Had my second tattoo from Darigo and it is amazing! Three of my dogs (1 current and 2 that have crossed the rainbow bridge). I could not be happier with the results. read more

See all

I have over 5 tattoos and my girlfriend has over 7 from this shop! When you are greeted, they actually look at you and invest time in giving you a good welcome. The shop is so clean, comfortable and well decorated. I have had work done and been there each time open to close, and gone with my gf and we are always spoken to by the other artists and it's rad when they all check out each others work. I feel like I am comfortable there and it makes all the difference to get a piece where you can look back and feel vibes were good. I went to LILI ANN!! Each time, love her work! 10/10 and would def go to other artists also! read more

Jasmin is so talented and so sweet! She's great with communication and makes sure everything she does is with passion! I couldn't recommend a better person for a tattoo! read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Chucky by Jasmin - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

Colton is the real deal. I came to him with a vision for a traditional Japanese-style sleeve, and he took everything I brought and elevated it to a whole new level. From the start, he was collaborative, thoughtful, and fully dialed in on making sure the design flowed perfectly and told a story. His input throughout the process was on point. He respected my ideas but also added his own expert eye to guide the overall look and feel. The end result? Way beyond what I expected. The line work, shading, and composition are all insane. It's everything I hoped for and more. The shop itself was spotless--super clean and professional. Everyone there was cool and welcoming, which made the whole experience even better. Good energy all around. If you're looking to get a Japanese-style piece, especially something big like a sleeve, Colton is 100% the guy to go to. Can't recommend him enough. read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

I was hesitant to go to such a popular shop, worried it was overrated and lame--they blew it out of the water! Yvonne helped customize a piece for me with care and precision and I will definitely be back. The shop itself was clean, reception was respectful and welcoming, overall vibes were immaculate. read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Yvonne was very patient and easy to work with. She took my scattered ideas and turned them into exactly what I was looking. Yvonne is very talented and makes the experience fun and enjoyable. read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Before . - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

I had such an incredible experience with Chapter One Tattoo and I will definitely be coming back. My friend Danielle referred me to artist Drake and he truly made my tattoo dreams come true. I had been wanting a dainty sword and I had reached out to Chapter One Tattoo and got a response so quickly, I sent a couple photos for inspiration and was told Drake would be able to do the work for me. I made my appointment and even though we needed to adjust the timing to an early hour I was given plenty of time and it actually worked in my favor as well. During the date of my appointment I found parking closer to the residential side of OB and walked a couple of blocks. The shop is super clean and beautifully decorated and played my favorite songs growing up. Signed my questionnaire and waited to meet Drake, I came early and had plenty of time to settle my nerves. When I met Drake he had such a relaxed aura about him which in term made me feel so comfortable, he let me know that he was cleaning up and resetting his station. Truly his station is impeccable and organized, he showed me the stencil he created and I was in awe, I was a little nervous because this was my first tattoo but he was really reassuring. After we got the perfect size, we went over the coloring of the stone in the middle of the sword, I really appreciate that he was super detail oriented. We chatted in the beginning of him tattooing me which I think was more for me to ease my nerves but within the first 5 minutes I was so calm and relaxed, Drake is super gentle and I barely felt anything, seriously such a great experience. When he finished he looked over his work to make sure there wasn't any detail he missed, after a couple look overs and final touches we were set and I am in absolute awe. My little sword is so dainty and magical and beautiful and also so powerful and strong, I love it. I look at it everyday and think it looks like something out of my favorite fantasy book. If you need a super detail oriented artist who is gentle and precise please reach out to Drake you won't regret it. Thank you! read more

Chapter One Tattoo - I could cry, I love it so much! - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Remains top-notch - another amazing experience at Chapter One this week. At this point, I can't imagine going anywhere else. I wanted to rework and add on to an old tattoo (1998 old) and had a vague idea of what I wanted to do going into the process. Cash really knocked it out of the park with his artistic vision and execution of the tattoo! Fantastic experience all around - customer service, welcoming atmosphere, great conversation - icing on the cake! I look forward to working with Cash again soon. read more

