July 2021 update - the owner of Focal Point, David Salk, saw my Yelp review and reached out to offer to fix my broken sunglasses. Indeed he DID fix them, much to my surprise and elation. I am so grateful he took the time to do this. Thanks, David. It's unfortunate that it took a 2-star Yelp review to receive the customer service attention that should have been offered in the first place. Thanks again to David Salk, I have my gorgeous sunglasses back and functioning! When I walked in as a buyer, I had an amazing experience. So much attention and support - there was nothing they couldn't do for me. Fast forward several years- as a customer needing support for a broken pair of verrrrrry expensive sunglasses, the support was insulting. I made an appt to bring my troubled glasses in (June 2021), was told "this company is not the best with customer service" as if to prepare me for the horrific, unacceptable level of customer care. Two weeks after dropping off my broken glasses, and having heard NOTHING, from Focal Point, I called them and was told "Well, we haven't heard anything from the mfr. So I'll shake the tree again and see what we get." How's that for having your customer's back? You can predict where this is going. A week later I received a voicemail that the glasses could not be repaired and "I was welcome" to order a replacement. Hahahaha, Focal Point. Get your customer service game on. As of now, I remain a FORMER customer. Never to return. Buyer Beware. At the very least if you're going to buy from them, ask about the mfr support in the event of a orobl read more

Worst service ever. This place is staffed by self-important snobs who think it's a grand idea to offer different tiers of service to clients based on -- all I can do is guess here -- dress code/appearance? Jeans and fleece jacket notwithstanding, I think I am probably still deserving of some help finding the right pair of frames. Instead, upon expressing the basic stats of what I was looking for, the salesperson disappeared for less than a minute, came back and said, "no, we don't have that." Not, "I am going to need a minute to look through what we've got." Or, "why don't we walk around and see what we can find." Just, "no." This is a big place with a fairly sizeable selection, so I spent another 20 minutes in the store, looking through everything, ultimately finding 3 pair of frames that would work. During that time, I watched in amazement while they assisted other customers (who happened to be middle-aged and bejeweled) in the manner one would hope to receive at a high-end eyewear shop. The whole experience was bizarre and off-putting. Upon reflection, I decided to spend my money elsewhere. If you do decide to go here, remember to wear your Sunday best. read more

They were very easy to reach on the phone! I called and made an appointment to come in with my frame (which needed to be fixed) all within 3 minutes. I came in on time and they were able to see me immediately. Irene was amazing and I explained the problem with my lens frames to her; she fixed them and handled everything with speed and consideration. My frames look good as new and I probably only spent 10 minutes in there tops! read more

Came here to get lenses made for 2 different pair of glasses. The shop is very clean and had a great selection of frames. Both Jeni and Irene were very kind and after everything was said and done, it was clear to see (no pun intended) they both had a passion for their work. I will definitely be back when I'm ready to add another style to my collection! read more

Update: I've been back to Focal Point several times since my less than favorable review 10 years ago. I must say they have long memories. They also learn from their mistakes. For my prescription, they only recommend full-frame styles, rather than the half-frame styles that caused a lot of the grief with the lens makers. I've bought three different, stylish frames from them, plus had the prescriptions updated on these. The service is always within the window that they give me (10 days to 2 weeks), often coming in a bit early, with no sacrifice in quality. Yes, they are not cheap, but my opthomologist examined my glasses and told me that I'm definitely getting what I paid for them, that Focal Point's lens work is, in her opinion, the best in the business. I think that says it all. The staff remains knowledgeable, courteous, and have good taste in styles for me. At one point, I had THREE of them checking to make sure the fit looked right on me! Now that's service! read more

Fantastic, quality, beautiful frames. Friendly service. Recently lost my beloved LaFonts so went back and got Alain Mikli, Linda Farrow and LA Eyewear. Very expensive ... better not ever ever lose them! read more

I love the thought that went into their new COVID set-up, the same thoughtfulness and thoroughness that goes into their customer service and merchandising. A special shout-out to Lynn, who I have been working with for many years. She is attentive, professional, and spot-on in terms of my wants and needs. read more

