My former experience with getting a tattoo at a shop in another state wasn't so great. I had a tattoo done years ago in TX, and later when I was in the guy's shop and mentioned he'd worked on me, he looked at the tattoo and then declared loudly where everyone in the shop could hear, "That's not MY artwork. It's crap!" Â I was devastated and never liked the tattoo after that.
THEN I met Karin Ackerman. I showed her my tattoo and asked her if she could make it different and better. She worked out a sketch and made my nice-but-unloved tattoo really cute and wonderful. I loved it so much I have come back for two more tattoos. One is a gorgeous water sprite that curls around my lower calf and ankle, and the other is the absolutely CUTEST old school looking Hello Kitty Lucky Money Cat EVER. My husband loved my first tattoo from Karin so much he has had her do lots of cover up work, as well as new work, on his legs and upper arms. When it comes to covering up old ugly tattoos, Karin is masterful with both ideas and execution.
I'm really impressed with Karin's line-work, which is SO CLEAN and CRISP. Â Recently I was at Comic-Con International in San Diego, and I got stopped constantly by people who were totally taken with the Hello Kitty Lucky Money Cat tattoo. I couldn't wait to tell each person who asked that they could get a great tattoo from Karin at Chronic Tattoo in Pacific Beach.
Not only is Karin a great tattoo artist, she is also personable and friendly, and she's willing to work with you on your idea. The woman's an idea machine and can come up with great tattoo ideas if you're not sure what you want. She'll also tell you honestly if she feels it is something that won't work and help you find what will. I totally trust Karin and will be going back to her for my next tattoo.
This place sucks. Or at least one of the guys who worked there did. My friends and I took my sister here for her birthday to get a small tattoo. The Asian guy there was totally chill and made us feel like we had chosen the right place. Then the big white guy came in (don't know his name) and gave us attitude the moment he talked to us. Everything about him was douchey. He made us feel like he was racist or retarded. We told him what she wanted and what kind of font we wanted. He sketched out the lettering but it looked nothing like we wanted. We didn't want to be rude and tell him we did't like it right did the bag so we asked for a few minutes to think about it. He rolled his eyes and pretty much yelled "you should have thought about it before you came in, I sketched all this for you". He acted like it was something drawn by Picasso. It was one damn word. An artist is suppose to help and make someone feel excited about their first tattoo experience. He seriously pissed us off with his rudeness and ignorance. Never coming back here again. If you want a tattoo, go to FUN HOUSE tattoo. They're awesome. Can't believe what we had experienced. Looking at the other 1-2 star reviews, the douchey guy was probably the same guy in all the other reviews. Ughhhhh.
Review Source:Came with my friends to get a tattoo. Rude service and said it was "impossible" to get the tattoo we wanted cause it was too small(?!) said we wasted his time and said we should've thought about it more. Not our fault he couldn't draw/write what we wanted. Never going back. So many better places nearby! He totally killed our mood.
I would give 0 stars if I could.
2.5 Stars.
I have a tattoo on my left wrist that is about 5 years old that I got back in Boston. I was window shopping tattoo parlors in PB to get it touched up because it was all uneven. Almost every place was at least a $80 minimum seating charge, which was wayyy too much for how small my wrist tattoo is. I came across Chronic and their charge I believe was only $60 (almost 3 years ago, don't remember exactly). Then I figured, since I was already going to pay $60-ish to get a touch-up, I might as well get another tattoo on my foot that I had been thinking about. I had an idea of what I wanted and kept telling the artist that I wanted it small. It was so frustrating because I kept asking him to make it smaller and he refused and kept saying "whats the point? If you're going to get this, it should be big" and no matter what I'd say, he wouldnt adjust it. Finally, I got so fed up that he just wasn't listening, l told him nevermind, and he said that for "wasting his time, I still had to pay" WHAT?! SERIOUSLY?! So since I had to STILL pay I just got the tattoo anyway... only problem is - I am NOT a fan to this day. Granted it came out nice, it's just NOT want I wanted, not what I asked for, and now I'm stuck with it. To make matters worse, they never even touched up my wrist, which is what I went in for. I left feeling totally scammed. To this day everyone I've told this story said I should've just walked out when he told me I still had to pay for NO WORK because we wanted to tattoo what HE liked on me instead of what I liked on me. I honestly wish I did just walk out. Because now I have a hideous thing on my foot. CHRONIC - if you're reading this, please fix my wrist and my foot!!! Oh - and I ended up paying about $160. For shame, Chronic.
Took my friend here for her first tattoo ever. She was FREAKING OUT when she walked in. We didn't make an appointment, because it was somewhat of a spontaneous thing, but since it was a friday afternoon, we got an artist right away.
Bill, the artist, was gentle and calm and soothing, and did a fantastic job with the tattoo. She wanted a simple, small chinese character on the corner of her shoulder blade, and he double and triple checked to make the sure character was written exactly correct. Unfortunately, the same cannot be said with the man sitting in the front that I can only assume was the receptionist. From the moment we walked in, he was borderline rude and everything he said only exacerbated my friend's anxiousness. He made her question what she wanted, and basically told her how she should want it. Not helpful.
Anyways, back to Bill. He followed her every wish, and changed the placement 3 times just a millimeter each time to make sure it was exactly perfect. Quick, clean, and efficient, and friendly all throughout. The finished tattoo was gorgeous and exactly as she had wanted it. And when there was a discrepancy on the pricing (he gave us a price that was different than what the receptionist man had quoted us), he was completely willing to work with us and help us out. Bill, you are a WINNER in my book.
Minus one star for the man in the front. 10 stars for Bill and his work.
