Absolutely 5 stars for Iris Optometric Center! Lia Pastorino, OD was incredibly professional, detail-oriented, friendly, and very thorough--I left feeling completely confident in my exam. The staff is just as amazing--polite, welcoming, and fantastic at helping you choose glasses that truly suit your face. They also use modern retinal imaging technology, so no pupil dilation needed--much more comfortable and very thorough. Highly recommend! read more

A very professional and knowledgeable staff and an experienced Dr Hernandez who made this a successful experience Highly recommend this organization read more

Had all my eye exams here, got my first-ever frames here... my first eye exam that yielded glasses. The doctors have been kind in guiding me as my vision does its getting older thing... I could probably get by with drug store glasses, but I'm loving the progressives! Not having to take them on and off to walk across the room is absolutely worth the higher price. They DO NOT work with Luxxotica, so the frame cost is different, but pick your poison. Fake luxury price fixing or independent designers, designs, and craftsmanship. They cost a little more, but I have always left happy! read more

Great staff and awesome glasses. I really appreciate how thoughtful and caring they are. They take their time in recommending frames. Glasses were ready in a little over a week. Highly recommend. read more

My wife and I both got our frames here and the styles were incredible. The staff was very helpful, providing several options to try and giving honest opinions on each. Excellent service, impeccable taste, and a friendly atmosphere. read more

I had the same experience as LJ and EJ in the reviews. They price gauge & are extremely high and have terrible customer service. They don't tell you the price amount until your appointment time, and when you arrive for your appt if you refuse to honor the pricing for said appt bc it isn't in your budget (hello price gauge!) they charge you a NO-SHOW fee of $50 even when you showed up. Including a verbal threat in convo before you leave of having the charge sent to collections. I went down the street to Site for Sore Eyes for the same appointment and was charged $105 for an eye exam & contact fitting with insurance where Iris wanted to charge me $225 for the exact thing. You can do way better elsewhere - don't let them take your money or tell you otherwise. Horrible customer service and extreme price gauging! read more

Full eye exam was really thorough. Staff very nice and picked out great frames. Look forward to going back next year

very knowledgeable staff, dog friendly and wide selection of frames. I loved this business.

I recently needed an end-of-year eye exam, and an optometrist that worked with my insurance (VSP). Oddly, my incumbent vision provider, Target Optical, wasn't in network with the VSP...the largest vision insurance in the country. So I reached out to the smaller offices in my area. Luckily, Iris had a couple spots available. Off the bat, after I walked in, I noticed how nice the store environment felt. The layout and decor felt warm and nice. There were also several customers being helped by several staff members. It seemed like a go-to neighborhood spot for vision care. I also noticed a decent selection of frames--not the largest, but decent for a standard optometry practice. Dr. Schultz was professional and thorough with her exam, which I appreciated. She seemed highly knowledgeable and passionate about eye health. I felt very happy with the care I received and her patience and expertise answering my questions. The front staff was also very knowledgeable. You get the sense everyone at this office knows their stuff. Do note there's no parking, and it's on busy Piedmont Ave, the main street. I lived within walking distance however, so no big deal. In the end, I received a thorough, painless exam, got my prescription, paid my co-pay, and was on my way. In and out. Highly recommended, especially for eye exams. read more

Relatively decent eye exam but if you're a first timer, do NOT purchase frames here. They will hustle you quickly and make it seem like you're getting a good deal, but you're not, it's over-priced. If you change your mind, you cannot get a refund. If you decide on Iris, get your prescription and go elsewhere for more affordable frames. read more

Terrible customer service, I would avoid this place. Definitely, overpriced eye frames as well as contact lenses. I spent close to $1000 here, and am subject to terrible receptionist service. They put you on hold to some awful music, and have dropped several phone calls . Site for sore eyes is much better, literally one block away. read more

I've gotten two eye exams and two sets of glasses from Iris so far, and really like the place. The people who work here are knowledgeable and kind, and they have good frames - cool, unique styles. You can go back any time for small fixes and adjustments no cost; I was going back for two years with my first pair. read more

I legit can't give more positive stars. They stayed past closing for me, pulled out glasses for me, let me face time my family about the glasses for 10 minutes, gave me the space I needed, answered all my questions, and were super kind and patient. I'm a really inquisitive indecisive person and they allowed me to be myself and didn't make me feel bad about being crazy!! I can't wait for my glasses!!!!!!!!! read more

I had a great experience at Iris Eye Center. They sell beautiful frames, and my husband and I got a very detailed exam. highly recommend!

