Went into Focal Point Opticians in Berkeley for new glasses and ended up working with Luke, and it's rare that an optical shop visit is worth writing about, but this one is. What stood out first was how much Luke actually knows about frames. He walked me through material differences and construction methods. You can tell pretty quickly when someone actually understands the product versus someone who's just good at selling it. Luke was meticulous about getting my measurements right. He wasn't rushing to close the sale. That kind of attention is easy to skip and hard to fake. The Bay Area has no shortage of optical shops. What you're paying for at a place like Focal Point is working with someone like Luke. The knowledge, the patience with the fitting process, and a good eye for what actually works. That combination is worth a premium if you want glasses that are done right. read more

I made an appointment to select glasses with an optician and I was on time for my appointment. When I walked in the door John was very dismissive even after I explained that I had an appointment. He was completely unfriendly as if I was bothering him. He pointed towards the glasses and he told me that I could ask questions later. When the next person walked into the store John's tone completely changed and he became very helpful towards her. After I gathered the glasses I sat down to use the mirror and Jeni asked me if I wanted help. Then she proceeded to be extremely friendly and helpful. But the obvious implicit biases of John prevents me from spending my money here. The two stars are for Jeni. read more

This review is for glasses selection and adjustment only. I popped in unannounced to have my glasses tightened despite not being a patient or a previous customer. Everyone at the counter was lovely and super welcoming and didn't make me feel awkward for not being a current customer. they tightened my glasses and sent me on my way. on my way out I toured their thousand plus selection of frames. Just maybe I'll switch optometrist based on this experience. I don't know what insurance they accept or what their exam rates are, you would have to call and inquire yourself for that information. read more

I began to wear glasses well over 20 years ago and have had many experiences purchasing eyeglasses. The top two experiences: 1. Madrid, Spain. The owner both had impeccable taste and helped me select the perfect eyeglasses for my face. He also made sure that every measurement was made perfectly. 2. Berkeley with Luke at Focal Point who went the extra mile to measure and ensure the prescription would come out perfectly. He stayed 30 minutes after closing as well. He had answers to any questions we had about the lenses, having them turn into sunglasses while driving (key for me). The owner also came out to check in with us and greet us and make sure we were taken care of and all our questions we answered. We couldn't be happier. read more

Saw that they were a JMM retailer, so I brought a couple pairs of sunglasses to the store to get the lens swapped out. They did it all free of charge and even gave me a lens cleaning kit free of charge. I was also able to try on a few frames while I was waiting. They also let my eight year old daughter handle some pretty expensive JMM frames without freaking out. I never felt pressured to buy anything that I tried on. The great experience I had there definitely makes me want to go back when its time to get my next pair of glasses! read more

I have used many sources for my glasses over the years -- nothing compares to Focal Point! I don't know about that "snobby" review -- quite the opposite!!! I appreciate the fact that they require an appointment, because it keeps the number of people in there manageable and allows them to give customers their undivided attention! I always feel warmly welcomed and my most recent experience was truly stellar. I was helped by Annalise, who knows more about glasses and optometry than anyone I have ever worked with. I walked in and thought I had found the best pair for me, but she pulled a bunch of options and found me something even better! And the best part of working with her is that she doesn't just tell you that one pair looks better than the other based on opinion, she bases her assessment on facts (e.g., glass shape, eyebrow alignment, etc.). And she was so wonderful to work with no top of it all. Go no further, this is the place to find the coolest frames, and work with people who really know what they're doing! And consider yourself extra lucky if you get Annalise! read more

Incredible staff, one of a kind collection. Every visit is like stopping in to see old friends. Congratulations on 50 years! No surprise you are going strong after such a long run. Wishing you many more! read more

Great business and perfect service from Irene Jandt! I went in with glasses that fell off my face, but with precision and care walked out with my reading glasses fitting and staying on my face. read more

Best business ever. Don't go anywhere else. Had a fall, bent glasses, and gave them a call, knowing I couldn't make it through the weekend with ridiculously out of whack glasses. First question I was asked "are you OK? Did you hurt yourself? Any broken bones?" How wonderfully compassionate is that? Wish all businesses were as wonderful as they are. read more

