My roommate referred me to this shop & artist. Just got some work done by Hunter and he absolutely killed it! My work looks great and I couldn't be happier! Their pricing is really good and the artists are all friendly and welcoming. It's a fun environment! I've already recommended 4 people to this shop! Read Less

Jon "Artoo" has tattooed me twice in the last year and I'm super happy with his work. I have even sent my sister and mother in law in when they were wanting matching tattoos and they were happy as well. The shop is relaxed but professional with a friendly and chill vibe. I appreciate how the artists treat their customers and have never experienced any attitudes or negativity. Highly recommend. Read Less

I was a walk in after finding the shop on Yelp and Hunter was the artist I showed my designs/ideas to. He was really helpful offering suggestions and advice to improve the tattoo. He drew up the tattoos and when I told him what I wanted changed, he was understanding and patient through the whole process. I'm very picky and can't stress how gracious he was. Cool guy. Love my new ink Read Less

Blake was awesome drawing out the tattoo to that I wanted. His special attention to detail was important because it was Native American traditional art. This was my first time going to American Tattoo and I'm sure I'll be there again soon. Read Less

I've been getting tattoos from American Tattoo for over 15 years, back when their shop was in Bonsall. Just got a new tattoo from Sam and couldn't be happier. My wife and I are very satisfied with the quality and attention to detail shown by these fine artists. Great tattoos, great artists, great memories! Can't wait until next time! Read Less

Just came here on Monday for my first tattoo and I had a great experience. Super friendly staff, the vibe is so chill! Blake was my artist and I love love love the way my tattoo came out! I told him I wanted my last name and some dates, I didn't have a font chosen , but he drew up exactly what I wanted! I couldn't be any happier and I'll for sure be coming back! Read Less

The shop is customer friendly staff, clean, and welcoming. I pre-booked an appointment with Ben Grillo. He was a great artist who listened to my ideas and created exactly what I wanted. He was friendly and attentive. I felt very comfortable working with him. I highly recommend this tattoo shop. Read Less

Another great experience and great tattoo today from Sarah. She quickly understood what I was trying to express to her with a few pictures I brought (this part of this pic and this part of that pic but this color and so forth) and said give me a minute and I'll draw something up. It was of course exactly what I imagined in my mind's eye and "boom" done. Her ability to do small intricate work can not be beat. Also a wonderful, pleasant,caring person. I couldn't be happier. I will wait to post a picture of the work until final "healing" happens as it is under wrap right now. Read Less

I got my very first tattoo here with Micah. He did a great job and I would go back to him if I'm ever brave enough to get another tattoo lol. He did matching tattoos for my sisters and I and we were all happy with the outcome Read Less

I have been to American Tattoo twice now, having followed Micah Caudle from Flying Panther.  He is an awesome tattoo artist!!  I love all of my tattoos but Micah adds artistry to the technical expertise to pull off creative tattoos.  American Tattoo is a welcoming environment, the folks there are all friendly and fun, they adhere to impeccable (and mandated) cleanliness standards and I always get exposed to new music while I'm there.  I will return happily! Read Less

Where do I begin?? November I made an appointment with Ben I had gone back and forth with Toni his assistant via email. My appointment was set for mid January, waiting patiently and excitedly wondering what my tattoo design was going to be.. Today was finally my appointment, I was so nervous even though I have many tattoos walking into a tattoo shop can be intimidating. Toni was behind the desk and kindly greeted me with a smile. Ben comes out  and we talk about what I want and the design and he gets straight to work drawing. Ben was so kind, gentle, and funny! His bedside manner was amazing and his art work was so worth the two month wait!! We talked a good bit, he always checked in to see if I was ok as my tattoo took 4.5 hours. There were other tattooers that I briefly talked to and were also so nice and funny.  I can't say enough good things about this shop. You can tell Everyone there truly cares and they are all very talented! I am so obsessed with my tattoo and I will certainly be back to see Ben!!!! Thank you so very much! Read Less

Super great service, really friendly and personable. Bobby did a quick inner lip tattoo and the lettering was straight and super clean which I imagine is challenging in that location. It couldn't have been done better. I'm really happy with it. Read Less

I arrived to this shop as a "walk in" and was happy with the staff and artists. If you are in North county San Diego make sure to stop here for your tattoo needs. Kirk was professional and easy going!! Read Less

