Time for new glasses since I haven't had an upgrade in over two years. I found Chico Vision Care on the "list" of locations that accepted my insurance. They are located on the South East side of town by the car dealerships so, relatively easy to find which was good. When I arrived, I was greeted by a girl at the front desk, then led to a sales person. I had to wait about five minutes for the sales person to finish something she was working on and while I was waiting, I was looking around. Of course, I instantly gravitated to the most expensive frames in the store (how does that happen every single time?!) I found their overall selection to be decent although for the style that I prefer, they were pretty limited. I didn't end up getting the priciest frames, but I did find a pair that I really liked, grabbed them and waited for the sales person. Once she was available, she went over prices and details about the difference between the lenses (blue blocker, transitions, etc.) and I was told it would be approximately two weeks until my glasses were ready. The timeframe worked for me so I paid for my frames then left. Two weeks came and went and crickets. Nobody reached out to let me know that my glasses had arrived so I waited an extra couple of days and still... no follow up. I ended up calling to find out what was going on with my glasses and was told they had been sitting there, ready for pick up. Ohhhhkayyyy, well then how come nobody called me?? Not cute. If there's one thing that gets under my skin quickly, it's a lack of follow up. So my glasses have been sitting there supposedly for a week and not one single person took it upon themselves to call me and let me know?? That irritated me because I desperately needed them and was told when I purchased them, I would receive a phone call when they arrived. Lie. Again, not cute. I would've given them four stars, but because my glasses sat there for a week and I had to chase them down, I'm being generous giving them three stars. If you decide to get glasses here, make sure you follow up with them in the timeframe given unless you want your new glasses to be collecting dust on a shelf in the back. Just sayin. read more

See all

Had to have an exam for the same prescription for contacts as before, but--no problem. I was pleased with the exam and thus ordered and paid for the contacts. Two weeks passed and was called and sent a text saying my contacts were ready for pick-up. When I'd made the special trip to pick them up the receptionist (think her name is Crystal or something similar) checked but came back and said they weren't there--they had yet to arrive. I explained that they had called and texted me saying otherwise. She debated this with me even though I had proof on my phone. She also pushed back several times by asking if I'd actually ordered glasses--not contacts. I mean...seriously? She checked again, but still they weren't there. She told me in a flippant manner, to just give it a few more weeks and they'd call me. I asked to know what the issue was now so that it wouldn't cause further delay if there was something else needed to fulfill the order. Still, she insisted that I wait a few more weeks. After reasonable urging from me, she Finally, she proceeded to apply herself to problem solving instead of pushing back and looked the order up in the system. Apparently, the contacts for the Right Eye had arrived, but the Left Eye was delayed for some reason. She tells me this and then points to the Right Eye package literally sitting on the shelf directly in front of her display monitor, as if this were never in question. Though bizarre, I accepted that I'd have to wait a couple more weeks. Two weeks later, I receive a text and a call stating that my contacts were ready for pick-up. Upon arrival, she informs me that it was the Right Eye that had been pending arrival--not the Left Eye. She also adds that I need to pay an additional $65 for a contacts exam, and she claimed that she had called to tell me that specifically, ahead of time. However, she had not called. When I inquired about why I was paying for two exams--especially when I was getting the same prescription as before, she went on the explain (as if I am some idiot) that glasses are farther from my eyes than contacts. I wasn't happy about it, but I paid the additional $65 but stated that I felt like I was just being nickeled-and-dimed to death. In the most generic and indifferent manner she asked if I had any more questions. I told her "No, but I won't be coming back anymore because I feel like this is simply another method to get money from me." She actually responded by literally saying, "Oh--that's no problem at all." I said, "Wow, you aren't even the least bit concerned about losing a customer?" Again, she stated--no--it's no problem at all, and asked asked if there was anything else? I said maybe a little empathy might be professional on her part. And she simply repeated the same question twice more. As I left, I thanked her for stealing from me, and she replied by saying, "Oh...you're welcome." Although I was clearly aggravated and dissatisfied, there was nothing demonstrative, loud or disrespectful about my demeanor during this conversation. This person was like talking to a sarcastic robot. Although it's a factor, $65 isn't really the point here, but I'll never go back. A basic, and reasonable expectation is that paying customers should be treated with respect, engagement, and clarity concerning additional charges. Afterall, this is a shop that I trust with caring for my vision. Pretty important. I need better from this organization in order to allow them even go near my eyes. But for fairness and clarity, my preceding exam by the optometrist was fine--no issues at all. read more

