Kirk completely redid and improved a back tattoo I got 17 years ago. The back tattoo is of the American flag with a banner that reads Don't Tread On Me . He did a masterful job from start to finish. I cannot state enough how pleased I am with the outcome. He is a true creative professional and artist. I exchanged a few emails through his assistant asking for his feedback on how he might improve my tattoo. Kirk indicated that he could fix the stars, provide darker and deeper color, shading to reflect a waving flag, provide a much needed outline, add some yellow to the banner to make it look aged, and improve the type since the writing on the banner was barely legible 17 years later. This was a plan I could get behind and was eager to book an appointment, though he is booked up well in advance. After a few months waiting, the time came. I was very pleased with the cleanliness of his studio. He reviewed my tattoo in person and then drew out his plan on my back. I reviewed it and really liked what he planned to do so gave him full reigns to proceed as he saw fit. Kirk was an outgoing and engaging person. As I was in store for at least 4 hours of a session, I brought headphone thinking I might need music to distract me. However, that was not needed at all as Kirk had engaging and funny stories to tell while tattooing me. It made the time fly by. I highly recommend Kirk especially if you are into geometric designs which is his specialty. He has some amazing work on his Instagram which you should check out. That being said, it is clear his talent is great and he can do many other styles. Read Less

I wanted a tattoo when I was first 14 years old. I knew what I wanted it to say, where it would be, everything. Obviously, I grew up and things changed, but I still knew that I wanted my first tattoo to be special. Lol. F**k me, right.I emailed and asked for a specific drawing of a phoenix, about 3 inches tall (for reference, the average middle finger is about 3 inches. Poetic.). I was told that that was fine, so we set a date and I submitted my deposit. I had no other communication between then and my appointment. Okay, whatever.I walked in and my artist, Ivan, said that the drawing I sent over was bad and he created an entirely new one. You couldn't have told me this within the four f**king months I've been waiting for this appointment? Lol.So whatever, he showed me the picture on his iPad and the outline/line drawing of it was good. I would've liked that.He put in on my skin with the ink transfer paper thing, and holy f**k it was huge. It was most of my upper arm. I!!!! Said!!!! Three!!!! Inches!!!! Not!!!! Almost!!!! A!!!! Foot!!!! I should've said something but he didn't offer me any sizes, any "is this a good size?" comments, like I overheard another tattoo artist do. He went to work, and the pain was bearable. But then. He started shading. I mentioned NOWHERE that I wanted shading and by the time I realized, it was too late to stop. The shading makes it dark and heavy, and to be frank, f**king ugly. Afterwards, he told me my balance (for the first time, lol. Shouldn't that have been given to me over email? Or when I first walked in? Not after the work was done?), and THEN told me he doesn't take cards, but there's an ATM at the 7/11 5 minutes away. I cried the entire way to the 7/11. (As soon as I walked out of the tattoo parlor's doors, I googled "how long do I have to wait before removing a tattoo".)This tattoo is absolutely not what I wanted and I can't f**king wait til I find another tattoo parlor who can try and remove the shading. I'm so upset, this was supposed to be a fun tattoo with meaning, and now it's just plain ugly. I also cried the entire hour and a half ride home.Talk to me again in 8 weeks when this tattoo is hopefully salvaged.----After having this review up for two hours, and having been crying most of the time, I decided to lower my rating to a 1 star because I am so unhappy with the result of my tattoo. Will never recommend this place to anyone again. Read Less

Got a piece here recently from Shannon and she did a great job!Not only was the tattoo she did exactly what I wanted, but she was super nice with consulting on my design over email and showing me a great sketch the day of the tattoo. We talked about adding some touches to it like flowers and she did a wonderful job accommodating that. That tattoo itself is wonderful. I've gotten a few recently all in a go, and of all the ones I've gotten in the past few months this one really stands out. The colors are vibrant, the line work is bold, the lines are laser straight and super clean.Some people don't like that you need to make an appointment ahead of time- but- that's just how good artists work. Cheap and quick tattoos aren't good. Good tattoos aren't quick and cheap. Yes it'll take some time for you to get an appointment with an artist here, but if you can't wait a few weeks for a piece, do you really want it? I love knowing that my artist is pretty booked, because that lets me know I'm not the only one who likes their work.The shop itself is small and unassuming from the outside, but inside you'll find a cool, fun, comfortable, and CLEAN tattoo shop. Every artist has their own little room to work in and I can't emphasize enough how clean it is in there. I don't just mean the shop, I mean things are neat, organized, and professional. That level of "mise en place" is always a plus to me when going to a shop because it lets you know they care.I'll definitely be getting another piece with Shannon soon. Thanks Shannon, and thanks Crown and Anchor! Read Less

Ivan Androsov is amazing!!!! he knew exactly what i wanted even when i couldnt express it. i had been waiting for this tattoo for 6 years and it was worth the wait to find the right person to do it. he is not always in the US so please make sure to talk to the parlor ahead of time. The tattoo also did not hurt too bad and his use of color is creative. This piece of art is so special to me. i highly recommend the place and the artist. Read Less

