I bought two pairs of frames here, glasses and sunglasses. The glasses frames are apparently fairly unique - they only ordered one of this particular model; they're gorgeous and I almost had to fight my girlfriend for them. I feel like I got a pretty good deal, with two pairs of nice frames under $500 total. What I really didn't appreciate was the hard sell on the lenses. I felt like I was being fast-talked with not much time to comprehend before being rushed on from point to point about the lenses. I had to step outside with my friend to get some straight talk about prices and options, and she also felt I was getting the hard sell. Their lenses might be the best in the world but they're not cheap and the pressure to buy them was having the opposite of the desired effect. After I decided to buy just the frames, the pressure on me relented, but not for my friends. The sales guy even followed us out the door, practically pulling on my friend's sleeve, "Are you sure you don't want those other frames? Are you sure? Sure??" I would buy frames here again but I'll be doing my lenses elsewhere. read more

Love the glasses. They have such an interesting selection of frames - very different from other frame stores. They have an extensive collection of "vintage style" frames but they also have more traditional and modern collections. Plus the sheer volume of their inventory is staggering. The two owners spent a lot of time with me and my boyfriend, helping me pick the right style and size for my shape of face. In addition, they gave me a discount when I realized that I couldn't get any money from my insurance. 5 stars for these guys! read more

I've heard good things about this place, especially for unique glasses frames. And since I was in the market for a new pair anyways, I decided to go check them out. Todd Manning (the manager) was extremely helpful and very sincere when it came to helping me pick out a pair of glasses. I, myself, am horrible with glasses and through-out my glasses wearing history, have always never known how to pair what with my face and eye shape. However, Todd's extensive knowledge of what looks good prove to be extremely beneficial. One should always have a second opinion when choosing glasses. Especially, if you are going to plop a large wad of $$$ on them, you better make sure you are happy with what you choose. I made that mistake several times before and am determined not to again. And Todd knew what he was talking about, picking out frames depending on my feedback as well as his own opinion. He also went to the back of the store to get some more trays to browse through. Afterwards, he sat me down and discussed frame/lens pricing/options. Very thorough! I still need to get a second opinion on the frames I chose, but overall, I'm very pleased with my experience there. They have a large variety of both vintage and contemporary frames, as well as frames that the owner has designed himself so it's definitely unique. And yes, the German shepard is a sweetheart. But the parrot wasn't there when I went. Which is fine since I like dogs more than birds. EDIT: I went back to check on the glasses I put on hold and met the owner, Ray Ascher. He's a pretty amazing guy. Equally if not more knowledgable than Todd, (since it's HIS family that's been in the frame business since the 1930's) he was very helpful and kind with finding the perfect frame for my face. He wasn't pushy and only gave his opinion/expertise after we asked him for help. After I chose what I wanted, we spend some time just chatting about the history of eyeglass frames and the history of his business. He, himself, designs a lot of these frames you see in the store and the ones that larger companies (like La Font, Cartier etc) don't end up buying, he sells in his store. So what you find in the store is very unique, which is good and bad. Good because what you're getting is pretty much one-of-a-kind, but bad because once that style's gone, it's gone for good, His collection of vintage frames from 1930s, 40s, 50s and beyond are amazing. Never used, these are truly authentic eyeglass frames. In fact, he told me that several of movie production companies have approached him to outfit their movie characters with frames. (Malcom X was one that he named.) With his collection and extensive knowledge, a trip to this store is a like a trip to the museum of eyeglass history. Pretty incredible. read more