Fantastic selection and wonderful customer service. Found a pair of Ann et Valentin glasses that I love. Irene helped me and she was wonderful! read more

I have been wearing glasses since the age of 16 and have certainly gone to many Optical stores... But I have never had such a pleasant experience as when I went to focal point this week! I was greeted warmly and Luke immediately began asking me what it was I was looking for and did his very best to find the ideal frames for me. I appreciate his professional knowledge and the fact that he really listened to me and we worked together and he found exactly what I was looking for ! I appreciate the Customer service and professionalism and knowledge and cannot wait until my frames have arrived from France read more

Very attentive staff and great selection of unusual frames! Nice friendly environment

Fast service, excellent customer experience... nice people! Beautiful selection! My repair was done in a day! read more

Outstanding experience at Focal Point! Bob and Annalise were knowledgeable, attentive, and incredibly helpful in guiding me through their vast array of stunning designs to find the perfect pair. Exceptional quality and service. I'll definitely be back. Highly recommend! read more

Customer service comes across as rather snobby. 1) the store definitely has a wide range of frames. 2) Taste is personal. When I see what I like, then I will try it on. I like unique eyewear. But it has to be pretty, stylish, unique and something I haven't already bought or similar. But I didn't see anything I liked that called out to me on a fashion and design sense. There was some overlap in brands with my optometrist's office, such as Bevel, LA Eyewear, LaFont and some other brands. Given that my optometrist takes VSP, I would order those brands at my optometrist's office, NOT as Focal Point. 3) I was looking at the 'Outlet' because I was looking to see if any past frames I had liked 3-4 years ago were in stock, particularly LaFont. Customer service person said I would not find anything innovative, new and stylish in there. What's new, innovative and stylish is subjective to the person looking. 4) Customer service didn't make any suggestions, only followed my daughter and I around to see what we were doing and make snide snippets. What's interesting is I walked a half a block around the corner to Montclair Optical Berkeley and found exactly what I was looking for in the window - a unique pair of eyewear that was pretty, stylish and didn't look like anything I had bought before and was not a brand my optometrist carries. So I will be getting my glasses from Montclair Opticians Berkeley. read more

I have shopped at Focal Point for many years. They have a large selection of beautiful glasses. Most recently I was helped by Annalise Parker. She was wonderful. I tried on slews of glasses and she was patient and helpful. I ended up going with her recommendation. I will say the place is not cheap! read more

I always have such a positive experience at Focal Point when I have come in for repairs on my glasses. I was helped today by Irene and she fixed my glasses so quickly! The customer service here is excellent! read more

I've walked by Focal Point many times but had always gone across town for my glasses, a mistake I won't make again. I spent $800 on lenses from another shop, only to have one lens repeatedly pop out of the frames. The original optician was unable to fix it. The final straw was nearly missing a flight after a lens fell out at a BART station. It took me almost an hour to find it. The contrast with Focal Point was striking. Irene greeted me and immediately went to work in the back on my glasses. While I waited, I browsed their large and impressive selection of frames (many of which are just so unique!) and chatted with a couple of other friendly employees. After Irene worked her magic in the back and explained her expert fix, she patiently adjusted them to my face. The price was extremely reasonable. I'm so sold on this place that I almost can't wait for my next prescription change just to have an excuse to buy a new pair! read more

Beyond an extensive and broad selection of eyewear, what sets Focal Point apart is exceptional customer service. I've been a customer for over 30 years and will continue to be a customer. read more

This review is specifically to thank Robert P, who kindly adjusted my eyeglass frame, and has also adjusted a different pair for me in the past. He has a particular skill in getting the fit just right without having the frame pull at one spot, or dig in at another. Not an easy task! My husband asked if Robert could tighten his frame, which he welcomed doing. He also offered him an ultrasonic cleaning and they came out squeaky clean and crystal clear. read more

Went to Focal Point for a new sunglasses screw. Service was great! Irene spent time searching for the correct odd size screw all at no charge! Very pleasant experience! This is the second time over a couple of years that we've stopped in to Docal Point for the same repair while visiting Berkeley from Indiana. Highly recommend Focal Point for their friendly service staff. read more

