Had a super amazing experience! Carl decided to take me last minute and was not only super accommodating but really took the time to help recreate the design I envisioned on my arm of my mom's embroidery! I definitely recommend choosing Carl to design your tattoo especially if it's a piece that is sentimental to you! Overall, great experience, good vibes, and genuinely amazing talent! Read Less

I brought Si'i a concept for a chakra spine tattoo and he made it so much more beautiful than I could have hoped for! We discussed each chakra-what it meant in Hindu, what it meant to me- and then he personalized each one with a Polynesian interpretation. I love it! Read Less

Here's my breakdown of A-Town Tattoo in 12 segments: Artists, Needled machines, Ink, Diverse cultures,Fellowship,Sharpies,Designs/Patterns,Skin, Islander music/Irie vibes, Hospitality,Concentration andTraditional tatau instrumentsThere is a bricolage of talented tattooists at this shop. Each artist has their own way of carving their vision into your skin. So if you are looking for a certain style or design, you should definitely browse the artist's online/social portfolios or schedule a consultation. That way you can match yourself with the person who you feel could best make your ideas awaken and take shape. I did this, had my consultation with Lio on July 7th and scheduled my tattoo appointment for July 14th. The time we coordinated was perfect, on a Saturday at 10am. Yes, the earlier the better for me. It was quiet, tranquil, not too many people, there was only this A-Town artist Hene (who does amazing work!) and Allek (also an A-Town tattooer) at first. The shop was clean, the stations were organized and the mood for the first couple of hours was pacifying (can't stress this enough). As the day progressed more people started to trickle in, other artists, clients, spectators, family...the space got quite packed. Thankfully, my 5-6 hour tattoo journey was near completion. My back tattoo is a Maori inspired design, revamped into a sketch by Lio that synthesizes both my Filipino & Samoan cultures. Lio specializes in lettering and script pieces, but when I dug a little deeper into his portfolio, I found that he could crank out Polynesian style tattoos also. He started my session around 11am, finished right before 5pm, with just 2 short breaks in between. I am grateful to say, Lio did an excellent job on my 10th tattoo. It's healed, I love it, I've referred others here and will not hesitate to return for future work/skin art! Read Less

**WARNING: This an extremely long review, but I feel that it was necessary to let you all know about my ENTIRE experience with A-Town Tattoo**        Around the beginning of June of this year, I came into the shop after inquiring (previously through email) about getting my tattoo done in early August. I came into the shop not really knowing what to expect, being that I've never gotten a tattoo, nor have I ever stepped into a tattoo shop before. Upon entering, I was greeted almost immediately by one of the tattoo artists that was working in the front. I let him know that I had been emailing Si'i, the shop's owner, and just wanted to see if he was available to talk to so that I could get a bit more information before I went ahead with booking my appointment.        Si'i came out and greeted me about 5 minutes later. He had an extremely enthusiastic attitude right from the start, giving me the impression that he's truly passionate about what he does. Being that I was inquiring about having a Samoan contemporary tattoo done, one of my first questions that I had asked him was whether or not he'd be able to do my tattoo using the traditional Samoan tools. This was something that I had wanted to do because of the significance that this way of tattooing holds in our Samoan culture. He had told me that because of the shape of the design that I wanted, he wouldn't be able to do it. I was a bit disappointed at first, but I understood why it couldn't be done. After all, he's the artist and knows what he's talking about! After about 15-20 minutes of conversing with him, I knew that he was the one that I wanted to do my tattoo and went ahead with booking my appointment, setting it for August 2nd.        Fast forward to about three weeks later, I was getting extremely anxious about getting my tattoo done and decided to reach out to them to see if I could possibly move my appointment up to an earlier date. They were able to move my appointment up to the 20th of July without a problem.        So on the 20th, I went into A-Town for my appointment to get my tattoo done. When I was telling Si'i what I wanted, I had an idea of the shape I was looking for, but I told him to do whatever he wanted with it. Being that he is such an amazing artist, I wanted to give him as much freedom to let his creativity be showcased, with the least restrictions possible. About an hour or so into tattooing me with the machine, he remembered that I had originally asked about getting my tattoo done with the traditional tools. He then told me that he would mix it up and do some of the patterns with the tools... and I could not have been any more excited! Although I didn't outwardly express it due to the fact that I was trying so hard to keep my cool while he was tattooing me, I was completely ECSTATIC!        So not only was I privileged to have my tattoo/tatau done by the one and only Sulu'ape Si'i Liufau, I had the honor of having a portion of it done in the traditional way... something that I had always loved and admired about our Samoan culture.        Let me just start by saying that putting my faith in Si'i to let his artistry run free was the greatest decision I could have made. I truly believe that when you give an artist the freedom to do whatever they want, that's when their best work is accomplished... and that is definitely evident in the piece that I received.        Long story short, if you're thinking about having a tattoo done here, DO IT. In regard to the shop itself, with the exception of the temperature of the shop being a bit warm, it had a really awesome atmosphere. Everyone has really great personalities, especially Si'i! He's such a cool, fun, laid back guy... it really made the pain of getting the tattoo much easier to bear. And the fact that he went out of his way to finish up my tattoo/tatau in the traditional way... I couldn't be more grateful. Thank you Si'i and everyone else at A-Town Tattoo! You guys are awesome! Read Less