I walked by once when I couldn't really go inside.... But looking through the window, I KNEW I had to go back. Awesome frames! Little did I know that these guys have been here over 50 years! Oakland, whasup?! As soon as I walked in, the guy behind the counter greeted me and said "try anything on!" I giggled and said I'd wait until he was free. He shouted across the store and said NO! Do it! Hhmmmm all these wonderful frames that I can touch and try.....? Ok wow! 20 minutes later I'm still busy touching and trying and he comes by and says they make all the glasses there and are truly vintage, and yet new. Love this! He gives me space to keep looking.... And I finally bring 3 frames to him to inquire. He says, you really should try them on outside to see them in natural light. But let me get a few more of these for you to see.... Off he goes and brings out a box of other natural horn frames. Cool! Ray was very helpful, very attentive, very patient. Obviously he knew I've worn glasses longer than the age of most of the customers in the store. Maybe that why I was treated with respect? Who knows. I read some reviews here- my buying and fitting experiences were both excellent. Todd fitted my two pairs a week after I ordered them. He also took my order for mid-range glasses and was very thorough explaining the field of vision and what to expect. Patiently. I'm giving Phoenix 5 stars because my experience so far has been excellent. The quality of frames and lenses are awesome. The service was also excellent. I prefer local community stores any day over the chain stores. I recommend Ray and Todd and this great boutique to anyone looking for a unique and quality pair of glasses. read more

Ray and his family have been taking care of me for years, and I'm consistently complimented on the frames I've bought from them. I love that many of their frames are one or two of a kind and that Ray knows a billion details about each style. If you feel you've almost found the right style, Ray will pull a dozen similar frames from his various magic boxes of stock. Though it seems like there are more frames on display than you've ever seen before, the place actually has stock of tens of thousands of glasses. Tip: If, like me, you're just a total glasses nerd, be sure to ask to see the hand-made sterling silver frames. You won't be able to afford them, but you'll appreciate the craftsmanship. read more

I've never worn eyeglasses before so when I found out I needed glasses I knew that I needed to go to a boutique with a lot of options and great advice. What I thought would take hours to decide, took a mere 15-20 minutes with the great service and expertise from the owner, Ray. He brought out tray after tray and handed me glasses that would fit my petite face, luckily helping me narrow down the tens of thousands of frames they have. I decided on a frame and then he brought out their new collection of bone frames to tease me for when I need my next pair. What fun! I was also pleased to buy from him as this is an inherited family business dating back to the 30's. Phoenix designs and manufacturers their glasses and they have a huge selection of modern and vintage styles. Overall, I had a great experience and Ray made a new eyeglass wearer look forward to wearing my new digs. I would definitley recommend Phoenix and will go back when I need my second pair. read more

Really excellent customer service. I recently broke my glasses and went in with the broken frames and the new ones (not purchased at the store) and they put my old lenses in the new frames for me. Their frame selection looks great, I can't wait to buy my new pair of frames or some sunglasses from them! read more

I have been going to Phoenix Optical since I was diagnosed with nearsightedness when I was 10. They have always provided me with exceptionally high quality frames and impeccable lenses. They were patient with me as a child, helping to mitigate my funky sense of individual style with what my parents were willing to pay for at the time, though in all honesty I was more interested in plopping down on the ground to play with the awesome German shepherd dog than I was in trying on endless numbers of frames. I'm pleased to say little has changed, except my prescription and the location of Phoenix. I love their "new" look and location, and their German shepherd (2.0) is just as engaging and charming as the original beloved version. I got a new set of lenses ordered on Friday, and I picked them up today. The craftsmanship and quality is undeniable, and I'm thrilled that the frames I picked out years ago still fit my face, and fashion. You get what you pay for from Phoenix Optical, immense quality, fantastic personal service, and a unique selection of frames not found elsewhere. To those who take issue with the price or "atmosphere", you wouldn't go into Fleur De Lys and ask Hubert Keller for a Peanut Butter and Jelly sandwich, would you? Do your homework, this isn't Lenscrafters, it's a boutique owned by a man whose passion and profession are finding unique and beautiful frames to suit unique people. You want one in a million? Come here. Want factory recreations? Go elsewhere. read more

Just got my lenses replaced in my favorite sunglasses, and I love em (again). They also take extra care to make sure the frames fit properly, and will adjust them if needed. My old favorites just may be better than new! read more

