Nobody does it better than this amazing little shop. Coyote sold me an amazing pair of glasses a couple years ago. One of my nose pads fell off over time and he worked with the company (located overseas) to get a whole new front to replace the broken part. Not only did he switch that out, he polished my dull temples and it's basically a brand new set of glasses. I've been getting glasses from Coyote over the past 12 years - helluva dude. read more

His selection is always really awesome. You leave out of there not only feeling like you look great but like you've bought something exclusive and like you've bought something from someone who's gone above and beyond the type of service you'd get at any other optics store. read more

Lab Rabbit has a great selection of quality frames, from which Coyote pulled a good selection for me to try on. While he was doing that, I sampled on my own. His selection was better! I ended up with a pair of progressive lenses and a pair of sunglasses. The lenses came out perfectly - including my unusual preference on where the transition of the progressive lenses should be. Other labs have listened to the same request, then ground the lenses more like they traditionally do. When the glasses were ready, Coyote meticulously fitted them. I've never been so well taken care of at an optical store! The store is cool, a little quirky, and in a fantastic neighborhood. Check out some of the local restaurants before or after. I came in from the suburbs, and the result was well worth the trip. Next time I need new glasses, I'm headed to Lab Rabbit! read more

Coyote is thee best! Called in on a Saturday morning, told him which frames I was interested in, texted my prescription, went in for him to get my measurements, came back in a couple of hours and walked out the door wearing my new glasses. What more can you ask for? Amazing frames, same day service, and amazing customer service! Bonus: He gives a lovely complimentary canvas bag (that's super cute) along with lab rabbit lens cleaner. Thanks Coyote! Told all my friends! read more

I really wasn't planning on getting new glasses this year, but my 5 month old puppy thought I needed new glasses, apparently. She chewed them up with no remorse whatsoever. Incidentally, a week prior to this, I took the long route to walk sweet little Millie to Wicker Bark and passed by Labrabbit. I'd been going to Lenscrafters for years, and I've only ever owned the same frame shape, so I thought to myself, you know what? I'm going to try something new and I'm going to support a local business. Alright, I'm done with my backstory. I walked into Labrabbit to find all these unique glasses. Coyote, who was working with another customer when I walked in, told me to look around and really find a shape that I liked as opposed to a color, since many frames come in numerous colors. I loved that each frame was one of a kind, and you can tell they were handpicked and selected by a connoisseur. I finally found the one I loved. Coyote measured my eyes three times, and took the average measurements. He did a bunch of other measurements as well. I don't think I've been anyone as precise as here. When I came to pick up my glasses, he was again, very precise, and very meticulous with adjusting the fit. I put on the glasses when he first handed them to me and thought they were great; I was wrong. He makes sure that comfort and looks are perfectly in place, much unlike an aforementioned chain store. He said, "I'm sorry I'm really picky about these things." (These things being the symmetry of the glasses and the fit.) There was literally no reason to apologize. He was very thorough about explaining care of the glasses. Yes, I did spend a great amount here. $165 for the lenses, and $290 for the frames. However, these prices are less than the designer frames at Lenscrafters. I purchased my Burberry frames two years ago for $350. Besides letting my dog eat my glasses, I took pretty good care of them and already the Burberry pattern was peeling off of the frames. I bring this up to say, it may seem like you are paying a lot, but you are paying for the quality and the service you receive. To use the word of another review, Labrabbit is "impeccable" in every way. TL;DR: Yes, come to Labrabbit for your next pair of glasses. Coyote is an artist and a genius when it comes to glasses. read more

It took way too long for the initial visit to Labrabbit. Then it finally happened. I haven't worn glasses for about 8 years and I wanted to try and make up for lost time the moment that I entered. Coyote is the greatest optician in history. When I put that set of Andy Wolf frames on my face, I fell in love. Then I asked Coyote if there is even the slightest chance that I will possibly encounter a second set of these walking around Chicago. He assured me that that is far less than likely. Then I checked the frame designer's site. Turns out that I likely own the only pair of these glasses with a 1500 mile radius. The selection here makes me want to have a spectacle museum of my own. Coincidentally, we ran into each other at The Whistler, which is when I learned that my lenses were ready to go. They were ready one whole day earlier than expected. I'll be back in here again and again and again. read more

