I'm giving them 5stars because they can't help their location. it's actually really convenient for most people. I have been with them for 5 years. I made a mistake when I tried to transfer somewhere near m. I've gone to them f so long no matter where I lived in Seattle for years and been completely satisfiEd, if not overjoyed. They provide excellent customer service. They work well with my insurance polic. Its a gem and only a couple blocks away from the light rai. I'm happy to go out of my way for consistency and smooth ease. I trust them. read more

I have been going to Globe for over 20 years. No complaints whatsoever. They may not have the eyewear choices that you would find elsewhere, eg, Market Optical and other high end, fancy schmancy optical boutiques around town, however, who can afford to pay $600 for a pair of eyeglasses? Not me. I love Dr. Lau, Amy and all the other people who work there. Never had a problem with anyone. I am always treated respectfully. Everyone is friendly and professional. I do not expect, like some people who have left reviews, to be treated like I own the place. Bowing and scraping is not required. C'mon people, so the receptionist didn't kiss your ring. Get over it. read more

Ambience. A Service. A Selection Frames. A Price. A I called first ti make sure they took insurance and had a good choice of frames to choose under my insurance plan. Very helpful over the phone. Found on 5th avenue next to overhead Monorail train line. Definitely limited paid street parking but several parking garages close by. Nice soft ambient lighting and comfortable seating area. Service was friendly and helpful. I called first to make sure they took insurance. They do take Molina WA Apple Health VPS insurance to cover eye exams and discounted frames and lenses. Found a perfect new pair of glasses after a new prescription from another optometrist. It's about time...25 years later! Can't wait to pick up within 2 weeks! I'm a fan. read more

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I'm frankly disappointed with them, having being a client of theirs for over 15 years. It apparently has changed hands (ownership) from Paul to Dr. Lau, whom I've never actually had any interactions with, only her staff. I'm not sure if I've actually ever seen her. One huge problem was that they allowed to me first order trifocals (with a gradient). I had forgotten this, though the See Clinic on Capitol Hill had told me 15-20 years that they would not even consider doing it because of the condition of my eyes. This was actually confirmed by another optometrist's office about a month ago. They don't even you give an itemized receipt of the add-ons (anti-glare, etc.). You have to ask them for it! If you change your mind within 24 hours (and let them know), they may charge you what they call a "restocking fee," even though obviously nothing has been yet made or nothing has to be restocked. I am assuming they don't like my insurance (Medicaid/Medicare), which never used to be a problem before. (In fact, I haven't had a new pair of eyeglasses in 7 or so years). read more

A thorough and comprehensive eye exam was given. Took time to explain things to me. I would highly recommend this optometrist.

Had my first visit here for an overdue eye exam for contact lenses. Scheduling had to be done a bit in advance but the front staff was helpful in getting me rescheduled and even offered me another person's cancelled appt which I was sadly unable to take at the time. Dr. Lau is just wonderful! She was extremely thoughtful and very thorough with my first exam and in acquiring my eye history, which is a bit extensive, and she kindly offered a few referrals for local ophthalmologists for me to establish follow-up care. I'm eager to come back to this place when due for a new prescription. read more

Dr Lau is a great eye doctor. I have dry eye syndrome so anything that goes wrong with my vision, takes longer to heal. This latest infection wasn't improving though so I went in. She diagnosed my condition, made recommendations, and said if it wasn't better soon to give them a call. I was in and out in less than an hour. Her staff are all very helpful and agreeable and efficient. read more

My name is Vern Westfall. I've been a client for years now. I have to say the customer service here is absolutely amazing!!! The selection of frames is also very amazing. If your looking for the perfect place to get glasses, or a prescription this is the place! read more

Came here on the recommendation of a co-worker who has been coming to this office for about 10 years. Every step of my experience with this office has been pleasant and efficient - making the appointment, the insurance verification, the actual visit, and checking out. It's nice to have an eye doc who has a pleasant chairside manner and that is Dr. Lau. There's a parking garage in the building where the office located, but there are also 2 parking areas just a half a block away off of 6th and Olive. I usually don't like seeing the optometrist as I don't need to be reminded about how blind I am, but in this case, I'll look forward to her. read more

The sweetest and most helpful people! So grateful I found them!!! Definitely don't hesitate to go here.