Absolutely incredible experience! Kirk's talent is absolutely remarkable. My tattoo turned out exactly how we talked and better than I imagined. Not only was his skill unreal, he makes the environment incredibly comfortable and the conversation throughout the session was entertaining and got my mind off of a 6 hour tattoo session. All perfect so get a tattoo from Kirk immediately! Read Less

I was very impressed with how quickly Kirk was able to do such a large piece with so much detail. I am very satisfied with my piece and look forward to working with Kirk again in the future for other additions. Even though it was my first tattoo, sitting for the entire installation of my 1/4 was no problem. He was very helpful in explaining aftercare to prevent fading. I look forward to work with Kirk again. Read Less

Did a lot of research before picking a place, and decided on Shannon for my traditional piece. This is what she specializes in, which is really cool. Found an expert, not a jack of all trades like most people seem to strive for today. Excellent decision, totally worth the price. Her attention to detail is outstanding and she really cares that she turns out quality work, she's not just slapping a tattoo on ya. Super happy with the work she did for me. 10/10 I will be back. Read Less

The shop was clean and very professional. My artist Shannon was amazing. She drew up an amazing tattoo and her skill is perfect. I’m in love with my tattoo and the price was fair. I can’t wait to go back and get another. Read Less

If you're looking for the best tattoo shop in NJ look no further. This is a beautiful shop, the owner Kirk is the nicest person you'll ever meet. He will explain everything and answer everything. Worth every penny. Never been in such a professional shop.Read Less

Got a tattoo from a traveling artist here a few months ago.  Artist did a good job, but wasn't able to finish it. Kirk the owner got in touch with me and said he would be able to fit me in and finish the tattoo for me. Very grateful for kirk fitting me in to his very busy schedule.  Can't wait to see what kinda magic he makes on my tattoo. Read Less

Had my first tattoo done by Kirk at Crown & Anchor and it was a great experience all around.  Aside from being an extraordinary artist Kirk is a genuinely nice guy - in fact all of the artists there were very friendly and down to earth.The tattoo itself is immaculate - it is truly a beautiful piece of art.  The precision and detail work are amazing - it is the kind of design where you find new things to appreciate every time that you look at it:  imgur.com/a/YmUdgI will definitely be going back at some point to either extend it or get something else entirely.  Personally I cannot imagine going anywhere else.  They do book up quickly so you need to be patient, but it is absolutely worth the wait.If you are looking to get your first tattoo there are a couple of other things that I would share:* 8 hours is a long tattoo session.  The pain from the needle was fairly mild and the first four hours or so were really not bad.  However the last half was difficult - your skin eventually just gets raw to the point where the needle feels like it is on fire.  Spreading it out over 2 sessions would probably have made things a lot easier - that being said it was also nice to get it all done in one shot.* If you do opt to do a full day be sure to eat a solid breakfast and bring a few decent snacks.  I did not eat enough and towards the end I was very hungry which did not help matters.* Be meticulous with after care.  I am sure that it varies person-to-person but I was very careful to follow all of the guidelines and did not run into any issues.  After a few days there was some minor flaking and it became a little bit itchy but beyond that it healed very nicely.  I also used a product called Hustle Butter - it is a little pricey but works very well in terms of keeping things moisturized. Read Less

Having just moved to Atlantic Highlands, NJ from Southern California I was worried about finding a good shop like I had back home. After doing some research I was definitely into the work I was seeing come out of Crown & Anchor, but as with any shop you really have to go there to know whether it is the right choice.After visiting this last Saturday and getting a killer dagger piece from Shannon, I can definitely say I have found my shop. The shop has a cool vibe, Shannon was great, and did an awesome job on my tattoo. I am already planning my next visits. I highly recommend this shop, even if it is a bit of a drive. Read Less

I've been tattooed by both Kirk and Shannon.  They are both wonderful artists.  The shop is immaculately clean.  They are always friendly and courteous.  You could not ask for nicer people.  I have been tattooed elsewhere and you do not get the same experience.  My daughters and future son in law also use this shop. Booking can be a bit tricky because their books are always full but it is worth the wait. Read Less

My boyfriend found this shop really randomly searching through google 2 years back. Upon first arriving, your first reaction is "omg, not another basic tattoo shop attached to a strip mall." That's where upon entering through the door you realize what Crown and Anchor is really about. The level of cleanliness and skill all artists at this establishment have is by far worth the months you have to wait for a tattoo. (Due to the high volume of people that want a rad tattoo) I've been tattooed by both Kirk and Shannon, both are incredibly talented. If you're looking for a comfortable, yet out of this world tattoo experience, I suggest you check this place out! You guys far exceed all my expectations every single time and without fail make me want to come back the next week for more! Read Less