Went here on vacation for a tattoo I wanted for a long time. Â After reading reviews and checking it out i decided on chronic tattoo. Â I took care of the tattoo exactly how was instructed taking extra precaution on the last day of vacation to keep the tattoo healthy. Â I am now home and it is healed but I am seriously disappointed that I over paid for a simple lettering tattoo that turned out terrible. Â This wasn't my first tattoo and I have never been unhappy with any that ive gotten until this one. Â I guess I learned my lesson on going somewhere I don't know much about and now I am going to have to walk around with a shitty tattoo until I can get in here to get it fixed.
Review Source:I came here a year ago and I got my owl tattooed on my foot. I went in with a pretty bland almost cartoonie sketch of what I wanted and Brandon blew my mind away with what he added to it!! My owl is urban and I constantly get compliments on it. The artists are very laid back and know what they are doing. I'll definetly be back in the near future!
Review Source:The first thing I noticed was for as big as the place was and for as many people floating around throughout.......everything looked and smelled SO CLEAN! (Love!)
Bill worked with my friend and I to get our ink done, saying he did an Amazing job doesn't even begin to explain. Everything from the way he listen and added his input to how delicate and swiftly he worked, the end result was Exact. So pleased!
While I was there I also popped over to get a little nose piercing. Alex did my work, I talked a big game, but was stupid nervous! His knowledge and comfort with what he was doing was apparent immediately, his sarcastic pushy attitude was Exactly what I needed to shut up, lay down, and take that needle through the nose!! And he was right (as hard for me to admit when a man is right, Ive got to give Alex some credit here), except for the initial tiny pinch when the needle hits, its was pretty painless and his hands were Rock Solid Steady so no extra tugging or pressure
I will be bringing ALL my girlfriends to Alex for their piercings and I have a handful of people who can't wait to meet with Bill for tattoo work!
Everyone at Chronic was knowledgeable, helpful and friendly......I cant wait to go back!
Clean shop, very laid back and knowledgable staff. Â The owner is very chill. I have not had any tattoo work done yet but will likely come here for it. Â On to the deets.
If you want anyone sticking anything sharp in your eye you can trust Alex. Â He couldn't put your eye out if he tried - this guy has the steady hands and know how to pierce almost anything. He is the equivalent of a brain surgeon in a piercing parlor.
I came here in 2008 and got my nape pierced by Ryan. Â It went well - he used a needle and it healed okay - the jewlery was perhaps a bit of as it sat above my skin and not flush - I won't fault him. Very cool guy who had some nice sleeves. Â
I came back and had Alex change the piercing out to something with shorter posts so it looked better. I then decided I wanted a second nape so he did that one - what a difference. Â Naturally it hurt like a "b" but what do you expect? Â You're being skewered and stabbed. Â It was a good hurt (I guess I am a bit of a masochist) - like feeling the burn when working out. Â This time Alex used a dermal punch of sorts on both sides so it would be a bit more rough but heal up faster - and it did. Less inflammation and pissed off piercing. Â
I came back sometime later and got a subdermal anchor on my neck. Clean and easy. Â As always did a great job.
Fast forward to 4 years later - I am starting to competitively swim and run for triathlons and had to get my napes removed - smooth as always with Alex. Â Even learned a bit that his own girl is into tri's (or marathons perhaps).
To sum them up: Experienced, clean and sterile, safe and friendly. You wont go wrong here.
I recently had Karin Ackerman do a half sleeve of a design that I had been thinking about for a while. I gave Karin a rough idea of what I wanted and she was able to put her artistic touch to it and it came out amazing. Karin is super creative and her work is amazing. I have had so many compliments about the color and shading in the work that she did.
Review Source:Ill start with my little story:
I went to the same artist for years and then he moved away and was on the search for a new artist. I was blown off by a few, given the run around and then I found someone which inevitably turned into one of the worse experience ever. I was sad and never thought I would find someone :(
THEN Karin Ackerman was recommended and oh my goodness is she amazing!
She is kind, HONEST, creative, fun/easy to talk to, will take your idea and turn into something beautiful and truly cares about her clients! her work is AMAZING!
She finished my sleeve and she is now working on my other one :)
I looked for months for a great artist and spent a lot of time researching and she is by far the best! Highly recommended!!
After getting a tattoo from Mike... I can never go anywhere else. He is amazing! He exceeds every expectation every single time. I have been there many times and even though I have not gotten a tattoo from anyone but Mike.... Every single tattoo I have seen anyone there do , is amazing. Such a talented group... I would recommend them to everyone.
I am a mother of 5 and a Alzheimer's specialist. I have been getting tattoos for over half my life and I plan on going back to Chronic tattoo again in the next two weeks. The last tattoo I got from them was yesterday. Â ;o)
If your looking for the best shop in town you need to check out Chronic Tattoo in Pacific Beach. I have been following Karin Ackerman from the beginning when she started tattooing over 7 years ago. She is the only one that i will let do my work! She is very creative and knows how to bring out a simple/plain tattoo and make it an art piece. I personally have had her do a half sleeve and a whole back piece and couldn't be any happier. I am constantly getting compliments on the great work she does.
So again, if you are looking for a great shop and an amazing artist go see Karin Ackerman down at Chronic Tattoo in Pacific Beach.
Just had an outstanding experience at Chronic with in-house Piercer, Damien Valdez. I went in for a conch piercing and didn't really know what to expect (and I was kinda nervous since I'm a bit of a wimp). Damien was patient and professional throughout the entire process. He was consultative in regards to jewelry selection and aesthetic placement of my piercing, and really put a nervous girl at ease. The whole operation is top notch. Damien is clearly a pro dedicated to his craft. Without a doubt my best piercing experience ever.
Review Source:This place is AMAZING!!!! extremely clean and sanitary!!!! I went in to get a second piering in my ear and Alex (the piercer) is honest,friendly and funny :-). Felt really comfortable and it didn't hurt a bit which I thought it would lol. I recommend this place to any that wants to get a piercing or tattoo done. There artists are also really really good!!! I'm defiantly gunna go back here :-)!!!