I've purchased eye wear here before. With my insurance coverage changing, I took a look see. They have quite a selection of high end opticals that you don't find at too many places. Super attentive staff. Lost a star since they don't accept vision insurance, so you have to file a claim yourself. Never=the-less, I'm looking (no pun intended) at a pair of Oliver Peoples that are quite groovy! read more

I've lived in Berkeley 19 years now and tried out at least a dozen opticians. Focal Point is the only one that consistently offers excellence and individualized attention to every optical challenge. I now have glasses that fit my odd vision, my professional requirements and active lifestyle. As well visiting Focal Point is a real pleasure with sweet, patient and courteous opticians who are genuinely committed to excellent and will offer fixes and improvements spontaneously. Great place. read more

I wanted to get my next pair of glasses from Warby Parker, but, instead, found myself going to Focal Point to keep my business local. Maria helped me find a good frame that fits my parameters. She was very personable, patient, educating me throughout the entire process. I just picked up my new pair of Blackfins and couldn't be any happier. Focal Point, take my money! You guys are quality people. I am happy to recommend and support this business for life. You've truly earned it. read more

One of the optical shops with the biggest selection of frames I've seen. They carry brands like Alain Milkli, Face and Face, La Font, Chanel, Dior, Cartier, Oliver People, Bevel, Blackfin, Ray Ban, Persol, Gold & Wood and many many more. I got a pair of eyeglasses and a pair of sunglasses here. I think I could've bought a few more pairs if not for budget issue!! The opticians are fantastic. They are very expertise in helping you pick out frames contoured to your face and taste. Then they take the time to go over all the lense options with you with your prescription in mind and explain to you the options you can choose, whether it is digital, flash mirror, polarized, additional nose pads and etc.. Never once do I feel pressured to buy anything or rushed. The wide selection of frames enables you to try on frames that are unique. Love this place! read more

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Great selection of brands such as like Alain Milkli, Masunaga, Ici Berlin, Face and Face, La Font, Oliver Peoples, Bevel, Blackfin, Ray Ban, Persol, and Gold & Wood to name a few. The opticians here are great in selecting frames to considers - styles that I normally do not gravitate to. With their keen eye I purchased a Face a Face Alium, and after picking up that pair of glasses, purchased a pair of Oliver Peoples Public School (Matte Black) sunglasses with prescription lenses. All in all - one of the most comprehensive collection of high quality frames for one to spend hours to ponder and choose from ( I certainly did!). read more

I have been to several eyeglass stores in the Bay Area from the East Bay, Marin, and SF and this is by far the best store I have been to so far. A very large selection of unique and stylish glasses. And, the customer service is top notch. I highly recommend; worth the drive! I cannot wait for my new glasses. read more

I always looked forward to the selection of high end frames from focal point. This time I was dissapointed to see so many older, outdated and sale frames throughout the store. What happened to all the Japanese designers that only focal point carried? It felt like I was in an outlet store which made me very sad because I miss all the edgy, funky and huge selections of designer frames. I didn't see anything current in the lines I was looking for. I will have to cross the bridge to go to Invision which has a fantastic array of styles and frames. I did apprecIate being acknowledged when we arrived and the help we got from the staff. read more

I ultimately did not make a purchase here, but I wanted to review the staff and selection for being fantastic. Recently I went down the rabbit hole of luxury/semi-luxury eyewear (whatever that means--it's branding and marking on the part of the makers) when I woke up one day hating my glasses and feeling I couldn't spend another day in them. I went to a couple of places in SF and kept running into a $600 frame that I loved but was in denial of loving. I got curious about the designer and found that Focal Point was one of its local carriers. Once I went there I discovered the greatest and most thorough selection of funky/fun eyewear I've ever seen in one place. I learned more about some of the designers I was into and found a wider selection of those, plus I discovered new ones. I found 13 pairs that passed my initial try-on phase, a first! Usually it is 0-2. Notably, everyone on staff was very friendly and helpful and knowledgeable. I won't hesitate to go back next time I'm in the market. Note: The large rear room full of sale items too! read more

