Brandon does great work. 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. read more

Had Ariel do a hawk tattoo on me, cover an old Aquarius symbol and made it into a beautiful Bee as well as she cleaned up an old heart tattoo I had done 20 years ago that needed some loving and she is wonderful. I would highly recommend her. She's got awesome experience and nailed what I wanted. Happy client for sure. Thanks so much Ariel! read more

I love this place. I'll always come back, I've been Tattoo'd by 3/4 people who work here and I love all my tattoos. I've stuck with Ariel as she's working on my half sleeve for me and she always does exactly what I want in a kind and caring way. She always makes sure the art is perfect. The vibe is chill, it's a small shop and it's usually quiet here, they do take walk ins as well. Love this place and my new ink. read more

Black Sea Tattoo - Cash Only, ATM at 7/11 - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

See all

Do not get your tattoo done by Brandon- amazing work however rude, disrespectful and unprofessional. This would have been my second time getting tattooed by him- first was a picture of my pittie and this session was for my other pittie. I reached out to him and told him I wanted same proportion but different style than my first pittie since my pitties look similar I wanted to make sure there was a difference (different color and placement of flowers). I gave him reference pics and described what I wanted-- a bigger flower and small one, different border and color. I asked him if he can show me what his idea is since last time I was tattooed of my pittie, he has to redraw because there was miscommunication on what I wanted. So I wanted to make sure he didn't have to redraw it up and wanted to make sure it what I wanted- he replied he's draws up the morning of so he couldn't. I told him I possibly could come a bit earlier if it was more helpful to him but either way it would have been my first time seeing the drawn up tattoo, however due to previous plans I showed up on time to my appointment. The drawing was not what I wanted-- big rose at the bottom that would have went into my knee and big portioned than my other pittie tattoo piece which is what I asked not for. I asked if he could redraw it and immediately gave attitude. I told him I didn't want the tattoo proportioned bigger than my other one. Brandon drew it up again and again the flower on the bottom was too big and going into my knee. I told him I understand he was getting irritated but I wanted to make sure it what I wanted if it's going on my body and Brandon was extremely rude saying I was wasting his time and he's not going to draw up all day, and giving attitude and rude remarks. After an hour of waiting which I was fine with Brandon finally got the proportion size correct and I was happy with the drawing-- as I was ready to start my tattoo, he said I'm only going to have time for an outline today as I was never told he had a client at 2:30 and was never told that he had a client after mine and that my tattoo was not going to be finished today (last pittie tattoo I did all in a 4 hour session). And was discussed last tattoo session it was going to be the same thing. Again no communication and professionalism. I told I blocked out my schedule for hours to finish my tattoo today and had sent the deposit in advance. When I told him that was not discussed and asked him should we plan for another day, Brandon started screaming saying that he doesn't have to tell me when he has a client and blaming me for having to draw up multiple times when I told him it was his choice to draw it up the morning of and not have a consult appointment or go over the drawing of tattoo. I also told him I could've came in on another day to go over the drawing and he said "he doesn't like people over his shoulder while he draws" and likes to drawing the morning of appointment, which again is unprofessional if he does not want to redraw or make adjustments for someone using their hardworking money to get a tattoo done. I was highly upset and told him I don't get why he's upset about make adjustments to a permanent tattoo and one that means a lot to me. I told him I understand it's frustrating redrawing but I also told him in advance to prevent the situation from happening. Brandon proceeded to scream and say he was refusing my services and to get out of he was going to call the cops. While he was screaming I took out my phone to record because I have never had a tattoo experience like this. I could only imagine how many people he has tattooed that was afraid to speak up about not like the drawing or wanting adjustments when he takes it as a personal attack on his work. Brandon made comments saying he was the owner of the shop and he could do whatever the fuck he wanted. This is just to inform anyone planning on getting a tattoo from Brandon from Black Sea Tattoos-- his work is amazing, however how he treats others is not okay. I have a lot of ink work done and appreciate all the artists who take the time to provide good work to their clients, however speaking on what you want is important when you are permanently getting ink done and paying for the services and communication is also important. With that being said, I would never go back to Black Sea Tattoos and would never recommend someone going there to get tattooed. I was left being screamed out, disappointment, belittled and extremely upset by the experience. Be a better person Brandon. Sincerely, A loss of a client, Kels read more

Black Sea Tattoo - According to him, Brandon only does drawings the morning of the tattoo appointment - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

See all

I got most of my tattoos from a guy named Earl always does the best tattoos ink always comes out amazing.Very good I recommend going to Earl really good artist getting my tattoos from him for years. Would definitely recommend the shop. read more