Review Source:I am absolutely impressed with Chronic Tattoo. they have a whole gang of talented ARTISTS. the craziest part is, even with such talented artists with impressive artwork, Chronic's rates are extremely reasonable. i got a quote on the phone for about $125 an hour, depending of course upon the piece. that's the 'cheapest' price ive found in the 2 years ive lived in SD. majority of shops i found are about $160.
i walked in and was set up with Karen, who JUST started there, as in THAT day, but has much experience under her belt. i was set aback that for an artist of her talent that the price was so reasonable. her portfolio is remarkable. after 2 years i have finally found 'my' tattoo studio & my artist. if she were super busy, i wouldnt mind being taken care of by many of the other capable gentlemen.
karen is quick (not rushed,) friendly, explanatory, and open to suggestions. she gave me a little bit of a break for being military (Navy.)
Chronic is heavily decorated with an assortment of impressive, captivating artwork and what nots. they have a full bathroom in the back, they accept credit cards but it's nicer to pay with cash so the artists receive their payment without having to wait for the c/c transaction bs. i cannot wait to return for more work.
please check out my photo entitled "anchor by karen."
Panch at Chronic tattoo is hands down one of the most amazing artists I have ever had the pleasure of meeting and lucky me had work done by him!!
I was living in Hawaii and had come home to S.D. back in May for my abuela's funeral and was asking some friends if they could refer me to a great portrait artist. I wanted to preserve my abuela and would settle for nothing less than amazing work. I was referred to Ponch. I checked out his portfolio online and was floored by his work!! Being an artist myself I am very detail oriented and very, very picky!! He was at the time working at a shop in mission valley mall called nittis tattoo. If Ponch wasn't working there I would've walked right out. I did not feel relaxed or comfortable until I was sitting in Ponch's chair. About 6 hours later I came out with exactly what I wanted----immaculate, finely detailed, clean work!!! And he was so cool during the whole process----put on the music I wanted to listen too, made sure I was o.k., gave me breaks whenever I needed them. The price was perfect. I'm a firm believer that good work is not cheap, and cheap work is not good. You will always get what you pay for.
Fast forward to now. I moved back to S.D. from Hawaii and was looking forward to seeing Ponch again for a lot more work. I was put in a temporary state of panic when I discovered Ponch was no longer working at Nittis. I called and asked where he had gone and was snobbed by the receptionist. They would not tell me where he went and were extremely rude about it! Thank god I have friends who personally know him that informed me on his new location.
I called Chronic tattoo and it was like night and day. The guy that answered the phone was super cool and friendly and informed me on Ponch's schedule. I recently went in to Chronic and must say the whole experience was amazing. Everyone there was very friendly and super laid back. This visit was to have Ponch do a cover-up on my fingers and was once again extremely happy with the end result!! I just hope I can get all the work that I want done by Ponch before he blows up and I can't afford him anymore! His work rivals the artists you see on the tattoo reality shows----I hope Chronic tattoo knows just how lucky they are to have him working in their shop!!
Went down to Chronic a couple of years ago to get a forearm tattoo from "Pirate" Paul Faulk at Chronic. Shop is SUPER clean, friendly, and everyone was really nice. Paul's got a nice light touch, and the tattoo was (and still is) excellent. I'm travelling back down from Los Angeles next month, to get some more work from Paul!
Review Source:I went in to get my tragus repierced today. The first time I got it pierced was about 2 years ago and I went to this cheapo place in PB. The price was great but the guy did crappy job on top of me not taking care of it, the piercing developed a bump around it that wouldn't go away. I eventually took it out over a year ago and now that it's finally healed, I went to go get it redone. Alex did a great job on the piercing, I thought that since it was healed, the pain would be more intense than the first time but honestly I think I felt like 3 seconds of pain during the whole procedure. The pricing is fair, it is the same if you go somewhere like Enigma. Alex is also very thorough on the after care. This place is definitely worth checking out for your piercings!
Review Source:When I made my appointment, I told my tattoo artist I would like to spend no more than $300 since I thought my tattoo would take around 3 hours. It ended up taking 1.5 hours but he still charged me $300. I'm guessing they don't charge by the hour..
I showed up at my appointment and had to wait an extra hour and a half because my artist's previous appointment had run longer than expected, but other than that I was very happy with the turn out. Toney was very polite and made sure the sketch was exactly what I wanted. The office staff was also extremely welcoming.
The Day KC Chris Saved My Life
Once Upon A Time (the end of 2010), I was looking to get a new tattoo of something very significant (aren't they all so significant?) and my friend had gotten work done by KC Chris at Chronic. He was really happy with the work and it seemed really great to me. So I made an appointment.
I knew vaguely what I wanted and once I went in and explained what I was going for within 3 minutes we had a great plan. While sketching it out, he noticed an old tattoo botch job on my arm and asked me what happened with that. As always at that time, I felt sad. about a year before, in two sessions, I had spent about 8 hours under the gun of someone who was ill-equipped to do the work and it showed. It was shaded beyond recognition. It was all in blacks and greys and it had been worked so much that there was little area that was decipherable. I figured i'd just have to live with this. I explained all this.
KC Chris said he originally worked on fixing tattoos and could help me with it. To be honest, I doubted it but I also knew it couldn't look any worse. In that one session, not only did he give me the tattoo I went in for but he spent a good amount of time totally revamping and giving my bicep tattoo life. He changed it from something that made me so so sad to something I absolutely love. He was able to maintain the original idea I was going for but removed (REMOVED?!?!) the muck. He actually added white ink over the blacks and greys and gave my tattoo life! He added details and I ended up with the tattoo that I originally intended but had given up on.
