I have never left a negative review or even written a Yelp review before, but unfortunately, I feel compelled to do so in this case. I chose Julia as my tattoo artist after seeing her beautiful fine-line floral work on Instagram. I am extremely particular when it comes to design and execution, and I take time to research artists carefully, so it takes a great deal of trust for me to move forward with someone's work. The tattoo I requested was a postal stamp-style piece featuring a realistic black-and-white Golden Gate Bridge with California poppies & '98. I showed Julia reference photos, and she presented me with the stencil, which initially looked promising. She asked whether I wanted shading, and I told her I would like some, but not too much. I trusted her judgment and was excited about the result. The entire piece was completed in about an hour, which already felt unusually fast for the level of detail I expected. I also mentioned that I have hearing loss. While she was applying the stencil on my calf, I couldn't fully understand part of what she was saying about how she became a tattoo artist because she was facing down. I let her know that I rely on lip reading and couldn't understand her clearly, but she continued speaking while looking down, and I still wasn't able to catch what she said. Unfortunately, the final result did not resemble what was discussed or what was shown in the stencil. There was little to no shading, and the bridge does not look like the Golden Gate Bridge. I asked her to shade a bit because it was just nothing but outlines.The proportions appear off, the structural details are too thick and small in places, and the second beige bridge behind the first looks especially messy and overlapped. I also felt that the tattoo was rushed, as Julia repeatedly looked at her watch while shading as I requested after the first outlook of the tattoo that she completed. That gave me the impression that my tattoo was not given the time, care, or attention it deserved. I am deeply disappointed with the outcome. I have never regretted a tattoo before, but I do now. Had more time been taken to study the reference images and execute the design more carefully, I believe the result would have been significantly better. While her floral and fine-line work may be strong, my experience fell far below expectations. read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - the outcome of my tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Zara is amazing, I had the best experience ever. She is fast and amazing. Very little pain and my tattoo is beautiful so many compliments. Will definitely recommend this shop to all my friends . Thank you . read more

Zara does incredible, high quality work and is soooo nice and is very accommodating as well. Would highly recommend!

Couldn't have had a better experience here with Zara. Before my appointment she had me sent over some reference photos and when I arrived she had two options for me to look at before we got started. I got a tattoo of three poppies that were black ink and thing lines. It took me longer to fill out the paperwork and go to the bathroom than it did to actually get the tattoo. Zara is a master of beautiful line work and enjoys doing tattoos with meaning. Overall the vibe here is very genuine and inclusive to all. There's a lot of badass girl power here too! The studio itself is so eclectic and fun. There are pieces of artwork of all mediums on the walls It's so colorful and feels like a special space the moment you walk into it. I had to park on the street, but there are meters all down the block. You have to make an appointment to get tattooed, and sometimes there can be a bit of a wait (a couple months even). However they do flash events and pop ups a lot so if you keep an eye on their instagram page, you'll see if they have anything like that coming up! read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Zara created a beautiful floral piece for me. Her artistry is top notch, and technique is detail-oriented with meticulous line work. She's also sweet! Love my piece. I'm eager for the next one . Thank you, Zara! read more

I love opal tattoo!!! I have had the bulk of my tattoos done by zara and she is amazing. i've gone to other artists and it wasn't as inviting and comforting as it is at opal. zara is a light and will listen to your needs and will execute it just how you want it. I get so many compliments on my tattoos and i always recommend them to opal tattoo! I always walk out of my appointment happy as can be. She is also very quick with my tattoos especially when it gets more painful parts. Zara will not disappoint, her detailing is amazing and the fine line is perfect, and I have had no problems with fading so far! opal tattoo is the best tattoo business in LA! read more

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I am absolutely OBSESSED with our tattoos!! Me and my gf set up an appointment with Erin and she did such an awesome job I couldn't have pictured it coming out like this !!! I am also in LOVE with my baguette tattoo that Zara did for me!!! I would recommend this place to everyone ! read more

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Opal Tattoo is the ONLY tattoo shop in LA that I will go to! Zara has done 99% of the work on my body and I'm constantly getting compliments on the design and execution of her work. This shop is woman owned, gender inclusive, and has great vibes. Highly highly highly recommend. read more

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Hands down the best tattoo studio I have ever been too. The shop is clean, bright and welcoming. I have been tattooed here now many times, and each time my tattoo has come out better than I expected. Zara is a master of her skill with intricate fine line tattoos. I am always complimented on my tattoos and I will continue to get more here. Thank you Zara and team for being just the best!!!! read more