I've always wanted to get a tattoo here and when I finally did, the quality was superb! The owner Brandon did my piece, I communicated with him through Instagram and I just told him what I wanted. I didn't show any reference, so it was his own version and it came out amazing! I couldn't be happier. The shops vibe really gives it a genuine/ classic tattoo shop vibe. It was clean, easy access to the freeway and lots of parking. So next time you're in Walnut Creek why not stop by at Black Sea Tattoos and get a skin souvenir. read more

Black Sea Tattoo - Stencil - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

See all

I found Black Sea Tattoo scrolling Instagram at 9pm on a Friday night; yes, the algorithm worked! I gave the shop a call at 12:30pm the next day and was delighted to speak with Megan, who told me that she had openings and to come on down to the shop to discuss what I wanted. When I arrived, Megan greeted me and showed me her flash tattoo catalog. I couldn't decide between 3 designs and asked if I could merge three elements from three different designs into one tattoo. To my surprise, Megan said Yes! I picked my elements and colors and a stencil was made. 2 hours later, I have a piece that I absolutely love and a shop that I am itching to come back to. Thank you Black Sea Tattoos for taking walk-ins! Can't wait to come back for my Disney inspired flash tattoo with Brandon! read more

My first time getting a tattoo! The artist, Lyle, did a wonderful job getting exactly what I wanted. He put me at ease & was very personable. Place was comfortable and relaxing. Will definitely go back there and ask for Lyle if I get a 2nd read more

Black Sea Tattoo - Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Black Sea tattoo is the best in the business. I've been going to this place since 2016. I will never go to another shop again. Brandon the shop owner takes care of me every time! He takes ideas and brings them to life, better then I could ever imagine. Devin is also one of my favorite artists at Black Sea. If you want clean lines, amazing shading, and fun yet professional artists this is your shop. Also the compliments on my tattoos never hurt Do yourself a favor and go check them out. They take walk ins, have fun events like Friday the 13th and much much more. read more

Black Sea Tattoo - Amazing lines - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

See all

Megan was a pleasure to work with. I was recommended to go here from Zebra (where I usually go) and am happy to have been suggested to visit. I had a very clear, specific idea of what I wanted - called and came in next day to talk to an artist and chose to make an appointment with Megan (due to my availability, though it seemed like plenty of negotiable availability overall). It was quick, painless (and I'm a baby), and Megan was really sweet during the whole process - even replied to me between my initial walk-in, and appointment when I messaged her with a couple of questions. I'll admit I was a little hesitant because of the placement and my specificity, and I am pleased to say that my experience exceeded my already high expectations. I'm thrilled with the healing time and instructions, and will definitely be back! What a hidden gem of a spot, too. Be sure to bring cash! read more

One of the best places to get tattooed in the Bay Area! The artists are all wonderful and really listen to what your expectations and hopes are. Clean studio, fair prices, and good vibes! There's a wide range of talents and expertise here too, so you'll definitely be leaving with something you love. Whether it's a traditional piece or something modern, Ariel, Earl, Brandon, and Devin know exactly how to take care of you. The quality of the ink and tools they use is also worth noting, the colors on my tattoos from Black Sea are so vibrant! Pain level is minimal as these artists know exactly what they're doing, so it's definitely a great place to go if this is your first tattoo or your fiftieth. Seriously, I cannot recommend this place enough! read more

See all

Devin is not just another tattoo artist, he is a tattoo STAR, a magical visualist, someone like Picasso. His work is excellent, the material he uses is top of the line, he is very friendly and his service fee is also very reasonable for the kind art he provides. 100% recommended read more

Black Sea Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Didn't actually end up getting a tattoo here but would definitely consider coming back! Clean shop with a lot of character; definitely has really traditional American tattoo vibes (I liked the Sailor Jerry memorabilia posted on the walls!). Unfortunately, the style of tattoo I wanted just didn't really fit with any of the artists (fine line sort of deal). They were still willing to sketch out the design and talked to me about it, but ultimately they were honest and let me know that they really didn't have a small enough needle to make it look how I wanted. They were also willing to take me in as a walk-in had I gone forward, but I decided not to only because that seemed to be their recommendation. I would rather the artist be truly confident and feel as excited about the piece as myself, and I knew that wasn't the case here. No big deal. It's on me to research the shop and the artist's work ahead of time and I didn't do that. Had a spontaneous idea and a sudden urge to add more tattoos to the collection. I also really appreciated that Ariel (I think that was her name!) stopped what she was doing just to give me the information of someone who might be a better fit for what I want. She explained to me what needs to be done in order to get that design. She was very nice and if I do come back to this shop in the future, I would go to her! Can't fault an artist for being honest. They could have easily lied and done the tattoo just to get business, but I felt like they were being authentic. They still took the time out of their day to discuss it. Thanks anyway, and I might see you back if I decide to do a larger piece! read more

Awesome tattoo shop. Excellent work by all of the artists. Highly recommended for all your traditional tattoo needs.