I totally dig this place! They have a LOT to choose from. While I settled on a pair worn by Mr. Depp, it was nice to browse frames from the 1920's, which I'm certain to go back and purchase. They were ready in 2 days, just before my flight to Maui! I'm a fan. read more

I love Todd, Ray and that big dog too. Todd teaches, he's the casual guru of optical sciences. Huge array including pristine yet pricey vintage frames. They also have extra stashed trays of hundreds of frames, enormous and interesting selection. For my first pair of glasses ever, I went with a prototype of a new brand. Made half from wood and half from textured resin. I look kind of cool in them. I still hate wearing glasses, but working with these guys was great. read more

Great selection! Went there first time to look for a frame that would fit on my lenses which out dated, they had every selection of choices. And Tina who was there was very positive,helpful,kind and uplifting. Wonderful store! read more

Phoenix is by far the best place to get frames in the entire Bay Area. From the owner Ray to every one of his expert staff, Lisa, Todd, the list goes on and on, you can't find a better experience for your eyewear needs. I've been coming here for years and can say from the excellent experience I've had over many many visits that these people know what they are doing and are all a pleasure to work with. I always walk out with a big smile on my face and especially feel like I'm really being taken care of. Ray has an incredibly lovely talent for designing some gorgeous frames as well. Ask to check out both the enormous vintage inventory but don't forget to see the real deal: look out for the area with hand crafted Phoenix frames. They're all a pretty sight to see :) Thanks Lisa, Todd, Ray, and everyone else for your fantastic service and attention to detail over the years- can't wait to check out the next round of Phoenix frames! read more

Excellent selection of high-quality frames featuring unique in-house designs. The staff is skilled at suggesting frames to fit the customer's face and individual style. They want you to be happy. I recently got some genuine horn-rimmed glasses and didn't like the pattern after a few days. The owner, Ray, let me exchange frames for free (put my new lenses into the same style frame with a different pattern). I'm a very happy customer. read more

This is what an eyeglass showroom store should be. Helpful, attentive and patient. Talk about vast selection and variety. This place has it all. Especially the wooden frame models. AMAZING. These were the best feeling ever frames that I put on, EVAR! Although I did not purchase a pair of frames I will definitely be back to try on more and hopefully make a purchase. read more

I was looking for some new glasses and found this place just by chance, and they have some of the best service I've ever received. I want to emphasize the word service because the customer service was one of the main reasons I decided to go ahead and buy the glasses that I found. My consultant was Felice, and she was great. At first, I didn't think she would be able to help me that much because she was working with another customer when I got there. But she seamlessly worked with the other customer and, just by asking me a few questions and looking at my style, picked out some dope glasses for me. Not only that, Felice met my needs by perfectly fitting my glasses to the shape of my head after a few days of trying them out. I told her that my biggest fear with getting new glasses was having them always slip down my nose. Well, they're not slipping and I really feel like I finally found the perfect glasses. Felice must have magic pixie dust in her hands or something because she knew exactly what to do. Also, I just like the vibe in the store. It has a cool, kinda retro Southwestern feel that really makes you feel like you've found an oasis in a sea of eyeglass store deserts. read more

Honestly, one of the top places for eyeglasses in the bay area. It's worth driving to if you're not a local. A lot of their frames are designed in-house, and you're going to find frames that you simply can't get anywhere else. I especially love their large selection of horn frames in every shape, size and color. Those things are all unique, and if you want a pair or frames that literally no one else will have, that's the way to go. They also have some really insane frames sprinkled throughout the collection. It's a blast to try those things on while making silly faces in the mirror. Their customer service is absolutely outstanding. I recently had a set of several hundred dollar frames break after 3 years. I asked them to look into fixing it. They couldn't. So they just replaced them... for free. I'm still shocked that they did this. Moreover, I also recently bought a new pair of glasses, and they felt that my lens material choices could fit in my frames, but not -quite- perfectly enough. So while they were creating my lenses, they upgraded the materials and coatings for free. All because they were sticklers for craftsmanship. read more