I went in about three weeks ago and got glasses. Some of the staff were nice but the actual optometrist was short and kind of rude. I had my glasses shipped to my house and upon arrival my lens were almost popping out and my frame creaked just by me smiling. When I called the office, they told me that it's normal and that I could send them back but I'd have to pay the shipping there (they would pay for shipping back). I just don't feel like that I should have to pay for something that is not my fault. When I went to a local optometrist they told me they tempered my frame way too much. Overall, not the best staff and wouldn't fix stuff that was caused by them! read more

They were really nice. Process was easy for having medical. The doctor was fast, professional, and asked if I had any questions. I also liked that no one pressured me to have my eyes dilated. They have lots of frame options for medical. Excited to finally have a good eye doctor. read more

Terrific experience. I'm a local doc, and I was very impressed Dr. Pennington and his staff for helping correct my prescription, and recommend quality glasses that met my budget and needs. I highly recommend this team of professionals. read more

Obie practically acts like you aren't there, doesn't listen to your concerns, and obviously doesn't care at all. He doesn't even make eye contact or make sure you're still following him to the room. There's also horrible communication issues. I went to get contacts, Obie told me to use the tests that I received, then when I went back the front desk staff said I was supposed to keep a pair unused. Then they gave me a set that was supposed to be the same prescription, but it was different than what I had received before. Then, Obie gave me a new set of test contacts that were worse than the ones that the front desk staff gave me. read more

This is hands down the best place to visit for your optical Rx needs . Both doctors are amazing in providing the care you need and are very personable too. The receptionists are professional and friendly. The selection of frames and friendly assistance to find the lens/frame choice is second to none. I have tried other optical Rx centers/offices but I have found the one that exceeds my expectations and I would definitely recommend to anyone. read more

Coming from a previous employee , I honestly could say Dr. Pennington is very assertive and really respectful, I can't say that about all the staff but for the most part there okay people to work with . One things for sure , don't say have a "blessed day" since your working at an Optometrist office .... I told a patient to have a blessed day and someone not going to name anyone specifically but she knows who she is .. but anyways under her breath said "well you don't work at a church or something of that sort" I was bothered because why belittle someone over religion ? Over them being kind and proud ? I started looking for another job immediately when that was said, once I got the job offer , I quit . I wasn't going to let a "job" or anyone shame me for being me . If I want to say "have a blessed day" to a patient or client I'll say it with my chest ! "Those who deny me in-front of men , I shall deny them from our heavily father" so with that said have a blessed day ;) read more

Dr. Obie and his staff at Chico Vision Center were awesome! Very efficient process, state of the art equipment, and highly knowledgeable. I didn't wait more than a few mins, clean and organized office. read more

I had a terrible experience at this optometrist. The doctor, Obbie Pennington, is completely humorless and has no bedside manner. He is also extremely condescending. Also yesterday when I went in for my appointment the receptionist totally snapped at me in a very rude way after I misunderstood her. I feel like when one visits a doctor they should be made to feel welcomed and taken care of. The people at this office were completely the opposite of caring and welcoming. I will never go back. read more

I've been going here for I think 8 years now? Dr. Obie and his staff always get us right in and out. I've never had to wait in the lobby for more than a few minutes (even when I'm early) and I somehow always end up getting out earlier than I had anticipated. They are easy to get an appointment with, kind, and efficient. If you're looking for someone who is super chatty, Dr. Obie isn't for you. read more

I have been getting my eye glass prescriptions filled here for 15 years.....multiple pairs of glasses. After one year of wear, my last pair of polarized sunglasses started to bubble on the inside. I took them back in and the curly grey haired lady said it was because I left them in my car in the hot sun. That is the furtherest thing from the truth. My glasses are either around my neck or in a case, NEVER on the dashboard. I even brought in my 12 year old polarized sunglasses to show her how in care for my glasses. She said the lenses were pristine, amazing for how old they were. Their lab did something wrong in the process, but it's easier and cheaper just to blame me. After 15 years of doing business with them, I'll never go back. They don't stand by their workmanship. read more

Very professional. I didn't have to wait long and Dr. Pennington patiently addressed all my concerns. Also the staff was kind and helpful as I was on a walker. read more

Terrible customer service . Terrible . I was locked out in the cold to wait for them to open , and the grey haired lady sat there and did her hair while she smiled at me in the cold until it was 8:30. She then told me i was wrong for coming as i was told . I feel she is more interested in herself and her looks than taking care of people . She then proceeded to reprimand another employee who was kind and helpful for " talking to me too long" This manager is a joke . The pre tester Woman needs to be trained on patient care as well. I hope the Doctors see they are getting a bad reputation due to the cold staff. read more

I like them. Always good to me when trying on styles of glasses and scheduling appointments.