The detailing, skills of the artists, and the patience for squirmy customers like me is incredible. I was so happy with my family band and the little twist my artist did on it. This place does meaningful and authentic work. Read Less

My boyfriend and I are really happy we found this place. The owner Si'i and all the other artists are all so welcoming. My bf wanted to get his Polynesian tattoo done for a while and a friend recommended this place to us. Braddah Seymour was his artist and always does such an awesome job. Completely freehand with so much mana and meaning that it reminds my boyfriend of his Hawaiian roots. We will definitely be back to finish off his arm. Read Less

I'm not really a tattoo person. But my sister recently passed away from brain cancer. My daughter wanted to honor her Aunt by getting a tattoo. I was so touched by that, that I wanted to get one too. We went to A-Town randomly, mostly because it was close to find out more. Artist Hawk drew these up and we really liked them. So he did them right then and there. We are both really happy with Hawk's beautiful work and professionalism. Their shop is clean, comfortable and friendly Read Less

My name is Syree Gibbs! Lio did a soundwave tattoo on me and OMG it’s so freaking amazing! I have numerous amount of people who stop me and ask me to play it. I got a voicemail of my stepdad of 38 years on my arm and this tattoo means the world to me! Lio, thank you for your talent and your kindness with tattooing - you are a rock star!!! Read Less

If you want excellent artists who make you feel like family to give you a beautiful piece of art that you can be proud of, then go here. Each artist offers their own unique style and flavor, and all are talented and great. Read Less

Cultural, heritage and experienced professionals... welcoming staff that is very flexible and accommodating. Definitely seasoned in creating what you want with an expertise in Polynesian tribal. Will have more work done. Read Less

I was looking to get my first tattoo. I had some locations in mind based on yelp reviews. I walked in and talked to the owner, Si'i, and after just a few moments of speaking with him I knew I'd get my tattoo here. As soon as I got home I decided not to check out the other locations and I called Si'i to set up an appointment. Si'i was the artist who tattooed my arm. My first tattoo was a 3/4 sleeve on my left arm (which later became a full sleeve). Si'i did a great job with my tattoo. Everyone compliments me on the work. Best of all, he did it freehand! Si'i is an awesome person to talk to as well. Si'i and his staff are very friendly and welcoming. They make you feel like family. Si'i even hooked it up with food when they had a barbecue in the back! He told me to go on back and join in on the action! Good times! Read Less

Sanitary, Chill Af and Lio worked with me at all times, wasn't rushed and felt comfortable in the environment and the tattoo work was super clean, especially for it being my first time getting tattooed ,check out @liotattoos for some dope ass work, would come again Read Less

I brought my daughter here to get her nose pierced. Carl helped us & did a great job! He was friendly and gave us all the information we needed. The place was pretty busy which is always a good sign. We did have an appointment & we were promptly helped. Staff was friendly too! I would definitely come back! Read Less

Carl the piercer was super amazing, gentle and quick made me feel super comfortable. the best part is that he had  the after care I needed for my nipple piercings at the shop so I didn't have to stop at the store to pick anything up. He gave me a phenomenal price. Great birthday gift to myself . Will definitely come back for more piercings with carl.Thanks again!!! Read Less

this place cares more about money than loyalty. had an appt. booked for a week. right before I got there they cancelled because he got someone who was gonna do a piece for more money! seriously a joke! Read Less

A-Town lives up to the hype and I am truly fortunate to have gotten my first tattoo at this parlor. The parlor itself was clean and all the artists were friendly. I had Carl as my artist and he did an amazing job. He gives you the option for him to take his time with his tattoos and the results reflect the time and effort that he puts in. If you have the time, I recommend clearing out a full day and dedicating it to getting a tattoo done by Carl. I love this first tattoo and I will definitely go back and get another piece done by Carl in the future. thanks Read Less