If you are serious about getting something unique and dropping a decent wad ($300 without insurance and with their discounted price) this place is for you . My sense is if you are committed to buying there and have less to spend, they would try and make your budget, obviously with their less pricey frames. I would suggest being up front and a fan. I didn't check yelp before coming, I was recommended to them for having unique frames. Ray served me and he has good opinions/taste and helped me find a couple of very good options. Which, I will say is not the easiest task. I definitely agree that if you are expecting royal treatment and look like you are only going for the $99.00 special, you are likely to be disappointed. I am a spender on glasses, but don't dress the part. I did not feel I got much attention, especially b/c he was helping someone else (not even, I will be with you) until it was clear I was in the market. However, I am used to that in retail. Everyone trips over themselves to get to my husband. I'll write back with responses about my glasses. read more

Really good experience, and they even fixed my frames no charge and no fault of their own. 5 stars

If you are looking for the BEST go here. The owner designs and manufactures his own lens. Some of the lens are made of unique materials like bones which add a distictive look. The ulimate product is pure quailty. Something that's hard to find in products these days. read more

My bf bought a groupon for for these crazy expensive glasses at Phoenix. I thought he was crazy but when he picked up the glasses they actually had a slimming effect on his face. The sales man had explained he had been wearing frames that were too small for his head. The next time I needed new glasses I decided to give them a try as well. What delightful experience! I must have easy tried on over 100 frames. I got amazing no pressure service and a really in depth explanation of why, I too, was wearing the "wrong" frames for my face shape. If you value excellent customer service and don't mind paying for quality I highly recommend Phoenix. read more

This shop really knows their stuff! I got a pair of custom (non-prescription) sunglasses here in 2013, and returned yesterday for my partner to get some new frames and corrective lenses ordered. They are patient and encouraging as you try on zillions of really cool frames. Just when you think you're done, they tell you they actually have EVEN MOAR FRAMEZ!! than what they have on display. They were able to make a new set of lenses for a pair of Cole Haan sunglasses I bought several yrs back at Nordstrom Rack and instantly scratched, even inviting us into the back workshop room to watch the magic of the new lenses being cut and prepared. Amazing!! My glasses were like a PHOENIX rising from the ashes of my carelessness. Two eyes open for these folks! read more

I've bought a few frames at Phoenix Optical over the years - and, during that time, I've been helped by every staff member at least a few times each. Each time, I've received great high-quality frames and fantastic levels of service. My last trip in was with a broken frame - I won't go into the specifics, but it was due to a friend's carelessness. I explained the story, and I was fully expecting to fork over the cost of a new pair, when the gentleman who helped me - who, during the visit, shared a similar story from his past that had consequences for him that outweighed a simple broken pair of glasses - ended up offering the replacement pair for free. I couldn't accept that offering - it was too kind... so I volunteered a financial compromise, and he accepted. That's simply great service. Above and beyond the call of duty, and despite the frames at Phoenix Optical costing a bit more than they would at a more mainstream shop - they've earned my continued and ongoing business. read more

Not only does this store have the most stunning assortment of frames, but a staff that goes far beyond to help. I mention Tina, who immediately is able to select glasses for me that fit my face and coloring --glasses I would have not noticed yet end up being perfect. She also noticed that my other glasses were broken and just happened to have the identical missing parts! Amazing service, a wonderful store. read more

People stop me all the time to compliment my glasses and ask where I got them. And I am delighted to say Phoenix Optical, local business extraordinaire. My last two glasses frames were purchased here and I will certainly be back again. They are close to public transit, they have an enormous stock, they know what the hell they're talking about, and they have a well-behaved store dog: superb on all accounts. True, they're expensive, but (as far as I know) this business is unique in the Bay Area, and you get a lot of quality, style, and customer service for the money. read more