Lab Rabbit Optics - Another happy customer. - Eyewear & Opticians Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

Coyote is the best. I picked out new eyeglasses near the beginning of the pandemic, when I basically stopped wearing contacts altogether. Maybe it's his partnership with quality, unique Japanese makers, the meticulousness of his shop and style, or just the name, but Coyote's selection is second to none. If you want a unique pair of lenses, options to choose from, and the best fit you'll ever get, look no further than Lab Rabbit. Will warn that the better the style, the pricier it often is, but some insurances are accepted (mine was - $100 off frames). In this instance, you get what you pay for! The best lenses ever! read more

Hands-down the coolest eyeglass shop in Chicago. Where else can you find a shop run by a guy named Coyote that features an ever-changing art installation in the front window and offers the freshest, funky, unique, arty, vintage and obscure eyewear? I scored my second pair of frames from Labrabbit this weekend and as usual Coyote was a pleasure to do business with. Thanks for keeping Chicago stylish, Coyote. read more

Lab Rabbit Optics - Eyewear & Opticians Near Me - Chicago, Illinois

All I can say is Coyote is the man. I live several blocks from Labrabbit and have been wanting to stop in for some time. I brought in some sunglass frames that needed lenses, and some dismantled frames my ex had played Dr. on for a reason still unknown. Coyote was quick and efficient- He cut some great new lens for me and he re-assembled my frames. I'm pretty bummed I don't wear eyeglasses otherwise I'd buy a pair of frames from him in a heartbeat. He has a very cool assortment of imported, super high quality stuff. I may stop in at some point in the future and buy a pair of his frames to use as sunglasses I liked them that much. read more

I wear progressives and, since I'm in a creative field, prefer eyeglass frames that are trendy without being ostentatious. I love my new eyeglasses. The first day, I received several compliments on the frames. But most importantly, the lenses are awesome -- so clear and perfectly rendered. At one point, I even asked my husband where my glasses were and he answered, "Ummm...you're wearing them?" I "forgot" I was wearing glasses because it felt like my real eyesight. Really glad I read the Yelp reviews and found Coyote through them. read more

This is one of those places that didn't exactly gel with all of the hype I had read about it. I agree with all of the positive comments regarding the selection of upscale/ trendy frames. However where it fell really short was customer service. Mid week during the late afternoon, I was the only person in the shop. The person behind the counter explained that all of the frames were gender neutral, and prices were on each pair . While he did look up from his smartphone for part of our conversation , he immediately returned to his text message / web search . All other questions I asked were answered while he multi-tasked on his phone. He never looked up! Even though I did see a couple of frames that I was interested in, the sheer disregard for customer service made me want to spend my $1,000 for a frame and lenses at another shop. If U R looking for assistance or guidance in your search for frames , Labrabbit may fall short if your expectations . read more

I can't believe I hadn't reviewed Labrabbit Optics earlier. As previously mentioned, Coyote is genius (both in style and technical know-how) and moreover honest to a fault, so it'll be nothing like in 4th grade when the flashy lenscrafters lady convinced you cokebottle glasses were all the rage and you got picked last for kickball every day after. Instead random people will stop you on the street and compliment your new specs, no kidding. These aren't your cheap plastic wannabes from China either. My frames were built back in the days when Americans drank gin for lunch and built bomb shelters. I expect the x-ray vision to kick in any day now. read more

I recently purchased a new pair of eyeglasses at Labrabbit Optics. Coyote, the owner of the shop, provides his customers with a very unique selection of vintage frames from brands such as Lunettes, Tart Optical, Andy Wolf and Shuron. Coyote maintains a high level of exclusivity at his shop, and most of the particular brands offered at Labrabbit Optics are not available from other sellers in the Chicago area. In addition to the unique selection of frames, I was really impressed by the extremely high level of service provided by Coyote after I picked out my frames and lenses. He spent a great deal of time meticulously adjusting the frames to ensure they fit my face correctly. Overall, the quality of service at Labrabbit Optics is excellent in all phases of the process, and I would highly recommend Coyote's services for anyone looking to purchase a stylish pair of eyeglasses. read more