I was z as client there for several years and while I really respected the optician the store itself declined in the quality of products and service. At my last visit the provided the wrong prescription and lenses were ridiculously thick. I returned the glasses and they delayed replacement until such time that I decided to move on, which I did and could not be happier. The folks that work there were very sweet making it a difficult decision for me. But, I felt like I wasn't having a good experience. I hope they can get their practice together because they are very nice people. read more

I been coming to this center since 20 years ago. Great customer service and eye doctors! They discovered something in my eyes that no one else did, found out when I was 35. They also have great frames and choices. Hopefully I will continue for many more years to come here. read more

This place has a great selection of frames that are fun and interesting. The staff is really friendly and helpful, and they were very patient with me as I tried on a ton of different glasses before finally finding the right pair. I had some issues with my prescription and had to come back a few times, and they were super accommodating. 5 stars! read more

****What they did right: Excellent customer service. Nice friendly staff, patient and professional. ****What they did wrong: Poor communication regarding prices and what HAD, and HAD NOT yet been paid for. I do not like being mislead. I was told I was paid up for my glasses, and then they wanted $300+ more. ********Why I'll never go back: CRAZY PRICES!!! I can't afford to have these people tell me one thing and then do another with prices like this. If you're rolling in Benjamins, this is a great place. But if you're living paycheck to paycheck like most of us, bring a credit card. read more

If I could give this shop zero stars, I would. I would not recommend to buy your glasses frames and lenses here. I went to this shop for the first time, after moving to Oakland. I purchased a beautiful pair of Danish frames, and had Iris Eye Center put in the lenses. When I went to pick up the frames, the frames had been significantly stretched, and were no longer wearable or fixable. One of the employees was also upset at what had happened to my frames, and offered to help me find another pair, and said he would not charge me. He encouraged me toward a Spectacle Eyeworks collection, which he assured me were the best in the store. He helped to fit the glasses, and got me a new free pair. I thought that this was very kind - but also necessary - in fixing this problem. The new pair appeared to be OK when I picked them up. Over the last few months, I've worn the frames very little ... and today, when I went to wear them again, realized they too were stretched out, and I couldn't wear them. The employee told me to come back so he could fix them, but I'm just done spending more time trying to fix an unsolvable problem. I will not be going back to this place, as I've wasted nearly $500. It makes me really sad, but I can not be entirely confident this wouldn't happen again. read more

I'm a random stranger, called in for a adjustment since I bought my glasses online, I was upfront with the lady I spoke with and she told me to come on in! I didn't even buy anything. This was great service and proved they are truly in the business of seeing clients comfortable in glasses!! Great service read more

I've never had such a pleasant experience at the eye doctor! The entire staff is very friendly and helpful...When it came time for me to try on frames every member of staff came over to give their input and help me find the perfect pair! They know their stuff, they paid attention to my face shape and style, and ultimately helped me find the most beautiful glasses I've ever seen. The prescription is also spot on. In the past I have gotten glasses elsewhere (mostly just for reading or when I get migraines) and it didn't seem like they helped at all. During my exam they listened to every concern and issue I was having with my eyes and had a solution for all of them. The reason I gave 4 and not 5 stars is because of the prices...it can get pretty expensive. Most of the frames they have their are designer and can't be found anywhere else. Which is awesome because no one else is going to have glasses like you! But also sucks because of the price tag. I was very surprised when they offered to work with me on the bill and let me pay for it in payments! The people at Iris Eye Center are doin it right, I totally recommend them! read more