I have never left a review before but the experience I just had over the phone with one of the artists here was so rude and unnecessary that I just have to share. I called to ask for an estimation, NOT a direct quote because I know they can't give you that without seeing what you want in person, of what something the size of a deck of cards would cost. My husband's birthday is next week and I wanted to surprise him with a tattoo but I was just hoping to get a ballpark range of what it would cost. The amount of condescension my question was met with was astounding. After I asked my question the guy said, "Did you hear what you just said? You said you knew I couldn't give you a quote but then asked for a quote. Yeah I'm not going to give you a quote." Sir, you could have gone about that a much different way and still not have given me a quote. I've gotten multiple different tattoos, and I've called for a range before. The other artists were kind enough to ask me more about what I wanted instead of just being blatantly rude, which for some reason is the route you decided to take. Read Less

Hunter always does great work my wife and I have been going to him for almost 10 years now. The shop is located in a great spot with a large, clean tattooing area where you can watch other people get worked on. If you want quality art and artists that will listen to what you want and bring it to life check them out.  All you need is an idea. Plus if tattoos aren't your thing and you are with someone who is getting done there are plenty of breweries to hang out at in downtown Vista while you are killing time. Read Less

I didn't have an appointment but I was lucky that Kirk was available. I told him what I wanted, asked him a quick question (which he answered to my satisfaction) and he then took the time to draw it up and get me ready for my new tat. This is my second tattoo done by this shop (first one was done by Doc who is also an amazing artist) and the pricing and the work are top notch! Like with many things in life - good tattoos are not cheap and cheap tattoos are not good. The tattoo came out wonderfully (see pic) but please keep in mind that I took this picture with my front facing camera on my forearm. Look at the reviews, these artists are very good at what they do and I'll definitely be back. Keep up the great work! Read Less

I've gotten a few pieces done there and they are top notch. Great artists and very professional. Very clean and a real cool vibe. I personally recommend Kirk Fagan. He's a pro in every sense of the word. Read Less

This was my first tattoo, I am 63.  I was a tiny bit worried about the whole process but the place was super cool. There were a couple others there getting work also. All I can say is they are GREAT.  Sorry I do not remember the artist (late twenties, tall and long braids), very nice young man!  But the place is very neat, clean, and SUPER professional. It did not hurt, too much, a small tattoo on my right arm. It just all went perfect.  He asked what I wanted, took my sketch and made it nice, put an outline on my arm and had me check, did some work then stopped to make sure i was OK.  He checked with me as he proceeded and then it was done, and a great job. NOW!!!!!You guys re my Tattoo parlor.I will see you again someday.Best Kerry Read Less

Last Saturday- September 25th, Bobby took my husband and I on a walk-in. He did a 'black panther fighting a snake' piece on my husbands forearm and a 'quote' down my spine. We both are soooo in love with them! What I love about Bobby is he is quality over all. He communicates very well, and let us set the pace. He knows how to keep a conversation going and made us feel comfortable since moment one. My husbands tattoo lasted a little over closing time and he stayed to complete mine- I appreciate that Bobby! The facility is clean over all, very sanitary and professional. Located near restaurants too! Thank you to the the team! We will be back! Read Less

Walked in for a quick Knuckle dragger. Hunter stepped up and knocked the lil guy out in a flash. After checking out his work, I'm emailing some sketch ideas over tonight to start my next sleeve. Clean shop, highly recommend! Read Less

Wowza! Went in with a friend as she got her sleeve done and had been itching to get some ink myself. I had a few pictures I had shown to Micah and he helped bring the idea to fruition. Had my appointment the next week and soon enough I was in the chair. Micah did incredible work and the shading and line work is simply unreal! What was just a shot in the dark idea became a reality. I have more work to be done before this one is finished but if you are planning on doing a photo based tattoo I can't recommend Micah enough. Read Less

Walked right in, got an appointment the next day, and ended up getting two small tattoos on my arm. One I already had the design for so it was an easy copy, the other Kirk drew up pretty quick and I loved it. Although I didn't get anything fancy or intricate, between seeing other work Kirk has done online and how friendly he was in person, I would recommend him any day. Place is super clean and reasonable priced. I'll be back for sure Read Less

My sister, daughters and I recently saw Blake to get our tattoos. He did such an awesome job with our tattoos commemorating my mom. We truly loved it! I will be going back to him to do some more work. He has a great eye and is great with telling you what may work best for you while still giving you what you want. I highly recommend him!! He is awesome! Read Less

I have been getting ink for almost 30 years and this is probably the best experience I have ever had. Kirk is an amazing artist and the work he did for me was exactly the way I wanted it. I will absolutely be coming back and soon! Read Less