Here's why I keep coming back to FP... I was recommended to try them out when I needed a new pair of glasses. I was told they were more expensive than LensCrafters but that I'd get better selection and more help in getting the right glasses for me. Having several great experiences over the past few years, here's why I would highly recommend them to anyone. First pair - Georgina helped me find a great pair or square frames. As a guy with limited fashion sense, I trusted her completely. Afterwards the number of compliments I received proved she helped me make a great choice. I came back on several occasions to get them adjusted and the rest of the staff was over the top helpful. 2nd pair - Having never paid more than $500 for a pair of glasses, it was a gulp moment to pay $700 for a pair of Danish-made titanium frames. Georgina again helped me out. Some time later when I needed progressive lenses, she was able to grind a second set at no cost because I was uncomfortable with the first set. Just recently I bent my frames something horrible on a camping trip and I brought them in to Melanie who restored them perfectly at no cost. 3rd pair - I needed a prescription pair of sunglasses and this was the only place I trusted to get exactly what I needed without compromising style. Paula helped me get a great pair or Raybans with the right kind of colored lens. I'm totally thrilled and would never think of going back to a Lenscrafters after the personal service I get at Focal Point. read more

Decent (but not mind-blowing) selection. Inconsistent (and occasionally douche-baggy-ish) service. Inflated prices. If you want similar frames, better service, and lower prices try Saks, NM, etc. read more

I've only owned two pairs of glasses in my life. The last pair broke years ago... im talking over four years ago. I never got them replaced because i was using contacts at the time and was lazy. Mostly the latter. Nevertheless, i finally was told by my eye doc to get me some glasses because my eyes werent liking the constant use of contacts. So fine. I find Focal Point and their selections are good with prices you would expect. They have all the standard brand and a guy who i never heard of by the name of People's. They had a lot of those. But they werent for me. They also have a back room of a bunch of discounted frames as well. Thats always cool. They definately have the bigger selection of frames to chose from compared to many other opticians in the area. I decided on a pair of really cute Prada frames. But the best part was the woman who helped me buy them. I loved her! She was funny and she was from Jersey! love it! We talked about fun stuff besides the glasses, of which, we did eventually get to. But you just gotta love that kind of service. I reccommend Focal Point to anyone looking for glasses. read more

I first went to the other two yuppie eyeglass places on College Avenue in Rockridge. Neither had anything that I was wild about and neither had prices on the frames which I must say made my working class self rather nervous. Yes, I know I am currently living a middle class existence but some of the values remain...and I'm glad about that. Anyway, I felt out of place in the first two stores - they were small and very precious feeling. The people who worked there greeted me nicely and all but I was happy to leave. I felt very different entering Focal Point. The folks were helpful but they also let me alone. There was a trunk show in part of the place so some frames were on sale. They also had a back room with deep discounts but unfortunately none of the cheap frames called my name. The prices ranges from $139 to $919 for frame only with the majority in the $300-400 range which was considerably more than I wanted to spend. Yes, I bought my last pair at Costco and will probably get a second pair from there but Costco is a bit low on style... The nice optician gave me a basket in which to gather the dozen frames I was considering. While I tried them on the manager, Maria, looked at my prescription, looked at me, looked at my pile and swirled away and came back with two lovely frames I hadn't considered. When I narrowed down my selections to two both were the one that she had selected. In 30 seconds she distilled my style and color preferences and picked something that worked with the shape of my face. If their glasses weren't so expensive I would have bought them both. If I ever hit the lotto I'm going in and letting Maria pick out a dozen pairs for me. I can't wait to pick them up! read more

Went in with some vintage glasses and looked around as well. They have excellent selection of designers and the service is very friendly! They were able to send in my vintage glasses to be repaired and were also very helpful in explaining the types of lenses available and showing me more than a dozen potential frames. They can also cut custom lenses. I recommend going here for glasses needs! read more

This was without a doubt my best experience ever buying a pair of glasses. Way wider/better selection of frames than the several other places I've tried in Alameda and Oakland in the past, but what really made my experience stellar was the woman who helped me select my glasses - Irene. She "got" what I was looking for and picked out countless frames for me to try that demonstrated that understanding, making adjustments in picking others based on elements of which frames worked or didn't work after I tried them on. She was honest in her feedback about what worked and didn't on my face, tireless in picking out more frames, never made me feel too picky or in a hurry, and had wonderful enthusiasm for the task at hand, which made it way more fun for me. She took into account details than no one had ever mentioned before, e.g. the thickness of the lens for my particular prescription and whether or not it would look good in certain frames. She took pics of me all the way along to send to my friend who was voicing her opinion from afar. Just really, really great customer service - I can't say enough about how great she was. FP are pricey - but worth it with this kind of selection and customer service. read more

