I read the reviews from the COVID years and am very surprised to hear such things about Dr. Szeto. I had a fairly brief encounter with her, but her staff found a spot for me on an emergency basis, for which I was super grateful. She performed a thorough exam, to rule out pink eye and charged me very little money because I was in between insurances. I will come back because they seem to have a good, reasonably priced selection of glasses and I hope they make them right. I'll report back if I have any issues, but so far--a stellar experience and cant wait to visit them again! read more

Dr. Szeto and her staff are nothing short of spectacular. In a broken health care system like ours, Dr. Szeto stands out even more with her personalized, warm, whole-health-picture approach. I've been a patient for over 10 years and will seriously travel from anywhere for my yearly exam, knowing I am in such great hands. Bill is the only person who can pick the perfect frame for you in 5 minutes or 60 - whatever you've got on your hands. Simply the best. read more

My coworker recommended this place and they take VSP which is a positive. However, my glasses were giving me trouble very soon after I visited but due to Covid, they were unable to help with anything. I just left my regular optometrist's office and she let me know that the glasses they made are incorrect and using the wrong prescription which is probably what made my glasses so uncomfortable. Quite unfortunately. I don't even expect them to fix anything but wanted to warn anyone who is thinking about visiting this practice. read more

Had a very disappointing experience recently here. My last prescription for contact lenses from this optometrist was only valid for 12 months, despite my vision changing very little over the last few years. I moved from San Francisco to Portland and when the delay to optometrists here opening became so great (due to corona lockdowns), I asked this practice to extend the validity as I was running out of lenses and would have to buy them online. Instead of understanding the awkward situation this unusually short prescription put me in, I was lectured by "Elizabeth" that my eyes should have been dilated last time (a practice that optometrists in Australia and the UK rarely insist upon, and only where the eye health shows causes for concern) and then provided a new prescription that was valid FOR ONLY 6 DAYS afterwards. So key words to describe the behaviour I experienced to my predicament, which this surgery caused by writing an unnecessarily short contact lens prescription: petty, extortionate (forcing clients to pay for unnecessary practices that cause temporary disturbance to their sight) and rude. If I was Veda, I'd be speaking with "Elizabeth" to coach her on ways to better interact with clients. read more

I went in 3 days after this office opened after COVID shutdown. Dr. Szeto was very kind and friendly. I went in to renew my prescription for contact lenses. She let me know that contact lenses prescriptions are based off of glasses prescriptions and explained how my contact lenses power is calculated based on the little astigmatism I had. Very clear and easy to understand. She gave me 5 pairs or new lenses to try out before ordering more. read more

This place is fantastic. Great selection of glasses-I don't know why, but they have so many styles that work for me where at other places I'm hard pressed to find any. Staff is fantastic across the boards. I brought in a prescription from another doctor and it didn't really work out too well. Dr. Chen is friendly, warm and efficient. The exam was quick, thorough and she got me a much more accurate, well-tuned prescription. The staff were fantastic helping me sort it all out. Frankie is really knowledgeable and helpful. I won't be going anywhere else for my glasses or exams any time soon. Great place. read more

If you're considering making an appointment with Dr. Veda Szeto's office, I would strongly advise against it. A month ago, I spoke with their receptionist to set up an appointment and emailed them a copy of my insurance card per their request. After waiting a month for my appointment and going through the eye exam process, they told me that didn't accept my insurance, and tried to have me pay for the full cost of the exam out of pocket. They refused to give me my prescription, despite acknowledging their error and despite the fact that the exam was already completed. They also refused to hold the data they compiled from my exam, and told me that they would destroy the data immediately if I did not pay out of pocket at that time. When it became clear that I wasn't going to pay out of pocket, they tried to offer me a discount. I spent over an hour in their office, underwent the entire eye exam, and left with nothing. All they had to do was have the optometrist fill out the prescription to rectify a mistake that they made, and yet they refused. On one hand, this can simply be an instance of bad customer service and an example of a practitioner that does not take responsibility for its own errors. On the other hand, this can very well be an intentional pattern of deceptive practice. If you're looking for an optometrist you can trust, look elsewhere. read more

Service is impeccable. Dr Chen is super helpful and friendly. Bill is a rockstar. I have been going here for three years and never have an issue. The product selection is one of the best. Oliver People, Ray-bans, Gucci, Kate Spade... When I went for an appointment, the doctor is always prompt. No wait at all. She makes the whole process very enjoyable. Location is also perfect. Right in front of the Embarcadero Bart Station, next to Citibank. Oh, and they take VSP. read more