Labrabbit is about as good as it gets. Amazing and extensive meticulous selection of rare+deadstock vintage frames. Prices are very reasonable. Coyote (owner) is amazing; super friendly and extremely knowledgeable. Left with two frames and couldn't be more in love! Check it out, you won't regret it. read more

I had a really great experience at Labrabbit. The place is like a dream come true for those of us who prefer face decor over contacts. The variety of frames was huge and many of them very reasonably priced. I went in on a Monday with my prescription in hand and had my brand new glasses (which I LOVE) by Friday. Its not bunk ass Lens Crafters that'll churn your glasses out within the hour, but will charge you an insane amount of money and convince you that you need all kinds of lens treatments that you really don't. Coyote was really great, he made sure my frames fit really well and that the lenses were going to be centered correctly. If I need to have my glasses readjusted or anything, I know that I can go in and get it done. I'll definetely be going back for another pair and telling all my four-eyed friends about it as well. read more

There's not much I can say about Coyote/Labrabbit Optics that hasn't already been said. The shop is filled with tons of fun, funky and unique frames. I had fun trying practically everything in the shop on. Coyote was great at directing me to things that I might like. I found a great pair of frames by DRIFT, which is a local business making awesome frames with wood temples. Coyote was very patient with me and switched out several pairs of temples so I could see how they looked on the different frame fronts. Once I decided which ones I wanted, he meticulously took measurements of my face to ensure I got the perfect fit. After just one short week of eager anticipation, I got a text letting me know they were ready. Once again, Coyote meticulously checked the frames on my face and fine tuned the frames to make sure they fit perfectly. I have never been so in love with my eye-wear before. Highly recommended! And the fact that I got frames that are completely local was the frosting on this perfect cake. read more

Great service, amazing frames. Nothing like it in the city. You could troll thrift and antique shops for a year, or come to Labrabbit and find 20 pairs you love in as many seconds. The selection ranges from outrageous and daring to restrained and elegant. Every pair is bursting with character. Warning. If you get glasses here, just prepare yourself for the torrents of unsolicited compliments and nonstop flirting that will inevitably follow. read more

i buy glasses obsessively but rarely get to this neighborhood so I'd never been to Labrabbit. I'd just acquired a new pair of vintage frames that needed adjusting so I thought it would be a great reason to finally get over there, get an adjustment from an optician I knew carries vintage frames, and have a look around. The guy was friendly enough when I came in but he took a call while I was mid-sentence explaining why I was there. After he got off the phone, I took out my vintage frames and he immediately announced that he doesn't adjust frames he didn't sell because he might break them. I've always considered that to be an indication that an optician lacks skill in the art of frame adjustment and cares more about making money off people than helping them wear their glasses comfortably and correctly. I wanted my frames back immediately and he got somewhat snippy. I got out of there fast. Since i was already all the way out there, I checked google for nearby shops and went elsewhere. The optician graciously complimented my vintage frames and confirmed that they were authentic. She performed an EXPERT adjustment and was delightful to chat with so of course I had to start trying on frames. I bought a pair of glasses from her and will be back! So sorry Labrabbit guy. read more