My first professional tattoo: I came up with a tattoo idea and for weeks I scrolled thru Instagram and various other pages in search of an acceptable shop/artist. I have long known about A-Town and the quality of their work but initially decided not to come here due to my misconception that they only specialize in Polynesian tattoos. (SO NOT true) After feeling uneasy and not being able to decide on a shop, I decided to go where the family goes. I felt like I'd be in good hands. And I was. I walked in unannounced, completely clueless that there is a process that typically takes place (a consult, collaboration between tattoo artist and tattoo-ee, if thats even a word lol) I had my heart set on the image I came up with. I was blessed to have HAWK assigned to the job. We discussed the tattoo I wanted and he gave me his professional advice about why the idea I had in my head wouldn't translate into a timeless tattoo on my body and he suggested  a reasonable alternative. I will admit I was a bit hesitant about his idea because "THIS is what I want, make it happen damnit" I mean, that's why I'm there right? However that was the totally wrong mentality to have. After I adjusted my approach and trusted the artist, I realized that these guys are here to HELP me, not just kill time and take my money. That type of knowledge and honesty is priceless and definitely made a fan out of me.(and that's BEFORE Hawk even started on the tattoo itself!) So while Hawk went to work on drawing up our idea, I was again blessed with the company of another artist, CARL. I was trying to decide what body part to get my piece done on and we got to talking about the various body parts and their comparative levels of pain. Somehow we ended up in a deep discussion about the concept of Mind Over Matter. It totally helped set my mind right going into the 2 hour experience. I'm really thinking Carl's wisdom talk should be incorporated as part of the tattoo experience. Lol He really helped me feel relaxed and at ease. I am so in love with Hawk's work on me and glad that I kept an open mind to his input and ideas (which actually turned out to be so much better than what I had in mind). I will definitely be back and definitely refer this shop to anyone. The knowledge, skills, chill vibe, and honesty are well worth the price. Read Less

Went here spur of the moment and Carl totally accommodated! He was super sweet and didn't give me the usual anxiety I get walking in to a new tattoo shop. The piercing was quick and easy, they made sure I liked the placement and they were super sterile. Some of the nicest people I've ever met! 10/10, would recommend this shop above all. Read Less

Awesome people. Awesome place. Very clean and very welcoming. Carl is the best. He made sure my sister and I got exactly what we were looking for. Very good artist. Can't wait to be working with him again for my next tattoo. Read Less

I'm not giving a 1 star because I didn't get a tattoo and this shop has very talented artists, but I've never felt so turned down and turned off to getting my first tattoo. :(An acquaintance had recommended this shop to me and had great things to say about it.3 emails, 1 phone call, and 1 month later... NO ONE HAS RESPONDED TO ME, except for the fact the phone call was answered, to where I was redirected to another email. Still nothing.One month. So I moved on and contacted another shop/artist and got a response from them in less than 48 hours.I don't know what's going on, but I was understanding at waiting for two weeks, however, I'm disappointed with the customer service. Read Less

Best tattoo place my boyfriend and I have ever been to ! Our tattoo artist was carl, amazing work. Very good customer service and carl made sure we got exactly what we came in for . Needless to say , this is our #1 spot . Clean, detailed, and on point ! Thank you carl we'll be seeing you again very soon ! Read Less

Love this place! Didn't get tatted but I came here for a belly piercing and it was by far the best piercing experience I've had thus far. Carl was super sweet and helpful and so was everyone else. I didn't make an appointment and hardly had to wait which was awesome. Everything was clean and professional and Carl makes sure to make you feel comfortable and make you laugh as well. Definitely coming back here for my first tattoo! When you come here, ask for carl! Read Less

Super awesome first tattoo experience.Oso was my tattoo artist and he was super informative about the process and what to expect for my first tattoo. He has a very gentle touch and made my experience pretty painless (as far as tattoos go!)The shop is cash only, and they have a $100 shop minimum. Parking is a little tough, but there is extra space in the back of you can't find anything in front.I recommend this tattoo shop! Read Less

THE ARTIST: Carl is my hero! I came in with some half-done work from another artist who recently relocated farther than I was willing to travels Carl was the only artist willing to take on the task of finishing this piece and I'm so grateful for him! THE PIECE: I asked him to make the flowers look more like a complete piece, and let him have artistic freedom over the best way to do it. He completely surprised me and I am IN LOVE with the result! He added in some more flowers (the one on the shoulder for example, FIRE). It was a long day but luckily Carl will be in the bay in two weeks for a tattoo convention to finish this up. THE SHOP: I loved the vibes here. Everyone was really welcoming--I spent the whole day here and came alone but it was nice to feel included! The place is decorated really well and they take great care of their shop. Highly recommend this place! Read Less

