True artists. If you walked into Bearcat in 1503, Leonardo da Vinci would no doubt be working here. I'm hooked now and can't imagine going to any other tattoo place. Great vibe, clean, safe, friendly. Expect to wait a bit for some time on their calandar. They are popular. read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - African Sparrow. I came in with the idea and Sierra Colt did the rest. - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

This review is for Nathan A. -- he pressured/bullied me to get something in a size I didn't want, because it was more convenient for him-- pretty much did what HE wanted. Had no regard for what I wanted, even though it is my body. Do not go to an artist like this!! I will forever regret not walking away and permanently having his ugly tattoo on my arm. Plus he showed up super late, (we had a morning appointment, I showed up on time and waited outside the locked studio), with no apology of course, and had a dickhead a**hole attitude, making snide comments with his coworker the whole time. Biggest regret getting a tattoo from this rude loser. 0/10 do not recommend. read more

I'm disappointed more and more every day with my tattoo by Mike from bearcat tattoo. I showed up to this shop with an exact idea in mind and my artist was difficult to work with. He shot down my design and placement idea and kept suggesting different things that were not aligned with my vision. I was unfortunately persuaded by Mike and I'm so disappointed with the end result. Should have stuck to my gut. Now I'm stuck with this piece forever because this guy essentially pushed me into a direction I didn't want want to go. 0/10 would not recommend to anyone. Also, this guy charges you from the second you walk in the shop - I provided the entire tattoo inspo and design and he went with what he thought was cool and pushed me. Unfortunately I trusted him. Last time walk into this shop read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

I`ve finally, FINALLY found an artist in San Diego that I can confidently say I will be going to as long as I`m here. I moved here from Las Vegas a couple of years ago and had an amazing artist there, but have been wanting someone local so I didn`t have to travel. I tried another shop and the experience was good, but Bearcat Tattoo blows that experience out of the water. I happened upon Bearcat tattoo's listing on Yelp and I was surprised I had never seen their Yelp page before. I was intrigued by the name and their high ratings, so I bookmarked their listing for a while, trying to figure out how to tackle a cover-up/revamp project and feeling overwhelmed picking a shop to do it correctly. One day I decided to e-mail the shop and request a consult with Sierra, whose style and skill best matched what I needed based on his portfolio. The consult went well and not only did I find Sierra to be laid back and friendly, he also seemed enthusiastic about the challenge that I presented to him. He took the time to talk to me, discuss some ideas, draw on my arm a bit, take some photos. I don`t recall ever having that type of engaging consultation before at a tattoo shop. At the end of the consult, I decided to leave a deposit. Sierra does require a $400 deposit, which I already knew. That goes towards the tattoo, prep/drawing time and rolls over to each appointment. I booked in a total of 4 appointments for now to see how far we can get. My first appointment was yesterday and I arrived on time and Sierra was there, bright and early(we agreed on a 9 a.m. appointment, which is amazing since I love early appointments). I filled out the standard release/medical info forms and then he got to mapping out how he would approach the start of the tattoo process. He applied some stencil that was printed, but also drew around that, changes up some items, thoughtfully curated the parts so that the composition made sense. I feel very confident about this tattoo journey with Sierra. I struggle with some anxiety and each time I get tattooed, I get nervous, but I don`t feel an overwhelming sense of fight or flight while I am at this shop. The vibe is good(is that what the kids are saying these days?). The appointment went well. Sierra really buckles down and gets as much work done as possible within the appointment time, which I really appreciate because I am willing to push my body and complete a long sitting in the interest of progressing the project. Sierra is great to talk to and is very easy going. I prefer to listen to headphones to help my mind deal with the physical trauma of getting tattooed and he was totally cool with me putting my earbuds in. Overall a really fantastic experience so far and I look forward to updating my review as I move further along with my tattoo. Absolutely recommend Bearcat Tattoo if you're looking for quality art in a friendly and supportive environment. read more

Isaac did an amazing job on my GSD! The shop is clean & comfortable! I was in CA from the Philly area & was so happy Isaac completed my tattoo in one sitting. He took his time & I could not have found a better artist to bring my shepherd to life on my skin! Stunning piece! read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Tattoo German Shepherd Dog - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