I took my husband's glasses in for repair and Tina Satara was exceptionally helpful and competent. It turned out to be a somewhat tricky repair and she advised me ahead of time that repair might cause more damage. Her handiwork, however, avoided any problems. She charged a very reasonable amount for the work. Tina was very pleasant and took appropriate precautions related to covid. Although I went in for a repair, I noticed the unique selection of beautiful frames for sale and may go back at a later time for purchase. read more

For a few years, I have always taken my personal glasses to Phoenix for frame adjustments and or custom lenses. In those times, I felt I was always treated respectfully without any sense of "weirdness" for not spending hundreds and hundreds of dollars on their custom or used-Ebay-found, 400.00 dollar frames. As a person who seeks the internet for high-quality, custom or hand-made frames (Oliver Goldsmith, Valley, Dita, etc.) I have my personal tastes in selections so I tend to not make exclusive purchases for frames at Phoenix. While in the past, I always felt service was fine, recently, I have come to the conclusion that it is in my best interest to NEVER return to Phoenix for services, again. On two separate occasions, I took brand new (1-2 days old) hand-made sunglasses to Phoenix with the intentions of simply having the lenses removed (the original lenses are premium Carl Zeiss Cat. 3 lenses), and replaced with custom versions to my liking. (The producer of the sunglasses does not offer replacement lenses). So, on my first occasion in Spring of 2016, I took a pair of brand new glasses to have the lenses removed and replaced. After deciding on the replacement lenses, I was told I could wait a few hours and they'd be ready for pick-up. Upon returning a few hours later, the replacement lenses were installed but I was told the original lenses were "broken" upon removing. I was very disappointed to say the least. No details were given to me as to how this occurred or that I'd be offered some form of a discount for such an occurrence. Having a simple history with the store, I chose to let it go despite my absolute frustration. I paid my service fees and left, but disappointed and confused about the high-quality original lenses were broken and missing. Just recently, the same exact issue took place yet again! This time, with a pair of limited edition glasses by the same producer as the first set. I had just received them the day prior and immediately took them to Phoenix. This time, I explained in detail, that they were very limited and were a birthday gift. I simply wanted to have the lenses removed as I was not a fan of the mirrored exterior style. Once I selected replacement lenses, a work-order was produced and I was told I'd have to wait 1 week. I agreed. Todd then took my sunglasses and began to remove the original lenses in preparation for the replacements. A few minutes later, I requested and reminded him that, "This time, please do not damage my lenses. They are rare and custom and I'd like them returned". Casually, he said, "Oh, they already broke". Naturally, I was again, beyond myself and upset. I honestly, didn't know what to even say or think. How and why are the lenses from a very high quality frame just "breaking" while being removed? Todd is very experienced and I know he knows what he's doing. He "threw them away" he said. He could see how frustrated I was and immediately offered to not charge me for the replacements (50.00). While I appreciate the gesture, this is simply a pacifying method to either his potential ineptness at cautiously handing items, or, that he or the store are keeping the lenses and reselling them or using them for his personal frames. I don't know. But to be told "Sometimes this happens" isn't an excuse for such a high-end, high expectation store. To have no common-courtesy to pre-explain to me, that there might be potential damage to the lenses while being removed, is outrageous. Not to mention, such an excuse undermines the quality of the frames and lenses and the capabilities of such a high-end optical store's craftsmanship. I truly and wholeheartedly do not believe the lenses were damaged. Why? Todd couldn't produce them when I asked for them. He pretended to look through a waste-basket for them but "couldn't find them". Having this same issue take place once before back in the Spring, I immediately felt I was being lied to and feel that what is really taking place is that they recognize quality lenses / frames (this is their business) and simply and casually recycle lenses and resell / re-purpose them into their used high-priced frames, all for the sake of profit. Either that, or, Todd might need glasses himself when working on other people's items and a little more mannerisms and respect for other people's hard-earned items. All in all, I wasn't charged for my replacement lenses this time around, I left my frames there so that the custom replacements could be installed. One week later, I called on the pick-up day only to be told they wouldn't be ready for another week. So, I just went over to the store, requested that Todd offer me another option for lenses and had them installed while I waited. So, I now have two pairs of sunglasses without their original lenses and the lenses (broken or not) were never returned to me as proof that they truly were damaged. Something doesn't add up anymore with this place. read more