It went from something I absolutely hated to something that is truly a work of art. I love it so much now. I would be remiss if I didnt also mention how wonderful the one I originally went in for turned out. Its really gorgeous without being too frilly and girly. When I said I wasnt crazy about one part, he quickly gave me an alternative I WAS crazy about. He got what I was wanting and the sentiment I had behind it and created something perfect.
And I've lived happily ever after.
The End (for now)
I got my first tattoo here about a month ago. The floor manager is super sweet and very helpful. He didn't give me short and rude answers over the phone, but was very patient and answered all my questions. I got it done by Chris who was amazing! I was pretty nervous, but he was really good at explaining what he was doing and calming me down. I just got a word tattooed on my left wrist but I love it! Chris actually wrote it out for me so it wasn't a generic font. I would definitely come back here if I decide to get another tattoo in the future
Review Source:Worst Tattoo experience Tony rushed my tat and didn't finish filling in tattoo and so I had make another appointment which he missed and tried to blame on me. Â I ended up going to another shop to get it finished. Â Sucks because I got a tattoo at Chronic a year previous and had awesome experience. Â Never going back.
Review Source:Chronic is an awesome place for someone who is getting their first tattoo. The environment was very friendly and comfortable, it 's well lighted and clean. I got my first tattoo from Chris, and he did an amazing job. The staff were also very funny and helpful. I can't wait to come back here for my second tattoo!
Review Source:I got my first work done at Chronic when they were still in Mission Beach about ten years ago. Their Pacific beach location is huge and impeccably clean with body jewelry sales up front separated from a large open space beyond where tattoos are done by resident and visiting artists.
There's no flash on the walls here where you can select "a #6 with a side order of fries". Custom work is what this place is about.
I see Tattoo Mike who's got a light enough touch I've actually fallen asleep in the chair. He initially expanded an existing tattoo but later he designed several larger sleeves for me as well, working with me every step of the way to get exactly what I wanted. I've seen some of his subtle B&W cover-up work as well which is also amazing.
They've got portfolios available so you can browse styles and choose the artist who's the perfect fit for you with lots of differnt styles represented.
They are very busy and scheduling appointments ahead of time is important. I usually book several sessions at a time.
I got my first tattoo here from Chris and he did an amazing job. My first time I walked in I was looking through books and didn't even pick Chris to begin with because I didn't know he did asian art. He helped me really put all my design ideas into one and I am so happy with my tattoo. The place is really clean and everyone there is really nice. I am extremely happy with my tattoo and I highly recommend this place.
Review Source:I'm VERY picky about where I go for tattoos. I now have 7 and one of the only places I will ever go here in San Diego is Chronic. Toney is an amazing artist and always a nice and pretty fair priced guy. He is well worth going there. They can normally get you in in a pretty good amount of time.
Things to remember:
Toney will normally ALWAYS be at least 15-20 min late...haha (you know its true toney...i still love you..lol)
Bring him some goodies.
Don't mention Neosporin! EVER!. lol
The BEST artists are in there...don't go anywhere else..they won't be as good.
Went to Chronic to buy a piece of jewelry for the conch piercing I had done a couple months ago. Â Alex was at the front desk and didn't just try to sell me whatever I was asking for, but actually took the time to make sure I was getting what I wanted/needed. Â It turned out that the place I had the piercing done had done a terrible job, piercing me at a weird angle and using a curved piece of jewelry that was going to cause scar tissue (not to mention they treated me like shit--like they were way too cool to be professional and treat me like a paying customer). Â Alex not only sold me the correct jewelry, but took out the old and put in the new for no charge. Â He also gave me wonderful directions on taking care of it, as my ear was completely swollen and causing me a lot of pain. Â I followed his directions and in no time my ear felt worlds better and now does not hurt in the slightest. Â
Bottom line: Alex seemed to care and didn't treat me like I was putting him out, which seems rare in a lot of these shops. Â It was a great experience and made me WISH I had come to a quality piercer in the first place. Â You won't regret going here. Â Ask for Alex.
If you can feel comfortable even when someone is shoving a massive hollow needle through your nostril, I'd say that's a definite win.
Got my nose pierced and a cartilage ring replaced in my ear at this place, really excellent quality jewelry, and really chill atmosphere. Had Alex do both and I have to say after the amount of bad shops I've been to for piercings and jewelry (infections or the jewelry fell apart, etc), I haven't had any problem since going to this shop. Definitely love this place.
I went to Chronic for the first part of a three part tattoo. Â I gave the guy a picture of what I wanted and he told me who would be the best artist for the style. Â I totally appreciated that....it would suck having someone do a bit of art on your body and not be into the style. Â He scheduled me with Tim Creed and I waited the month to get in. Â
When I got there, Tim showed me his drawing of what I gave them and he had made it so much better, the colors were more vibrant and it was a much cleaner look. Â The only change was the size. Â Once he put the outline on my back, it was clear that it was just too big. Â No worries, he changed it out and went to work. Â
I am so happy with the end result, his input completely brought out the vision of what I wanted. Â Now, I need to go back and get the rest of it finished.
While I was there, I watched them turn down business based upon the request of the customer...her boyfriends name on her back. Â It is nice that they stay true to the art and not just cave to idiotic requests that will be later regretted by the customer.
I went to Chronic for the first time years and years ago when my parents got their tattoos, went back 3 days ago for my bf to get his tattoo done, and went in TODAY to get my tongue piercing done by ALEX.
This guy definitely is an awesome piercer! I was a HUGE ball of nerves walking in to get my piercing done, and from the start he made sure that i knew it wasn't going to be a horrible experience. I did have a freak out in which i burst into tears like literally a minute before my piercing was done, all because of nerves of course. Some people get sick to their stomach when they're afraid of pain, i happen to cry like a baby! HAHAHA... Alex is definitely a blunt person, but I think that his personality is a part of why he's a great piercer. His " suck it up" attitude about piercing is exactly what you need when your getting a piercing done. Don't get me wrong , he is by no means a mean person or is he rude or anything... but he definitely knows when and how to get  you calmed and , and forget why you freaked out in the first place.