Great shop, atmosphere and people. Nate Anderson is a true master of his craft, a magician with photo realism. Chill, easy to work with, accommodating and more. Came in on a Sunday when he normally doesn't because I was in from out of town only for the weekend, and absolutely knocked my pet portrait out of the park. My friends and family, who didn't understand why I was doing this, all have their jaws dropped and tongues bit. This piece was worth every penny and I plan on seeing Nate for another project when I'm in town again next year around this time. read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - By Nate Anderson - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

I came in with an idea and came out with a great result. The master listened carefully, gave me several options, and together we found the best solution. The salon is clean, the atmosphere is calm, and everything is done without haste. The prices were a pleasant surprise. A small minus is that I had to wait a little longer than I expected, but it was worth it. Maybe when I have the courage to add a photo =) read more

I got a tattoo from Marty on Dec 31st 2024, and I have another one planned for June 19th of this year. He is an amazing artist. He was very honest and informative in his pricing and design changes. He gave me three options to choose from and did not push in any way. I cannot wait to sit for my next piece by him. read more

My artist was Nate Anderson. The guy does really good work. I'll put in the two pieces he did for me. People always ask where I got the work done and Bearcat Tattoo is the place to go. Everyone there is nice. You'll feel welcome always. Nate. Looking to get more work done. What's your calendar availability looking like? I'll stop by soon. read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

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Extremely lucky to have found this place! After doing a ton of research because I moved here from NH, I needed to find a good place that truly works with its clients. Bearcat has such a cool vibe and the people there are all very professional and laid back. Sierra did amazing job on my Koi and the whole experience exceeded my expectations. This place sets the bar high and that fact that every artist there has such a good portfolio speaks volumes on how Bearcat likes to operate. I get compliments on my piece almost everyday when I'm out and about. Do yourself a favor and check this place out if you're reading this. read more

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it took me a while to find Bearcat Tattoo, since San Diego CA has too many good tattoo places! I was looking for a Military theme tattoo and Isaac Aguila from Bearcat tattoo was the right person for this tattoo. Isaac and Bearcat tattoo staff made me feel welcome. the place was very clean and professional. at the end I got my right arm sleeve and I will always highly recommend Bearcat tattoo to Family and friends. Thank you Bearcat Tattoo. read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

Marty Boe is my guy! He is an incredible artist and has always been able to draw up exactly what I have wanted, even when I don't entirely know what I want. His flash is also rad as hell, highly recommend taking a look at his wall. Every session is like catching up with an old friend. I have never once felt uncomfortable with Marty as my artist, he is respectful and profesional. I refer him and the shop to everyone I know! Literally everyone. The shop is super clean and decorated with amazing art and a super cool little merch corner. Every artist I've talked to at Bearcat has been friendly. I'm a big fan and will continue to get all my tattoos done here. read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

My artist was Bruce. He did a great job in communicating during the entire process and gave me advice on location and orientation The session was about 2 hours. His color work is great! read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Taken right after completing at the shop - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

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I am in love with my new tattoo!!! This place has the best vibe!! Bruce Becerra is an absolutely amazing artist!! I get so many compliments on all my tattoos done by him. I highly recommend him. This is an overall top notch place to get your artwork!! read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

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I have been going to Isaac since I was 18 years old. He is the only artist I will allow to tattoo me because he is incredibly talented! My husband got his first tattoo from here as well from Isaac and it came out perfect! He really does blow us away with his talent. He takes a vision and makes it a reality. Highly recommend Isaac and this Tattoo shop. We are itching to get back in for new work to be done! read more

Got a piece done from Nathan at Bearcat tattoo and man everytime I look at it I smile the experience he provided was second to none super cool artist and very professional. The shop itself is worth going to just stop by and look at the artwork that's for show or available for purchase can't wait to go back for more read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

I had been searching for seven years for the perfect tattoo artist to do a realistic floral sleeve, and finally found Nate! He continues to blow my mind with his talent. I got my first rose in February of this year, then a Hawaiian fern, and another rose this week. He is extremely professional and easy to talk to during our long 6+ hour sessions. I love throwing out ideas and letting him do his work. I thoroughly trust his talent to make the perfect sketch, size and position on my body. I cannot wait to finish my sleeve and move on to the many projects I have in mind. If you're looking for a realism artist, look no further, cuz Nate is your man! read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Nate Anderson is the shit!!!! - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

