This was my first eye exam in about 15 years (thanks for the genes, Dad!), so I of course had a million questions about what this machine did and what were we looking at and what does that mean. Dr. Llewelyn and his staff answered them all and were careful to explain everything else along the way. Dr. Llewelyn is quiet in that very competent way, and he offered me lots of options for every issue that came up. The staff were quite nice to me too - explaining the vision benefits I'd never previously used, pointing me to the less-expensive frames without making them seem like the cheap seats, and even offering opinions when I asked. My eyes may be degenerating, but I feel good about being able to call these folks for advice should anything else come up. read more

So I went here without reading any reviews.... I think I'll start reading more reviews. The doctor, though I'm sure highly knowledgeable, was socially awkward and created an uncomfortable exam to say the least. I was called into the room and then asked to go back out because my paperwork had not yet been completed, unprofessional much? The selection of frames here is rather lacking, as is the customer service. After waiting two weeks for my frames to be finished, I decided to call back, little to my surprise, my frames had not even been shipped from Europe yet without so much as a call... This will definitely be my only trip to Capitol Hill Vision. read more

Dr. Brett Llewellyn is a consummate professional. He has been my eye doctor since 1999. He is very thorough, highly skilled, and up to date with the latest technology and techniques. I never feel rushed, and he will always take the time to give an intelligent thoughtful answer to my question. He also plays a mean guitar. His staff has always been courteous and helpful with their large selection of frame choices. Highly recommended. read more

THE WORST!! I've been wearing glasses for over 30 years and given my nomadic lifestyle I've had the opportunity to visit many, many, many, optometrist. This office is hands down the WORST!!!! The called the office before I went in to see if they knew how much my insurance would pay for me to have a routine eye exam. The woman who answered the phone told me I only needed to pay a $30 copay. I got there and went in to see the Doc. He was confused, could not find anything. His instruments drawer was a mess. His hands were shaky and he seemed so nervous that it made me wonder if it was the first time that he was performing an eye exam. I walked out of his office and the woman behind the desk was extremely rude and impatient. She became very defensive when I asked her to please explain to me why I had to pay "2" co-payments ($60) for the same visit and for a single eye exam. She then said that she would bill me and that the bill would explain why. I got a bill for a $260. I called to ask about the exorbitant bill and then she proceeded to tell me that it was because I went out of network and I was not covered. This was after I explicitly shopped around for an optometrist that would be covered under my insurance. I will never, ever return. read more

Ditto what Erin said below: Thom IS the "Glasses Whisperer" and I will never doubt him / go anywhere else again. Eating, shopping, and staying local -- AND doing it while I support good, honest, rad folks -- are all high on my priority list. When I lived back east, I did what one of the other reviewers said, which is take my insurance card to Lens Crafters and with a wont to be more adventurous, wind up leaving with "safe" glasses that looked just like my old glasses year after year after year. Well, after spending some time without insurance and now finding myself blissfully covered, I'm still on the hunt to meet all of the qualifications above with any local establishment I deal with -- and in addition to Sam at The Shop in Ballard and the (true story) card-carrying "Visual Linguist" at the frame shop on the corner of Broadway by the Shell Station on Capitol Hill, I can now add Thom at Cap Hill Vision to the list. Scene one: I go in with my shiny new insurance card for glasses. Thom suggests a pair, I go for the "safer" pair, and while the glasses I did receive were every kind of perfect they could be, I spend the next several months regretting not getting the more "adventurous" pair. Scene two: I go back into CHV this past weekend and put myself in Thom's capable hands (this time with pocket money, since I'm not due for new glasses again until next year -- lenses were the only thing I had coverage available for). I balked, I queried, and then realized that the last time I came in, I hadn't listened to Thom and I'd regretted it. Cut to me slapping down money for a pair of gorgeous, hand-modified, black-and-rhinestone (yep, I said it) cat-eye glasses that I can't wait to get in my hands / on my face. Worth. Every. Penny. Thom + staff = a blissful glasses-shopping experience. And yes, you're going to spend a few bucks, but if you want to look like everyone else and get "safe" glasses -- there's a medium selection here of moderately priced frames -- go to Lenscrafters. read more