I know  FOR SURE if i ever get any more piercings in the future i will DEFINITELY be going back to Chronic : )
**** I HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS PLACE IF ANYONE IS THINKING ABOUT GETTING ANY PIERCINGS OR TATTOOS ( TRUST ME ITS WORTH THE DRIVE TO PB)***
I first went to Chronic Tattoo Octber of 2009, I wanted to get some work done and my mom sent me to them. Â Their shop is super clean and the artists are all really friendly. Not like some shops that look at you like an a-hole. I went in, looked at a few portfolios and felt that Rebecca would fit my vision best. I gave them a deposit and made my appointment for a few weeks later.
I went in and talked to her about what I wanted, and she was amazing, I am not great at clearly explaining what my vision is but she was amazing and drew up something better than what I had imagined. Â I get so many compliments on my arm, and it isn't even totally finished yet. Rebecca is a great artist and an amazing person.
I also have been going in to Toney Plugz for two other tattoos and a cover up. They are all incredible. He is really fast and talented. It helps that he is some good eye candy while being tattooed.
I'll never go anywhere else, and you shouldn't either.
I went as a walk-in to Chronic, since many of my co-workers next door at Trader Joe's love this place and was helped right away. Superclean n professional, Alex pierced my nose accurately and quickly, another words damn fine job! Healing really well and planning to go back,,,this time w an appt for some ink...
Review Source:I LOVE this tattoo and piercing parlor. I've gotten my nape, several ear, lower back, and a few other anchors done here. My best friend has gotten pierced and tattooed here. We've been coming here for almost 5 years and really won't go anywhere else. Everyone in the shop is super cool, talented, and friendly. All sorts of people go in, not just hardcore tatted and pierced people, so if you're worried about that, don't be! The piercing room is extremely clean and they are very good about changing gloves every time they touch something not sterile. Ryan is the current piercer there and he is the greatest!
They accept credit cards for piercings and jewelry (or at leas they used to) but for tattoos they only accept cash! Â If you pay in cash they usually give you a better deal.
My wife and I were in San Diego last week for my birthday and decided we wanted to find a good place for a little ink. The reviews on Yelp were really helpful and Stephanie's review of Toney Plugz really was all we needed to see.
The place was super clean, the vibe was chill and the music mix was great, lots of dub reggae. Toney and his assistant (sorry, can't remember his name) were very welcoming and responsive. Their time estimates were accurate and they answered all of our questions.
On Thursday evening my wife actually let Toney design her tattoo on the spot and before we knew it he was done! We came back the next afternoon and he took care of mine. I was looking for a celtic knotwork cross. I didn't have a design but  he  had worked up the design based on some examples he showed me. It took about two hours and we really feel like we got to know him in the process. We especially enjoyed the story about the blindside punch he took in a bar and the pictures of his new puppy.
We will definitely be returning to Chronic in the near future and might even request the "back alley special"...
Mark & Shannon
I was referred here by a dorky friend of mine to his pal Pascal. I totally came to the right place because every where I looked there are skulls every where! Sweet, cause I was about to get a skull on my arm. I dig it and Pascal did a good job on my design and it looks very cartoonie and fab just how I wanted it. Oh yeah Toney Plugz does good work too!
Review Source:Got my infamous sternum piercing done here and was very happy with my newest piercing. Clean and friendly, you're at ease with everyone at Chronic. The tools were sterilized and the room was extremely kept. The guy who pierced me was very patient with me and took his time explaining every step of the process. F%&#! did it hurt!! but it looked great once it was done!
Alas, I decided to take all of my piercings out (except my ears of course!) because it was time to move on. No more belly, tongue, or sternum piercings for me anymore. But it was fun while it lasted! :)
I was down visiting pacific beach from Seattle, and was looking for some ink to remember my visit. I walked up and down garnet st, which is home to a handful of shops, and decided to walk into chronic and see what work i could get done. The staff was very helpful, and personable, as I was set up with the artist Chris. This dude is it! He sat down and drew me up exactly what I was looking for and 20 minutes later I was laying down getting my chest tatted. He did an amazing job! great with colors and a steady hand, with little pain. The end product was amazing, and I couldn't have had a better experience! HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
Review Source:I got both of my tattoos here.
My first one was about 7 years ago, and the 2nd one was 5 years ago.
I honestly can't remember the names of the guys who did them, but the guy who did my first tattoo was A-W-E-S-O-M-E... when I went back 2 years later, I couldn't remember the name of the guy who did my first one, so I ended up getting my 2nd one from a different guy... he did a good job, but I wasn't as impressed as the first guy...
Everyone at the shop was professional, courteous, and made me feel completely comfortable, and were very serious about sanitary conditions and going over everything with me (since it was my first tattoo at the time and I didn't know what to expect or how to take care of it or anything)
I'm not sure this is still the case, but at the time I got mine, they custom-designed every tattoo... I brought them the basic sketch I wanted of my first tattoo and the guy took it and drew it with his own take on it for me while I went and had lunch, and when I came back after lunch he showed me the design and sat with me while we tweaked it together until it was exactly what I wanted, and I came back the next day to actually get the tattoo...
When I got my second tattoo, I have a friend who was getting the same tattoo as me (as a memorial to a friend who died in Iraq) and the tattoo guy actually refused to do the same tattoo on both of us, because he said he never wanted to put the same tattoo on any two people... he wanted them all individually and unique... so my friends was tweaked a little, with the same idea...
I liked the fact that it wasn't a place you walked in and pointed to a tattoo up on the wall and say, "I'll take A8 please..." and you get filtered through like cattle getting your tattoo. I love that they took their time and had patience...