Highly highly recommend this shop. Everyone is so professional and talented. I go to Jeff Walker and was matched up with him by the owner Sierra Colt based on the style of tattoo in my reference pictures. Jeff is fantastic. All of his artwork is beautiful and he takes extra care in developing a custom design just for you. Jeff will tell you what will look great in a tattoo and make sure it's an exceptional piece every time. Jeff makes you feel at ease throughout the process. I have two full sleeves and one large calf piece all done by Jeff. Every artist in the shop is super friendly. When you are there for hours at a time, it's so nice to have a relaxing atmosphere! I wouldn't go anywhere else~ read more

Great people. The artistry belongs in a museum as well as on a person. If one is interested in an original tatoo done with care and originality this is the place. read more

After much online research, I knew Nate Anderson was the artist I wanted for my next tattoo. I had an old rose tattoo that I picked off the flash on the walls when I was 18, my first tattoo, that I wanted upgraded to a large photo-realistic red rose. In fact, I traveled cross-country from Virginia to have Nate do my tattoo, and he absolutely exceeded my expectations, and I could not be happier with how it turned out. The studio itself is very cool, more art gallery than anything else, but with a comfortable, inviting vibe. It's a busy place but doesn't feel rushed or hectic. The artists all seem to genuinely like each other and enjoy working there, which definitely creates a nice atmosphere for the tattoo-ee. I found Nate to be very professional, a good listener (very important in somebody about to tattoo you!), and obviously a very talented artist. Cynthia, the receptionist/errand-runner/technician, kept the guys watered and fed, set up their areas for tattooing, greeted customers in the shop, answered the phone, and made sure to ask me if I needed anything, all with a smile. In the six hours I was there, I think I saw her sit down for about 30 seconds total! Long story short, I had a fantastic experience here. If you're thinking of getting tattooed here, I encourage you to check out the Bearcat website and the artists' social media accounts to get a good idea of their style. And thank you to Nate for getting me all done in one day (consult + tattoo so I didn't have to make two trips). P.S. Make sure to pick up some Hustle Butter on your way out! My tattoo is healing beautifully, and this stuff is vegan and petrolatum-free. read more

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Not sure what I can say that hasn't already been said, so I'll just share my experience. My artist: Isaac Aquila I sent in my request for a consult, and received a response within a few days. They guarantee contacting you within a week. With the response, was also a consult appointment setup. Day of consult: I showed up and was prepared to discuss what I wanted. Isaac had an iPad with some cool app that he uses, and was able to get the drawing done before I went home. I felt like one of those women on "say yes to the dress." I loved what he had come up with, and then scheduled my tattoo sessions. My first session was a little over 8 weeks after the consult, and my second session was 3 weeks after that. 1st session: I showed up on time, and followed the "before you show up for your first session" tips that they email you. I am the type of person that notices everything, and everything was perfect. From cleanliness, to artist preparation (not just my artist but all of them), to the home like feeling. Couldn't have been more comfortable. The owner bought me a Coca Cola because he just wanted to. I love Coca Cola by the way. 2nd session: I already knew what to expect, and was super excited to see the final product. Of course everything went well, and I brought in some monsters for all the artists this time because of how appreciated I felt as a customer from my first session. FYI: they love coffee and monster. Needless to say, it was well worth it. Isaac and I never ran out of conversation material, as if we were life long friends. You can tell that the culture at Bearcat is amazing. Everyone does their best everyday. Can't wait to get some more work done. Hopefully Isaac can fit me in his schedule. read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - End of first session - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

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Bearcat is clean, professional, and a comfortable place to get work done. A+ But my review is for Nathan Anderson- Nate is hands down the only person I'll work with in San Diego. He is a well known, highly respected local artist, and well worth the wait! After presenting him with my tattoo idea, not only did he make it vividly come to fruition, he improved on my initial idea. Nate is an exceptional artist, a genuine person, and enjoyable to be around. I'd say go see him, but I don't want the wait for my next tattoo be any longer :) read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

These guys deserve even more than 5 stars! The shop is immaculate and decorated with paintings done by their artists. When I come in, I'm always greeted right away by either one of the artists or someone working the front desk. My tattoo was done by Isaac, who is amazing. I came in for a short consult and told him I was looking for a tree frog and he could do whatever he wanted. The deposit was for 1 hr of work and you use it toward your tattoo cost. We exchanged a couple of emails tinkering with the design a little. When I came in to start, I absolutely loved what he had drawn. It was my first tattoo and I learned some important lessons. First, I shouldn't watch :O I was really tense watching and got light headed after about 2 minutes. Everyone in the shop was so nice to my pansy self. They got me a juice box and some water and some candies. I was much better once I stopped watching ;) Second lesson was eat a serious breakfast. They told me to eat, which I did, but it was a relatively small breakfast. The second time was much better when I had a hearty breakfast with lots of protein. The artists here are all awesome. I got to see a lot of different stuff they were working on while I was in the chair. Whenever they made a run for coffee or food, they always offered to pick something up for me too! If you're a first timer like me, I'd really highly recommend this shop! If you're an old pro, I assume you already know these guys rule. read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