Seriously cannot recommend this place enough.Today marks one year of sobriety for me, and I wanted to commemorate it with something special. I figured a tattoo would be the perfect way to do that. Amethyst in the "language of crystals" stands for spirituality and sobriety, and plus, who doesn't like purple?I came in with a  pretty rough idea of what I wanted, as well as some reference photos of other amethyst tattoos I found online. I believe the woman who helped me get checked in was named Tony - she complimented me on my tee shirt, which has Katya Zamolodchikova on it, so that automatically makes Tony awesome - and then she got me set up with Kirk.Kirk is the GOAT. Chill ass guy, genuine, wants to make sure you get exactly what you want. After I talked to him and showed him the pictures of what I had in mind, he came back about 15 minutes later with a sketch of the outline and it was perfect.Finally came time for me to sit down and get it done and he was a total professional. Couple times, I got a little dizzy and light headed - I let him know and he was very patient with me and said we can take as long as I needed. Dizziness went away quick and no problems from then out.Tattoo came out AMAZING. Exceeded my expectations for sure. I can't even begin to describe how much I like it. Like I said, Kirk is the GOAT. That's Kirk Fagan/ @kirk_fgn - check out his work!Price for it was very reasonable, surprisingly so in fact. Especially with the detail work and all the coloring. If you're in the area and you're looking for a good tattoo place, definitely come here. I saw all the 5 star reviews for American Tattoo on here and knew it was the right choice. Read Less

I came in as a walk in client.  I knew what I wanted, but needed it drawn up.  I had my tattoos done by Bobby. The establishment is clean and professional.  Bobby is personable and laid back.  We enjoyed talking with him. Since he is a veteran, that was someone my husband and I could connect with.  Thank you for your service, brother and you do a great job with your tattooing! Keep up the great work! Still hoping to get my cover up with you! Read Less

I made an appointment with Kirk, I showed him what I wanted and he put it together so much better than expected. He was profesional and super friendly.  I love the work he did and definitely will be back! Read Less

Friendly and professional staff. Like the setting of the shop- very clean and organized. I haven't gotten a tattoo in over three years because I couldn't find the right shop for me! But luckily found this one and got my second tattoo this past Sunday. Prices are decent but my artist was nice and enough and knocked off $20 for military :) Read Less

I got my first tattoo in 1993 and was never really happy with it.  I waited 25 years for the second one and wanted to make sure I did it right this time.  After doing some research and asking around, I decided that American Tattoo was the right place for me.  I found some sketches I liked and headed over.  After a short consult with Kirk, I made an appointment for the next day.  Kirk took the sketches I gave him and transformed them into a fantastic design.  I was in the chair for about 2 and a half hours, but it really didn't feel like it.  Kirk was not just friendly in the customer is always right way.  He was engaging and super cool. We had a series of interesting conversations about tattoos, living in SoCal, music, etc.  And his work?  In a word, masterful.  After 25 years of having a tattoo that I didn't really like, I have one that is beautifully done and that I am proud to display.  The shop overall was clean and relaxing with a good vibe.  I won't be waiting another 25 years before my next tattoo, and I won't be going anywhere but back to American Tattoo. Read Less

American Tattoo is such an organized shop, with rad people and such talent. Artoo has given me 3 tattoos and I couldn't be happier with the results. He's passionate in his work and it shows entirely. Thanks for always a great experience and will definitely be wanting more ! Read Less

Did an amazing job with my tattoo it healed perfect and very quick compared to my other tattoos I've gotten elsewhere very respectful and considerate helped keep me happy and very creative ideas to help make it better. Read Less

I got my first two tattoos here after hearing so many good things and searching the area for a place with a good reputation. I was nervous of course but I can't begin to explain how friendly and wonderful everyone is here. I got a Linkin Park logo on my lower stomach and a sketch of an idea I had for another tattoo on my wrist and Hunter did an amazing job perfecting it and making the final result look way better than I could ever think possible. Thank you!! Definitely will be recommending and coming back in the near future. Read Less

Sarah did a beautiful job on my first tattoo!  She turned my basic design into a piece of art in just a few minutes and it was exactly what I had envisioned.  I look forward to collaborating with Sarah on many more beautiful designs. Highly recommend Sarah and American Tattoo of Vista! Read Less

Walked in one day with no knowledge of tattoos whatsoever. I knew what I wanted and showed a rough sketch to Jon, “Artoo”. He turned my sketch into an incredible piece, we agreed on a price and within 1 hour of walking in I was getting my first tattoo. It came out great to say the least, went back the next month for a chest piece and it was just as exceptional. Great place, great people, highly recommend! -Roman Read Less