So I had super advanced fancy LASIK surgery done in 2008. Had to work through a ton of anxiety, but the perfect storm of a dear Ophthalmology friend getting me in a study and an accidental 1500 HSA balance about to expire pushed me to just get it done. And it was a miracle! Within 3 days, I had been freed from the 30-year shackles of my coke-bottle glasses. I was a different person bursting with clarity! And so I ignored that I was slowly drifting away from 20/20 vision over the past year (years?). And maybe I couldn't see the bands on stage as well as i hoped. And occasionally, I would resort to pulling on my eyeballs to get the appropriate refractive angle. But this month, I couldn't see the TV. Plausible deniability was lost. So I got lucky and made an Ophtho appointment and found out that I've probably been legally blind AGAIN for awhile. And with a rush of acceptance/frustration, I did the typical google/yelp search and found Labrabbit Optics was on my walk home from the El. I tried texting every fashion savvy friend I had, as I knew I was going to impulse buy now that I knew it was time to regain the gift of sight. No luck. So I perused all the options and found only a few frames that fit my face. At that point, I was ready to complete my impulse buy, and Coyote came over to look over my choices. He immediately nixed two (the more expensive ones!), and came back with one completely different frame. Glorious, it was a super trendy, sleek, futuristic version of the metal geek frames I had on my face for decades. With one pair of frames, Coyote had let me reclaim glasses from my dorky past. Coyote clearly has great pride in his products and service. He even promised me not to order the same frames anytime soon, which is obviously unnecessary, but which kinda felt a nice touch. For the adult that spent years weighed down with glasses as a kid, this store will let you soar:) Sorry for that last line. TL;DR: All the articles and reviews are correct, LabRabbit is a gallery as much as it is a store, go buy some art for your face. read more

The best place for eyewear, period. Not much more to say. The best service you can get, and gorgeous and unique frames.

I'm blessed with poor vision. At least, for the first time, I've felt that this was true. I've had to get a new pair of glasses almost every single year since I was about ten. I've never had a more pleasant experience choosing frames or being fitted for them. The selection in here can't be matched anywhere, the location is convenient and close to public transit, and the turn around time was quicker than estimated. The whole process was very simple, logical, and well organized, and the people who work here are very sweet. Accepted payments are cash, credit, debit, and to my knowledge, paypal. There is a lot of hard work that goes into this place, and it shows. Hell yeah! read more

Well the last thing that Coyote and the good people at Labrabbit need is another five star review. But sometimes, we must make such difficult decisions. PS. there are no other "good people" at Labrabbit--Coyote is a one man show. Here's what happened. I have visited so many GAT damn glasses shops in the past 2 months it would make your head spin. Lame ones (Lenscrafters, whatnot) and cool ones (Red Eye, whatnot), and eeeverything in between. The thing of it is, I kept seeing the same STUPID frames. Worse yet, it turns out that they're aaaall made by the same stupid company (even shmancy ones like Prada, Gucci, etc.). No joke, ask someone who knows. Whatnot. So then enter...Coyote. Homeboy has all the "other" frames. Like, super-cool ones that arent made in the same STUPID factory by the same boneheads. At the end of the day it's like this, people. Either get your frames here from Coyote, or be a straight-up bonehead. read more

I probably should have written a review earlier, but honestly Labrabbit is the best eyeglass shop I have walked into. All of the frames are so completely unique, but there is still a wide variety that most high end shops don't seem to offer. The guy that runs the place is so nice and helpful. Besides hooking me up with the glasses, I locked myself out of my car and he let me hang around for an hour since it was cold out. Additionally, I paid $120 for my frames (which I love). A year later my prescription changed and I took them to a different shop closer to home just to have the lenses replaced. The guy there freaked out that I had these lenses because he said they were discontinued a long time ago and really hard to find anywhere but that they were some of the best quality frames. He asked me how much I paid and when he said $120 he told me how lucky I was because they usually start at $450. Labrabbit certainly hooks it up. read more

Yeeeeah! I came here to grab some specs after about 5 years of being kind of blind and not realizing just HOW blind I am. I had read the Yelp reviews, reviewed Coyote's website, watched his video and thought there was no other place I'd rather check out. Coyote's customer service is impeccable. He is totally invested in what he's doing and in helping each customer get an excellent pair of glasses with perfect lenses! The selection is rad with a great mix of vintage and saucy new. He helped me pick out the right pair with a keen artist's eye and a knack for knowing how glasses affect facial structure, feature position, and bridge placement. He was attentive when needed and allowed space for me try on different pairs and make tons of faces and poses in the mirror without feeling watched. I picked up my specs today, he did some slight adjusting of the frames after I tried them on and they have been PERFECT! It's a whole new world, baby, and I'm Seein' Fine! Thanks Labrabbit, You rock! read more