Brandon is an incredibly talented artist. Absolutely nothing to complain about regarding my experience. Great music, great guys, and an even greater tattoo. A must-go when you want something done in Walnut Creek. This guy is the real deal. I'm coming back for more. read more

Black Sea Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Let me start by saying the vibe of this place is absolutely amazing. I am always greeted whenever I walk in and the artists here are so talented. I get all my work done here and can't wait for my next one. Will always recommend this place Brandon Bear makes sure I am fully happy with the tattoo before getting it (which I always am ) and makes you feel very comfortable and enjoy your experience. Ps. I got 1st place on one of the pieces at Musink tattoo convention with one of the pieces Brandon did on me:) read more

Black Sea Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Shout out to Devin for this quick beauty! I walked in with a super casual picture on my phone and he was able to crank it out within 10 minutes. I definitely appreciated the customer service, care, and advice he provided with this tattoo! read more

Black Sea Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

I absolutely love this shop! All the artists are dope humans and really love what they do. The energy and vibes are always awesome and the work they put out is beautiful. They have a get what you get machine $100 for two spins and all the pieces are great traditional pieces. I've been tattooed by Devin multiple times he has a light hand and is always great at explaining what's happening and checks in with you. I highly recommend you don't sleep on this shop. read more

See all

Called first but did a walk in tattoo. Been waiting to get my tattoo done but didn't want to wait for an appt 2 months out at another shop. Love how it turned out! Definitely a great place to go. read more

Anxious for my first tattoo but everything went extremely well. Earl was very friendly and made sure I got exactly what I wanted/asked for. Everyone was unbelievably kind. Will be back for my second tattoo read more

Black Sea Tattoo - Side/rib flower tattoo by Earl, love it! - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Got my first tattoo at age 32! Earl was awesome! He is very easygoing and TALENTED. He did such a great job on my small tattoo even though he's more accustomed to doing larger tatts. HIGHLY recommend. I will most definitely be back for more read more

Black Sea Tattoo - It's all shiny and new but the colors are more vivid in person. - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Wasn't pleased with the work they did, or hi early, their attitude. These guys get in more fights in the parking lot than Bruce Lee walking by rival King Fu schools. read more

I honestly can't say this enough. I got my second, third, and fourth tattoo here, and by multiple of their artists. I'm happy to say I'm STILL pleased with them, even three years later. They are professional, clean, and personable. Sadly I moved away, but they are still my first choice for tattoos. If their pictures and work don't say enough, I'm not sure what will. I can't wait to get more tattoos from them. I recommend anyone here, especially Brandon! His work is the SHIT! read more

I really wanted a little traditional flower and found Black Sea here on Yelp and called on my way into Walnut Creek. Earl was awesome enough to squeeze me in. I don't have any other traditional style tattoos but really liked the look of these little flowers and he blew it away. Shop was clean and both Earl and the other girl working were super friendly. Definitely recommend him and this shop!! read more

Black Sea Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

See all

Went in to get my first Tattoo and had a great experience, even without an appointment, Devin took great care of me and overall was a great down to earth guy, highly recommend this shop for anyone looking to get a new tattoo as the experience and professionalism sells itself! read more

Black Sea Tattoo absolutely rocks. I've been getting tattooed by Brandon since 2016 and have had a ton of work done (chest, legs, arms) both original work and cover ups. His artwork is incredibly bold - thick line work, vibrant coloring and all around sexy af. I appreciate how Brandon will work with the vague ideas I come in with (just ink me dammit!) and turn them into super sick pieces that I'm proud to rep. The shop vibe is super chill and all the other artists are super chill dudes... I'd recommend any of them to someone looking for quality work. Can't say enough good things about Black Sea Tattoo; check it out if you're in the area!!! read more

Good guys fair prices and nice work. I was a walk in. They did a small piece on my forearm. It was my design and even though it was simple the artist was a pro and did nice work in a reasonable period of time for a very reasonable price. I will go back oh yeah, there is parking also. Now that is rare in WC. read more

This is one of the best parlors in the Bay Area!! I went to 8 different parlors and got 8 different tattoos before I finally found Black Seas. Now there is no where else I need to go. All the guys here are super friendly and inviting. This parlor offers a variety of tattoo styles, with artists who all excel at it, which is hard to find other places. I get compliments on a nearly daily basis for Brandon's work on my sleeve. This parlor creates an amazing environment to come into, and I recommend it to everyone I know! read more

Black Sea Tattoo - By Brandon Bear - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