Like I said, I don't know if it's any better or worse now than it was then, but back then it was great.
Got my second tattoo here last month from Tim Creed (very talented artist who just moved out east). Tim was awesome to work with. The place is great - very clean and open. The people who work there are helpful, friendly and easy to talk to (which is great if you're getting your first tattoo or piercing).
If you're looking for a tattoo place without the tattoo bravado that sometimes comes with finding a good artist, check out Chronic in PB.
I got a 3/4 sleeve completed here by Rebecca and she is honestly a gifted artist. Not only is she talented, but after spending hours upon hours at this shop because of all the details associated with my sleeve (and all my other tattoos that I've gotten done here) I observe that all the other tattoo artist are just as talented. They just all have their own style.
The best references are their portfolios that the shop conveniently keeps at the front of the store. When looking for a certain style, make sure to keep note of which artist really knows how to compliment colors, or really knows how to fine lines, or excels in shading. Don't be afraid to ask questions cause these guys will be honest and they are very knowledgeable.
My own advice: avoid coming here if you're just going to get a small, simple little tattoo. These artists are built for the more detailed complicated pieces that take hard work and dedication, so that's why you pay the bigger bucks (it'll DEFINITELY be worth it).
As far as piercing, I've gotten my tongue pierced here and I was unbearably nervous. The piercer was calm and comforting. He knew just what to say to make my nervousness go away.
This place also takes SANITATION seriously. So don't be afraid of catching them germs or heebie-geebies... this place scores high on cleanliness.
Got one tattoo here and it wasn't that good and it took forever to get an appointment. I went back for a touch-up and they rescheduled 3 times on me. Â When I finally went in to see tony, the artist, he threw a bitch fit about the scheduled appointment and did a horrible job of touching up the tattoo. Hes the one who rescheduled on me 3 times, shouldn't I be the one who was inconvenienced?
Now I have to go somewhere else where they can fix what he did not.
I have gotten a couple of piercings here, and have been helped by Johannes, Kate (who I think is no longer around) and most recently the new guy, Ryan. Â All were extremely knowledgeable and helpful, even when I needed help with a piercing that I didn't even get at Chronic. Â The wait is never long and the prices are reasonable. Â Everything is clean and by the book, plus the piercers really know their stuff, which is more than I can say for some other shops. Â They also don't try to upsell you on jewelry or cleaning products, etc. Â I don't eve think they have a cleaning solution for sale, actually, all you need is salt water, anyway. Â
I constantly recommend Chronic Tattoo for anyone looking to get a piercing and I would be apprehensive to get any piercings done anywhere else.
I just got my first tattoo done by Rebecca here. Â She did an amazing job! Â My piece is so detailed and intricate- especially for the size. Â I gave her my idea and she made it better than I could have imagined and put her personal finishing touches on it. She was really helpful and put me at ease. Â I would go to her again if I decide to get any more.
The shop was clean, with music and movies paying to distract me. The other artists were really friendly and Linda (the shop manager? Â receptionist? Â I'm not sure) was really friendly and sweet. Â If you are thinking about getting a tattoo, at least check this place out.
This is by far the WORST place I have ever gotten a tattoo. I went in to Chronic with an idea about what I wanted. I gave Ugly Bill my idea and it was pretty  basic. He said come back in a month and it would be ready. I come back and he has NOTHING!!! His excuse was he decided to freehand it of course without discussing this with me. I said what he was drawing looked like crap but he had so many random lines he said it was gonna look good I just couldnt see it at the moment. This should have been my first indication that it wasnt going to come out right. Another session with Bill got cut 45 minutes into it because, youre not going to believe this, he had a DATE! Why would someone even START a tattoo if you know youre going to leave that early. And no, he didnt tell me before we started. So 5 sessions later, my tattoo isnt finished, and Im furious. I looked into a local tattoo shop in ocean beach called Full Circle. Dominic ended up redoing my WHOLE tattoo and finishing some parts in 3 hours.
Over all experience, Chronic Tattoo is the worst place to go. The artist there are all cocky and overcharge for their work. If you dont feel like wasting time and money, go to Full CIrcle, not Chronic.
I got my first tattoo at Chronic around ten years ago and (aside from a few years when I was living out of state) have returned there for every one I've gotten since. Â Most recently, I had some work done by Tim, and I couldn't be happier. Â It's like he read my mind as far as what I was hoping to achieve. Â Everyone in the shop is friendly, and I've never been in a cleaner facility. Â From top to bottom, Chronic simply rocks!
Review Source:From the experience of myself and several friends, this may just be the most professional, steril, and overall talented shop i have ever stumbled across.
The crew is nice(even to walk ins) and everything there is done comepletely custom to your needs.
I got my back piece done by tim and while it's a tad on the pricey side, the shops reputation and service is worth the few extra bones.
It's not like you're going to return your tattoo if you aren't happy with it, so make sure you get it done how you want and check out chronic.
One thing, don't be in a hurry, the dudes are super booked. you will have to wait a while most likely.
DISCLAIMER: i didn't get work done, but this is my own opinion and experience, so don't haaate.