De is an incredibly talented, skillful and caring artist. She came highly recommended by a dear friend of mine and WOW she is definitely my go-to gal now! The front desk folks were kind and responsive, both in their e-mails and in person. The overall vibe of the space and community there was welcoming and friendly. Thank you De for adorning me so beautifully with my spirit animal! Thank you Chapter One for hiring such an experienced, excellent and badass artist! read more

See all

I can't recommend Chapter One Tattoo enough. Clean environment and friendly staff with plenty of different artists based off of your vibes. I went with Drake who specializes in fine line. He was so patient, listened to all my requests and drew everything up perfectly! He communicated throughout the process just asking if I needed a break, a snack or drinks. He has a very zen like demeanor which is perfect while getting a tattoo. Will be booking with Drake again in the future. Im in love with my tattoos thank you! read more

See all

Super thankful to have been recommended this shop by a friend. Darigo was amazing both incredibly talented and genuinely welcoming. This was my first tattoo, so I was a little nervous and ended up doing two consults before my appointment. Darigo listened to all of my concerns and never made me feel bad for asking the same questions over and over lol. He made the entire experience feel comfortable and reassuring from start to finish. I love my tattoos, and the shop itself is super cool, it has great atmosphere inside and out. So grateful and would highly recommend! read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

This place is amazing. Very clean and comfortable. Lili Ann is very talented, friendly, and genuinely cares about your comfort. Highly recommend this place. read more

Super kind and inviting staff. Max did my daughter's 1st tattoo and we LOvE it! 10/10 experience! Highly recommend!

Comfortable super clean shop. Chris was very responsive making appointments. Mila is awesome. Easygoing and friendly. She took my random ideas and did a great job putting it all together. Her lines are clean and smooth. She will definitely be my go to future body art! read more

Yvonne is amazing! She took a completed mediocre tattoo and made it beautiful! She is truly an artist! read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

I came to get a tattoo from one of their guest artists from Korea, Harry, and came out VERY happy. It's located in between Nova Easy Kombucha and Mad Munch Grilled Cheezer Co in Ocean Beach. There's a lot of free parking stalls and street parking, but it can get packed especially on the weekends. The shop had a ton of chairs for different artists which was perfect for a lot of guest tattooists. It was very clean and gave off a welcoming and inviting atmosphere. I don't think there was a water machine so bring your own flask if you're planning to have a long session! I wasn't necessarily looking for a new tattoo but came across Harry's page on Instagram. She specializes in fine line and color tattoos, both of which I LOVED. One of her artwork resonated with me, and I saw she would be down in San Diego! I just had to book an appointment even though I wasn't looking for a tattoo LOL. Harry was very thorough and did an amazing job adding on to another tattoo I had. She knew limited English but we were able to keep a conversation during our session. In between our sessions, another guest artist from Vancouver BC, Wendy, would pop by to chat with us. She also specialized in fine line tattoo. These two guest artists were kept me company as I had my session. Harry never got distracted and continued to her work as we talked! Shout out to Chapter One Tattoo for hosting Harry as I would have gotten such a beautiful add on to one of my tattoos and met some fun people! Harry's IG: @harrytattooer Wendy's IG: tattooist_wendyy Give them a look and maybe book an appointment with them! read more

I'm so in love with my tattoo by Albert! My thoughts were so scattered and he listened to everything I had to say and took it and made me a one-of-a-kind work of art! I'm so proud of my latte stone and all my friends and family from Guam think it's amazing, too! Thank you so much, Abert! I read more

Chapter One Tattoo - One of a kind latte stone tattoo! - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

On each trip I take across the country, I like to get a tattoo that's just a bit bigger than a quarter--something small and memorable. For my appointment with Tiff Saxey, I have the artist create a design that they feel best captures the spirit of the area, and I'm excited to show what she came up with. read more

See all

Amazing place. Very clean, professional and friendly. As well as killer work thank you so much for accommodating my son and I.