Obviously, I understand that stars are to be awarded for the business, but in this case, my stars are for Coyote, the owner of Labrabbit Optics (and arguably the engine of the business) for fulfilling several write-in category superlatives. First among these, he is awarded FOUR stars for being: "The Coolest." In addition to fixing my busted Betsey Johnson frames --which were not even purchased at his store-- FOR FREE, Coyote is the Most Knowledgeable, Most Accommodating, Most Uniquely Tattooed (and kindly) person whom you could ever hope to encounter. Oh yeah, and his frames are pretty awesome too. I am deducting a star only because there is not much of a bell-curve on pricing. Most of the frames are in the $200 price range with some falling slightly below and several reaching far above that number. There is much to love, here, however, and chief among those things is the customer service. read more

After numerous suggestions from my friend Nikia J. I finally purchased my first pair of (Drift) frames from the super awesome Labrabbit Optics. I knew first hand that this shop was all that Nikia talked about and more when several people came in and were known on first name basis. Coyote is a golden optician and it shows that he is very passionate at what he does. If I could vote 100 stars for this shop I would in a heart beat. I look forward to visiting again soon for my next pair(s). read more

Wow, this place had an underground feel as I walked up to Coyote's home business on the 3rd floor.. After reading the reviews here, I decided to try Labrabbit for a pair of sunglasses and I was not disappointed. I thought I would save money from my usual place, but alas, I discovered a pair of BAMBOO frames! No matter what other frames I looked at, nothing compared to the bamboo ones. So I splurged and I'm not disappointed. Coyote customized the lenses and got the perfect color. When I picked up my frames, he showed me an excellent pair of gray frames that I fell in love with. I'll be back. By the way, no credit cards, only checks and paypal. I had narrowed it down to 2 frames and Coyote let me take them home to show my husband. We came back that evening and ordered the bamboo ones. read more

I needed a pair of specs with some style but something professional enough to be worn while arguing in court. Again, had a great experience trying on frames and getting advice from Coyote while drinking the beer he offered me and chatting. The selection just keeps getting better, which is hard to fathom given how amazing it was the last time I stopped in here. And like last time, the new specs are perfectly tailored to my face and are so clear it's crazy. Tegan's artwork in the window seals the deal. Giant paper cut cats? Please and thank you. read more

Great service! Just go! You want some awsome frames.. go and check out the selection. You may not have to go anywhere else. Need lenses placed in an existing frame? GO GO GO! Impeccable service! read more

There is definitely something to be said for individual attention. After trying online frames and being dissatisfied, I came in to Labrabbit specifically to get some high-quality frames personally fitted to me. Coyote helped me through the selection process and had my frames and lenses ready a few days later, and then worked with me to ensure that they fit properly so I could leave constantly pushing my glasses up as a distant memory. I've been back a couple times since, and will continue to go here for all my optical needs. Something that is such a big part of my personal appearance warrants this level of consideration. read more

Did you know? Labrabbit optics replaces lenses if you have your own frames. On a recent trip to Japan, I decided to buy some Kaneko optical frames since most of the asian frames have nose pads to help with my small bridge. I brought my frames here to have the lenses made and couldn't be more pleased. My vision is -5.75/-6.00 and the price for the lenses was extremely reasonable. In addition, I believe the lenses are 1.74 hi-index Essilor lenses with Crizal Avance coating. The reviews may complain that the lenses are "expensive," but you actually get MORE than what you pay for. They're not thick, polycarbonate ones. They are the thinnest, most comfortable, and pretty lenses I have ever had. Ive been quoted $600 for similar lenses. The next best part is the service. The owner checks everything. He looks at your face, the side of your face, behind the ear... he makes sure that is completely level and fits your face the best that it can fit. I tend to rush myself through this process and it happened in Japan. Even though the Kaneko optical people adjusted it, I came home feeling bummed bc it felt too high on my face. Considering I didnt buy my frames here, the owner fixed all of that. If you want to get your lenses replaced, remember two things: (1) Bring your prescription or know how heavy your vision is. You can discuss how thin/thick and the options for lenses. (2) Bring your old lenses. You can point out all the crappy things you don't like about your existing glasses and how you overpaid at your optometrist office. You can discuss the new options that won't have those issues. Overall, 5+ stars. Highly recommended. Just come here. read more

