True Grit Tattoo

Absolutely love this place!!!
First off, let me just start by saying how unbelievably talented these tattoo artists are... I have gotten so much artwork done in previous years and after coming to True Grit I will not be going anywhere else in town to complete my pieces. They now have a life long customer!
The atmosphere is so nerdy & fun! If you are a fan of pop culture at all you will love this spot!!!
The staff is always so attentive and accommodating. The artists are very down-to-earth and great to work with. I love how this shop really sets the tone for advocating for what will make the client happy and then making it happen. If you want to work with an artist that puts a lot of care and intention into your piece, then this is the place you want to go.

Johnny did my Dark Tower cover up design and watercolor. I couldn’t have asked for a better experience! He did amazing work and was so kind and personable I would recommend him and his shop to anyone looking to have a tattoo done! I will absolutely be back for future work!

I had a great experience! It’s very clean and professional. I got tattooed by Amber and I couldn’t be happier with her work. I highly recommend her.

True Grit is hands down the best tattoo experience you can get in Albuquerque. As others have said, the shop is clean and safety is the highest priority, as it should be. But what sets them apart are two things: 1) world class artistic talent and 2) incredible ambiance/shop vibe

Regarding the artists, you are working with amazingly talented people. I had a half-sleeve (my second tattoo ever) done by Johnny Mac, who has upheld the highest reputation for world class watercolor, japanese and “trash polka” styles. However I also met some of the other artists there having spent over 15+ hours in the shop and they are all great people, consummate professionals, and insanely talented in their own styles. Now let me just say that Johnny himself is amazing. From artistic vision to collaborative customer service to trustworthy execution, he is the full package. He took my abstract concept, sorted through tons of details and put together a timeline that worked for me. He took time out of his personal life as well to work with me as the timeline fluctuated - what artist has such devotion? In the end he free-handed over 50% of my half sleeve and it is absolutely gorgeous...people cannot stop talking about it. I’ve never been so proud to own something on my body for life. Be honest about your vision and give your artist the flexibility they need to execute. It’s all about trust and Johnny and his staff are trustworthy! Thank you Johnny!!!!

The shop itself is also a work of art. Johnny runs True Grit like a co-op and each section has a unique vibe to it. The entrance, the lovely smell, the decor, the beautiful art pieces (paintings, statues, collectibles) makes you feel like you are in some sort of eclectic renaissance building - it is beautiful! You feel safe, cozy, your privacy is respected and the staff contribute to the just the perfect supportive vibe that you want when you are making permanent alterations to your body. Special shoutout to Dominic for always being sweet to talk to and very supportive. He does a ton of work to keep the gears turning at True Grit and he’s the guy you want to talk to if you really want to work with Johnny. Trust them! They know what’s best!

All said and done you get the full package at True Grit. This place is the real deal and there’s a reason they are award-winning year after year. Whether it’s your first or 10th experience getting ink on your body True Grit is THE place to go.

Definitely the best shop I've been to. Johnny did a full cover up of my biggest piece and made it so beautiful I almost can't believe it. He is also incredibly respectful of clients. Thank you so much for making me so happy!!!!!

True grit is the only place I'd go for a tattoo. It is so clean. Everyone is so professional. Plus Johnny Mac is the most talented tattoo artist I've ever met. His vision and eye for art is truly a gift. I Don't have enough words to sing his praises. If there is a wait to get in, they are completely worth the wait. Trust me!

Ben was fantastic. He fit me in last minute. Was super professional to work with, and did a fantastic job on my tattoo. Plus he was just fun to talk to while getting my work done. Would totally go back again!

I flew 1200 miles to get a tattoo by Johnny Mac. The work he did covering up an existing tattoo was phenomenal. It honestly doesn't matter how much you pay. It will always be quality work. I will definitely be flying back to get more. I would recommend him to anybody for whatever tattoo you were getting. I believe you will never leave dissatisfied.

Super clean shop! Loved all the decor! Johnny is hands down one of the most talented artists I've seen. He is super nice and made me feel comfortable right away. I really appreciated that he wanted my input as we went along. I could not have been happier with the entire experience!

Ultra hygienic salon, high quality artists with immense personal integrity; I've had a few pieces done by two artists here and I cannot recommend True Grit highly enough. John's watercolors and eye for design are to die for and Simon's realism and fine line are mind-blowing. There's a reason why this shop is busy -- The artists here are THAT good and they're all good guys, to boot.