Review of Great Lakes Tattoo
Great Lakes Tattoo:
Great Lakes Tattoo is a well-known tattoo shop located in the bustling city of Chicago, Illinois. The shop specializes in traditional American tattoos and has a team of skilled artists who are passionate about their craft. The shop is open seven days a week, from 11:00 am to 7:00 pm, making it easy for customers to schedule appointments or walk-ins.
The shop's location is easily accessible, and the interior is clean and well-decorated with tattoo memorabilia. The staff is friendly, professional, and accommodating, making customers feel comfortable and at ease during their tattooing experience. The shop offers a wide range of tattoo designs, and the artists work with customers to create custom designs that meet their specific needs and preferences.
Great Lakes Tattoo has received numerous positive reviews from customers who have praised the shop's cleanliness, friendly staff, and quality of work. The shop's artists are highly skilled and pay close attention to detail, ensuring that each tattoo is unique and well-executed. The prices are reasonable, and the shop offers a variety of payment options, making it accessible to customers with different budgets.
If you're looking for a traditional American tattoo or a custom design, Great Lakes Tattoo is definitely worth checking out. The shop's skilled artists, friendly staff, and welcoming atmosphere make it a top choice for tattoo enthusiasts in the Chicago area.
From the business
"In 2013, Great Lakes Tattoo opened in Chicago's West Loop neighborhood. The shop is a one-of-a-kind space with an attitude-free atmosphere that celebrates and honors the traditions of tattooing; past, present and future. Considered one of the best tattoo shops in Chicago, Great Lakes Tattoo also houses the Great State Gallery, an art and event space that hosts art shows, storytelling nights, live music and more. Great Lakes Tattoo is a destination shop for Chicago residents and tourists alike. The tattooers at GLT do designs of all kinds, including traditional American, Japanese, portraits, black and grey, tribal and more. Tattooers are available for appointments and walk-ins everyday."
Amenities
- Delivery
- In-store pickup
- In-store shopping
Great Lakes Tattoo Reviews - 100
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Stephanie Pagnucco
My friend and I were in Chicago for the day and decided to get tattoos kind of on a whim. We saw how great of a reputation this place had online so we decide to make the trek up Grand Ave to see if they would fit us in (we were both getting small pieces). When we walked in the young man at the desk told us that they do take walk ins so we were pretty pleased 'and excited (this was my first tattoo).
At the end of the day my artist was amazing (Eric) and he did exactly what I wanted, while listening to my many many comments and questions... so I really think this place deserves a great review... Thank you so much Eric.
HOWEVER, the front desk person (receptionist? Office person? I'm not sure) - the young man at the front, whatever his position is... was HORRENDOUS. He made both me and my friend feel so uncomfortable that we were on the verge walking out until Eric, the artist, came to talk to us. He was miserable and had zero customer service skills. He dismissed our ideas when we were talking about our stencils and everything that came out of his mouth was extremely condescending. He took the drawing my friend made to give her artist an loose idea of what she wanted and literally scanned it and made it into the stencil that would be actually tattooed on her. When she asked why he was using that (he had told her before just to draw it and it didn't have to be pretty) he replied "well it should be pretty if it's going to go on your body."
Regardless of that individual, we still love our tattoos and thank you to the amazing artists... as for the front desk guy... I want the owner to know that he almost lost two customers and would bet we won't be the last people he offends.
Michigan Trout Addict
I cannot overstate how highly I recommend GLT. All the artists here are exceptional and the shop itself is immaculate. Can’t wait to get my spring bonus in the next couple weeks so that I can schedule another appointment.
Josh Hardy
I went to Chicago (from Mpls) for Riot Fest and emailed ahead of time about a goofy idea I was interested in getting done. They were more than accommodating to my idea, and I was able to get right in almost as soon as I landed in Chicago. The tattoo, you ask??? An Oprah Winfrey pinup! It’s clean, healed fantastically and they even gave it a little “you get a car” flare by adding a set of car keys in her hand. I absolutely love it, and loved my time in the shop. I will definitely stop back in next time I’m in Chicago. Thanks, GLT!
-Josh H, Mpls., MN
Christine Kozy
Coming from someone who has been getting tattooed for almost 25 years, both abroad and in the states, this shop is my very favorite place to get tattooed in the world to get tattooed. Not only are you walking into a space that’s filled with super talented artists, you’re also taking a walk through the history of tattooing. There’s no judgement, no attitude, only super professional artists willing to work with you on whatever it is you’re wanting to get tattooed.
Do yourself a favor and check this place out.
maddie bomher
The best tattoo experience I've ever had! Outstanding work and exceptional artists! I'll definately be back!! If you're new to the city and curious where to get your next tat done, go here! 100% recommend!!
Candid Reviews
If I could give this shop higher stars I would. My artist Chip Douglas, did an amazing job on my koi fish tattoo. This shop is definitely the place to go if you're looking to get inked in Chicago!
Eric Fine
Clean, professional studio experience. Tight enforcement of COVID protocols, which was welcome. Excellent artists. Will definitely go back for future work and recommend to friends!
Dunk M
Every time I go they all make me feel like part of their family and I can’t wait to return, besides that their work is amazing!!! I have tons of people that ask about my ink and I brag with pride on all 3 of the artists I have gone to. I can not say enough great things about their art and the artists💚
Matthew Muto
Been getting tattooed here for years. It’s such an incredible place. It has amazing original flash on the walls, staff and artists that make you feel welcome and comfortable, and tattoo history lessons in every corner. I often find myself thinking about that next tattoo...and there is no doubt I will get it at GLT.
B Evans
I was looking for a place to get a traditional tattoo and stumbled upon Great Lakes Tattoo as a walk in. Originally wanted a dagger on my side burn but was quickly informed that they "dont tattoo faces" by the receptionist. Already being heavily tattooed to include my head, I didn't really get it but oh well. Their policy and I respect that. Still got an awesome little filler on my arm and called it a day. Very clean work from all the tattooers, a bit pricey but hey...it's Chicago.