So, I feel really bad leaving a negative comment about this place.....okay, over it. Someone has to say SOMETHING. I'm actually writing this review just getting back from Chronic and I was NOT amused. Based on the 'WHOO HOO as good as it gets!' reviews on this place, all I can say is that its more like BOO BOO. I feel misled and disappointed. I walked in with high hopes and the full intention of getting a tatt done here, driving up for the weekend for my bday. So, we're greeted by Linda, the receptionist who was cordial and so I explain to her that I want a quote in script- easy and straight to the point. She directs me to Tony, the "kick ass" dude who does the script. I take a look at his portfolio right before i put down my $40 deposit and I am SO confused. THIS is the dude that does "kick ass" script? I understand, many artists don't keep their portfolio up to date, but daaamn. Squiggly and heavy dark lines galore. So, I take a look at other portfolios and it seems that everyone else's seems more experienced and professional, more specifically Ugly Bill's. I ask about his availability. I'm told that he is booked for a month, requires a $100 deposit and that even though she could talk to him about seeing me, he would probably just "throw" me over to Tony. First of all, i don't want to be "thrown" anywhere, secondly- did i not just make it clear that I was not feeling his work? Hmph. So, she then gives me a font book, tells me that "anyone" could basically do script as long as its in the book and that they will most likely "throw" me over to Tony either way. Okay, please, stop saying "throw" already and quit pushing me to this person that I don't feel comfortable going to!
Basically, this attempt to make an appointment felt forced and unfriendly. I felt that although the receptionist was trying to be understanding, it SO did not come off that way. Dude, i get that some people might think that getting a tatt is as simple as grabbing a friggen venti latte at starbucks, but not this chick- this shit is permanent! I'm thinking this mufucker through. I felt like I was being forced to go to this person, who in my own opinion, did not seem up to par...there weren't even any examples of his "kick ass" script (but there were examples of literally pink hearts and purple flowers)! There was one other person getting tattooed in the back of the shop and all the other workers (all 2 of them) seemed hung over and grouchy. I basically give this place TWO MIDDLE FINGERS- i mean, STARS for educating me on where NOT to go to get a tattoo. I will say that their prices did seem reasonable and I didn't get work done, but i still don't get the 5 stars, conspiracy much?? So, basically we were told to wait around for Ugly Bill if i wanted to get work done by him, so instead we went over to GURU where people seemed 100 times more friendly, welcoming, cool, laid back, understanding and NOT HUNGOVER- or at least they hid it better. Chronic Tattoo is the PERFECT name for this shop because all the workers seem like they all smoked a bowl and were deprived of munchies.
I do want to start of by saying thanks to all the yelpers who had nothing but great things to say about Chronic because that truly did make my decision as to where to go get my tattoo done so much easier. Â So I show up on a Friday night at around 8:30 (10 is closing) or so, and explained what I wanted to get done. Â I was then directed to Brent, I hadn't taken a drawing of what I had wanted to get done once I told him what I wanted he drew it up and got it perfect. Â He did an amazing job and had such a light touch. Â I would without a doubt recommend him and go back to him again as well!!!
Review Source:The first time I went into Chronic, I was impressed by how nice Sam is and what great stuff they have on the walls. Â Their artist portfolios are EXCEPTIONAL. Â I wanted a tribal stingray on my ribcage, and Sam immediately directed me to the person he thought would be best for the job. Â I really liked that he was able to give me that direction. Â FYI, Mike doesn't do tattoos for new customers, just repeat customers so it would be very hard to get an appt with him.
I was told Tim Creed would be the best one for the job and was directed to his website- <a href="/redir?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.timcreed.com&s=d414be1bd509fcccb064a6f72962cab7d6657c50486938e8b6e93f224e2de975" target="_blank" rel="nofollow">http://www.timcreed.com</a>. Â All I can say is, WOW!!! Â His website will knock your freakin' socks off, it's so amazing. Â I contacted him for an appt and I managed to get one only a week away!
The first drawing I saw wasn't exactly what I asked for, so I made very specific requests and Tim re-drew it. Â Once I saw the drawing, I was soo happy because it was EXACTLY what I wanted!!! Â The tattoo didn't hurt nearly as much as I thought it would. Â Tim is really nice and worked quickly. Â In the end, it only cost me $200 including tip. Â Not bad at all!!!
I can't recommend Tim Creed enough. Â Amazing artist, great person. Â Made me feel really comfortable and I completely trust him to ink me. Â Will definitely get another tattoo from him again. Â A+++ work! Â Thanks Tim!!!!!
this place was amazing and gave me a quick & painless piercing. Â yeah, i didn't know that was possible either. Â i was thinking i'd want five piercings max, but after this experience i'm really tempted to go back and get a lot more.
my piercer was kate. Â she was super friendly the entire time even though i must have seemed like such a newb to her. Â she was chatting with my bf, who was also in the room, and me whole time when she wasn't explaining what she was doing and what i should be doing (i.e. the breathing thing). Â i mean this was my fifth piercing but i was still scared - i'll admit, i'm still a real coward when it comes to this stuff because i hadn't gotten pierced in awhile.
i'm extremely sensitive to pain in general but i seriously felt NOTHING when she put the needle though. Â it didn't hurt when she put the earring through either. Â the last guy i went to (on st marks in nyc) was also pretty good and i felt next to nothing when he pierced my ear but there was substantial pain when he put the earring in.
oh yeah, my piercer took up a pair of gloves to deal with my left ear (i was stretching one of the holes) and then i saw her throw away the pair to put a new pair on to pierce my right ear...and all the while she was just chatting with me. Â this made me trust her very much, like she doesn't skip a step regardless of whether i was being attentive to what she was doing or not.
I have been a client of Tattoo Mike's for years now, since back to the Mission Blvd. days. He is extremely professional, easy going and amazing to collaborate with on your future tattoo.
Chronic.... so much to say, but I will keep it short...
It's a clean establishment, the artists are all top notch, nice and talented. They treat every client with courtesy and don't have stuck up chips on their shoulders like a lot of other tattoo artists I have come across. Â Their pricing is also very reasonable considering the quality of work you will be getting.. but then again, if you're a moron bargain hunting for permanency then you deserve the discomfort, you get what you pay for.