Got a fantastic tattoo from Marty. The studio is clean and chill, Marty is an amazing artist and the most skilled tattooer I have been to. Still my favorite tattoo, can't wait to go back read more

The artists and the other staff members make you feel comfortable immediately and do the BEST work in San Diego, no matter what your style is. I get dropped regularly to get asked where I got my work and who did it!! read more

I saved up enough money and was finally ready to get my first tattoo last summer. I was talking tattoo ideas with a buddy of mine and he recommended I hit up Tyler at Bearcat. I'm still so glad I chose Bearcat. The professional, yet super laid back chill vibe you get at the shop is relaxing. The shop is super clean, and covered in wall art work done by some of the artists. Everyone in there is super talented. Tyler kills it with dark/horror esq black & grey tattoos so I knew he'd be perfect for it. (My profile picture was taken at Bearcat) My session was long, but Tyler and the rest of the crew make you feel welcome. They offer you food and drinks which is cool, especially since one of my sessions went 8+ hours. I love the way my tattoo came out and Bearcat will definitely be the place I go for my second tattoo. They took care of me, and rested all my nerves which was super important to me because this was my first tattoo. I'd like to add in how I thought it was the coolest thing that Bearcat threw a customer appreciation party. They were serving beer and tacos, everyone just sat around talking tattoos, and people had a good time. It was really cool and I can't wait to come back. If you want an overall great experience, especially if it's your first time getting tatted, do it right and hit up Bearcat. read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Done by Tyler - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

Sierra met with me to go over a coverup idea. I lucked out going to this artist, because he patiently listened, expertly crafted and presented me with his reflection of what I described, and helped me understand my options. We ended up designing something that is ten times more badass than the idea I walked in with! Its obvious that Sierra values his clients and takes pride in his work and beautiful gallery shop. Unlike some other artists I've worked with, Sierra was friendly and supportive, and made me feel welcome. I will be working with him and some other artists at his shop as well. I highly recommend Bearcat! read more

Marty Boe was outstanding.He was very professional and fit us in with little notice.His work is top notch and very knowledgeable and terrific personalit. read more

This review is for Nate, after looking online for an artist who truly knew exactly what they were doing, I knew I wanted him to do my first tattoo! At first it was supposed to be a tiger but due to some changes in my budget I decided to just do a rose, and let me tell you.. the DETAIL is beautiful and he did it in one hour! It's really beautiful and healed fast! Definitely will do a tiger in my other arm with him for my next one! read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Rose tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

I am beyond happy with my first tattoo thanks to Jeff Walker! I did months of research and I am extremely happy I chose bearcat. The staff is friendly. The environment is relaxed and homey ( which I loved ). I felt comfortable and welcomed. The shop is extremely clean and the front desk gal (I didn't get her name unfortunately) is very kind and does her job very well! Everything was timely I didn't feel rushed or felt like I had to wait forever. I explained my idea to jeff and he executed it flawlessly. I cannot wait to go back for my next piece!!! read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

Marty Boe is the man! I think everyone at this shop has good vibes and takes pride in their work. Really cool tattoo shop with nice art hanging on the walls. read more

I started seeing Chad in early fall to help me cover up an unflattering dark tattoo that was half lasered off. Not only did he cover it up but he gave me a tattoo I love with keeping my original tattoo concept in mind (a girly lace tattoo). *Everyone that works here is very talented but I recommend everyone to Chad, his cover up skills are unbelievable! read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Original tattoo (not done by Chad)* after laser removal* fully covered by Chad. - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

Best tattoo shop in San Diego in my opinion. All the guys are amazing artists and very professional. Nate has been doing my tattoos for years and I'm beyond happy with the work he does. So detailed and clean! The shop is also extremely clean, which to me.. Is very important in a tattoo shop. I have referred many of my friends here and they've all loved the work they had done as well. read more