THE ARTIST: Carl is my hero! I came in with some half-done work from another artist who recently relocated farther than I was willing to travels Carl was the only artist willing to take on the task of finishing this piece and I'm so grateful for him! THE PIECE: I asked him to make the flowers look more like a complete piece, and let him have artistic freedom over the best way to do it. He completely surprised me and I am IN LOVE with the result! He added in some more flowers (the one on the shoulder for example, FIRE). It was a long day but luckily Carl will be in the bay in two weeks for a tattoo convention to finish this up. THE SHOP: I loved the vibes here. Everyone was really welcoming--I spent the whole day here and came alone but it was nice to feel included! The place is decorated really well and they take great care of their shop. Highly recommend this place! Read Less

My friend from work wanted randomly go get pierced so we called and asked if they had any deals! They did! So we walked in and both sat down and got pierced! Carl did my double upper lobe and it turned out so cute! Hardly painful, he was very steady, took his time and didn't rush at all! Totally recommend! Brittney was very thorough with my friend. They made sure everything went smoothly. Thanks so much guys! I'm gonna be back for my left ear soon! Read Less

Pati did an amazing job.... he did the first mock up and scratched it because he said something was missing.... he took that time and scratched just because he felt it wasn't perfect ( though it looked amazing ).... he then made another mock up and was satisfied then began. I love that he took the time to do that. He really cares to make a quality piece to fit you. Pati is personable, respectful, hospitable and extremely talented. Thank you Pati...Read Less

Love this place!! Amazing artists and just an awesome atmosphere. Love my piece and the whole experience. Feel like family there. We are in the army and came home for a Short period only and Seymour was able to fit us in his schedule and really worked with us to make sure we got our work done in a short amount of time. Extremely personable and professional artists here..� we'll be coming back for more!! Read Less

I have two questions reguarding this place . First , do you really have to be from the islands in order to get a polenisian tattoo, or can anyone get it ? Secondly ,( if yes) do you guys make original Tatau pieces for each individual? Read Less

Sickest tattoo shop in SoCal! A Town has awesome vibes and awesome Tattooists! I'd recommend any one of the tattoo artists! I got my whole left arm sleeve down to my hand there and they did an amazing job! Thank you ATown and Sii Liufau! Read Less

Genesis absolutely took care of me. No doubt he spent the perfect amount of time on placement and actual tattooing. I got seven symbols running up my shin for a great price. I can't speak for the rest of the shop but he was friendly and professional. Only reason it's not a 5 star is the shop itself could use some touching up, a little cleaning, just some tlc ya know? Overall. Very happy with my experience. Read Less

It was by far the best experience I have ever had!! Carl did the most amazing piece on my shoulder, didn't rush took his time and made sure everything looked perfect! I would definitely recommend Carl if you're looking for any detailed or realistic pieces!! The vibe there overall is awesome! Everyone is easy-going and makes sure you're completely comfortable to create the best experience for you!!Read Less

I can't begin to tell you how happy I am with my experience at A-Town. I have searched around for many years to find just the right artist to add my Mo'o to my right leg. I met with Pate for an initial consult to go over the concept, and he was thrilled from the jump. He told me right there that he wasn't going to sketch it out, but rather let my body tell him how it should look. While I had never experienced this before, I had been following his work for some time, and knew ...that I could trust him with such a big endeavor. He spent a good hour or so drawing and redrawing the basic contours of the Mo'o to get the flow just right. Once he had a rough outline for the head and tail down, he looks and me and says, "Okay brother, I'm gunna go for it" There was no detail, just a rough framework, and I trusted him. He did not disappoint. Each piece that developed as the day went on was perfectly suited to the previous, and as the Mo'o began to take shape the smile on his face, my face, and every person who walked by, kept getting bigger and bigger. The vibe in the shop is so inviting. It was like we were all brothers, cousins, fathers, and sons at a big family gathering. Sii, Seymore, and the rest of the crew that were around the shop all day just kept coming back to see what Pate had done. There were kids around the shop which added to the family atmosphere, and you could tell that they belonged there. It almost had a feeling of being their home, rather than a shop in a strip mall on Brookhurst. I sat with Pate for 7 hours, and he created one of the most beautiful pieces of art I have ever seen. It is exactly what I pictured in my head and then some. It goes without saying that I highly recommend A-Town as the spot for your next tattoo. Thank you again Pate, and family. See More Read Less