A wonderful eye doctor and Bill and Tony that work there are really great. The eyewear might be on the pricey side but you will get fitted with a pair that you'll love to wear (with the help of Bill or Tony) and you won't regret it. I didn't know glasses could be so stylish! read more

For most of my life, I have had 20/20 vision or better.....and then I began working in front of a computer, staring at tiny little values, in tiny little cells, in great big spreadsheets. Why is everything so tiny? Because I don't like to scroll....but that's not the point..... I started coming to Dr. Veda about 4 years ago and I'd even go as far as crediting her and her team for why I actually LIKE having to wear glasses. :) LOVE THEM. Always professional, friendly, personable, and just great all around! Latest reason why I love them? I brought in a pair of sunglasses last week to have the lenses switched out and I got a call two days later. I saw the number pop up and was expecting to be told I couldn't convert these into prescription lenses, but instead, they were calling me to pick up my FINISHED sunglasses. Great surprise to an otherwise not so great week. I stopped by this morning (super convenient - steps away from the bart exit) on my way to work and I now have my spiffy new sunglasses.....and I can SEE! :) read more

I could not be more grateful for the doctors here. I experienced my first ocular migraine this week, but I had no idea what was happening when I suddenly lost vision in my left eye and flew into a panic. I work in the same building as this practice and many of my colleagues highly recommend them, so I went right downstairs and explained what was happening. I probably seemed like a total crazy person, just storming in and telling the first person I saw that I was seeing afterimages and probably going blind. They saw me immediately, and the fee for emergency assistance was extremely reasonable. I was examined by Dr. Jennifer Kuo, who was warm, knowledgeable, and extremely thorough and calming. I felt so well cared for and appreciated that they took my concerns seriously and were quick to rule out any more serious issues with my vision, like a retinal tear. I've had glasses since I was 2 years old, so I have a lot of experience with different optometrists. Dr. Kuo is easily one of the best I've seen and I plan to go back for my regular eye check-ups from here on in! read more

I was really impressed with the ladies here at Veda Szeto. They both were quite busy so they kept having to leave and take over where the other left off. (There was some sort of eye emergency with another patient that they were discussing with another doctor.) They also offer a great selection of stylish frames from all kinds of designers. They even have my personal favorite, Oliver Peoples. read more

I've been going to Dr. Szeto since 2004. Without a doubt, she is the best Optometrist I've been to, and I've been wearing glasses for almost 20 years! She's simply THE BEST, she has a very warm sincere presence, she knows her stuff, and welcomes any questions or concerns with a smile. I've seen Dr. Chen as well, and she is equally as great. Bill is awesome. I haven't dealt much with Tony, however he is always pleasant, and helpful. Bill is superb at finding glasses that are flattering, and fit your "style". I love that. Their selection of frames are unique, varied, and fashion forward. I always look forward to my appointments, finding that new funky pair of glasses, and interacting with Veda and Bill. I can't wait until my new glasses come in! YAY! read more

Love Dr. Szeto and her staff. They have been my go-to place for the last 5 years for eye exams, frames and even an occasional emergency (eyelash in the eye that wouldn't flush out on my own - ouch). Dr. Szeto is warm and friendly as well as a great eye doctor. Staff is efficient and courteous. Highly recommend! read more

I've been wearing glasses for most of my life, and in that time I've seen my share of optometrists. From the optometry department at Macys (remember that?!), to various Lens Crafters, to several private practices around the city, to the optometry school of UC Berkeley, I've seen them all. Finally, after almost two years of procrastination, I made an appointment to get my eyes checked - this time with Dr. Szeto. Let me tell ya, right from the start I liked her a lot. She's very friendly and patient, and I had a delightful first visit with her. How many eye exams can you describe as "delightful?" She was very informative and welcomed all my questions. It didn't seem like an exam at all. Dr. Szeto wasn't pushy and didn't rush to get the exam done with. She had some great suggestions for my replacement contacts as well. This first visit was very comfortable for me and I think I've finally found my optometrist! read more