I have been searching all over the bay area for the right kind of frames and I was looking forward to my trip to Phoenix Optical. They have a great reputation and their selection of unique frames certainly lives up to that. However, if they want to keep customers coming in they should get rid of the guy who helped me the other day. (older gray haired dude, with a flavor saver goatee under his lip). It started out well and he was more than willing to show me many nice frames, But, when my girlfriend and I started asking questions about the materials and quality he seemed offended that we would even question his products. I get that he wanted to take pride in what he was selling, but he ended up being weird and evasive with his answers and just came across like a sleazy used car salesman. The sleaze factor was confirmed when his answer to one of my girlfriends inquires was, "Hey, don't worry Baby" BABY? WTF?!! It seemed like the whole time he was just trying to up sell and avoid really answering any questions. I felt like I was in the market for an '01 Chevy Lumina and not a sweet pair of glasses. Does this sad man work on commission alone? Is his life really that bad that he has to hide behind his ugly goatee and make skeezy comments to my girlfriend? I put my frames on hold before we left there, laughing, by the way. However, because of Mr. Flavor Saver, I won't be going back to pick them up, but, "hey, don't worry, baby!" read more

Ray will make you wait and wait. First for your specs, which were weeks later than expected. Then he went for the up-sell with another customer while I waited for him to just give me the goddamn glasses. Jerk. read more

3rd year in a row getting my glasses made at this spot. The frames are awesome, they make a statement. The service is great, totally knowledgeable and accommodating. It's just a quality experience from beginnning to end. read more

I was excited to check out this place after hearing what a great selection they had. And I was impressed by all the offerings in both new and vintage frames. The service was very friendly but frankly pretty snobby which is one of the reasons I wont be back. As I was browsing the shop he would stop me before I even picked up a frame saying it was not the right shape for my face or the wrong color for me. While I appreciate the insight I think what suits me and makes me feel like I'm putting my best face forward is for me to decide. I felt pushed towards frames that I didn't like, who wants that? Secondly this place is pretty darn expensive with all frames starting at $250+ and lenses etc. They were far more expensive than even the same thing at my reputable optometrist's office. They should really offer a better range of frame prices. I would have been willing to pay for the high prices had the service and attitude of the place been better. I don't need to go back. read more

This place is great! I went in after purchasing a Groupon, and had no idea where to start. Ray spent a ton of time and showed me literally hundreds of frames based on what I wanted. They have a huge selection and range, from simple and classic to funky and eccentric. I am incredibly picky, yet he was so patient and helpful. My glasses were ready only two days later! Yes they are expensive, but if you are willing to splurge, their frames and customer service are excellent quality. read more

Phoenix Optical is my favorite eyeglass place. I love their selection and fabulous service. I've worked with Tina for the three frames I have purchased there. My prescription for progressives is always done perfectly. The frames are unique and there is a shape, size and color for everyone. For the plastic frames that are clear, you can select any color you want and Phoenix Optical will dye the frames. I don't know how it's done, I just know I love it. It's hard for me to stop at three frames. In fact, I probably won't. As with everyone who wears corrective lenses, my eyeglasses are my most important possession. I put them on in the morning and take them off at night. They provide distance, computer and reading vision for me as well as sunglasses with the transitional feature. I like to switch my eyeglasses around so it's nice to have the choice. I am very happy I discovered Phoenix Optical. read more

Ray gave me a call to apologize for my experience last time. He kindly offered to comp me my next set of lenses to make it right. I don't think I'll take him up on it, but it was very nice of him to offer. I guess everyone makes mistakes and it does mean a lot that they're willing to make things right however they can. read more