Went in to get matching tattoos with my 2 besties. The tattoo artist Tiff was great to work with!! The place was super clean and they took the time thoroughly clean between our sessions. Super impressed and Great experience. I'll be back for my next one! read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Our Tattoos! - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Chapter One Tattoo has the best vibe! The shop was awesome and laid out well, clean and full of great artists! Dante Brooke did a phenomenal job and if I ever make it back to San Diego I will for sure hit him up! read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Artist Dante Brooke - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

After reading various reviews on Yelp, I visited this tattoo studio with some doubts, and although the experience was not perfect, the result exceeded expectations. My impressions of the studio are contradictory: on the one hand, it's incredibly high-quality work (my tattoo looks perfect a year after it was applied), a clean and spacious facility, and real skill. On the other hand, some aspects left an unpleasant aftertaste: I did not receive the promised sketch in advance, waited 20 minutes after the scheduled time without explanation, and felt some discomfort when it was necessary to make adjustments to the design. 4 stars Because the end result is worth these minor inconveniences - the tattoo turned out to be a real masterpiece. I am sure that if the studio improves the organizational aspects (keeping time, communication with the client before the session), then my next visit will be rated 5 stars. I am already planning to return for a new project - I hope to see these positive changes! read more

This place is amazing. Cool shop with amazing vibes. Very comfortable to sit a while and get a cool tattoo. Tyler was my artist and he does fantastic work. I highly recommend this place to get your tattoo. read more

The shop is immaculately clean, has great artwork to admire and the staff are friendly. You can also enjoy a variety of good music, outside of the vibrations and buzzing. Yvonne has done my last two pieces, most recently my pothos. Not my first two, but I'm always getting used to the feel and experience. She's done a great job of making sure I'm comfortable, checking in for breaks and even respecting the AirPod distractions that helps me get through each session. You also might catch her singing or humming to her own as well. I've had several pieces done here from two different artists. I'm definitely not done and plan to return for some more amazing work in the future. read more

See all

The owner, Cash, consulted with me several months to create a tattoo design to cover a significant body scar from surgery. This was my first tattoo - I did not realize the amount of detail that goes into the tattoo artistry of a complex design such as the Archangel Michael. I had confidence in his extensive expertise. The end result is both impressive and beautiful. Cash is conscientious, sincere, a pleasure to work with and strives to ensure his clients goals are his priority. read more

Amazing experience! Contacted them and Chris immediately responded via email. I was trying to surprise my daughter who lives in San Diego with tattoos for her birthday. Communication was quick and efficient. I was referred to Drake. Again, the process was easy and reservation was secured. We met Drake and immediately he understood our vision. Excellent work and attention to detail. He was easy to work with and did an amazing job. Appreciate the entire staff for making us comfortable and at ease throughout. Thanks again Drake!! read more

I came into the shop a bit nervous because I was by myself and this is only my second tattoo. Honestly didn't have a great experience the first time. From the moment I walked in, I felt totally at ease. The place has a really welcoming vibe. I worked with Darigo, and I couldn't be happier. He was patient, professional, and made sure I was comfortable throughout the whole process. You can tell he really cares about his craft. The tattoo turned out amazing--even better than I imagined. I shared my idea and he made it happen. If you're thinking about getting a tattoo but a little nervous about it, I highly recommend checking this shop out. Big thanks to Darigo! read more

Very great vibes in here - everyone in the shop made me feel right at home when I came in for my first tattoo. Mila, my artist, did an amazing job of walking me through the process and being understanding of my many questions. My piece, a quail on my thigh, turned out AMAZING - really can't emphasize how great of a job Mila did with the reference photos I gave. read more

My husband and I both got tattoos done here this weekend. From booking, to confirming, to meeting with the artists; the entire process was easy. Every single person we encountered was professional and friendly. The establishment was clean and welcoming. The talent of the artists was extremely impressive, and we both look forward to getting more work done here. Tyler and Connor were both great, as was the gentleman at the front. We will be returning and recommending the establishment to all of our friends. read more

Really great vibes at this shop. I've gotten to pieces here one by Drake (intricate line work) and Darigo (custom piece) and both were excellent to work with. The shop is run well with easy communication and booking. I'll definitely be coming back here for my next one! read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Custom piece by Darigo at Chapter One. - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Yvonne is the only reason I'm writing this review. I've seen so many artists over the years in a few different locations and she is by far thee friendliest, most welcoming, excited and grateful to work with you type I have yet to encounter. Definitely wish more were like her. Do ya need a coverup and/or like plants or anything nature? She's your girl. Shout out to Yvonne! You came through for this middle finger haha. *visit was 2/2/23 read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Botanical cover-up :) thanks, Yvonne! - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Tyler Brown did an awesome job on my traditional banner tattoo. Him and Chapter One were super easy to work with on getting it scheduled and he got my vision for the design of the tattoo exactly right. Tyler was cool to talk to while I was sitting for the tattoo and kept me comfortable through the entire process. read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

