El Chapo Ink

El Chapo Ink is a tattoo and piercing shop in The Core Shopping Centre on the corner of Leeuwkop and Kikuyu roads in Sunninghill, Sandton. Reviewers talk about talented artists, a laid-back atmosphere and staff who take time with nervous clients, whether they came in for ink or a piercing.

What reviewers liked

One name comes up more than any other: Skinny (also written Skinnyink). Charne, Michael and Chloe all had tattoos from him, and Michael says he brings ideas to life every session. Andy got his first tattoo here to mark a new chapter and was pleased with the fine lines and flow of the piece.

The piercing side gets good word too. Shenira was on her third attempt at a belly piercing and wanted it done properly this time; she says the piercer explained each step and did not rush, and the receptionist even filmed the moment for her to share with family. Chloe had a nose piercing from Yankee alongside her two tattoos. Several reviewers describe the team as friendly, and Charne noted a clean, professional environment.

Good to know before you book

• Phone ahead with specific questions. Charne called before her visit to check whether they could do a particular placement and found the team helpful from the start.
• Healing went well for Chloe, who says everything she had done healed wonderfully with no issues.
• Michael jokes that the place is dangerous for your bank account, because you will want more tattoos once you walk in, so set your budget before you browse.

No complaints turned up in these reviews.