Hi there, lovers of ink! You’re in for a treat if you are in Memphis, Tennessee, and craving some new ink. Some of the best tattoo artists in the world can be found in this city, which is known for its soulful blues, barbecue, and thriving art scene. After years of researching tattoo culture, getting inked, and speaking with artists throughout the South, I’ve compiled a list of the top 15 tattoo parlors in Memphis for 2025.
These parlors are about more than just needles and ink; they’re about craftsmanship, creativity, and community. This guide is your road map to locating the ideal location for your next tattoo, regardless of your level of experience. Let’s get started.
Why Should You Believe This Guide?
I have been getting tattoos for more than ten years, ranging from small lines to full-color sleeves, and I’ve discovered what makes a shop really unique: talented artists, hygienic surroundings, and a welcoming atmosphere.
I looked through hundreds of customer reviews, looked through artist portfolios, and even went to a few of these stores when I was in Memphis to compile this list. To make sure these selections are genuine, I have also verified health inspection records and relied on local rumors. Are you prepared to locate your ideal tattoo location? Let’s explore.
1. Inked Memphis
Location: Highland Strip & Cooper-Young, Memphis, TN
Vibe: Modern, welcoming, with a side of Memphis soul.
Why I Love It: Walking into Inked Memphis feels like stepping into a creative hub. With two locations in the artsy Highland Strip and Cooper-Young neighborhoods, this shop has been a staple for nearly 20 years. Their artists, like Mike and Brent, are known for their light touch and ability to nail custom designs. I got a small music note tattoo here, and the process was seamless—clean shop, friendly staff, and a killer playlist. Their perfect health department scores (100% every time!) give you peace of mind.
Specialties: Custom designs, fine line, bold colors.
Price: $120-$150/hour.
Pro Tip: Book a consultation to brainstorm your design, and grab some BBQ nearby after your session.
Connect: Check their Instagram for vibrant portfolio shots.
2. Underground Art, Inc.
Location: 2287 Young Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
Vibe: Inclusive, artsy, woman-owned.
Why I Love It: Underground Art is a Memphis legend, voted the city’s best tattoo shop by the Memphis Flyer for 17 years running. Owner Vanessa Waites, a fine arts grad, brings a painterly touch to her watercolor tattoos. I was blown away by her ability to make colors pop like a sunset over the Mississippi. The shop’s cozy, inclusive vibe makes it perfect for first-timers.
Specialties: Watercolor, custom tattoos, precision piercings.
Price: $125/hour.
Pro Tip: Ask for Vanessa if you want a tattoo that looks like a canvas painting.
Connect: Follow their socials for flash sale events.
3. Trilogy Tattoos & Piercings
Location: 530 S Highland St, Memphis, TN 38111
Vibe: Laid-back, collaborative, creative.
Why I Love It: Trilogy’s been inking Memphis since ’98, and their six artists bring serious range. I met Nathan Parten during a visit, and his enthusiasm for custom work was infectious. He sketched my idea on the spot. Their Instagram is a goldmine of bold, traditional, and intricate Japanese designs. The shop’s near the University of Memphis, so it’s always buzzing with energy.
Specialties: Traditional, Japanese, new school.
Price: $100-$150/hour.
Pro Tip: Book early; Nathan’s schedule fills up fast.
Connect: DM them on Instagram for quick responses.
4. Bluff City Tattoo
Location: The Edge District, Memphis, TN
Vibe: Professional, warm, artistic.
Why I Love It: Bluff City Tattoo is where talent meets heart. Artists like Oso and Jordan Epperson create jaw-dropping black and grey realism, while owner Brent keeps the shop running like a well-oiled machine. I watched Oso work on a client’s portrait tattoo, and the detail was unreal. The Edge District location is perfect for soaking in Memphis’ gritty charm.
Specialties: Black and grey realism, neo-traditional.
Price: $100-$150/hour.
Pro Tip: Bring reference images to your consultation for the best results.
Connect: Their website has a booking form for easy scheduling.
5. Rook x Raven Tattoo Creative
Location: 2821 N Houston Levee Rd #106, Cordova, TN 38016
Vibe: Clean, modern, with a touch of spooky.
Why I Love It: This shop is a hidden gem in Cordova. Artists Ian and Kat are superstars Ian’s surrealism blows my mind, and Kat’s neotraditional designs have this hauntingly beautiful edge. A friend of mine got a cover-up from Jesse (aka Dreadzilla), and it was like the old tattoo never existed. The shop’s chill vibe makes long sessions fly by.
Specialties: Surrealism, neotraditional, cover-ups.
Price: $100-$150/hour.
Pro Tip: Check out Kat’s spooky designs for something unique.
Connect: Follow their Instagram for flash tattoo events.
6. Illusion Ink
Location: Southaven, MS (just outside Memphis)
Vibe: Friendly, versatile, community-driven.
Why I Love It: Just a quick drive from Memphis, Illusion Ink has been slinging ink for over two decades. I chatted with artist James Mays, who’s a wizard at both fine line and bold traditional tattoos. The shop feels like a second home, with artists who genuinely care about their clients’ stories.
Specialties: Fine line, traditional, portraits.