Bobby took care of me ,and did a sick tattoo , I told him what I wanted and he drew up a gorgeous tattoo. He was very professional and clean and he made me feel very welcomed. Overall the shop was nice clean and had a cozy feeling to it. I would recommend getting a tattoo here! Good pricing and good tattoos!! Read Less

Had such a phenomenal experience today with Sarah. All of the staff was so nice, and very relaxed. Couldn't believe how little pain and time it took to get such a perfect piece. I walked in and Sarah already had my design drawn out absolutely perfect. (And a coverup at that) Once on, she added some extra details to match it perfect to my curves. Couldn't have asked for a better experience. Will absolutely be coming back here for all of my future tattoos. Read Less

Bobby did an excellent job on my tattoo! I went in a couple of weeks ago with a picture and his drawing was perfect.  He is laid back and he listens to what you want; taking into account, your personality and where the tattoo will be on your body.  I will definitely go back again.The shop has a laid back atmosphere and everyone is truly an artist. Read Less

I went in last week with a few pictures and a very rough sketch of the tattoo I wanted.  I did not have an appointment but Hunter said he could take care of me.  We talked and he took my stuff in the back and later came out with an amazing design better that all the ones I've be dick-en around with.I laid on his table and they had the War live album playing and I went into a happy place.  he kept checking on me and I was fine.  before I knew it he was don't.  the lines are amazing and the shading looks fantastic.  He also told me to come back for free touch ups if I needed.This shop is rated 5 stars for a reason.   They are that good.Thanks Hunter for my personalized tat - it means so much to me... Read Less

My husband and I went in for a consultation but were able to sit down and get the work done without an appointment. He wanted the "Join or Die" snake done and I wanted a cover up on my foot. Both pieces came out beautifully and we were extremely happy with the service. I highly recommend Micah, he free handed the work on my foot and he offered frequent breaks when the pain became too much. Read Less

Awesome work by awesome people. Sarah Spinks and Jon "Artoo" work on me and I couldn't be happier. They've both done some difficult cover ups that turned out beautifully. As well as being good artists, they're involved in the community. Sarah has started a "litter is for losers" campaign which focuses on cleaning up the trash in Vista. And she sits in the art council for the city. I'm lucky to have found such rad humans!! Read Less

Second tattoo at this shop. Very great and friendly. Love the fact that some of their artists there are involved in the community. Really shows their great dedication to the city. Other than them being great, clean shop and very great prices. They also have really great promos as well. Read Less

Got my first tattoo. Sam Phillips was wonderful and I'm very happy. Little pain (and I expected a lot!) Everyone is friendly and all the customers seemed very happy with their results. Highly recommend this place and Sam! Read Less

Went in recently for my 2nd tattoo from here. Went in as a walk in and Blake was my artist. I expected a wait due to just walking in...which was an hour.  I showed him what I would like and he gave me his honest opinion. He drew up something for me and executed it beautifully. Blake did a great job. I love it. I'll definitely be back for another in the future. Read Less

It was my first time working with Jon aka Artoo. We met up to go over what I was looking for. I had gotten a crane tattoo done several weeks prior and I was not happy with how it came out. He listened, made key suggestions, and defined what I wanted. At the tattoo appointment, he could tell I wasn't stoked on the peonies stencil he drew, so he took the time to redraw them. The tattoo came out beautiful! He re-outlined the crane, filled in shadows to create depth, and the flowers were so clean. I am so in love with my tattoo and I get compliments everywhere I go. Thank you again Jon! Read Less

It was my first time going to this shop. I got a tattoo from Dave and he is the nicest guy he made me feel so comfortable and he kept great conversation the whole time. I have never been happier with how a tattoo has come out he does absolutely beautiful work and I will definitely be going to him again soon ! Read Less

Relocating to the area my husband (whom is an artist as well) and I stopped into look at the shop and inquire about a booth. Talk about awkward and unwelcoming! The tattooist did not even come out to greet us and sent us away with the girl sitting up front. Definitely wont be recommending their shop. Read Less

I looked at very many tattoo shops before coming here & knew this was the one ! I called and seen if there was any walk in availability and they were so kind on the phone . When I came in I met with Blake and explained to him the tattoo my friend and I wanted to get and when he drew it up it was EXACTLY what we wanted and more ! He was so so nice the entire time and made sure it was where we wanted it and made sure we loved it. I've never been so happy with a tattoo experience ! Would definitely recommend to anyone ! Very clean , friendly & their availability was awesome !! So so happy ! Read Less

