I actually get tattooed by Mr. Luke Wessman. I found him through Tim Hendricks' blog site (SALTWATERTATTOO :: the official website of Tim Hendricks ::), sent him an email, because I was out to sea (I'm in the U. S. Navy) and no later than 2 days fresh off the boat, I was getting a bicep full of Luke's signature roses. Later in the year, I got a bad ass Chola Panther from Luke. I actually have another appointment here soon with Mr. Wessman to get the Cholo Panther. I would highly recommend to look into getting work by Luke. His style is very true and original. So save up your dinero and hit him up.
As for your food travels: Next time you visit San Diego look up Las Cuatro Milpas. It's located in the heart of Barrio Logan. It's the best food you'll have in Southern Cali. Get there early though cuz the lines goes back a long way. And it's funny to see in-the-know tourist in line at this place, cuz they look scared, but they don't care, they just want some good Mexican eats!