I found the staff to be very professional. The optometrist was very nice, but I got the feeling that they really didn't like me, because I have state insurance. The eye exam went very well, but when it came time to pick out my glasses, the staff pretty much disappeared. I don't really need help with it, but it would have been nice if they asked. They said my glasses would be ready in 3 to 4 weeks, which I thought was pretty much a long time but hey, I'm willing to wait. I do like this place because it is literally 3 blocks from where I live. I will update once the glasses come in. read more

**update** they did email me after I asked for my prescription to be sent over and said they could possibly make an exchange for the frames, just not the lenses (totally fair). I appreciate the offer so I will see what happens! ** I initially came here based on the proximity to my office and that it took my vision insurance. I heard decent things and needed a new doctor, so I gave them a call. I scheduled an appointment and was luckily, due to a cancellation, able to get in the next day. I had lost my last pair of glasses and needed to see, stat. The man working in the front office was very nice and accommodating. Come to find out, the regular doctor was out so I was getting a stand-in doctor. I wasn't made aware before my appointment that the doctor was a stand-in. He was very nice but much older and difficult to understand. I never felt 100% comfortable. After my exam I went to pick out frames. The woman that I scheduled the appointment with over the phone helped me -- she was extremely pleasant and friendly with me as well as helpful. She tried to figure out what style I liked and find frames that fit that style but also fit my face. It wasn't until after we went over the cost that I had a miniature heart attack. I am used to buying frames at Costco or Sears where prices are extremely competitive and wasn't prepared for the $300 bill with insurance. In the past, I was usually able to leave Sears or Costco for $200 without insurance. But, I chalked it up to the price of shopping locally and paid the bill. My frames were supposed to arrive within 7-10 days but didn't show up until 2 weeks later. I quickly tried them on during a break at work and thought they were ok. It wasn't until I took some time looking at them at home that I felt they looked totally different than the ones I tried on in store. They were very heavy and bulky on my face. I looked up the product number and found out they were men's glasses. Did the woman know she was handing me men's glasses? I don't think it would have mattered much if they didn't look so big, but it was obvious after I got home that they were not suited well for my face. The first time I called the office (to ask when my frames would arrive), I got the man who was very nice and helpful. When I called after I got my frames to see if I could return or exchange them the woman wasn't as nice as she was before. I felt a little like I was being talked down to. I understand not getting a full return since lenses have to be cut to match the frames -- but I see no reason why you can't have the frames for another pair. Oh well. So now, I'm $300 in the hole on glasses that don't look well on me and need to find another pair elsewhere (and probably big box, to get a better price). Overall, the experience was mixed. There were times I felt really taken care of and other times I felt attitude. And, I can't even comment on the doctor since I didn't even see her. In two years when it's time for a check-up, I will try them out again so I can actually see the doctor that represents globe optical and I can be more discerning about what I try on frames-wise. As much as this experience wasn't the most ideal, I'd like to shop local if I can. read more

Have been going to Globe for years, but had a recent experience illustrating why Globe is #1. When at the airport last weekend on my way to Hawaii, I realized I forgot to pack extra contacts. After boarding, I called hoping to get my prescription emailed just on the chance I lost one in the pool or diving. I was pleasantly surprised when they offered to send me a sample pair overnight to my hotel (at my expense, of course). Not only did all this happen while on the airplane waiting for departure, the contacts showed up yesterday with a nice note wishing me a great trip. Well done, Globe! And THANK YOU, THANK YOU!!! read more

Globe Optical - Amazing customer service! - Optometrists Near Me - Seattle, Washington