Customer Service. I did not realize the extent of Focal Point's impressive customer service -- which I only discovered after I made a big mistake. I took my frames to my optometrist's office for lenses b/c the original prescription has needed adjusting in the past. My optometrist's lab wasn't adept with these artful frames, and bent them. Focal point has done their best to help bend-back and make wearable (grateful for your generous help and follow-up, Annalise!), but I fear these cool frames may be unsalvagable. If Focal Point had filled the lenses, they'd have made sure everything was completed to my satisfaction. They have an arrangement with their lab to re-supply the lenses if the prescription is off and your doctor revises it. That service for the lenses really adds to the value of Focal Point, and I wish I'd known to take advantage of it. Recommend Focal Point for both your frames AND LENSES. read more

1.) The good is that they have a wide variety of quality frames. That's the reason I went there. 2.) The bad is you're just another one of those customers, and if you ever have problems with a frame or a prescription watch out..! read more

I love Focal Point!! They have a really stunning selection of glasses and everyone there is lovely. I had a favorite pair of purple glasses from Focal Point for three years, until my partner stepped on them accidentally! I was so sad, as my Godfather had picked these glasses out for me, and he recently passed away. I called Focal Point, desperate to get a replacement. They informed me they were sold out but would call the factory in Italy. A few days later, they called me to say they are having the LAST pair of my glasses in the factory and shipped it from Italy. I just picked them up and they're PERFECT! Fashion & Nostalgia. They really went above and beyond!!! Thank u Focal Point :) read more

I decided to splurge and buy my new glasses here and wasn't disappointed. While not the cheapest date in town, you get what you pay for. Lynn was an incredibly patient, consumate and knowledgeable pro who walked through their store with me and selected frame after frame after frame from their vast collection of frames and gave me candid feedback on the different frames until I decided on two (regular and VDT glasses). Neither is a frame I would have picked out on my own but couldn't be happier with them. The lenses their labs made up for me are spot on, the frames have garnered lots of compliments but most importantly, I am very happy with them. Try them - you won't be disappointed. My only disappointment was how long it took me to finally try them! read more

I've been a loyal customer of this frame shop in Berkeley for years, and it never disappoints. The quality of their glasses is top-notch, and they have an impressive selection of frames that suit all styles and budgets. Irene and the rest of the staff is always welcoming, knowledgeable, and incredibly patient--they take the time to help you find the perfect pair, whether you're looking for something trendy or classic. What I love most is their attention to detail. They ensure that your glasses are not just stylish but also perfectly fitted. I've bought many pairs there, and each time, I find stylish, unique frames that are frames are durable and comfortable. I shop around and I like the service, the high-quality products, and a friendly atmosphere, this frame shop is the best in Berkeley. Highly recommended! read more

Vibes are off. The glasses here are perhaps more accurately described as eye art. But for these prices, I would have expected the salespeople to provide genuine attention and feedback. Also, pushing a trunk show designer at the expense of a client's needs and preferences is not a good business practice. read more

I just wanted to give a heartfelt shout-out to John at your shop. I brought my elderly neighbor in to look at new frames for the prescription lenses she was ordering. John really listened to her wants and needs, and then showed her several different styles and colors to choose from. She promptly rejected each of those choices, and indicated that she wanted to keep the ones she has. Often, she likes things the way they are, and doesn't embrace change unless it's absolutely necessary. In a situation like that, many employees (especially commissioned employees) would have either pushed for the sale of new frames, or would have simply executed the transaction and gone on to the next opportunity. John didn't do either. He sat with my friend and pleasantly chatted with her about her interesting past while he wrote up the order for the frames. He could have rushed. He didn't. When she asked for a discount she thought she qualified for, he could have simply explained that she didn't qualify, but he didn't. He gave her a great deal, and she was tickled pink. She talked about the experience all the way home. So, thank you, John. You made a very nice person's day, and we both are grateful. read more