Was tattooed by Elisa and she did an amaaaaazing job. Was so easy to communicate with her beforehand about what I wanted, inspo, and was really nice to already know how long she thought it would take and a cost estimate. She took time to work with me on placement and adjustments which was super appreciated. I was a baby about the pain and she said up front to take breaks, snack, water, get up walk around if I needed to which was epic. Amazing vibes on the studio - lovely music playing, beautiful space, and all women which made me feel so safe! Highly highly recommend this studio (and Elisa!!) to anyone and everyone! read more

Opal Tattoo is the best! I've been getting tattoos by Zara since 2022 and she is amazing! She is so sweet and does the best fine line work. All of her tattoos have healed so well and the whole experience has always been great. The shop is so welcoming and clean. She loves to support local artists which is so cool. I will never go to any other tattoo shop again. Highly recommend Zara and Opal Tattoo! read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - My beautiful lily tattoo that I get compliments all the time on - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I will never get a tattoo from anyone else. Zara's work is amazing and her shop is so welcoming. They do everything to make you comfortable, and as a woman I love this is a woman-run shop. I've gotten so many tattoos from her and will keep coming back! read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Today I got my tattoo from Zara. I wanted an acoustic guitar with roses and some birds. She created a design for me a few weeks back. She showed me the design when I arrived and I asked her to move the birds and she did. She began tattooing me and I was in and out of her shop within one hour. Yes. She tattooed my whole forearm in less than an hour. Some people might think that would be considered rushing but she didn't. I felt that she took her time and was very methodical with her approach. The shop was clean. Staff was nice. Vibes were great. We talked about music and honestly she's a very personable person and made me feel welcome. I am definitely coming back here to get the rest of my arm tatted one of these days. And imo the cost of the tattoo was very good. Thanks again Zara! read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - Guitar with some birds and roses - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I have gotten tattood by Erin here a few times now and I always have a great experience. She's tattood birds on my back and did a flower cover-up over a small bruised tattoo on my arm. I moved out of state last year, but came back to Erin to start extending my arm tattoo. She is the only one I trust to tattoo me! Her work is incredible and the conversation is always so easy - like talking to my best friend! And whenever the other artists are around too, they're also very friendly and fun to chat with. I also love the shop for it's overall aesthetic. I have had some bad experiences at other tattoo shops that are grungey and the artists are rude to women who want dainty tattoos (and often, they can't even do a dainty tattoo...). BUT OPAL TATTOO is very clean, beautiful, friendly, and makes everyone from every background feel comfortable. They also sell art from local artists! Getting a GOOD tattoo can be expensive. But the price point hurts a bit less in a place like this. So worth it. ily erin read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - Opal Tattoo art wall in waiting area - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Best tattoo shop I've been to!! Super cute, clean shop. I've had the pleasure of being tattooed by Zara who is a very talented artist. I have had 2 tattoos done by Zara and they were exactly what I wanted. The first tattoo I had done healed perfectly and it still looks great after 3 years (día de Los muertos girl). I was tattooed again by Zara yesterday and she did not fall short. This new tattoo came out AMAZING. She took her time and is very detailed oriented. The photos speak for themselves. Would HIGHLY recommend to be tattooed here. read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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I came to see Zara for a flash event- such a great introduction to a local LA artist! The studio is so inviting and Zara's work is amazing! I'll definitely be coming back again :) read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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My wife, Carrie, and I attended Opal's anniversary flash weekend on the 1st day. When we arrived, we showed the staff member the designs we picked and she told us any artist could do any design so we opted to take 1st available. After waiting, we realized that it was not actually a "first available" system but each person was allocated to a specific artist. I asked the staff if we could request Erin since we'd have to wait regardless and she had originally drawn our designs. I was told that Erin's list was full for the day but was reassured multiple times that Lex was completely capable of doing the designs we picked out. With that reassurance, we moved ahead with Lex. When mine were completed, they were wrapped in plastic. When Carrie came off the table, we were stunned at how different it looked from the original, how uneven the line work was, and Lex's complete lack of understanding of shading. We left the shop as quickly as possible. When I unwrapped mine, the lines skipped as if she moved too quickly and many were shaky and different widths at random points. I don't know if this is typical for Lex or if something was going on that day, but it is unacceptable. I messaged the shop to let them know how disappointed I was and that I felt taken advantage of when I was repeatedly told any artist could do any design. Before sending photos of our tattoos, the owner, Zara, asked if ours was "the eye tattoo," leading me to believe that we were not the only ones. Zara offered two options to rectify -- rework the tattoos or give a full refund. We opted to have her rework them once healed. I reiterated that I hoped they would reconsider the process for the 2nd day and was shut down and told that we were the only ones who complained. Eventually, we were able to get on Zara's schedule and planned a consultation call. My text conversation with Zara was curt but I was still hoping we could turn it around. Zara was more helpful during the call, seeming to understand that we would need the lines fixed and add shading. She talked about some of the options and asked questions like if we'd be open to adding white ink. We left the call feeling a little more hopeful about the rework. Rework appt: Zara again acted as if she were doing us a favor and like she didn't understand what we would need fixed. I again explained that I wanted the lines redone to clean them up and to make the outlines bolder to get the contrast from the original design. I tried to show a photo example and was cut off and told "the original doesn't matter because what's done is done." After 3 passes over the outline, asking to go bolder each time, I accepted it as good enough. Carrie got similar treatment and ended up with a tattoo that technically looks better but is still wobbly and VERY different from the original design. It is not a design she would have chosen outright. None of the ideas that she offered during the consultation such as adding white, etc. were offered at the appt. This is not to say that these are bad artists, but the management of this flash day and following situation was disappointing. There doesn't seem to be accountability across artists at the shop, and the owner did not take any responsibility for the situation. A simple apology could have gone a long way. We each have 12+ tattoos and know what to expect. These were not complex tattoos and there is no excuse for the work that was done. Be wary of the info being given out at the shop (particularly on busier days), and make sure you research and choose a specific artist. ETA: We were not informed of Lex's departure, and that does not change the fact that she did these tattoos while working there. While I do appreciate that Zara reworked them at no cost, I do not feel that equates to an apology or taking responsibility. We communicated our needs clearly on multiple occasions, and perhaps this was the best that could be done given original work. We ended up with tattoos that are not what we picked out or consented to. I feel the pictures here speak for themselves in that regard. read more