I've been taking my foster son here for glasses for a few years and have always been pleased with the service and with the glasses he's gotten...until a few months ago. My little man has some significant special needs, some of which are behavioral. He had recently started throwing his glasses at school when he didn't get his way. He was down to his last pair and hadn't gotten a new pair in over a year (this particular pair was about 2 years old). One arm of his glasses was barely hanging on, the coke bottle lenses were pretty scratched up, and the frames were leaving dark red gouges on the bridge of his nose. He also had a new prescription so he was due for a new pair. Foster kid insurance pays for a limited selection of frames and take around 6 weeks to get. The selection is usually pretty sad, but it seemed Globe Optical had a better selection of "DSHS frames" than other places have, plus they are open on Saturdays. Knowing that my kid's glasses were on their last leg -- or arm -- I took him in to order a new pair with his new prescription. We arrived and I explained the situation and gave Paul my son's new prescription. He began to adjust and clean his current glasses while I perused the frames and entertained my toddler. A few minutes later my son came over and asked me "mom, why are you pushing an envelope?" What? He told me that they (Paul and his daughter) said I was really pushing the envelope with this. I was pretty shocked. Paul then came over to me with my son's glasses and told me that they are in fine condition and don't need to be replaced. He said it was normal for the arms to be a "little loose" (he's been wearing glasses for 5 years, and I've been wearing them for 20 -- this wasn't normal) and that the scratches weren't "that bad" (it looked like he had smeared yogurt on one of his lenses). He then told me that I can't just come in and get new glasses whenever I felt like it, and that I am taking advantage of the system. Wow, really? Nevermind the fact that he had a new prescription, I don't think its possible to "take advantage" considering all that I do for this little guy. We left, and went elsewhere, where I paid out of my own pocket to get him new glasses, because yeah, I'm one to take advantage of the system! read more

Before this review please keep in mind that Dr Lau and her staff at globe optical are Frontline workers. Although they are not an ER their faces come within inches of yours with every single examination. Please remember to wear form fitting masks and practice the highest safety procedures will practice for you when visiting the Globe Optical office . With that being said... This review has been a long time in coming and 'well deserved' doesn't touch on how well deserved it is. It's kind of long but detailed and well worth the read if you plan on using their services. I have been with globe optical for at least 5 years. I want to say closer to 10. And have never had one single issue with their service or product. The staff make you feel like family and their new location is spacious and comfortable. They have a great selection of product that you can order online or in person. And their (extremely easy to navigate, even for the not so tech savvy) web page will fully inform on everything from frames to Lasik options to the amazing staff themselves. When you open up the page the first item you will see will be a full statement informing you on their new covid-19 procedures in detail, which, after reading, have me in full confidence to make an appointment to visit their office after I post this review... Aside from the shop itself being up to date with the latest technology and covid-19 safety procedures, having a comfortable atmosphere and a great selection, let me say a word or two about the amazing staff. Dr Lau and her core staff of two, Paul D. and Amy S. are the guts of Globe Optical. They have always remained the same staff of globe Optical that I can remember since I became a patron years ago. As a sometimes employer that says volumes to me.it says that Dr Lau and her staff have an excellent working relationship and that her staff are happy enough working at Globe to remain there indefinitely. A staff that is happy at what they do is guaranteed to provide you the highest level of service. Mr. Paul's Gold Star ways with his one on one service must come from an old world European finishing school for finer gentlemen. I'm convinced. His service is impeccable, without a speck of dust. He always remembers you, no matter how long since your last appointment, will guide you perfectly from the selection of your product to your final fitting and will not be satisfied until you are fully satisfied. No half baked cakes left by this gentleman, as we say in chef land. Ms. Amy's bottomless well of knowledge will leave you completely informed both on the tech side of your vision and with any issues that you may have with insurance, or other forms of payment, often finding discounts that you may not have known about. There isn't a question that you can throw at her that she can't answer and will probably answer a couple that you forgot to ask. You will walk away from her feeling that every base was covered. Dr. Lau's high level of respect, care and concern for your vision needs are on the level of a mother's for her child. She will have you completely at ease and comfortable through your examination. Even if that big eye exam contraption raises your anxiety, like it does to some people, like me, she will have you calm and relaxed through it all. She is a true example of the Hippocratic oath. You can be the church lady or an old school spiky punk rocker, like myself and you will receive the same service and care from her, the highest and most accurate that she can offer... Which is very high, in my opinion. As a personal footnote I want to leave my post with this; This is the first five stars that I have ever left for anything or anyone and it is well deserved by this amazing staff and their office. In this time of social distancing and everybody being allergic to each other, personal treatment and interaction between services and patrons has become a thing of scrutiny for me. Am I going to be treated like a patron or like the disease? Sadly, with a justifiable and very real fear, more and more businesses are treating their patrons like the disease and that personal level of respect, interaction and sense of connection that we had all the way up to 00 BCP* and still require as a social animal is eroding on both professional and personal levels. I have been with them for, I will say about 7 or eight years, and will definitely stay with them as long as I live in Seattle and they are around. Because I know that even during these trying times I will still always be treated the same way that I always have been, like an old family member. The only difference is, that after reading their statement of new covid-19 procedures, their concern for my well-being is just that much higher... A "Good Show!" 5 Stars and A+ for Globe Optical! read more