Such a great experience. Very clean and orderly. Front desk is kind. Doctor was great. Tech was wonderful. They helped me so much and I'm so glad I switched to Chico Vision Care. read more

My glasses broke and I needed an appointment asap for a new prescription - they got me in right away! The office/exam rooms were spotless and pleasing, staff friendly and professional and Dr. Pennington performed the most thorough eye exam I have ever had. Highly recommended! Thank you, Brent read more

Terrible, they dont call back, I paid for glare proof & scratch resistance & got neither on 2 pairs of glasses. Never called me back to fix my glasses. read more

Went with a friend because I wanted to start going there myself and planned to make an appointment if all went well. Glad I went, terrible service. I don't know what happened but this place used to be better. Witnessed the older dark haired lady at the front desk and another lady talking about a customer after she left and then that customer came back in because she forgot something, they stopped but I'm sure the customer heard them, then they continued talking about the customer again after she left the second time. Totally unprofessional and disappointing. Plus, the ladies who adjust the classes need a lot of work, their skills are no where near the guy who used to do it before staff changed. They caused damage and color came off of the part they were trying to adjust, I've never seen this happen so bad to a pair of glasses before. I was hoping to become a customer but after seeing the low quality of work done to my friends glasses and the gossiping ladies I'll be going elsewhere. read more

Do not go here! Avoid at all cost! I ordered my glasses on Dec 31, 2013. The staff is very nice... however, the product is NOT worth your time/money. Here is why: I had my eye exam and placed order on 12/31/13 and I returned within 3 weeks to pick up my glasses - Lenses scratched. Return #2: Scratched lenses replaced, great. Frame is now loose and one lenses is unpolished. Return #3: As of March 1st, my frame is still loose and they have to "wait" for frame rep to get back to them then get back to me. THIS PLACE OF BUSINESS IS HORRIBLE. AVOID AT ALL COST!!! They refuse to reimburse for my time or traveling and look at me like this is completely my fault. read more

It took several visits to get my glasses done right. I ended up visiting two other optometrists to get proper measurements before they would redo my lenses. With the first set, the world looked like I was seeing it in a funhouse mirror. They were adamant that the glasses were done right and I'd just have to adjust. Even after a week they were just as bad. After pushing them to redo the lenses, everything was fine again. The waiting room chairs are very uncomfortable - not friendly for larger folks at all. I ended up standing and pacing for half an hour to forty five minutes each visit instead. There's also a very conspicuously placed camera aiming down at you the entire time you wait. The camera is oddly creepy and out of place for this area. It's not exactly the line at a pawn shop or a payday loan place, ya know? They're protecting against what? Someone is stealing their copies of Highlights? They also give your phone number to a place that sends you texts to try and upsell extra visits and services. A 3am text to try and get me to go back to my optometrist? I don't remember consenting to that, so that was the last straw for me. read more

my appointment was for 11am. They had me waiting in there for well over an hour before anyone explained what was taking so long. Then 45 min after that until I was seated in the exam room. read more

Very rude receptionist. I called their number by accident tying to contact another optometrist on the same street and rather than kindly suggesting I had the wrong number, they gal in the phone yelled at me and was incredibly rude. I've worked in retail where people have called our number thinking it was our sister store and not once did I feel the need to yell at them over it. Now that i'm in the process of changing eye doctors, I'm glad I know to never try this place in the future. read more

Just called to see my Dr. after suffering since Saturday with a painful ulcer in my eye and I couldn't even get in all they could offer is a next day appt or told me to go to the ER!!! Seriously??? I'm in so much pain!!! I have a history of eye ulcers and they couldn't even call the prescription I usually get for my ulcers. Talk about bad customer service. I have been coming here for years. They used to leave a few slots open for Emergencies Wow!!!! Way to go Vision Care! Get it together!!! Put a plan in place ! I guess I'll just be in pain. Thank you , for NOTHING!!!!!Thank you Norma for your smart comments. By the way it's not funny when someone is in pain! Smacking you square in the face would be funny.You should find a new job.Customer service is definitely not your strength. Be happy I didn't come in. Wow! read more

So my wife and I were scheduled to have exams one after the other which was convenient since we'd have our toddler with us. Due to the Coronavirus, I decided we should reschedule for a later date. I was then told that because I canceled the appointment we could not be rescheduled together, but that we could have appointments on different days. I asked, "I this some kind of punishment for needing to reschedule during a pandemic?" I was assured that it's their policy that appointments that are canceled cannot be rescheduled together. I assured her that there are other vision providers who would see us together and she was happy to hang up. Guess they don't need more business? At least they didn't act like it. read more

I always feel at home when I visit Chico Vision Care. Staff welcomes us immediately upon entering, with smiles and ready to help us, or let me know that they will be right with me. I don't have to wait long for to see the doctor, and Pablo is there to help me choose new glasses & sunglasses, is patient with the process, and gives me honest feedback on how well the glasses look on me. read more