I went here at the advice of a friend who has had quite a bit of work done. This being my first tat, I didn't know what to expect. What I got was great service, guidance, and an amazing tattoo that went beyond what I had ever expected. I would recommend this shop to anyone. I've received so many compliments on this one-of-a-kind blade that looks awesome. Hunter, you rock!! Read Less

Came in looking for nose ring jewelry which they don't have because they only do tattoos (my mistake ) and left with two flash tattoos I got from Bobby. He was super nice and friendly. Went above and beyond to make my small tattoos look awesome. Can't wait to get a bigger piece from him! Read Less

I got a tattoo done by Kirk. It was the best experience I have had at a tattoo parlor. A very laid back but professional environment. Not your typical macho man I'm better than you because I have a bunch of crappy tattoos vibe. Kirk has a really good portfolio and I am going to be going back to get more work done by him. A chill environment and I would recommend this place to anyone looking to get some work done. Read Less

My second time coming to see Hunter. He met with me for a consult and got an appointment 2 days later. Came in, got signed in and got the ink done, super fair pricing, clean shop, professional tattooers here. I think I'm pretty sure this is my shop from now on. Can be hard to find, kinda tucked away but worth it. I'd recommend this shop to everyone. Read Less

I made an appointment via email for my tattoo. Dave worked with me over the phone to figure out what direction I wanted to go in - after that, Dave could do what he does best. When I arrived, my stencil was ready and looked exactly like I had envisioned in my head. Shout out to Dave Kruseman for making my whole trip and tattoo one that I'll be showing off and bragging about forever. The shop was very clean and professional looking and the other artists and staff members helped to create a memorable experience for me. If you are in the neighborhood definitely check this place out! Read Less

A few weeks ago, I went to get more work on my back. It was raining and right at the end with 3 or 4 characters to finish, the lights went out in the area! I was in no hurry but could come back later. As this happened a month prior, the guys were prepared as they had improvised then! Smart and artistic.My son brought a battery pack but only arrived after Blake pulled his Ford truck into the bay. With his co-worker holding a flashlight, he finished. Best. Time. Ever. Read Less

Um, American Tattoo is amazing. No snotty felon scratchers here - professional artists and ink masters only, but with no ego. I've been going to Sarah Spinks since 2009, and I haven't let anyone else touch me since I discovered her. Clean, sanitary, professional. Great linework. Beautiful tattoos. I wouldn't trust my flesh canvas to anyone else.If you're looking for an amazing tattoo, come to American Tattoo. They'll treat you right. Read Less

The shop had my curiosity, but the "Get what you get" gum ball machine had my attention. $50 dollars for a flash tattoo, I'm sold. Friendly staff and even better artists. Really dig the shops vibe, will definitely be coming back for more ink. Read Less

So far all I have had is a consult appt. with Hunter but my god he is the nicest person I have ever met. He gave me complete undivided attention despite it being crazy busy with walk ins. He was open, honest and so in tune with what I was asking. Super excited to be getting tattooed by him! Read Less

I absolutely love this place comma I just got my first tattoo it was a better experience than I could have imagined. Everyone at this shop is really cool, Sara was my artist and she did an amazing job period I keep getting compliments every moment about the work she did. I'm already thinking I was getting more and I already know where I'm going. Do yourself a favor and come check this place out. Read Less

my artist is Sarah...not only is she an awesome artist, she is a great friend! i always enjoy going to the shop as the whole group of artists there are very friendly and welcoming...if you're looking for a great tattoo, American Tattoo is the shop for you... Read Less

Went and saw Bobby today at the shop. I've known him years and he's been my go too tattooer since he moved back here from Brooklyn. Always an amazing experience from start to finish at this shop. Everyone there is always very welcoming and super professional. Thanks again guys. Read Less

Hunter was my tattoo artist, he did a great job with the drawing that I wanted. Also the prices were great, I was there for 3 1/2 hours and payed 350. Every tattoo that I saw leaveing the shop was well done and all of the staff were professional.Read Less

Artoo is an amazing artist. He did my Stitch tattoo on my ankle. He also did my boyfriends dragon on his arm. But all the artists are amazing so far i've gotten 1 tattoo from Sam, 1 and a finish up on another one from Hunter and 2 from Artoo :D Absolutely love this shop :D Read Less

Hunter is my man for my tattoos!!! Started out with Sam! Everyone at the shop is great. Been going to them for years and recommend many friends and family to them. I have like 13 tattoos and all but maybe 2 or 3 Hunter did. He is awesome. I will be seeing him again in May for 2 or 3 more for my birthday! So excited for the new shop opening in vista. Read Less