I have had nothing but a 100% positive experience with Kirk and crew since I met them at the tattoo expo in Asbury Park. I met Kirk, talked about my idea for my tattoo and told him I would email for an appointment. New appointments weren't happening until the start of Jan 2017. No problem! In the interim, I was diagnosed with breast cancer and had to deal with radiation treatment which pushed back my time frame of getting a tattoo.  I emailed and explained this to them and  they were more than understanding and willing to work with me for the date. For anyone complaining about setting up an appointment - they obviously don't understand how the appointment system works. They will give you the first available day- if that's not good- you ask for another. They are very busy and book up quickly because their work is superior. It's worth the wait. Read Less

Crown and Anchor hands down has the best tattooers in Ocean County and also top in NJ.  Kirk and Shannon are both amazing and shop is the cleanest you will find! I have many tattoos from Kirk and not a day goes by that I am not complimented! Read Less

Talk about poor customer service! Received a tattoo that had a reaction/rash well over a month, and the paper work they hand out suggests to contact them with issues or questions. The response I received was from their know-it-all receptionist, not suggesting what I should do, but rather gave me an account of her own personal tattoos and if I wanted a retouch to contact once my tattoo was fully healed. If I asked you "hey, receptionist, tell me what happened to you", I would have done so. She's completely ignorant and should NOT be in customer service. Emotional and rude! Poor representation! As for the guest artist, Ivan, I question if he even looked at what I wanted for my tattoo. I regret not sticking up for what I wanted or just walked out. Read Less

Shannon did a terrific job with my tattoo. When I arrived, she had a sketch based on what we discussed all prepped. She asked about color, and we decided in black.It came out great. The shading is richly dimensional  and the whole piece looks alive.  I am already thinking about the next one.Thanks Shannon! Read Less

Worst customer service. After you need the tattoo that you paid good money touched up, they make it impossible to get back in.They tell you how very very busy they are and give you 1 and only 1 date, and if you cant make it too bad. You should not have to beg an artist to fix his work. You are a customer and they should want to fix their work. Not here folks. I have never met an artist like this before. Never met ne who didn't give a shit that his customer was unhappy, and never met any artist that treats his customers like this. Go somewhere where the artist wants to make his clients happy and has some customer service not here and his work doesn't fade after 1 month. Read Less

The first time I came in to Crown & Anchor Tattoo parlor was for my boyfriend's tattoo on his hand in October of last year, at that point I never had seen anyone tattoo before or have one myself. I was so impressed on how Kirk worked and with his artwork in general, I booked an appointment with him for April of the following year. I got a japanese red crowned crane on my forearm. Kirk was ridiculously amazing! I am just super content with my whole experience, and how Kirk dealt with me. The parlor is super clean and for anyone coming from long distances, there is a hotel next door and places to grab some food. If you want quality work, clean environment, and a awesome tattoo. This is the place. Worth every penny, time, and drive if your coming long ways. Read Less

I couldn't be happier. The shop is clean and quiet. Kirk is the man , talented as all hell but doesn't rush you. Works on the design without complaining and makes sure your happy and than nails the tattoo.  Worth the wait and money. He rocked my tattoo can't wait to get back in Read Less

Incredible shop, incredible people. I had a tattoo that needed more depth, and Kirk turned it into a complete masterpiece (and he free handed everything!) I've learned my lesson in doing more research about an artist (avoid doing a walk-in at all costs), and I'm so happy I did my research on Kirk! I cannot wait to get another tattoo done by him. I highly recommend booking now because he travels a lot and gets booked super fast (expect to have an appointment in 3-6 months because he's that good). Cannot say enough good things about this tattoo shop and Kirk! His work is my favorite tattoo by far. A secret gem in NJ... Read Less

Kirk is an excellent artist and a good person to spend some up-close-and-personal time with! The store is clean, welcoming, and comfortable and in a good location. I recommend making an appointment and following up a day or so ahead of time! I have two large, colorful pieces from him that I am very happy with and get lots of compliments on from others. I look forward to getting more work done from him. Check out his Instagram/website to see his work. Read Less

Crown & Anchor is made up of Kirk Nilsen and his team of talented artists who cover a wide range of style. They are more than willing to help your dream tattoo come to reality. The atmosphere is laid back, fun, professional, and most importantly CLEAN and spotless. I personally have had several tattoos done at this shop and I have left completely satisfied with the results every single time. The employees are beyond friendly, making each experience enjoyable from start to finish. One of my favorite things about this shop is that Kirk is also a CUSTOM artist, meaning you can walk in there and leave with a tattoo you're sure that nobody else has, making it very unique and special to you. But if you walk in with a picture or an idea you saw elsewhere, that's cool too! The artists here are always willing to make your vision appear on your skin. I am a loyal customer for life, as are the several people I've referred here. Go to the best of the best! Check out @kirknilsentattoos and @crownandanchortattoo on instagram. Read Less