Not only was my eye exam with Dr. Chen extremely pleasant and efficient, but she recommended I have my cholesterol checked based on the appearance of my eyes. It turned out my "bad" cholesterol was quite elevated. Fortunately, I caught it early enough to manage with a natural approach. I'm so grateful. Love the designer frame selection - not LensCrafters "designer" (Prada, Gucci, Burberry), but actual high-end frames including Oliver Peoples, 2.5, Paul Smith. I haven't been now for quite some time as my insurance changed, but seriously contemplating paying on a cash basis just for the assurance of a quality and thorough eye exam. read more

This in no way is any slam toward Dr. Szeto as she is completely sweet and kind but I had spoken with someone by the name of Elizabeth whom somehow canceled my original appointment without making me aware that she was going to cancel the appointment or asking what the appointment was for she instead advised that I wasn't due for an exam which wasn't the reason for my appointment which has cause me an really bad inconvenience. I do not complain nor am I a person to write reviews but this really got to me and I apologize to Dr. Szeto but I really felt the need to warn anyone else because this can really be bad for some people. Myself being one. Again this is not in anyway a poor review of the Dr. but I felt really disheartened as a customer. read more

Dr. Szeto's really great. I met her back in 1999 when she worked with Dr. Tandrow on Montgomery but she opened her own practice on Market Street last year. She's friendly, funny, chatty, has very precise skills when it comes to your prescription, and has **excellent** taste in eye wear. She's picked out all of my frames since. Prices can be high but the quality and service are excellent, and I always get compliments on my specs! Update: Saw Julie Chen, the other optometrist in the office since Dr. Szeto's on maternity leave. She's very nice, funny, really knows her eye wear stuff, accurate skills and very friendly. I recommend either woman for your eye wear needs. Update #2: Dr. Szeto rules! And so does Bill, the optician. I got a snazzy new pair, a little more daring than my usual ones. And because of some increased funds (thanks mom), I bought a 2nd pair, with a discount. I'll be styling for the next few years. read more

Dr. Szeto and Dr. Chen are the BEST! They both are super friendly, patient and they really make your visit enjoyable! Bill and Tony are fabulous as well, they have the best customer service and they remember you by name!!! And they are very helpful in helping you decide what type of eye wear looks best on you. read more

Dr. Szeto is a thorough, patient, and insightful optometrist. My insurance coverage changed and I had to see a different optometrist for the first time ever. She answered all of the questions I had and was full of many helpful suggestions about eye care and eye health. I would definitely recommend her to anyone looking for a friendly competent optometrist in downtown San Francisco. read more

Dr. Chen did my eye exam. She was very nice and thorough. Bill helped me with lenses and he was very informative and helpful. read more

It was my first time there on the 17th and I must say they are excellent! Everyone in the office is very friendly and kind. My doctor was amazing. She did a thorough examination and I was very pleased. I would definitely do there again and recommend this place! Plus they have pretty nice frames to choose from :) -Melissa Moore read more

Dr. Szeto is personable, very knowledgeable, and cares very much about her patients. She has been my eye doctor for 20 years.

I love Dr. Szeto! She is so nice and down to earth and also so helpful!! I have an eye doctor that I see down in the Peninsula, but I always visit here for the frames - I love their fantastic selection and have gotten multiple compliments on the ones that I've purchased there. Bill is magical when it comes to fitting the glasses. Pricey, but great selection of frames and the service is totally worth it. read more

Dropped in for a glasses adjustment for a pair of frames I ordered online. I can understand that they'd rather the frames be purchased through them but I was still a little put-off by an icy attitude and $15 charge (most optometrists do it for free). Adjustment was nicely done though! read more

Dr Szeto was awesome, really wonderful. However, Bill at the front desk was a nightmare. After he ordered my contact lenses for me, I found I received fewer than he'd quoted me for what I paid. When I brought this up, he was immediately very rude, and lied about what we'd agreed on. It's really a shame, Dr Szeto was great, and I hate leaving a bad review for her, but this review is a reflection of the business, not her personally, and as long as Bill is working at this business, I can't recommend it. read more

I actually found this awesome office via lots of research on Yelp and figured it's my Yelp duty to pay it forward. This is actually the one doctor office I want to visit and don't dread and often end up there more times than I really need. Everyone that works there is a pleasure to deal with and it's conveniently located on market street for all you fidi workers. I've been seeing Dr. Chen now for a few years and I love it. She's very thorough and attentive and doesn't try to rush you out the door like some doctors who try to squeeze in as many clients as they can in a short amount of time. I always find myself there chatting with Dr. Chen about anything and everything. What's also great is that if Dr. Chen is busy, Dr. Szeto often steps in with the same amount of care. Any time someone ask me for an optometrist recommendation, I ALWAYS refer them to this office. read more