Dr. Llewellyn really cares about overall eye health. He continues to update his eye diagnostic technology and stays abreast of advancements in his field. He and the office staff have good attention to detail and make patients feel welcome. read more

They are great! It's the kind of place that you walk in and they direct you to the frames you always wanted. I brought a picture of a guy with these glasses on and they helped me find the perfect frames. My boyfriend wasn't even looking for frames but when they lined him up with a drop dead pair he got those too. They are friendly and helpful and the price is right. The same pair of frames were 4X more at another place 1.5 miles away! This is the place to buy frames. Tom is a master. read more

If you have all the free time in the world, then by all means - go to Cap Hill Vision. If you're like me, and have a packed schedule, I'd avoid. I needed to get in a quick appointment to have a quick contact exam. Speaking with the receptionist on the phone, I was given one date and time.. however I wasn't able to make that slot. She suggested another day and time and that she'd squeeze me in. The time and day were perfect. A few days later I walk in for the appointment say my name and time and the guy working there looks at me like I'm nuts, says I'm not on the calendar. He gives up and goes to help another customer looking at frames. The woman at the computer, also confused, finally finds my appointment - which in her computer was still a week away. I'm incredibly anal about scheduling - and this office made it appear as if I was the one making the error. No apologies were given. So like I said, if you've got a wide open schedule - and are ok with carless scheduling mistakes... this is your place! I however, will be taking my business elsewhere. read more

Like jem b., I really like the doctor but loathe the front desk staff. When I tried to buy contact lenses from them (my insurance only pays if I purchase from my optician) they quoted me the price for six pairs over the phone, then told me that was the price for six lenses when I went in to place my order. When I asked about getting glasses they treated me like a fool for not knowing all about lenses, frames, coatings, etc. even though I stated a number of times that I had never before worn glasses. I ended up paying out of pocket and buying from Costco and still paid less and received much better service. read more

Two stars for the friendly office staff up front. Minus one star for their lack of knowledge in understanding benefits coverage. Minus two stars for the very strange Dr Llewellyn. He came off weird, impersonal, and pushy. He told me my vision worsened (by a lot) even though I just had another exam recently and don't notice any changes. The office staff, specifically two different ladies, quoted me wrong prices when reviewing my benefits. I had to check my own benefit plan online and explain to them that I was completely covered. They wanted to charge me almost $300! If you choose this place, do your homework and make sure you understand your benefits so you're not overcharged. I cant help the uncomfortable feeling I have when I left, whether it was intentionally trying to overcharge me or just lack of expertise, I dont like it and wont return. read more

Kind of overpriced but the examinations I thought were fairly priced. It really depends what you need, but in general I thought the frames selection was somewhat lacking. read more

While the receptionist and te optometrist were fine. The clerk that was suppose to help me find new frames ignored me completely. When I called later, to ask what time is best time to get service and register my complaint-- the same clerk answered the telephone!!! His rudeness did not end. His apology was no apology from the tone of his voice. Take your money elsewhere and be treated like an adult. read more

I've been going here for a few years and have always been happy. However, I recently picked up a new pair of glasses and few days my dog ate them. I went into the store expecting to shell out hundreds but the woman(I am drawing a blank on her name... sorry!) was SO helpful and went out of her way to do whatever she could to save me money and get me new glasses. Thanks again! read more

If Yelp allowed for six stars, I'd have no hesitation awarding them to Capitol Hill Vision. I've never experienced customer service like this from any optical store before, Genuinely lovely people. I did walk out with 2 things, contact lenses and a smile and will unquestionably return again. Cheers. read more

Staff were not only friendly but organized and had me in the back for my exam within less than 10 minutes of arriving. Dr. Llewellyn is very professional and straight forward which I appreciate from a medical provider. My exam was thorough, and afterwards, staff were super helpful again while helping me pick out frames. My insurance information had already been prepared so I could make my decision easily; also helps that I got to choose from a great selection! read more

I have been going to Capitol Hill Vision for about 9 years. Dr. Llewelyn is thorough in his exams & honest. My children and husband also see him, and have had good experiences as well. My kids have also seen Dr. Louie once. She, too, is very good & great with kids. The front office staff are wonderful. They have changed through the years, but the current crew is friendly, helpful, and very patient with my kiddos! read more

The optometrist was super nice as was all the front desk staff. They took time to explain each step of the process and help me find glasses that fit my style. read more

A bit expensive but the service is good. I like to shop around a bit when it comes to Vision care so I might come back.