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Zara is AMAZING!!!! 2 of my friends and I wanted to get matching tattoos and one friend suggested to contact Opal Tattoo Studio. From the first interaction Zara was great she communicated well provided us all the information we needed got us an appointment that worked for all of us. She even did several modifications to the tattoo. Then when my 8 year old decided that she wanted to get her ears pierced Zara was even able to get her in on the same day!!!! Honestly it was such a cool experience and Zara tattoos with such detail and precision and she is quick which was a nice change!!!! Thank you so much Zara we love our tattoos and my daughter and I love the piercings! read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - Flower bouquet tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Love this studio! Zara has created a beautiful and calming space, the perfect environment. She's an amazing, detail oriented artist who works with you to give you exactly what you want. read more

I won't go to anyone else after getting tattooed by Opal! Super friendly, cute environment, fast nearly painless tattoos AND an LGBTQ stan!! This is truly my favorite spot! read more

Don't go anywhere else! I've been going to Zara for atleast 7 years now. All my tattoos are by her except for two. She's worked so hard and now has her own studio aside from it being so cute, it's super clean and welcoming. Be patient! It's worth the wait read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Zara at Opal Tattoo is phenomenal. I had my first tattoo done by Zara and she was awesome. I love my tattoo and will definitely be recommending Opal Tattoo to friends and will be back for another tattoo. read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - Floral/hummingbird tattoo - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Such an amazing place to get a tattoo!! All of the artists there are wonderful and the vibes are very down to earth and cool. The place feels like what I would want my apartment to look like if I had any interior design skills. read more

The only place to go to get your tattoo!!! Zara's work is stunning, precise, and flawless. Plus she is so sweet! She makes you feel so comfortable and welcome. Her studio is also very inviting and clean. Will forever go to her for all of my tattoos! read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

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Opal tattoo studio is the only place I will get tattooed! The space is so beautiful, comfortable, and very clean. Everyone there is so lovely. Zara did my tattoos and they're absolutely stunning. They were both special and emotional pieces for me and she made the whole experience wonderful. I get asked almost daily where I got them done. She's an amazing artist, is precise, and quick which I appreciate so much. I can not recommend enough! read more