Iris Optometric Center - Eyewear & Opticians Near Me - Oakland, California

Last week I picked up my annual supply of contacts and the employee mislabeled ALL my contacts. I trusted her and assumed the employee labeled the contact boxes correctly. I was wrong. When I called them today the man who answered the phone told me which contacts are for the left eye and which ones are for right eye. The information he told me did not match how the employee labeled the boxes. I told him that she mislabeled the boxes and he didn't apologize at all. I'm very disappointed how they handled the situation. read more

** Excellent service & phenomenal, unique selection of frames! ** I'm a long time patient (10+ years) & have honestly never seen a more innovative, colorful or stylish array of frames anywhere else. The office staff is incredibly helpful, friendly and professional. The eye docs are always top notch, as is the diagnostic equipment. You will not be disappointed if you stop by their lovely Piedmont Ave location. I highly recommend!!! read more

Amazing customer service. The staff is super helpful and really considerate in helping you pick your glasses. Really welcoming and quick with their service. Thank you! read more

Top of the line customer service and frames. They have a ton of high end and unique frames and sunglasses. If you're something special, you'll find it here. The staff and owner are very friendly and will take care of you. read more

Very friendly people, a good quiet and comfortable shop. The optometrist was thorough and the frames are really nice (if a bit spendier than the big chains). read more

I had a terrible experience here. I bought a pair of regular glasses and a pair of sunglasses. The doctor persuaded me to get progressive lenses and claimed that if I didn't like them she would "cheerfully refund my money." When I picked up the glasses, they had screwed up the sunglasses, so i just took the regular ones. After a week, i didn't really like the progressive lenses, so I called to tell them that I didn't want the sunglasses to be progressive. They called me back to try to talk me into them, insisting that I speak with two people. When I finally went to pick up my sunglasses, I asked them to take the $250 charge off my bill. They couldn't do it because the owner "was at a frame show in Italy for a week." Italy, where they apparently don't have phones or the Internet.... I called a week later and they said they would only refund me $130, despite the line item on my bill for "Progressive lenses - $250." I grew tired of arguing and asked them to send me a check for $130. Two weeks, two phone calls, and an angry email later, I got the check. They also gave me a coupon for a manicure as an apology for the delay. (Seriously, give me the money you owe me!) What a crappy experience! They're all nice there, sure, but they are going to rip you off. Never again. read more

I found them very very commercial. I did not like the sales push. Also, when I told them I would pay out of pocket they charged me $464 for contact lens and regular eye exam. When I told them on the phone they told me another rate, they quickly (and rather randomly) reduced it to $350. It is bizarre that they charge a cash paying patient more than what they charge folks who use their insurance. I think lenscrafters is much better! read more

THEY HAVE THE BEST FRAMES AND THE BEST CUSTOMER SERVICE!!! I have lived in the neighborhood for 22 years. I have been coming to Iris for about 20 of those years. Balvinder and Surinder are the best when matching frames to your face plus are the nicest people. I can not go in there just to look and say Hi. There is always a frame that I end up buying. Thank you so much for your contribution to the neighborhood. Tina Anderson read more

I've been wearing glasses since 5th grade. . .FIFTH GRADE. I have never been so dissatisfied with customer service and my overall glasses quality. I was a little concerned to see there was not an itemized receipt of the features and the discounts from my insurance provider. I got pissed when I actually called my insurance provider and was informed that I was eligible for a discount that was not applied and that they actually submitted charges that were LESS than what was quoted/charged to me. The epitome of phuckery is the optician recommending a pair of lenses, me paying for high index lenses and then the optician later telling me "those frames don't work with high index lenses." If they don't work why the hell would you recommend them and TAKE MY MONEY? Again, I will close and say, I've been wearing glasses since 5th grade. Oh, I'm 34. read more

