New Orleans is a city that is world famous as a destination at which to "let the good times roll."  That being said, what better place is there to get a tattoo?  For those unfamiliar with the area, though, finding a reputable tattoo parlor in New Orleans can be a tall order.  That's where this guide comes in to the picture.  Here's a list of some of the best tattoo parlors you'll find in the area:

-Nola Tattoo-

8120 Hampson St
New Orleans, LA 70118
Phone: (504) 866-8471

Nola Tattoo is renowned for being as friendly a tattoo parlor as you'll find anyway in the southern United States.  It's not a very large place and so it is best to try to call ahead and get an appointment if possible, but they'll try to accommodate walk-ins whenever it isn't too busy.  Nola is probably the best place in New Orleans for newcomers to body piercing as well, because the staff is extremely patient and walks people through the entire process step-by-step.  If you decide to get a piercing, ask for their specialist, Pat.

-Crescent City Tattoo Co-

4800 Magazine St
New Orleans, LA 70115-1646
Phone: (504) 269-8282

Crescent City Tattoo is one of uptown New Orleans' premier body art studios.  This place is especially appropriate for actual residents of the city, as opposed to tourists.  While the outside of Crescent City Tattoo may
look a little dilapidated, the interior is nice, sterile, and clean.  Also, this place features some of the best tattoo artists in town.  Noska in particular, the shop's featured artist, has a great reputation for complex colored designs.  One other upside to this establishment is that it's open late, daily until 3 am.

-Brad's Westbank Tattoo Studio-

4305 Westbank Expy
Marrero, LA 70072-3101
Phone: (504) 341-6781

Brad's Westbank Tattoo Studio has been operating as a New Orlean's staple for over 30 years.  In terms of experience, and trustworthiness, this is definitely the place to go.  Likewise, Brad's is one of the top places to get botched work from other tattoo parlors fixed, and to get cover-up work done.  They also specialize in creating custom color designs for clients as long as sufficient notice is provided.


-Eye Candy-

1578 Magazine St
New Orleans, LA 70130-4762
Phone: (504) 299-8222

Eye Candy is a New Orleans tattoo parlor that specializes in detailed, color tattooing.  There are several talented artists who work at Eye Candy, but none is better than Donn Davis.  Davis focuses all of his energy on his specialization, which is large-scale, Japanese-style body art.  His designs are hugely impressive and he is recognized as a true up-and-comer in the tattooing industry.  For unique, customized, colorful designs, Eye Candy is the place to go.  The quality won't come cheaply, though.