This place is awesome! I mostly wear contacts, but the glasses I do have are constantly causing me problems. I should mention that I did not buy my glasses at Globe Optical, but they have still helped me out. The first time I went to G.O., the plastic nose rests on my frames had come off and I needed replacements. The woman who helped me was very nice and fast and only charged me $5 for the nose rests and her time. The second time, my metal frames had gotten so bent out of shape that the screw came off of one side and the lens had fallen out. This time it was a man who helped me and, again, he was very pleasant and quick, yet thorough. It was only $2 for that fix and I was on my way. The next time I decide to spring for a new pair of glasses, I am definitely buying them from Globe Optical. I love that it is one of the few small businesses left in downtown Seattle, and their staff is phenomenal. read more

I came here for my very overdue eye exam recently and had a very pleasant experience. My exam was thorough and the doctor answered all of my questions. I came back when my contacts ran out and ordered a year supply of the new ones recommended, so far so good! The price was reasonable (my insurance didn't cover), they gave me a rebate and the order came the next day. I didn't get glasses but they have a HUGE selection if that's what you need. Overall highly recommend! read more

I've been going here for years, since I moved to Seattle and think they're great. I always get some extra time from the doctor to ask about eye health, risks and other general concerns about how my lifestyle effects my eyesight. Top marks! read more

They didn't measure my daughter for her glasses and due to that we waited over 1 month for glasses that don't fit her. When I called back next day to ask about if they have at least a different strap size they told me no and I could do what others have done,which is cut, measure and the strap then sew it back together! When I went in with my daughter the lady gave me a small brochure and told me which i could choose based on my daughter's age grouping. I really wish they had gone a step further and measured my daughter's eyes to fit the glasses because obviously now not everyone has the exact same head size just because they're the same age. read more

I'm giving them 1 star for location. That's about it. They are rude, they'll double charge you, they bill your insurance for services not rendered, when you call they'll act like you're bugging them and they won't tell you when your regular doctor is no longer there. I will never be going back.... read more

Im in Seattle visiting from California. In transit I lost my contact lenses. Globe optical helped me get my eye prescription filled quickly. They were so friendly and helpful. read more

I came in to get my glasses adjusted because Warby Parker didn't do it quite right and it was so far. Globe Optical did a great job! They were very nice and professional. read more

I wanted to offer any updated review of this shop. The person I spoke with on the phone and when visiting the shop was very helpful. He explained the options for the lenses for my glasses and the different coatings that could apply. He also indicated the owner would be in contact if there were any delays for my rush order. When he heard I worked for Amazon he offered a 10% discount off my lenses. read more