My experience with Iris has been painful to say the least. Not only did I initially have to go in twice to get the correct prescription, I have had issues with it ever since. I ordered contacts and had a trial pair. Once I put my new contacts on from the box, I notices something off. I thought perhaps maybe my eyes were adjusting. I ended up moving to Georgia a few weeks later and kept getting headaches. Again, perhaps its my new atmosphere. Headaches were not going away. My vision seems off but I am thinking its off because of my migraine. I end up running out of contacts and needed more. I found my prescription and looked at the box and not only was it the wrong prescription, the boxes were labeled incorrectly. I feel relieved as I think yay it's not a tumor! I call Reina and advise her and she asks me to send pictures of the box and send it. I do and then she calls asking to send the contacts. I advise that I have used the contacts thus I needed more and saw the error. I have one left and ask if I can send that. I just wanted the correct prescription for the boxes I ordered and paid for, nothing more nothing less. Reina explains that without the contacts they cannot order more without me paying again. I did pay and you gave me the wrong prescription! You labeled them wrong and did no check to be sure I was okay once I left. Why would I need to pay again for something I paid for initially?? The error is on Iris, not on me. I would be happy to send the bad contacts had I known they were bad and hadn't had used them. I feel bamboozled. I find it hard to understand how Iris cannot correct an error they did for a patient. Thanks for taking my money and insurance so happily and having me come in numerous times and giving me the wrong prescription. I hope that should one of them ever have brain surgery the Dr. doesn't do the wrong procedure causing them more pain and then say, "my bad, if you want another surgery you'll have to pay". I have asked for the manager to call me to hopefully rectify the situation. We shall see. read more

Surprised to see that they only have 3 1/2 stars. My boyfriend works for the state of California. After dropping by in person to a few places we couldn't find the right price and pair of glasses that were within his plan. Surender and female assistant whom I have forgot her name were so helpful. We took a seat and she told us to make our selfs feel at home. Then Surender brought us many pairs of glasses that would be covered by his plan. They also offered their welcomed option while maintaining a professional yet homie feel. We were also offered glare protection and other options not covered but we never felt pressured. They even have awesome custom made frames they make themselves! I would highly recommend this small business to anyone looking for new glasses or shades. We will be back! :) read more

i had some time to kill, so I decided to pop in here and have my glasses adjusted. The staff was very friendly, but they do not know how to adjust a pair of glasses to save their lives! *2* different people helped me. The second person *melted* the plastic at the end of the arm, trying to heat it up to bend. Site For Sore Eyes up the street (towards the movie theater) is a better way to go, tho they're not much better if you have an irregular head like I do! read more

Very expensive but also very excellent collection of stellar frames. The owner-optometrist took me by the hand and led me on a giggling tour of shared favorite movies, relationship ups and downs, what the pictures of my eyes actually showed and how cone distribution gets handled and more...all in an hour long visit. The come down is the price. It's _expensive_ and there's no getting around that. To get the glasses I need cost more than I've ever paid before and I am needing to break it down into two separate chunks. Not including my reading glasses need and trying to get gradiated bifocals turned out to be a price well out of my reach. But if you've money and love spoiling yourself, this is what I would consider my "go to" store for great looking and fitting glasses. I found a dream pair at a couple of hundred above my insurance. Then I found a serious dream pair at $800-. Talk about broken dreams. Le sigh. Breakdown: Excellent and in depth eye exams that are completely covered by most insurances. They don't take checks. They do accept VSP. They're highly educated and very funny as a team, so far as my appointment went. But their glasses are gorgeous and too rich for some people's blood, I'm regretfully caveating. read more

I would not recommend this place. The lenses they did for my frames are all off. I had them measured by my doctor in LA and they were off and provided the measurements of how much they were off from my prescription. This is the third time I have brought back these glasses. I brought them the information the LA doc provided and they got angry, demanded that the other person that measured the lenses sign the proof of the difference in the prescription vs the lens. When they finally did a manual measurement (as opposed to using the electronic one), it proved that the information I provided as correct. I left one of my pairs of glasses for them to fix (even though they should have analyzed and fixed all three), but was so frustrated at that point, I didn't want to deal with them anymore, said the other glasses were acceptable and took the other two pairs home. After I get my glasses back, I will not be going back. If you can't trust them to get lenses right, you cannot trust them with exams either. I now have to call my insurance and see what can be done. For now, I will continue to send my frames to LA to get proper lenses. read more