I'm so lucky this store is in my neighborhood! The people working there are ALWAYS friendly and offer great service and advice regarding frames and prescriptions. I have a LensCrafters next to my office and the difference in customer service is night and day if you're looking for glasses be sure to give Focal Point and try. read more

Expensive? Yes. Do I love my glasses? Yes. Did they fix em when an idiot optician fucked up my prescription? Yes, super quick like. Me like the Focal Point. read more

I have been searching for some lenses that were small enough to hide the high prescription index I have. My Dr. recommended Focal Point and that if they couldn't find a pair we would have to go to the stand by round Benjamin Franklin frames I have been wearing for the last two years, I was created by a friendly and knowledgeable woman by the name of Paula. This place is fill of frames and she sat down with me, viewed my Dr.s not with the min and max measurements that would fit my needs. She brought out about seven frames and I found the funky one very quickly. Everyone was friendly buy.. I have been out of work for six months and had a rough last year, I told Paula if they did any discount for cash or if there was anything they could do. Now mind you, I have been searching for over six months. The price was an astonishing 565 BUCK! There goes 1/4 of the rent... She quickly said "No" I think most places can help out with a little bit as I know these frames, Theo are expensive and have a nice profit margin for the store. I was sort of stuck and at least I didn't have to pay for tax. I have never, ever paid so much for a frame. It was bitter sweet. Im still stunned a day later. In fact so was my Dr. and one of his staff. If you have lots of coin, go here. Don't expect any compassion or discounts. Which is why, I only gave 3 stars. FYI, I called a few other places and asked for these same frames and the price difference was from 10 bucks to 100! You get what you pay for but with the times we are in, Full Retail is not an option for me. PROS: Great friendly, knowledgeable Staff, Great street parking, great selection, No tax CON: I felt ripped off, Very pricy, Seriously. read more

So I paid a hefty amount for upgraded crystal (or whatever they called it) coatings on my lenses, which was supposed to be anti-static and not attract dust as much. This is what I was lead to believe by the sales lady at the time. But, I can honestly tell you these glasses attract dust just as fast as any other glasses without that coating ever did. They are no different, no better. In fact, they get dusty/dirtier really fast, and seem to do so even sooner than prior glasses I've had. I now believe Focal Point charged me the upgrade coating charges, but didn't give that to me. Based on this and my prior review which you can read below, I can tell you I would avoid The Focal Point. I just frankly feel totally ripped off by them. read more

Focal Point really is as good as it gets! I've been a customer since 1989 and have never looked back. Well that's not entirely true, I tried to break up with them in search of finding a "great deal" at Kaiser in Walnut Creek and boy did I pay for that! After 5 attempts I finally said screw it and went back to Focal Point and will never stray again. I learned my lesson. If you want the best customer service, high quality frames, excellent lenses and no b.s. sales people you've found "home". They also do lifetime FREE adjustments. Who offers free anything these days? Getcher butt into Focal Point and look and see better than you have in your entire life people! read more

Focal Point Opticians make for the best, most fashionable AND vision-enhancing prescriptive lenses. AND THEY PICK OUT THE MOST FLATTERING GLASSES FOR YOUR FACE - SOME YOU MIGHT NEVER TRY ON YOURSELF ... BUT THEY'RE FANTASTIC! All the staff are fantastic! Lynn helps me find the most interesting frames ever! Thank you Focal Point Opticians. You have served me well for decades! read more

Quick comment on David's remarks: At no point during our visit were we offered anything remotely close to "crayons, coloring books, or toys." As I said before, what our toddler was offered was dirty looks and sighs. Update: No one ever offered our kid toys or to "babysit". Whatta a joke... whatta lie. And yeah, the owner wrote me a kiss-ass letter too. All the guy does is talk people out of their negative reviews after his pretentious employees F-up. When it didn't work on me, it appears he decided to hit back with B.S.. Been going there 20 years. They don't offer to baby sit your kid. Who would be stupid enough to believe that? read more

