Great Lakes Tattoo

Over the years I’ve been tattooed at GLT several times over by Beatdown, Erik, Brandon, and Danni - talented and awesome people. You can’t go wrong with anyone in the shop. Every tattoo I’ve received has been of the highest quality. No “regerts.” They are the Avengers of tattooing.

After years of looking for an artist to help me get back into continuing my tattoo journey, I came across GL, specifically, Kevin’s portfolio. I could not be more happy with my experience from scheduling, meeting Kevin and enjoying great tunes + conversation. I am definitely a fan and look forward to my next visit. I highly recommend!

I’ll be back! Taking care of paperwork/booking/release was super quick and friendly on a very busy day. Day of tattoo was seamless and Brandon took great care of me. Great artists great atmosphere. 100/10 would recommend.

Few shops I've been to have been as inviting, clean and professional as GLT. Brandon did a fantastic job for a fair price and was engaging and welcoming through the whole process. I live in Indianapolis and walked in on a whim but I would wholly consider making the trip for a big enough piece just to get it done at GLT.

Latest piece done by Erik at GLT. Absolutely the best work in the city, consistently outstanding. Great communication, friendly people, overall excellent experience.

Amazing shop! I’m in the Chicago area for a month and was recommended here by my artist back home in VA. The hospitality from beginning to end was amazing. The team was so nice and flash collection was dope. Brandon crushed what I ask for and the banter and interaction was top tier! Will def be back! So update! Went back the following weekend to get another piece done by Kevin! He also gave me a list of must eats while in Chicago and he didn’t miss! Tried 5 restaurants from the list he gave me and they were all bangers. If you’re visiting Chicago, get that list from Kevin, you won’t be disappointed!

I don’t typically leave reviews, but this place changed my life 💜 really solid people, ethos, empathy and care. But don’t come in with entitled nonsense as these folks are true artists and deserve respect to perform their work in a positive and safe environment. I am exercising a large amount of self control to not get another one (or five) in the coming week.

I got a tattoo from Matt, a flash for $500 and I could immediately tell that the work done did not reflect the flash chosen or money spent. From blown out and squiggly lines, to the fact that it doesn’t look like American traditional at all, I reached out to see if we could work out a compromise as I’ve been distraught since I came home. Instead, I was met with an egotistical response that lacked professionalism and overall understanding for a paying customer. Great Lakes should be ashamed of themselves for how this situation was handled. Will never go or recommend this place to anyone, go if you want a botch job with gas lighting on top.