TRUE BLUE
TATTOO
Smack in the middle of the Red River District, glows the cool neon of True
Blue Tattoo. Founded by the late Vanessa Alvarez, this two-fl oor ex-carriage
house (the fi rst fl oor is for tattooing; the second fl oor, known as “Glory Hole,”
is strictly for piercings) is home to nine full-time tattoo artists and three pierc-
ers. The shop can get slammed on the weekends due to the foot traffi c out on
busy Sixth Street. “We get our fair share of walk-ins who want tattoos from the
fl ash on the walls,” says artist Jose Palacios. “But a lot the fl ash here is drawn
by our artists, and most of our customers expect us to draw custom pieces for
them.” Due to its location, True Blue is open until 2 a.m. on the weekends; but
no matter how hectic, quality is assured. “I’ve spent the last 10 years in Austin,
the last fi ve here at True Blue,” says Palacios. “And I can truly say it has been
the best experience.”
DRINK: The Side Bar, 602 E. Seventh St., 512-322-0697. Tucked away on
Seventh Street, the Side Bar is a much-needed oasis from the loudness that is
Sixth Street. Laid-back and inviting, it offers a chill backyard area, cheap pool
tables, and as much beer as you can handle.
EAT: Gene’s New Orleans Style Poboys and Deli, 1209 E. 11th St.,
512-477-6600. Owner Gene Tumbs brought family members to Austin after
Hurricane Katrina and gave them all jobs; this T.L.C. is translated into his menu,
which features unbelievably delicious homemade jambalaya and po’boys.
SHOP: Gallery Lombardi, 602 W. Seventh St., Suite A, 512-481-1088.
This gallery has a relaxed atmosphere and features exhibits from Texas artists
in all different mediums. Best of all, you’ll fi nd art you want that you can
actually afford to buy.inked spots | AUSTIN
607 Red River
Austin, TX
512-472-2783
truebluetattoo.com
Established: 1997
Artists: Jim Chiavaroli, Chip Telano,
Rachel Kolar, Rebecca Hendriks,
Briza Camacho, José Palacios,
Jon Reed, Mike Condon, Lee B.José Palacios, Mike Condon94 | INKEDMAG.COMInked0408_090-095_Austin_jb.jg.indd 94Inked0408_090-095_Austin_jb.jg.indd 94 2/22/08 8:47:42 PM2/22/08 8:47:42 PM