These people practice such bad business. They have very poor customer service. I spent my first encounter with them trying to decide if they were incompetent or just rude. I now think it's both. After making an appointment, I walked over to their frames to check out the selection further. I turned and asked the receptionist and the doctor at the front desk if they would be able to assist me picking out the right frames for my face shape. The doctor said, "Yes, that's what we do. But you need to make an appointment and then we will be able to help you when it's not 5 minutes before closing." I was shocked. I told him I had just made an appointment, so no worries (I wasn't looking for help at that moment, though I might not have made that clear). This happened after the receptionist had already been awkward and rude. I was getting the feeling they didn't want my business. So, now we have to fight them on a ridiculous $40 charge for missing an appointment. I left a message to cancel the appointment I thought was a week earlier and they say they didn't get it. And apparently they can just say that and still charge. Bizarre. Places like this should not be in business. They don't know how to deal with people. read more

I am totally impressed with Dr. Llewelyn. His examination is thorough and carefully performed. He explained each test and answered all of my questions. He takes a detailed history and compared my current exam results with previous exams and explained the changes. I trust him with my eyesight. As far as the fun stuff, the frames on display are great fun to try on and although you can find your grandmothers glasses if you choose, you can also take a walk on the adventurous side. I've received compliments daily on the frames I chose two years ago and can't wait for my new frames. You will get excellent value for what you spend. read more

Dr. Llewellyn is very professional and thorough. I have a special eye condition and he keeps good records and compares notes each visit to ensure any changes are noticed. The front staff is very friendly and helpful too! Definitely recommend! read more

Horrible experience. I wanted to try Capitol Hill Vision because it's close to my apartment and covered by my insurance. I have since concluded that no amount of convience is worth this poor service. I was having trouble with my current contacts. After reading reviews about that particular brand I found many people had reactions to the sillicone and therefore wanted to discuss trying other brands. During my appointment Dr. Llewllyn informed me that I was allergic to contacts and "just shouldn't be wearing contacts at all". When I asked if there were other options he repeated himself. It was extremely uninformative! I couldn't believe with all the current technology he had absolutely no other suggestions to try. I recently visited Seattle Vision downtown where I was provided with an appointment the day after I called and AMAZING service! The eye doctor there provided me with many options and sent me home with eye drops for the current flair-up as well as two different brands of contacts to try before returning for a follow-up appt. They also gave me a discount on the repeat exam since I had already used my insurance coverage for this year. I will not be returning to Cap. Hill Vision. I'm sure Dr. Llewllyn is an intelligent man, however he is either too rushed to really put in the time to or too behind on current technology to find the perfect fit. Also their selection of glasses is horrible and WAY over-priced. When I commented on how I was worried about spending $350 over my insurance coverage the staff member stated, "well it's not like you don't use them all the time". Perhaps I just don't have that much money to blow on ugly glasses! read more

Unfortunately, I did not have the same pleasant experience as Joel H. had with Capitol Hill Vision. The staff was very polite and helpful, and the eye examination was very thorough. However, almost 3 months later, they sent me a whopping bill of close to $100 for the exam that should be covered by my health plan. When I called my insurance company, they said it was because that they charged for a second eye exam which was supposed to be a follow-up of the first. The insurance company said all they had to do was to file the exam as a "follow-up" and the plan should take care of it (I have a very generous health plan provided by a big tech company in Redmond). When I called back to Capitol Hill with that information, the staff sounded a bit annoyed and indifferent but they agreed to investigated this with my insurance company. Weeks later, they sent me another bill of the same amount (no follow-up call or explanation for the situation). I still don't know why or should I be responsible for the bill. I wish they had provided more information before I had my examination so that I knew what to expect. read more

This place was so great! The staff is incredibly friendly, everyone from the receptionist to the doctor himself.