Typically paying a premium assures some level of customer service...I have purchased at least 8 pairs of sunglasses over the past few years from this establishment, to include Persol, Masunaga, Maui Jim and Ray Ban. Most recently a pair of Persols (less than 2 years old) began "separating" at a "joint" on the earpieces...even though Focal Point acknowledged that was unusual, they offered nothing in terms of recompense. Of the vast "customer service" options available, they boiled it down to "take it up with the manufacturer". Assuming I cycle 12 pairs of sunglasses and wear a pair every day of the year (I don't), the rough math says the referenced Persols have been worn 50-60 times...my expectation is that a $300+ pair of sunglasses should last more than 60 wears. Just sayin'... read more

I'm not sure where the other people are shopping, but I think this place has a huge selection. They definitely cater to the fancy crowd, offering selections from designers that I haven't even heard of, and their prices seem pretty consistent with MSRP for designer frames. For you American Psycho fans, they have an entire room devoted to Oliver Peoples frames, as well as the spinoff labels, Paul Smith and Mosley Tribes -- plus, they have the current season's selection. Many other stores will only have frames from several seasons (if not years) ago, so if you're fashionable or whatever, this place has you covered. For the bargain bin hunters, the back of the store is devoted to discounted frames, I'm not sure what the criteria is to put stuff in here. The prices in there rival what you'd pay on eBay or other online deals. Finally, the staff seems very knowledgeable. I was helped by a guy who really did have an opinion about what frames look good on my face, unlike MANY other places where the staff will just blindly say "oh yeah, that looks good" no matter what you try on. Later, I overheard him saying to another customer, "OK, this is what's wrong with your frames..." And he was referring to the frames that person walked in with! I guess if you're thin-skinned, then that would have gone the wrong way, but hey, he's giving you constructive criticism. read more

Really amazing customer service! I kind of smushed my rayban clubmasters a couple months back and didn't have one to get them looked at until today. Stopped in focal point and was greeted by a friendly all female staff. The woman that helped me out was nice and fixed my glasses quickly at no charge! Ill probably be coming here next time I need new glasses because I saw some awesome frames in the store as well read more

Important Note: This review is based on a day when I walked in to ask a question and get information. I have not yet worked with them on the new eyeglasses that I need. Why five stars: I walked in one day in May to ask about how the would work with someone who has a complicated prescription and very finicky segment height for progressive lenses. At the same time I had two pairs of glasses with me that were models of some features I wanted or didn't want. I was given lots of time, insight and guidance on how they would work with me and offered some extra help that was completely generous of the woman who worked with me. (I think her name was Jennifer.) I've been burned by other dispensers who dismissed my concerns and I've ended up with glasses I cannot use. (BTW one UC Berkeley optician understood exactly what I was asking for and then the glasses were perfect, but I'd prefer to work with a provider who I find easier to access.) I noticed a review about what someone might wear. I was kind of self-conscious in fact. I am not a well-dressed person. Nothing torn, but pretty drab and low-end. I was glad that it didn't seem to matter to the person who greeted and assisted me. ----------------------- I'll update after I actually get the new glasses, probably in the early autumn. read more

I brought my frame in Portugal and had transition lenses done with Focal Point. Jeni is awesome, she has been going above and beyond to satisfy my needs. I had to redo my lenses due to possible heat exposure which was free of charge (within warranty) we upgraded the lenses for an additional $50 and this far (a few days in) they have been the clearest and best lenses I've ever worn. Most staff members at this shop are really nice and accommodating and if you by any chance get one you don't seem to resonate with, ask to be referred to Jeni! read more

Very happy about service- and more importantly choice- at The Focal Point. You can browse and try 99% of their glasses ( hardly any locked cases, is my point). No one bothers you as you try and try- as I do- anything that makes me go "wow", until you get the ultimate "wow". No time wasted: lots of choice and no annoying sales person trying to push something. Now, OK, their frames are not cheap, but I believe in quality, and...yes you get what you pay for. I bought a pair once that did not feel comfortable on my nose and ears after a week. They elegantly tweaked the glasses at no cost to me: it worked and...I appreciate that too. read more