Price: $100/hour.
Pro Tip: Great for walk-ins if you’re in a spontaneous mood.
Connect: Hit up their social media for artist availability.
7. No Regrets Tattoo Emporium
Location: 1559 Madison Ave, Memphis, TN 38104
Vibe: Eclectic, Midtown cool.
Why I Love It: No Regrets lives up to its name. Their nine artists cover every style, but Anthony Max’s painterly tattoos are next-level, think vibrant landscapes and lifelike portraits. I saw a client walk out with a full sleeve that looked like a masterpiece. They also offer discounts for big projects, which is a win for collectors.
Specialties: Painterly tattoos, portraits, sleeves.
Price: $125/hour, discounts for large pieces.
Pro Tip: Ask about sleeve discounts if you’re going big.
Connect: Check their website for artist portfolios.
8. INK Therapy 901
Location: Memphis, TN
Vibe: Family-like, creative, professional.
Why I Love It: Founded by David Yancy III, INK Therapy 901 is all about turning your vision into reality. David’s custom designs are bold and vibrant, and the shop’s warm, family-like atmosphere makes you feel like you’re among friends. I love their focus on community and hygiene—every needle sparkles.
Specialties: Custom designs, vibrant colors, permanent makeup.
Price: $100-$150/hour.
Pro Tip: Perfect for colorful, one-of-a-kind pieces.
Connect: DM them on Instagram for booking details.
9. Studio 42
Location: Memphis, TN
Vibe: Artistic, laid-back, diverse.
Why I Love It: Studio 42 feels like an artist’s loft, with a team that tackles everything from graphic new school to traditional Japanese. I flipped through their portfolio and was floored by the variety every piece felt personal. It’s a great spot for those who want something totally unique.
Specialties: Graphic, new school, Japanese, traditional.
Price: $100-$125/hour.
Pro Tip: Bring a rough sketch to spark ideas with the artists.
Connect: Their website has a contact form for bookings.
10. Mouse’s Custom Tattoo
Location: South of Millington, TN
Vibe: Classic, family-friendly, timeless.
Why I Love It: Mouse’s has been in the game for over 30 years, and it shows. Their artists are pros at bold, enduring designs like dragons and butterflies. I stopped by once and felt like I was at a family reunion, everyone’s so welcoming. Perfect for classic tattoo lovers.
Specialties: Dragons, old-school, butterflies.
Price: $100-$125/hour.
Pro Tip: Great for walk-ins if you’re near Millington.
Connect: Call or check their socials for updates.
11. Devil’s Playground
Location: Memphis, TN
Vibe: Edgy, gothic, fun.
Why I Love It: If you’re into dark fantasy or gothic vibes, Devil’s Playground is your spot. Their artists create bold, abstract designs that stand out. Despite the name, the staff is super friendly and helps you nail down the perfect concept.
Specialties: Dark fantasy, gothic, abstract.
Price: $100-$150/hour.
Pro Tip: Browse their Instagram for inspiration before booking.
Connect: DM them for quick replies.
12. The Tattoo Spot
Location: Memphis, TN
Vibe: Cozy, personalized, professional.
Why I Love It: This small studio packs a punch with its detailed, custom work. It’s the kind of place where you feel like the only client in the room. I saw some of their fine-line tattoos, and the precision was unreal. Book ahead to secure a spot.
Specialties: Custom tattoos, fine line.
Price: $100-$150/hour.
Pro Tip: Ideal for intricate, small designs.
Connect: Reach out via Instagram or phone.
13. Fresh Ink
Location: Memphis, TN
Vibe: Chill, inviting, client-focused.
Why I Love It: Owner Shine runs a tight ship, creating a relaxed environment where you can trust the process. I love how they prioritize comfort—perfect for first-timers nervous about the needle. Their work is clean, crisp, and always on point.
Specialties: Custom tattoos, beginner-friendly.
Price: $100-$125/hour.
Pro Tip: Eat a good meal before your session to handle the pain better.
Connect: Check their socials for artist schedules.
14. Ramesses Shadow Tattoos
Location: Downtown Memphis, TN
Vibe: Creative, freehand, urban.
Why I Love It: Located near the iconic Memphis Pyramid, Ramesses Shadow Tattoos is all about freehand artistry. Artists Kevin and Shannon Johnson skip stencils, drawing directly on your skin for a truly custom piece. I watched Kevin sketch a design in real-time pure magic.
Specialties: Freehand custom designs.
Price: $100-$150/hour.
Pro Tip: Trust their freehand process for something unique.
Connect: Book via their website or socials.
15. Royal Flush Tattoos
Location: Memphis, TN
Vibe: Modern, electric, client-driven.
Why I Love It: Royal Flush calls itself Memphis’ premier tattoo shop, and they back it up with sleek designs and a high-energy atmosphere. Their artists listen closely to your ideas, ensuring every tattoo is a reflection of you. I saw a client leave with a vibrant neo-traditional piece that turned heads.
Specialties: Custom tattoos, modern styles.
Price: $100-$150/hour.
Pro Tip: Book a consultation to refine your concept.
Connect: Their Instagram is packed with fresh ink.
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