Four and a half years ago I bought a pair of e-clips sunglasses there, the kind you can flip up if you drive into a tunnel, for example. They've been great, although one lens was a little loose but not enough to bother me. In the last few weeks, it kept getting looser, to the point where it was finally just barely hanging on. Today I walked in and they said the guy who could fix it was at lunch but if I came back in an hour it would be ready. I did, and it was. It is now better than ever. They also cleaned the lenses better than I ever could. Service was friendly and organized. And, there was no charge. Now that's how to run a business! read more

I didn't wear fancy clothes or anything like that and the staff is just so personable, friendly, and competent at what they do. The opticians are knowledgeable and skilled at picking great frames for you as well as recommending the best lenses to get depending on your prescription. This place is definitely one of the best opticians in the East Bay no question. read more

I love the service and quality I got at this practice. The opticians checked, and rechecked, and adjusted my glasses until they were perfect. read more

I walked into a "Wonderland of Spectacles"...quite unassuming from the outside. However, upon entering, I found a well lighted interior with hundreds of beautiful eyeglass frames to choose from, all shapes and sizes, an extensive assortment of brands, and colors designed to choose from, a wide price range was available. Several sales technicians were available to answer my questions, or provide personal advice. I found several unique frame chains to complement my wardrobe of eyewear. read more

My fiancé, Carlos, and I came here earlier this year to shop for a pair of glasses for him. He is blind as a bat and had always worn contacts before. I stayed in the car originally as I was pregnant at the time and didn't feel like going in. He started sending me pictures of himself trying on potential frames... I knew I needed to get in there ASAP. I was greeted by Carlos and a gentleman named Bob. I remember seeing Carlos with glasses on and started laughing (I had never seen him wear glasses in the 3 years we'd been together). Bob responded with, "Well don't make fun of him!" Bob continued to inform me how "in" these frames are relating to current fashion and of course I am all about the fashion. Bob and I worked very well together in picking out the perfect frames for Carlos. The entire memory is so vivid in my head and I will never forget it. When we came back weeks later to pick up the glasses I was so excited to see Bob. We showed each other pictures of our cats and shared laughs. I believe Focal Point is known for their quality as this is what drove us to check out the store. However, Bob really made our experience feel special. Thanks Bob and Focal Point for ensuring my man can see in STYLE!!!! He planned on only wearing them occasionally but now I hardly see him without them! read more

My partner went in to pick up their glasses after they called the glasses manufacturer to get the final pair in existence. customer service is always great and everyone is super helpful!! read more

Wonderful selection, helpful people to help you. The best in town if you need glasses go here

Wide selection of frames but most importantly, skilled, knowledgeable, friendly staff.

Love this place. I don't need glasses but Focal Point always makes me wish I did. They have great service, staff and a killer selection. Very clean. read more

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Focal [point is, without question, the best place to buy glasses in the bay area! First, the selection is outstanding. The glasses that they have on the shelf range from classic to modern and artistic. Anyone can find what he or she is looking for. Just check the website and you'll see what I mean. Second, and most important to me, the people that work there a) really know the business. And, b) They genuinely listen to you and are really helpful in finding the frame that is best for you. They appreciate the significance of your decision and they make the whole experience a joy. c) They are great technicians. Buying glasses is a big deal; and, if you're looking for the best place in the bay area to buy your next pair of glasses go here first. You won't go anywhere else afterward. read more

*Consummate professionals. * Caring and friendly. * Competitive pricing. * Superior lens manufacturing on-site. * Expert advice. * Never oversell. * Great aesthetic sense. What else needs to be said? If your glasses and prescription are important to you, and you do not want to mess around with cheap, corporate knockoffs. You would be foolish not to head directly to Focal Point. They are simply the best. My wife, Elana, worked with Irene, and she always cannily steered her in the right direction. The owner, David, is also a sweetheart and a true expert on all things about eyeglasses. My wife and I are deeply grateful to them for their help, as she wears glasses all day long and they are an incredibly important part of her daily existence. read more

I used to come here pretty often and bought a frame or two, but even before COVID, but especially now, they have been super-unresponsive. I went into the shop pre-COVID, had a couple of questions, they told me they would get back to me, I followed up several times, no call backs, no answers. More recently I have sent two emails and left a voicemail or two, no response. It is a shame, since they have lots of great frames, but I don't think I should be having to chase someone down just to get a response. read more