I had a very good experience at Chico Vision Care. The ladies at the front desk are nice and very helpful. When I called and changed my mind after ordering my glasses they were still very accomodating. I will definitely be coming back next time I need anything vision related. read more

I took my 7 year old son in for his first eye visit. The sign said kid friendly but didn't see any evidence. No one introduced themselves to my son nor did they bother to explain anything. Even after stopping the technician asking her if she realized that it's my son's first time and to explain what the machines are for she didn't. Obe wasn't any more personable either. It seems like I got an ok experience only because I continued demanding explanations throughout the visit. The service has gone down the drain since Dr. Watkins left. Now I'm on a journey for someone who cares about me and not just the money. read more

Wow, it looks like some people have had a bad experience here. Granted I've only come here with my sons once a year for three years now so that's only three times, but all three of those times have been great for us. I'm giving a 5 star review because I really can't think of a reason as to why I would leave any less than that. I believe the first year, three years ago, the wait was a tiny bit longer but I was explained that there were changes with Affordable Health and there were more patients than usual during that transition. Both my kids see Dr. Lim. He explains everything thoroughly, not just to me but the kids too. He talks about their specific vision issues and goes into detail and I myself learned a bit. The gals at the front are efficient and friendly. They talk about what your insurance will pay for and always help with my questions since I usually try to get the best with what we've got and their accommodating. The office is clean and we always get reminder calls and even reminder emails and Birthday Wishes, which is always a nice touch in these insurance times. I see no reason to go elsewhere, since they are close to our house and we've had great experiences. read more

I have had great experiences with Chico Vision Care with one exception, Dr. was suppose to call me and he went home sick. Being sick I understand how there was a little confusion, but all in all a great place. read more

So first off the ladies at the front desk are very nice. I went in needing my prescription updated and I wanted a new pair of glasses. I got them in a timely fashion. I had a pair I was currently using (a pair of Raybans) that I wanted to put prescription sunglasses back into so I bought new lenses for them. They make you sign a waiver so if they break or damage them (which they did) they wont be responsible for them. I dont understand how they snapped a $300 pair of glasses in half but now I'm out my sunglasses and I have lenses that I no longer have a need for. I will not be coming back here (other than to pick up my now broken frames and useless lenses) and will not be recommending them any longer. read more

My husband and I were very, very pleased with our experience at Chico Vision Care. The staff was especially friendly and helpful; also very speedy. Dr. Obie was very patient with me and answered all my questions with easy to understand answers. We will definitely be recommending Chico Vision Care to anyone we know in need of glasses, etc. Thanks to again to the doctor and all staff members there. You all were fantastic!!!! read more

The doctors and staff at Chico Vision Care are both friendly and professional. They go above and beyond when helping patients improve their vision! Today, I was lucky enough to be assisted by Pablo after my beloved dog chewed my prescription glasses. Pablo did everything he could to help me keep the cost down to replace my frames and prescription lenses. His friendly demeanor and helpful nature were invaluable. I would highly recommend Chico Vision Care to anyone looking for quality service. read more

Incompetent, nasty, unfeeling, irresponsible. I am a long-time customer who is moving in less than two weeks. I ordered a replacement frame and when I went to get it, those incompetent fools could not get the screw open to insert the lens. Fine, no worries. I asked them if they could order another frame and if it didn't arrive in time, refund my money since this is a frame that is part of their regular display. No, can't do it, if you buy it, you're stuck with it. I asked if they could mail the frame to me at my new location in SoCal. No, you have to pay an outrageous amount for shipping. Then, I asked if they could contact the manufacturer to find out what optical shop in the city where I am moving stocked those frames. The lazy, nasty thing behind the counter wouldn't get off her ass for 10 seconds to help me, even though the store was empty except for me, then she started acting as if she was the victim. I GOT THE FRAMES ONLINE AT GO-OPTICAL FOR LESS MONEY AND THEY ARRIVED IN A FEW DAYS. All retail stores have left is customer service, and this hole earns a "zero" in this category. Obie, the owner (wasn't he a cartoon dog?) overheard all of this and didn't do a thing to help. Remember, this was THEIR mistake, and these irresponsible nasty people refused to own up to it. My 5 year old has a better sense of decency and responsibility than these people. This is the worst optical store in the state of California. They don't deserve to be in business. read more

Called to make an appointment because Lenscrafters closed. Not a good experience on the phone. Have some love for customers...that's all I have to say. We will go elsewhere. Try to remember you're not the only place to go. read more

I've been going to Dr. Lim and Dr. Watkins for over ten years. They have provided top notch service, and always get my prescription just right. Even last year when I had an eye emergency, they were there for me when I called in on the weekend. I would recommend Chico Vision Care to anyone who is looking for a friendly optometrist in the Chico area, they do a great job and have always given me the attention that I have needed. read more