Tattoo Mike is a class act in the SD tattoo scene and his work shows it, if I committed to an entire back piece from him, that should tell you. The only drawback to Chronic, as with any GOOD tattoo artist, is to be prepared to wait for a while since Mike and many of his other artists book well in advance... and they are worth the wait. If an artist is booked for months IT'S FOR A REASON. Keep that in mind. Granted, you can get a walk in *sometimes* but why would you want to get something on a whim... put some thought into your business, it is a lifetime commitment after all and if you're willing to wait, Chronic is the place to sling you some killer ink.
I have never been pierced there though but if their piercers are chosen as meticulously as their tattoo artists, you will more than likely walk out a very happy camper.
i went in yesterday and got my navel pierced. Johannes was the guy who pierced me and he was fabulous! Super professional, friendly, and clean. He made me feel really welcomed and kept my mind off of the needle with his easy conversation and laid back attitude. Would definitely recommend him to all my friends and colleagues. The first thing i noticed when i walked in to the store was how clean it was. It didn't take very long for someone to greet me and help me out with my questions and concerns. Go Chronic!!!! Thank you Johannes for making my day!
Review Source:Thanks to all the great reviews from Yelpers, this is where I headed for my conch piercing. Everyone in the shop is really professional, and Johannes (my piercer) really put me at ease and walked me through all the steps of the piercing so I wouldn't be more nervous (or in pain) than necessary.
Two weeks later, my ear is already almost healed. I will definitely recommend this shop to anyone looking for a professional gunless piercing :)
This place is amazing.
I initially came in for a second lip piercing and decided to come here because of yelp reviews. The moment I walked in I was greeted right away. I ended up getting pierced by Johannes, who is quite possibly the nicest guy ever. The shop is really nice and I love love love all of the artwork on the walls.
Johannes does a great job at explaining each step in the process of getting a piercing. He explains what he is doing, why he is doing it, when you may start feeling a little bit of pain and everything else so thoroughly. I've never had a piercer do that before, and I definitely have had my fair share of piercings. A few weeks later I went back in to change the jewelry and decided that I wanted to get a tattoo by Johannes because aside from piercing he also does tattoos.
Again, he was so nice and really understood what I wanted. The great part about it as well is that he can send you a sketch of your tattoo via email before you come in to get tattooed so you can review it without making another trip to the shop. It's a really convienient way of doing things.
The tattoo turned out beautifully. He is known for using lots of vibrant colors and a traditional tattooing style and it suited my tattoo so well. The three hours I sat through with him went by so quickly because we were just talking about a lot of random stuff and he really has a way of making you feel comfortable. I definitely recommend him and the shop as a whole because everyone there makes you feel welcomed. I think Johannes is definitely great, especially if you are getting your first tattoo because he explains everything he is doing so you actually understand a lot of the process instead of just sitting there.
Another testament to how amazing Johannes is, he actually sent me an email a few days later asking me how my tattoo was healing up. I don't know anyone else who would even bother doing that. My next tattoo will becoming from him as well. I can't say enough about him or the shop.
I got my nose pierced here a long ol' time ago when I lived in Vegas and would come out here to visit on occasion. They were great! Totally professional and the place was clean! I have been back twice to have my rings changed out and they wouldn't even charge me, so I made sure to slip some decent cash to the person helping me before I left. I have recommended Chronic to other people for piercings...I don't have any tattoos yet but I'd probably go to Chronic before going anywhere else first....
Review Source:I've sat through many sessions with Ugly Bill here. There's never a dull moment when you're getting work done. It's either poking fun at/with the drunk people walking in, rocking out (as much is possible without moving) or just joking around with the employees. It's a fantastic environment for getting tattoo work done.
I'd highly suggest checking the artist's portfolios, they're all top notch. Not much more you can ask for in a tattoo shop.
-2'nd time in this place and they are still as friendly as ever, was with my nephew the first time and today too
-1'st time was to buy jewelry for my chest piercing and Kate suggested i take it out to heal since they fucked it up.....which i did.
-the return for the re-pierce was today and....Johannes did the deed with Kate right in the room also. felt so special having 2 piercers present which equalled tons of experience in that room thehehe
-since they had to cover the scarring, they figured the best for me to do is get 2 "implants" instead of the bar, warned me that it is pricier than the bar but i assured them money is not an obstacle (since i just really wanted to get re-pierced and cover the scarring)
-i think i may have been pierced 6 times today since a. top - twice, the other one to aid in healing and to penetrate the scar tissue then the insertion of the implant itself; b. bottom - repeat same process
-seriously, i bled a little with minimal pain (if you could even call it that)
-they were just cool and very knowledgable about their trade
-stories......wow
-kate, that woman had thousands of dollars worth on her awesome face
-they provided me with tons of healing sugestions ontop of the paper they send home with you
-encouraged me to write thru email if i encounter any problems or to call and gave me business cards
-suggested certain jewelrey later after it heals
-this is the 3'rd time this same site on my chest has been pierced thehehe
-i told them they have 5 stars from 5 reviews on yelp (which they did not know about) and will forward them the link hahahaha they were happy to hear about that and said "we should go have a drink, woohoo we got 5 stars on yelp!" hahahaha
=GO! GO! GO! YOU'LL BE VERY HAPPY AND SATISFIED
I won't go any place else for piercings or tats. I don't have any ink, but all of my piercings have been done here. Jolie is amazing and completely puts me at east (don't know if she's still there...it's been a while since my last piercing.) Everyone at the shop is professional and fun, and always do great work. My friends all get tatted here and all the work is great. Definitely a place for quality, professionalism and a clean environment.
Review Source:No tattoos yet, but my boyfriend and I trust this place for all our body piercings. The staff was extremely helpful with our questions and patient with our decision making. A girl (rebecca?) helped me with my piercings--she did an awesome job making me feel comfortable while outside my comfort zone. Â My boyfriend trust Johannes for his piercings. Â Cool staff, sterile environment, only place I'd go if I wanted more done.
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