Fantastic customer service, thorough eye exams, and some really cool and unique frames that they design themselves. I had my eye exam there, but I have a very difficult face to find good frames for so I ended up selecting frames from a different store. But the new glasses I received were really off so I went back to them to see if they could help me pinpoint the issue. They went out of their way to try a multitude of different solutions to help me get to the root of the issue, even performing another eye exam to make sure my rx was accurate. I am super appreciative for their help, especially since I didn't buy my frames from them. Stellar folks!! read more

I've been going to Iris Optometric since I moved to Oakland. I was worried about finding a place as good as the one I used in San Francisco. Boy was I lucky, Iris turned out to be the best optometric center that I've ever used. Balvinder always helps me find the best frames from their always current selection of new frames. She's also a genius in dealing with insurance. The optometrists have worked diligently in finding the best contacts for me in terms of fit, comfort and vision. I couldn't be happier as a customer and I would recommend them to anyone, as I have already done to my friends and family. They are also a great community partner. read more

What a gem! I walked in with glasses that were effectively a slip and slide for my face. Kevin and Christina kindly fixed my classes using wizardry that rivals that which you might find at hog warts. Normally people run the other direction when I enter a building, especially at close proximity. Not this time. I came in full blast with my fanny pack and was running cylinders about 75% Canadian. After dropping some "how to care for your glasses" knowledge, some discussion on the biomechanics and physics of removing and placing eyeglasses on the bridge of the nose, I was full to the brim (pun intended) with a new pair of glasses. If you're mind hasn't blown out of your face, they also offered me a glasses case. Cause I tend to shove mine into unwise places like car doors and back pockets...anyway you should come here. Even if you don't need glasses. Seriously, tremendous people! read more

Being the furthest thing from my mind, I hadn't had an eye exam in 2 years. Having had my eyeballs checked here before, Kevin from Iris Optometric called me to remind me it was time to come in. He graciously set up an appointment that accommodated my busy schedule. I didn't particularly want to start my Veteran's Day holiday off with an eyeball exam, but the day already started with an idiot threatening to blow up explosives on the Bay bridge so I figured it could only get better. Dr. Yarwood made the eyeball exam experience fun with his friendly demeanor, great personality, and his knowledge and passion for the eyeball. I felt like I actually learned something about my eyeball at this appointment. I totally recommend having your eyeballs checked here, Dr. Yarwood makes it fun! Understanding my vanity and desire to wear contacts again at work versus glasses, he gave no hype to my previous "dry eye, reject contact" diagnosis. Instead he encouraged me to keep trying, gave me a free pair of contacts, solution and eye drops to try out. Thanks! Now, my only advice is to be on your game about the $25 charge for a picture of the back of your eyeballs. I didn't care to have them photographed and thought it was part of the exam. I had specifically asked how much the appointment would cost beforehand and was told just a $10 co-pay. Much to my dismay, upon checkout it was $35. $25 for the pictures. "Huh? You didn't tell me." To which Kevin replied "There is a sign on the wall about the charge." To which I defended " Well if I'm here for an eyeball exam, I obviously can't see the sign. If I can't see the sign how am I to know? You should really inform people since we can't see!" Kevin agreed. He did not charge me the $25. Win. Almost a loss of stars but recovery of full 5 stars for pleasant customer service and not charging me. My eyeballs honestly never saw the sign. read more

Well, you can never tell what works for some people. I live in the neighborhood and have walked by many times. One day the optometrist engaged me in conversation and made me realize that I was looking pretty out of date. OK, that's her job, but I was a willing participant. So I decided that my 6-year old frames were making me look old. Months later I wandered in again and worked with Balvinder, the owner. She spent an hour with me trying on pair after pair of glasses, bringing out stuff that wasn't yet on display. I felt like she knew exactly what was working and what wasn't for me. After many iterations, she finally was able to say "That's YOU!" and I had to agree. Partner agreed, family agreed, strangers in restaurants agreed. I needed someone high-touch like Balvinder, who has a gift for figuring out what works and what doesn't. Oh, and the frames were slightly less expensive than I had expected. But alas, the lenses, being progressives and all, were more expensive than I had wanted. But a girl's gotta see. Highly recommended, especially for those who don't know what they want. read more