Chapter One is incredible. The place is really clean and welcoming. All of the artists are insanely talented. I got my first tattoo from Yvonne and I love it! I've held off for years on getting a tattoo and finally came across Yvonne's work and knew she was the right artist for me. I won't be going anywhere else for future tattoos. read more

Chapter One Tattoo - brown pelican - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

Drake did a beautiful fine line tattoo for me. I was super impressed with the whole process; from booking to the day of my tattoo. I will be a repeat customer. read more

So far so good! I emailed to ask about a design and got a prompt response with clear guidance about how to proceed. I had a consultation scheduled with one of the artists and that also went very smoothly. The studio is beautiful inside. I was greeted on entry and only waited a few minutes to meet with Jandro because I was a little early. He was friendly and enthusiastic about my idea which I really appreciated! I wasn't able to book right away because I had to check my calendar but he was understanding and flexible. I fiinally settled on a date, then I paid a deposit and recieved a confirmation message to verify that everything was set. I'm super excited for my appointment and will update afterward. Everything up to this point had been handled with the utmost professionalism :) read more

Once again Connor killed it! Can't wait for the next one! The location and artists are top notch. read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Once again Connor killed it! Can't wait for the next one! - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

We found the tattoo shop that we are looking for. We started out here last October 2020 for our first sessions and end up with 2 more and more coming up. I mean, this place is beyond expectations. Customer Service- send them email for consultation and you will get a reply right away. Cleanliness- Very clean, you can smell the minute you take your first steps inside. With Covid restrictions everyone is wearing mask ofcourse. Sanitation in each station is applied everytime with each client. You see it with your own eyes. Artists- I must say I have my favorites..... by far the most professional and yet friendly and top notch artists Dan Collins- specializes in mini portraits and single needle. He did my dog's portrait and the first cool artists I met. Kenny Belling- specializes in neo traditional tattoo. One of the best here. He did 2 of my tattoos and will have a few more future projects. Very mellow and yet funny. He is so great and very talented as well. Love what he does and it shows. The vibe here is nice, more contemporary. We have been in one shop to get quotes and boy the difference is night and day. This place earned all my stars and they deserve it. So thank you Chapter One for delivering the best service and having the best artists in Town. My husband and I are now you're dedicated clients. You all are awesome! Parking here is by the way very challenging but don't let that discourage you. Plenty around the streets just look. read more

See all

My first time here at Chapter One! I had my appointment with Yvonne and she's really probably one of the best artist I've gotten work done by! At our consultation, I told her my ideas and references and gave her freedom to put something together, she sent her sketches a few days before my appointment and it blew me away, it really made me appreciate the time she took to make art just for me. Not only her work was amazing, but she's really out going and made the whole experience enjoyable even though I was getting my neck worked on. She offered me a snack and even refilled my water when we'd take breaks. You can tell she really loves her job, but also cares about her clients experience during the whole process. The overall vibe at the shop was great, the front desk lady was really nice and friendly when I came in, and the other artists that were there were all welcoming and just gave off really good energy. 11/10 recommend this shop if you're looking for quality work from extremely talented artists. Definitely will get more work done here! :) read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Sampaguita flower - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

See all

De V with Chapter One was AMAZING! I have been wanting my half sleeve to be done for years, but never got around to it. De was recommended and I was able to get an appointment with her, she is super friendly, knowledgeable, and talented. Her line work and overall work is excellent! The whole Chapter One tattoo parlor is an awesome vibe too. I would recommend to anyone(: read more

Chapter One Tattoo - Before picture - Tattoo Near Me - San Diego, California

Stopped by for a walk-in tattoo and everyone was friendly and inviting. It didn't take long from the time I walked in to the time I was in the chair. My artist was Darigo and he did an awesome job on my piece. Thank you again! read more

See all