When I first walked into Phoenix Optical I was not in my best mood. However, after discovering that many of the frames are designed by the owner as well as only circulating the store once, I was heartily cheered. Not only did this store have a delightful frame selection, the employees gave comprehensive advice on how to fit glasses to one's face as well as polite opinions on complementary colors. Once I narrowed down my choices, the frames were put on hold and I slept on the decision. After assessing my funds -and several other optical stores- I decided to splurge on the (awesome but rather spendy) frames and perhaps scrimp during the upcoming semester. As I heard the price and handed over my debit card I must have winced because the owner graciously asked if I would like a student discount. The price was still high but at least I wouldn't have to sell my liver to pay for them. Though I would recommend taking your blood pressure medicine before checking prices, this is definitely the place to find quirky frames and effective customer service. read more

Felice is so knowledgeable about EYES! I would without a doubt recommend Phoenix Optical for your next pair of glasses! Best for design and quality in Oakland! read more

The only reason they don't get five stars is because they don't make my very favorite frame in the light brown with blue highlights color anymore. I am very bummed because my old beloved frame broke. Granted, they finally snapped after two years of down right abuse (I mean love). I asked to have an "Italian conversation" (being the old world girl I am) with the owner about the subject, when the very helpful gentleman told me they could fix my beloved frames and even offered to make a custom new frame just like my beloved old frames. So no kneecaps need be broken today. read more

If you want vintage, Phoenix Optical is the way to go. Tons and tons of cat eye style. Super Retro and legit vintage. It has a sister store in San Fran called Fine Arts Optical (415)-913-7414 if you are out that way. A very friendly gentleman helped me today. Great shop! I hope the company takes good care of their hardworking staff. Conveniently located near UC Berkeley. Food tip: Check out the Crepe place across the street to the left. I think it's called Crepevine. They have great sweet potato fries and Chicken club sandwich. YUM! Made the drive back to Santa Cruz bearable. Next time I'll try a crepe since this trip it would have been too messy in the car. Great staff. Very friendly. read more

I had a great experience here. I read several reviews and was intrigued by the vintage frames I read about. I actually had picked out a different set of frames when Ray pulls out a couple from the "hollywood" show case. I fell in love with both frames but opted for a pair that look like copper and have some nice tooling and some adornments. My boss saw them on me and told me how great they look. When you spend as much as I did you want to get just that kind of feedback. The glasses paid for themselves right then. I also bought another pair of vintage metal frames as sunglasses. All told, I dropped $1,750 at this store, by far the most I have ever spent on glasses. But I'm glad I did. Each is unique, stylish and well made. Plus, I hit it off with Ray and he sent me to his store in SF to look at hats. I bought a vintage summer hat and also got a hand-made messenger bag. Back at the Oakland store, I saw a bag similar to the one I bought but that I liked better. Ray told me to go get my bag out of the car and he would trade it straight up. Now that's what I call service. So, I bought two pairs of glasses, a hat and a nice leather bag that's how much I like the shopping experience. No reservations recommending to other Yelpers. read more

Ray and Todd are true professionals in every sense of the word. After visiting several other shops in both the East Bay and in San Francisco, the obvious choice for me was Phoenix Optical. As soon as I walked into their shop I was greeted with a quick hello and a smile...and then it was down to business. Within minutes Todd helped me to narrow down my selection to the perfect frame that was best suited for my face. Even as I tried on practically every frame in the store, Todd was patient, accommodating, and quick to offer helpful tips that showcased his 26 years of industry experience. With professional customer service like this, combined with an insanely unique selection of vintage (1920's - present ) frames, it's obvious why Ray and Phoenix Optical have been leaders in their field for over 52 years. Thanks Ray and Todd for providing me with the perfect frames, lenses, and lens treatments that now have me seeing in high-definition once more! I will gladly return to Phoenix Optical for all of my optical needs. read more