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I have a few tattoos done by Zara and Erin and they're the best tattoos I have. They have lived up to be just as perfect as when I first got them a few years ago. Both Zara and Erin are the sweetest and easiest to talk to during your tattoo. The studio is a beautiful, comfortable, clean, and calm environment. I truly couldn't recommend them enough! read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - 1 of the few tattoos Zara has done on me - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

I just got my first tattoo (at age 49!) from Zara at Opal Tattoo Studio. Her work is beautiful. I've never seen such delicate tattoos. My daughter has been tattooed by her as well and I'm so impressed both by how she replicates designs and can freehand additional details beautifully. I felt super comfy in her clean, welcoming shop. I'm recommending her to all my friend and will 100% go back to her for my next tattoo. read more

Kept seeing Zara's work all around me. Reached out through her insta and she was so quick to respond and book. She and her staff are real gems. Zara is sweet, fast and unbelievably talented at what she does. This shop is legit. Will only fly to LA now for tattoos! read more

Absolutely love the vibe and artist here at opal tattoo studio. I have had the pleasure of being tattooed by both Zara and Erin. I felt very welcomed and I'm in love with my beautiful art. I can't wait to visit again read more

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Each artist here is so considerate of each client's needs. Ranging from safety, seating, cleanliness and much more. Every time I step into this environment, I know I'll be respected. They are very diverse and constantly looking to grow in their art, serving the community and they are Female owned!!! Highly Recommend! They get booked quickly so head over to @opaltattoostudio on IG. read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Ever since my first tattoo at Opal 4 years ago, I cannot & will not go anywhere else. I've had several flash designs from both Zara & Erin that make up about 85% of my arm at this point which I think speaks for itself. The artists at Opal are ridiculously talented with their line work & designs, not to mention it's the only tattoo shop I've walked into without feeling immediately intimidated because the space/people are warm & inviting. I've recommended several people to Opal & they've all had equally wonderful experiences. But let's keep it a secret because I still want to get my slots okay. read more

Don't go anywhere else! Zara, the owner of Opal Tattoo, is amazing. Professional and talented. The studio is bright and airy and exceptionally clean. Zara gave me first tattoo. She was great to work with. No nonsense. She worked on a design with me (my kids' birthflowers) and raked me through the whole experience. I have recently been back for a color touch up (very common) and it was just as pleasant. I highly recommend this studio! read more

I had such a great experience at Opal Tattoo Studio! The vibe is perfect, very chill, calming, and welcoming. Zara is such a wonderful artist & always answers any questions with such kindness. Not going anywhere else to get a tattoo!! read more

I did a ton of research to find a quality tattoo artist who's work was beautiful, had great reviews, and was woman owned. In early January, I filled out a tattoo application explaining my vision of a flower and the reasons behind the symbol. 6 weeks went by and I never heard back. I filled out another application and asked them to please let me know, either way, if they could book me or not. 2 weeks later, they reached out and said that their books will open on March 1 (the next day) and to reach out to book through Instagram- I do not do Instagram... Another email was sent stating that I should send a text to book an appointment. NO number was given to me to text. I found a phone number and texted them on March 1- the day books opened up. I never even got a response. 2 months. Just trying to make contact. It. should. Not. Be. This. Difficult. read more

Got tattooed by Lex. The shop was really nice and welcoming. Overall had a great experience.

Last year I got my very first tattoo here with the amazing Zara! The atmosphere in this studio is everything I could've wanted! I felt so safe and comfortable the entire time I was getting tattooed. I love it and it came out exactly how I imagined. So excited to get my second tattoo later on this year! I will forever recommend this studio to anyone who asks me!! read more

Opal Tattoo Studio - Tattoo Near Me - Los Angeles, California

Zara and her team are hands down the best. I have gotten both legs, upper and lower arm done from her. I am obsessed with flowers so she has done all floral on me. I Can not wait to get more done by her! Not only is her line work amazing. She is gentle and very friendly. I was super nervous to get work done but she makes you feel right at home and so comfortable! Also got myself an opal tattoo sweatshirt! Absolutely love it! Thank you Zara for legit being an amazing artist and person! read more

Thank You Zara for the beautiful floral piece! I highly recommend you check out Opal Tattoo Studio! Met all my expectations! Can't wait to return and add more.. read more

The best! I have been following Zara on instagram for YEARS and have always wanted to be tattooed by her. ABSOLUTELY AMAZING. Beautiful shop, beautiful soul, and beautiful work. All of the artists are fantastic and my experience was quick and easy. In love with my tattoo and can't wait to come back and get more. read more