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Stop looking for any other tattoo shop and just go to Bearcat!!! The staff is amazing...they are all so friendly and make you feel comfortable which is so important. The shop is nice & clean and they have gorgeous pieces of their own art all over the place. Every piece that I have seen come out of this shop is nothing less than stunning. Do yourself a favor and check out their Instagram....there are some great pics and you can see the quality of the work they are producing. I'm currently working with Nate Anderson on a cover-up / soon to be half sleeve and I am still in awe of what he has done so far. Not only is he extremely talented but he's also a really nice guy and that's important (to me at least!!) when you are hanging out with him for a couple of hours in his chair :) check out his work and definitely go see him! read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Cover up work by Nate Anderson. Work in progress. - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

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I got this piece done back at a tattoo convention ,musink, in 2018 just finding the yelp page I felt they deserved a great review even if it's late! This is by Matt hienz and i fell in love with it right off the bat. I plan to go to him for all my future pieces! The entire crew is very professional and makes you feel comfortable! Can't wait to make a appointment for my next piece and actually see their studio! I recommend this place to everyone read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Potion Done by Matt Heinz - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

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Tattoo from Nate: 4 for tattoo execution, 1 for experience. He was friendly enough when I went for the consultation (asking what you want, picking a date, and taking the deposit... It's all done very quickly while standing at the counter). However, day-of was a different story. His attitude was very unprofessional, many would say 'assholeish'. The session left a very bad taste in my mouth. If having a friendly and respectful artist is important to you I would not go to him. If you only care about the work itself I won't deny he did a good job. Though, I'm sure there are other artists in San Diego who are very talented and don't make you feel so uncomfortable during the session. UPDATE 11/16: The shop owner immediately contacted me, and I believe genuinely cares about how his shop is run. I would like to add that every other aspect of Bearcat was welcoming and professional. The other employees were friendly, and the shop was in pristine condition. I think there are a lot of good people there who conduct themselves professionally, though unfortunately that was not my experience with my artist. read more

I'm currently getting my knee tattooed as I am writing this Yelp review. Feet propped up, chair reclined, endorphins kicked in, I'm in heaven. All of the artists at Bearcat are a super talented, amiable bunch. Seriously just do yourself a favor and go walk into the shop, (it feels like home!) meet the fine folks, see the amazing arts, and book yourself an appointment because they go fast. All of the artists are great, but Chad is my dude. He's tattooed an elephant coverup (duh) on my leg, as well as a mermaid on my shin, and he just now drew up this succulent, freehand with markers, on my knee. That was a first for me and super awesome to watch. I've been to their annual Pig and Pig event twice, so I do have two little piggy tattoos that will forever remind me of all of the free food, free drinks, and free fun that was had in Bearcat's backyard. Also, Matt has tattooed me twice on two different Friday 13ths. Before I found Bearcat, I had 5 different tattoos done by 5 different artists from 5 different shops. Then I struck tattoo gold. I will never need to go to another shop. And i will never need to get another cover up. :) read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Freehand markers by chad - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

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all I have to say is AMAZING! For my 30th birthday all I wanted was a tattoo, I knew exactly what I wanted. I went to a couple places but I didn't like anyone's work and no one was giving me what I wanted until I came here. Hoss is one incredible artisit, he's honest, patient, and extremely down to earth. I was nervous as hell, he was extremely patient with me. My first appointment ws 4 hours and my follow up with the color and shading 2 weeks later was 9 in half hours. But everything was worth the wait! He gave me a tattoo, that litterly brought me to tears when seeing the finishing project. I cannot be more thankful and blessed to have a beautiful peice of art on me for the rest of my life. Thank you so much again Hoss, you are truly talented. read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - amazing! - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

I had done a ton of research for an artist and found Bearcat. I had Nate as my artist and I am beyond impressed. He made sure it was exactly what I wanted and really helped with making sure the placement looked good. Nate made sure all my questions were answered and was encouraging the whole way. Everyone is the shop was super helpful, it was very clean and an overall great professional environment. read more

Bearcat Tattoo Gallery - Rose - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

Today was my first time getting tattooed at Bearcat. Matt helped me out with a coverup and was super pro/accommodating with the last minute changes I wanted to make. All the other guys in the shop were friendly and the shop itself is incredible. If you're looking for new spot to get tattooed, I can't recommend this place enough. I will absolutely be back. Thanks again Matt & the rest of the Bearcat team! read more