First time visiting Focal Point Opticians. I lost a screw in my sunglasses leaving the stem disconnected from the frames. Olivia kindly greeted me and I was stunned when she offered to repair them while I waited. I hung out and browsed the very clean and well-lit shop. I don't wear prescription lenses but appreciate many of the styles of glasses, particularly the use of wood from a product line displayed behind glass. I tried on some Ray-ban wayfarers that always give me the warm reminder of my father with the tortoise frames and Croakies slung behind his neck. While I waited, another member of the staff offered assistance demonstrating a culture of attentive service among the staff. I waited less than five minutes when Olivia appeared with my sunglasses in hand and surprised me again by refusing any payment. Her generosity and kindness demonstrates the exceptional quality of her character and remarkable dedication to the clients of Focal Point Opticians. read more

I went to Focal Point because of the positive reviews on Yelp. I purchased some Oliver Peoples frames elsewhere and came for lenses only. Since I, like anyone else who watches 60 Minutes, understand that glasses are a racket, I went in to the store expecting to pay an inflated but reasonable price. Immediately, I was partnered with a sales consultant that was gruff and unpleasant. I explained that I was cost conscious and she quoted me a price of $230 for a "high end" non glare coating plastic lens. Frames would be done in a week. I was unhappy with this high price and explained that I was able to get lenses of good quality for less than $100 at Optical 88 in New York. In response, the consultant informed me that my frames were a poor choose that didn't fit my nose. Reasonable criticism met with an insult? I leave up to you to decide if this was a rude comment about my choice of frames (which, incidentally, was irrelevant to the price of the lenses) or if it was a comment about the shape of my nose and some kind of veiled ethnic slur. I left the store and called my partner to discuss the price. It was the same price I got at Minor Hall (without the attitude) but Focal Point promised to deliver quicker. Fine, I decided to go with Focal Point. I went back in the store and the initial sales consultant had left to move her car. Aww shucks. A new, friendlier sales consultant sat down with me and we went through the process again. This time, less than 5 mins later, the price was higher. I pointed this out to the new sales consultant. She said that the first quoted me for a price without UV protection. If true, that's insane. UV protection is as close to a "standard" feature on eye glasses as you can get. WTF? New price was $249 and delivery time was around 2 weeks. I appreciated the second person's attempts to normalize the situation (though her comment of "don't feed the bears" in reference to a homeless person was literally dehumanizing--I may want expensive glasses but you are wrong to think I think homeless people are animals), but the shifting prices, sour attitudes, and general upper crustiness of the joint had already soiled it for me. The lessons for me are that: 1) I should have just trusted that the folks at Minor Hall at UCB were quoting a fair price. Next time I will go there. 2) Take Yelp reviews with a grain of salt. read more

After sitting on my glasses a number of times, and even occasionally falling asleep on top of them (hey, it happens...), I came to Focal Point Opticians to bend them back into shape. The woman who helped me was also a perfectionist, and she ensured that the glasses fit just right. I was in and out of there in approximately 5 minutes. It took me longer to write this review :). read more

I came to Focal Point because I have persnickity frames. I know that sounds weird - but bear with me. So I bought these frames in Europe. They are highly specialized and are made out of two kinds of plastic. One is standard no frills. The other is REALLY fragile and came with this whole pamphlet on how to heat them. So I started calling and visiting all these shops and long story short I ended up here. When I walked in not only were they knowledgeable about my frames (they carry the brand) but they didn't even need to be told about the persnickity plastic. They were fully versed in what needed to be done to shape them safely and correctly. They turned the frames around in four days and they were so friendly and helpful. They even called me today to check in with me and my glasses and to make sure that they were correctly done. Yes it was $180 just to have glass put into my glasses (I got all the coatings and what not) but I will tell you what - it was worth it to me. These were $400 glasses and not everyone knows how to handle that kind of frame. (And yes, I did go to Cost-co and they were like "Oh no way - we aren't going to touch those." and the gentleman there was nice enough to start me on my quest to look for a good shop.") Anyhoo... I love this place and will TOTALLY recommend them to anyone. read more

Focal Point has changed my life in such a beautiful way! First, they filled my VERY difficult prescription and then further customized my lenses to meet my unique vision needs. Second, the frames are beautiful -- truly special! Everyone who sees me says how much they love my glasses. Truly grateful! read more

Best selection of frames I've seen in the Bay Area. I've been a customer for many years. Very friendly and helpful staff. They also have frame sales about twice a year. read more