Gate City Tattoo

"I’ve been tattooed by both Jean-Luc and James Cooper (shop owner), but everyone here is incredibly talented. Jean-Luc is patient and thoughtful and really wants you to love the process + the outcome of the work. James Cooper is an OG and takes his craft seriously, deeply cares about his employees and is very down to earth. Great personality. His art is phenomenal, and he’s in the shop working with everyone everyday mostly, unlike many shop owners who aren’t really involved in the everyday affairs or present often. Just a bunch of professional artists, fun guys who love what they do. The atmosphere is relaxed, has great music, a lovely aroma of incense, cool altars, and art everywhere. Happy to have ended up getting my art done here + looking forward to having something done by every artist there."

"An incredible experience! I walked in and briefly spoke to the owner James about getting a tattoo that day. He told me to come back later that day after his appointments. When I came back we discussed my idea in greater detail and he started drawing. Right away he showed me what he came up with and I instantly loved it. After a little bit more time to do some touch-ups he had me sit down and he got to work. I love the piece! He worked quickly and efficiently, the shop had a nice cozy atmosphere, he was very kind and calm and made me feel welcome. 10/10 experience! I will definitely be back for my next tattoo!"

"David is amazing! I found Gate City after researching some online. I happened to see a piece in David's portfolio that made me want to reach out to him. I had an initial consultation, where I brought 2-3 examples. From there, he created my design and we booked. He has an awesome, calming personality. He gave me a reasonable estimate and actually came in under what he quoted me. I will, without a doubt, go back to David for my next tattoo. The one pictured only took 3 hours. Don't get me wrong, it was a long 3 hours, but again, he was awesome. Gave me breaks when I needed them and took great care of me!"

"I have been tattooed by James for many years now and have never once been disappointed. Always professional and always high quality. You really can't get better in all of Atlanta. Very clean and there is a high level of care for every step of the process."

"Although it is an odd place for a tattoo parlor, they do a fantastic job. My wife and I both use the same artist, Mike Bugenhagen. I have 1 cover up and 2 tats by Mike. Just started the 3rd, which is a portrait, which will take another session. My wife did her research, tried him 2 years ago, and she lets no one else ink her now. She has traveled 3 1/2 hours when he did a show out of state, and today will be her 6th or 7th that Mike has done. The shop is very clean, in a beautiful building, easy to access from I-20 or 75/85. Staff is awesome and love talking with guests and clients. Prices are pretty standard, but the quality is what stands out. If looking for a tattoo, this is the place. All the artists are very good, not just Mike, but for my wife and I, he is our only artist. Times fill quickly, but if you have to book in advance...it is worth the wait for a true tattoo. If you just can't wait for the quality, there are hundreds of tattoo "show" shops in Atlanta. Just remember, rushing to get it because you want it vs. carefully deciding what you want and being willing to wait to get it perfect is two completely different things. Remember that if you choose someone else spur of the moment, then wake up the next day with "regerts". Below are a several Mike has done for us."