Went back for an extra set of complimentary trial lens and it was a flawless effort/transaction. Went back again for a subsequent fitting check of the new contacts, and I arrived right on time for my appointment, and they immediately took me to the doctor -- absolutely perfect. I was impressed and appreciative that they were right on time and ready for me. Great job, Capitol Hill Vision team! read more

The dispensing optician is excellent. He really knows how to fit eyewear properly and ensure that the shape of the frames is appropriate for your prescription. It now is a preferred provider for VSP insurance! read more

Just returned from my first visit to capitol hill vision (warily, after reading these reviews) and my experience was positive. No wait, friendly desk staff. Dr. Llewellyn is so nice. Definitely coming back here for my eye exams in future. Such a convenient location, too. Stopped by the drugstore on the way home. read more

I am thoroughly impressed with this place.... I came in a few weeks ago because I knew something was going on with my vision, and this location is very close to home. I was pleasantly surprised at the perkiness of the gal who answered the phone, and how quickly she could have me seen. I came in a little early for my appointment, knowing I would want to look at frames (I have never had glasses before). The staff was SO friendly as I waited, and the place looks like I very relaxed art gallery. As I waited I listened to the owner talk to one of his frames reps... he examined each pair meticulously, verbalizing what type of customer would purchase the frame. He would even talk about past customers, and what sets they owned, and if they would enjoy them. He promptly stopped the buying when he saw a customer trying on several pairs, and invited her over to look at the ones the vendor had! It was so fun to watch! Then came the appointment.... now, I have never had my eyes checked so I was a little nervous.....this was compounded by the handsomeness of the Dr. who does the examinations! (Could life get any better!?) Aside from being absolutely adorable, the Dr. was very relaxed, personable, and thorough. He walked me through the steps, and definitely made me feel confident in his recommendations... So, prescription in hand, I went out to the sales floor to start looking for glasses. There were so many great frames to look at, all as unique as I was hoping for. The girls were helpful with their opinions, and their suggestions.... and after finding a frame I really enjoyed, of course I had to have Thom's stamp of approval! Never having glasses before, and being frugal, I didn't purchase the pair right away because they were around $190 total (I quickly found out that this is a STEAL for the pair that I selected, and the anti-glare that I wanted).... The girls were absolutely not sales people, they let the product sell itself and offer great customer service to back it up..... After going to two other shops and having a polar opposite experience (shitty service, shitty selection, $500 quotes) I RAN back to Capitol Hill Vision and purchased my lovely new glasses.... this place is amazing, and I really appreciated everything they did and do. ** To those post complaining of lack of service.... you have to understand that there are only so many employees, and they want you to find the PERFECT frames.... this takes time..... Guarantee yourself the best experience and go during the week when they are less busy, or have some patience during the weekend. read more

Had a very unimpressive experience here, although the selection was okay (they had some interesting frames as well as some standard options). They close at 6pm. We arrived at 5:40pm, so maybe the employees couldn't be bothered with us because they wanted to go home early?!? My friend and I entered, noone greeted us. That was okay. We're capable of pulling out frames and putting them on my face. After about 5 minutes of trying some frames, one of the two employees in the store (we were the only customers there) came over to ask us what we needed. Explained just got a new prescription and wanted some fun new frames. He said "here you are" and gestured at the whole store, and then went back to his desk. So we just kept trying on different frames by ourselves. Not having huge luck in finding things that were interesting or looked good. While there were lots of glasses, they seemed to stock 5 different colors of the same frame style, so the choice seemed more limited than it initially looked. After another 5 minutes or so, the employee announced "We close at 6pm, so please come back another day." We'd only gotten through 4 out of 6 sections of the store, and were offered NO help/assistance or guidance. And then we were ushered out abruptly. Disappointing. Maybe we didn't look like important enough customers, which is a shame, because my glasses are a part of my FACE and I'm willing to spend big money, if necessary, to get a great pair. But I won't be spending those dollars here. read more

the people are friendly, the doc is no nonsense, but the glasses i ordered wear slightly different than the ones i tried on. same style, but this time "made in china" was displayed prominently on the arm. strange. read more

