattoo covered and Kendall made it beautiful!! This is the second tattoo Kendall has done & so pleased. The shop spotless and definitely ohana vibe!. Mahalo Kendall see you for the next tattoo soon read more

I done my research before getting my tattoo and was glad i did. From the design to the finish everything was amazing. I travelled from OC each time I had an appointment and I'm glad I chose this shop. Maddy was my artist and I am so happy with the final piece. She is an amazing and very talented artist and done a perfect job. If your looking for that perfect tattoo and great design you should go to this place. Thank you Maddy. read more