A clean, well-lighted place for tattoos, Seventh Son Tattoo inhabits an expansive space tucked away on Langton Alley in SoMA. Take a quick glance at the extremely thorough online gallery of past works and you’ll appreciate the accomplishments these champions of the San Francisco tattoo scene have earned. Specializing in large pieces such as sleeves, the ornamental decorations past clients have chosen are murals surpassing anything you’ll find in the Mission. The man-hours that go into such a commitment are immense and the final product explains the story of what strong perseverance and dedication both recipient and artist possess. Even if you’re not certain your ready to receive these fellows greatness, just a pop into the shop is experience enough. 

No Itsy-Bitsy Spider
Hot and busy for sometimes-sleepy Marin, downtown San Rafael, home to Spiders Murphy’s tattoo parlor and some of the most renowned artists in California. Usually graced by the presence of the owner’s incredibly badass and beautiful orange Dodge Super Bee, look for the stripped awning and the iconic neon “Tattoo” sign in the window. A welcoming and friendly atmosphere is important for a tattoo shop to maintain, especially if they want to entice the un-inked into their first branding experience. The staff here is always around to give advice on designs and walk every client through their trip to the chair. Exceptionally talented artist Paul Anthony has developed a signature style all his own and is happy to consult and work on designs with his clients. This is the shop in Marin.

For Eva Eva? Everlasting Tattoo
No pomp and circumstance at this down-to-business parlor. But don’t let the shaded windows and beyond-dark interior turn you away, owner Mike Davis, rounds up a selection of extremely talented and creative artisans to assist in all emblems that may forever decorate your visage. Photos adorn the walls paying tribute to the past feats of fine and creative craftsmanship — a reminder that you are going to be getting exactly what you want and more: an ‘Everlasting’ fond memory of your experience and the token to prove it. 

Tattoo You Black and Blue
With a plethora of permanent sleeves, forearm floras and an evident encyclopedia of tattoos, a jaunt to The Mission will make anyone sans ink think seriously about going under the needle. Winner of the San Francisco Bay Guardian’s 2011 Best of the Bay award for Best Place to Get a Tattoo, Black and Blue Tattoo on Guerrero St. can fulfill any imprint ideas imaginable. Black and Blue has up to ten artists on staff, whose highly praised work in a multitude of mediums is displayed in the foyer with prominence.

The skilled aesthetics at this parlor lead each client through a painstaking process of deciding on a tattoo, adhering to the exact design or concocting something straight from their creativity, professionally administering the ink and advising on intricate aftercare. Each job at Black and Blue is an ongoing relationship, ensuring every experience is cherished and the shop is highly recommended throughout the community.