See all

This is my second time getting tattooed at Black Sea and I definitely don't regret going back. Brandon tattooed me this time and was extremely friendly and easy to work with. The piece was beautifully completed and saturated with color. If anyone is interested in solid, traditional pieces, Brandon would be a great option as a tattooist. read more

I found these guys to be very friendly, personable, and accommodating. Earl did a simple black-and-white tattoo for me, communicated very well and clearly, and was just generally a good guy to interact with. He did good work. I'll definitely be back. read more

This place rocks. I worked with Ben on a quite sunny Sunday and it was the best tattoo session I have had in a long long time!! He was kind, flexible, and funny! Also an A's fan so that's always a plus! He kept saying how the shop was a mess because of some rearranging but the shop was still clean and I felt comfortable. I know Earl who also works there is talented as well, my sister has gotten a few tattoos from him. Definitely check it out!! read more

Black Sea Tattoo - My pretty lady! - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

this is the place to go when getting a tattoo. I've gotten quite a few of my own tattoos done here and I love every single one of them. everyone is so nice, accommodating, talented, and I always feel welcome when I would go. I recently moved away but definitely plan on coming back during a visit or two read more

Called in the morning to try and make an appointment but was told I wouldn't need to do that. So I let the gentlemen know what time I would be by and he said no problem. So I get there - and didn't mid waiting but none of the employees seemed like they wanted to take another appointment. Another gentlemen asked me to leave my number and he'd call me in about 1-2 hours once he finished up with another customer. Well... 3.5 hours later. No call. I thought this was handled super unprofessionally and they lost out on a customer. I went elsewhere and was taken as a walk in and got the shop owner to do a tattoo for me with no hesitation and great customer service skills and awesome ink. Unfortunately, I am writing the first bad review for these guys. But hey, you can't expect to treat people like that and not hear anything about it, especially from someone who Yelps a lot. Hopefully next time they'll be more courteous with someone they don't have time for or at least allow them to make an appointment so they can work with them. read more

I have been tattooed by all the guys here, they are all talented artists! All these guys are super cool and totally friendly. So come on down here if you want a really rad tattoo in an awesome environment! :) read more

Black Sea Tattoo - My most current piece by Patrick Fereday! (Sorry for the shitty photography) - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

Earl is very talented and a great person. I highly recommend him. The whole crew seemed relaxed and I enjoyed my self with the others getting tattoos that day read more

I didn't stumble upon this place on accident. I'm new to the neighborhood so I yelped a lot of places. Earl and Patrick, got my attention by the pictures of their art. I called, rolled in and Patrick delivered simple as that... these guys are talented. Long Live The Bear !!!!! read more

Black Sea Tattoo - Patrick did this. Talented guy! - Tattoo Near Me - Walnut Creek, California

I had such a great experience at Black Sea Tattoo. I was so impressed particularly with my artist, Brandon (the owner) who was super accommodating & whom I felt comfortable giving creative freedom to. I literally strolled in one day saying "I want a tattoo.. I don't know of what exactly, I just know I want it on my thigh.." (smh, I know). I walked in for a consult with some vague ideas & some screenshots, and within a couple days he had come up with a design that was even better than what I tried envisioning myself! I was so embarrassed being so indecisive, but he made me feel really comfortable, showing no judgement, no frustration, and was so quick with making whatever last minute changes I kept requesting. The staff their are also super chill- which kinda made it the most enjoyable session I've had. So I'm definitely going to come back for my next one.. and the one after that! read more

This is by far the BEST tattoo shop in the Bay Area, as soon as you walk in your greeted like you just walked into a family reunion. This is my new club house, Earl Pitts has been working on my sleeve for the last 3 weeks and we're almost out of space. Brandon, Devin, & Patrick are all very talented artist who amaze me day by day with the skills they bring to the table.. If you want good art work done right you come here. Thanks again guys for everything. read more

See all

Went back again for another little something and I received another 5+ star service from Devin. These guys are seriously doing things right here. I'm not sure I'd go anywhere else after coming here as they truly set the bar head and shoulders above anywhere else I've gone. read more

I've gotten 4 tattoos here (so far) and can't stress enough how awesome and comfortable this shop is. Everyone is super laid back and the artists are fantastic. I've personally been tattooed by Brandon (3x) and Earl (1x). Both are great guys with an easy hand. Brandon started and is currently working on my Disney sleeve at the moment. Anything Disney, Ninja Turtles or Ghostbusters, he's your guy!! Thanks again for being a kick ass shop guys! PS. Don't forget to check them out on a Friday the 13th. Awesome flash to choose from for only $20 per tattoo! Take my advice and come early... they get packed! :] BUT, well worth the wait! oxo read more