WOW, obviously a lot has changed since 2007. As for CH's review, usually when someone gives such a negative feedback it usually means that: 1) that person had an unpleasant experience, but rarely as unpleasant as they convey in their message; and 2) maybe the person is just negative in general... Fact is, there a a lot of unhappy people in the world (unhappy with themselves), and they tend to spread their negativity with those with whom they interact. 2009: Same great owner who ALWAYS fits your frames and gives you his full attention at all times. NEW staff! The receptionist is great, service is very quick, and the optician is just wonderful (they used to have two Dr's who alternated schedules, now they cut off the moody and impatient one). This place has all of the best and latest styles of frames for you to choose from, however not so many choices that your head starts spinning... definitely a plus in my book. It is a great location and for the amount of traffic that comes through their door they handle business effectively and still maintain an "old fashion" atmosphere of respect and courtesy. 5 stars!!! read more

I had to end the relationship I have been going for over 10 years referred people to them. Unfortunately the customer service went down the tubes always keep your long standing customers happy it's more costly to get new ones. read more

The Dr. was so patient and kind to my son who has autism. He doesn't communicate very well, but she coaxed and comforted him, and I am confident we will get great glasses! read more

Please let clients know BEFORE a contact lense fitting that you are charging them $50 for it. Not after when it's too late for them to turn it down. There was a substitute optometrist working the day I came in so maybe if I had had the regular optometrist I would have been told this before I was charged. read more

Globe optical helped me get a pair of glasses desperately needed. The optometrist was very friendly and helpful. The major problem was the receptionist. That woman needs to be fired. Her remarks were hostile, rude, and confrontational. Everything I said was talked down on as if I was a child. All that was asked for was information about the product. What is not understood is how a business can put out such a good product, but hire a receptionist that destroys the companies image. Maybe she worked there too long, and dealt with too many street people. However that is not an excuse to talk to all customers as if they are garbage. read more

I actually visited them last year, and sorry for leaving the message late. The reason I give them one point, is because there was a lady treating me very badly when I was there, and looking for glasses. I looked for a bargain frame, and she was very inpatient, and showed her ignorance very clearly, and was very upset. I definitely will never go back to this clinic. read more

I'm obsessed with Dr Lau. I've been seeing her for like 6 years. I come from a family of opticians so my bar is pretty high and I really value Dr. Lau. She doesn't have all the bells and whistles, but keeps with the basic equipment (which makes me feel like I'm getting the most bang for my buck). I know she super cares about me and even though I only see her once a year, she always remembers little personal things about me which I find really sweet. Her staff is also really helpful. One time I went in wearing Warby Parker glasses and I was getting a fitting for new glasses at her office, and someone adjusted my warby parker glasses (not even purchased at her story!!!!) for free! It blew my mind and I felt so special. I'll be a client of hers for a while :) read more

The person scheduling our appt did not seem that friendly. She just seemed impatient. Eye exams were booked about a month in advance. When we showed up for our appointment, it was about 15 minutes late. Dr. Lau came to get us. The appointment was for my mom who didn't speak English well. The doctor did most of the exam in Chinese and seemed very patient and professional throughout the appointment. We didn't get glasses there since the insurance coverage wasn't that great. I would recommend the optometrist to other people. read more

Dr. Man-Yin Lau, O.D. or Dr Lau for short, was probably just on her way into work when I was visiting beautiful Settle, downtown and poked my eye while washing my face in the morning. The pain was so bad that I wasn't able to find a Optometrist online, so I called the front desk and they referred me to Globe Optical. I was in town to speak at a large convention and now, with one eye, I had to have help getting there. Dr. Man-Yin Lau immediately ran a few test and eliminated the pain. It turned out to be an old injury I did early that month, but she assured me my eye would be fine. While leaving, I noticed brand names of glasses, that I would pay double in California. I have a rule, if I really like something, sleep on it and if you still want it, get it! Well, I couldn't wait that long so I dragged some friends with me to get their input. Great they like both pairs...But it really felt like a "two for one deal" with all the extra specials they gave me for buying more than one pair. The glasses are in the mail as a service, but I have no doubt they will be perfect. BTW: I stabbed my eye the following day and yes, Dr Lau checked me out again to assure me I was okay....and then researched even further to give me solid time lines of when to panic. My optometrist will wonder why I travel to Seattle to get Eye exams from now on:) Thx to the staff and Dr Lau for all the help. Best customer service ever!!! read more