HEART this place. It's convenient to work, the staff here is incredible. Dr. Chen is great and quick! Also, the staff is really good on helping you pick out a pair on lenses that look good on you, I trusted the boys (Tony & Bill) and went with a Gucci frame they recommended, I get so many compliments on my glasses, thanks guys! I trust my eyes to them from now on. read more

I go here for all my eye care needs. Dr Szeto is super friendly and knowledgeable. I once had an emergency where my contact ripped and I couldn't get it out. Her assistant told me to come right in and he was able to find it and get it out. And the emergency visit was free of charge and took 5 minutes. I've always had good experiences here and suggest her to my friends. read more

It took me having to go to a Kaiser optometrist to realize what I had in Dr Szeto and her staff. I used to live in SF, CA! Veda and team are very conscientious, provide excellent customer service and follow through. She takes time to provide a through examination, detailed explanation of what's going on with your vision, what treatment you may need and the options to choose. Until I change my insurance, I'm stuck with Kaiser. I highly recommend that if you have the benefit of choice and live in SF, choose this eye doctor!!! read more

Never had glasses before and the staff is quite helpful. They have a great selection and the guys will really help you find frames that fit your face. They'll take care of you. read more

I recently picked out a pair of sunglasses here and am seriously considering switching optometrists! The staff here are friendly and efficient, and they have a great selection of frames. Apparently they've been on Market street for close to or more than 20 years! I'll probably be back next year for new glasses when I have an allowance, and possibly for an eye exam. They accept VSP and my sunglasses were ready in 2 weeks. read more

I had my eyes examined by Dr. Julie Chen and my contact lens fitting with Dr. Szeto. Both doctors are very thorough, really know their stuff, and they and their office staff really look out for you. Both doctors have casual working styles, yet remain professional. My eye exam with Dr. Julie Chen was one of the most thorough I've ever had. My contact lens fitting took a few visits 'cause the contacts I've been wearing weren't fitting my eyes correctly (I never knew this, after 10 years of wearing contacts). Dr. Szeto took her time, I tried on several pairs, and finally found the correct one. They really look out for you in terms of examining your insurance coverage to see how much is covered, what you would pay for, never offering more than you need unless asked for, etc. Their office staff is really great too. Their optometrist, Bill, offered to re-fit my glasses for me after I had stepped on them accidentally. He only took 5-10 minutes to bend them and it fit perfectly. This is no easy task - I have a flat face with a small nose bridge, and several optometrists have taken over 30 minutes to do the same thing. Overall, I would highly recommend Dr. Julie Chen, Dr. Szeto, and their office staff to anyone. read more

God forbid you're sick or have a family emergency -- they'll charge you $50 if you miss your appt

Friendly and professional place for your complete eye care! I was highly impressed with there service and operation!

I saw Dr Julie Chan 2 weeks ago. * great location (right on market) * experienced and very professional doctors * quick & effective appointment * comprehensive exam * put new lenses into my glasses very quickly (took about 4 days) * great selection of glasses even though i decided not to get new frames this year read more

Warm, professional, and caring doctors -- what more could you ask for?

In defense of Bill (see below): I've been using these guys for several years now. I used to live in the East Bay and bicycle commuted. This necessitated trying several pairs of glasses that offered wind protection and didn't fog. Bill let me try out several before settling on a pair that worked. He was patient and priced competitively. I've since moved to LA, but continue relying on Bill for competitive and friendly service. Highly recommended. read more

I just went to Dr. Szeto for the first time and she is great! The office is super convenient (Financial District) and Dr. Szeto is really really nice. read more

Just returned from picking up my glasses at Dr. Szeto's shop -- to say I'm thrilled with every aspect of the process, from the initial eye exam to the selection of regular and sun glasses, to the general courtesy, kindness and professionalism of this group is to understate my opinion. Every single person in the shop is tops at their respective responsibilities and I've come to trust Bill, Frankie and Dr. Veda implicitly for their advice. Glasses are not throw-away, frivolous items for most of us, and it's imperative to choose them with care, so the input provided by this staff means so much and lessens the pressure involved. I know when I leave their shop I have glasses that are the correct prescription, fit me properly, and are attractive on me. The fact that all are characters and make me smile when I open their door is a happy bonus! read more