DO NOT GO HERE!!! While Dr. Llewellyn may be good (I have not confirmed with a second opinion), Tom lacks a filter and is really pushy (and I am from NY!). They also will not get your insurance billing right and will fight you to sort it out. They have all but outright said that they don't care about keeping customers. read more

not a big fan... i think a couple of the people who work here are helpful and nice, but the fact that i got charged for a two things i specifically said i did NOT want was pretty shady. on top of that the second time i went i was told my prescription expired when in fact it didn't and they tried charging me for another exam. read more

I wanted to give this store a good review but I cannot recommend it. It took them several visits to get me the correct prescription in my glasses and to give me a refund when they overcharged. I do like my glasses but their customer service is poor. Joyce B. read more

The front office staff were friendly and they had a great selection of glasses--which is why I gave them two stars instead of one. Dr. Llewellyn at first seemed very knowledgeable, but he got my prescription wrong. I tried out the glasses for a week, like he said, but I was still getting headaches and having a hard time seeing. When I came back in so he could give me a different prescription, he spoke to me in a very short and condescending manner. He was unprofessional and I worry that his ego got in the way of him actually taking the time to correct his mistake. Save your money and go elsewhere! read more

Okay wow I see some not very nice reviews here. I can say I had a different experience. The staff helped me choose a really cute frame. We talked and laughed and had a great time. They don't bill my insurance anymore, (because it sucks) so I had to pay for my glasses. Not cheap, but the last two times I got glasses other places the cost was about the same. The doctor was nice and took good care of my parents which is how I came to know about the clinic. I'd recommend going there and I guess I'd say to lighten up guys. It's glasses, not chemo therapy. read more

They do the HOYA ID multifocal lenses, which are really good. They also are in-network, so they get points for that. However, they get knocked for my fitting: when I went in for my fitting, the person there tried brutly bending my frames to adjust them instead of first trying to apply heat to the frames to gently make them more pliable. read more

This is the most ridiculously EXPENSIVE place EVER!!! Even with health insurance that covers vision I STILL had to pay a bunch of money. Plus their glasses are EXTREMELY expensive - several hundred dollars! One can get cheap glasses at Costco or Sam's Club that are still nice and modern for $47-100 !! The last time I went to Capitol Hill Vision I had an eye exam and wanted new lenses. Even with insurance the bill STILL totalled close to $1000 !!! WHY???!!! Why are their prices so ridiculusly expensive. read more

Such an easy experience, always. Been coming here for a long time. Dr. Lewellen is so great and knowns what he is doing for sure. The glasses I bought here 3 years ago are still my faves and I always get compliments. I also wear contacts. They can do it all. State of the art facility, clean , professional and super nice staff. read more

Dr. Llewellyn truly cares about his patients. I have an auto-immune issue that affects my eyesight and he is the 1st doctor I've seen in 10 years who understands the ramifications of this issue; he does his homework! The staff he has hired is also amazing. I HIGHLY recommend Capitol Hill Vision to everyone. read more

The actual doctor at Capitol Vision is super nice, helpful and willing to answer tons of questions. I would love for him to be my optician. However, the front desk help is HORRIBLE. I won't go back because of them. They made me feel completely dumb that I didn't know all the ins and outs of my insurance and did not offer to help me find out of offer ways in which I could. I ended up having to pay for my exams out of pocket because I came a week earlier than I should have--a fact that could have been cleared up with their help if they were willing to offer any. I didn't feel like they cared about me at all. As a patient and a person I felt very expendable, not a good feeling to come out with when you're operating in such a vulnerable sphere like health care. read more