Globe Optical is my favorite place to go for glasses, contacts, and eye exams. I began going to Globe Optical after reading an article about the store in the Seattle Times. Globe Optical was profiled for making glasses for a movie with Drew Barrymore and the store has custom-made glasses for a number of other celebrities, as well. Although I'm not a celebrity, the staff at Globe Optical were able to do a custom job for me, too; they restored a pair of antique frames that I had purchased (a number of other optical stores told me that they were too fragile and that they wouldn't touch them!). Over the years, I've referred a number of family members and co-workers to the store and they have all had wonderful experiences. The store is very popular, but you get what you pay for. The location is wonderful for people working or shopping downtown, the staff are courteous and knowledgeable about glasses/contacts, and they carry a number of designer lines. Even when I've lived out of state, I've returned to Globe Optical for my eye-care needs. This place gets 4 stars from me! read more

This place was a LIFE-SAVER! We came in right when they opened on a Saturday at 9am in desperate need of help. We were traveling to Seattle for a football game and my wife left all of her contacts (and her glasses) back home. We were going to go site-seeing on Saturday and then had bleacher seats for the game on Sunday, so the entire trip was in jeopardy. Right when we got in, Samantha was very understanding and helpful. Luckily, we had my wife's prescription with us and Samantha was able to provide us with some emergency contact replacements for the trip. My wife can see, and the trip was saved thanks to Samantha! read more

Incompetent. This optometrist is incompetent. It is as if she is just guessing when it comes to prescribing the appropriate lens. I have been to her seven times over the past six months trying to get contact lens that I can see through. Each change seems to worsen the situation. I have left work, paid for parking seven times and today still have lens that do not work. There are several hundred other Optometrists in Seattle. All of them have to be more competent than this one. read more

This doctor and the people who work here went above and beyond to help me while I was visiting Seattle. I ripped one of my contacts and they communicated with my doctor in Texas about the best option for me. Within a few hours, I had replacements and could continue my trip. I am so thankful to this office to help me so unselfishly. We need more people like this in today's world!! read more

Globe Optical - Optometrists Near Me - Seattle, Washington

Okay I've received glasses here many times but decided to buy a certain pair that my insurance didn't cover. Well Paul was nice enough to go down on the price and when I received the glasses I was very overwhelmed with joy. I really like these guys, because they take the time to get to know you and they really seem to care about there customers. I would give them six stars if I could. Thanks Globe Optical, you guys are awesome!!! read more

I adore Dr. Lau. Not only is she very patient with my kids, but she's also very sweet and kind. I do understand the reviews about the receptionist, it would be great if they hired a really nice receptionist, but Dr. Lau makes up for it. read more

I used to go elsewhere, was unhappy there, and tried Globe on a friend's recommendation. I hadn't ever seen any reviews, and didn't see these until after I went---but I have to say that the negative reviews here surprise me. I experienced nothing but wonderful personal service. Dr Lau was very kind and, most importantly, thorough. I loved the selection, and the owner personally helped me select my new frames. I have nothing but praise for Globe and will always come back here----it's worth the trip from the Eastside to receive this kind of quality service. read more

Dr. Lau is very thorough. I had a funny situation where I had 2 prescriptions, one for the outdoors and one for the indoors. She was patient with me in the process of getting both of those perscriptoins filled. Her staff is very helpful and they were also very patient with me as I chose my frames. read more