I could not be happier!!! I love my new eyeglasses and sunglasses from Lab Rabbit Optics!!! I read the reviews and decided to make the trek from the suburbs to this shop. I am a "senior citizen", but -- for a change -- wanted trendier glasses without looking like "mutton dressed as lamb" if you know what that means. Coyote delivered! He found two great frames that were very special, but age-appropriate. Both really improved my look. Best of all: I was so impressed with the attention Coyote devoted to fitting the finished glasses to my head. I have worn glasses all my life and NO ONE -- I mean NO ONE -- has ever shown that kind of attention to detail. He made absolutely sure that both pairs fit perfectly and repeatedly encouraged me to return for fine-tuning in the future. What a guy! Sent from my iPad read more

Awesome - plain and simple. Where else can you get an attractive pair of glasses with hand-shaped lenses for $80? Turnover time from picking out the frames, getting fitted, putting in the order, and getting the new pair was only about a week and a half. Coyote is a great guy and very easy to work with; if you need a new pair of specs, him him up and go get a pair. read more

This place is the craft cocktail version of eyewear. Coyote is a one-man show who has carefully curated one of the most unique and interesting collections of frames I've ever seen. ...And my husband is an optometrist - so there is a LOT of eyewear in my life :) If you're looking to blend in, go to one of the obvious chain stores and support Corporate America. If you're looking to support a local Chicago business, find something that reflects the individual that you are, or even if you're just looking for an environmental change-of-pace for a minute - Labrabbit is for you. You can find vintage frames to handmade frames. Speaking of, Drift Eyewear is sold here - ALSO Chicago business owners, that use reclaimed wood to make their frames. Really neat. Got the hubs a pair about a year ago (shades) and pretty sure he'll need another at some point because he wears them everywhere. Oh, that's another thing - if you fall in love with frames there, you can have them be made into glasses OR shades. Nice to have options. Check this place out. read more

Showed up supposed to be open, sign said "Back in 15 minutes" so I called and he answered of course a cell phone, and I asked how long he'd be, since I wondered 15 minutes from when. His response"you'll just have to wait and see." No I won't smart ass. Shop local. Not here. read more

My strategy for getting glasses this time was to go to a National chain for a good script based on all the new equipment they have s day then support someone local. Picked Lab Rabbit because he wasn't far away and got great reviews. Add another 5 stars - the lenses are probably the best I've had. Mr c was very helpful in helping me pick out some good frames. Hands down- best pair of glasses I've had in a long time. No large deviations on the side of my lenses despite my high script. Support local artists - he designed the frames and he seems to be very proud of what he does! read more

Time spent elsewhere is time wasted. Coyote DeGroot is a consummate professional, an artisan - and a magician as well. Go to LABRABBIT - select the finest frames and receive service that is on another plane: far, far above anything you've grown accustomed to. Brilliance is the only word employable when one seeks to describe the best pieces of Coyote's exclusive personal line. LABRABBIT is more than everything a shop in Chicago should be. Absolutely first-rate and world-class. read more

In short, Labrabbit Optics changed my life. One pair down, two on the way - including an extraordinary pair of new old stock frames that will soon be prescription sunglasses for all the seeing and looking good I want to do with what little sun this city will throw our way. They are patient while you peruse the impressive stock of frames in every color, shape, and size, meticulous at measuring, and insightful and intuitive in helping you find the perfect pair for your face/needs/style. Bring in your prescription or even your tired, boring glasses and they can get the scrip from the lenses. Real talk: the most fun and friendly frame finding experience in town. read more

I went to Labrabbit Optics after visiting every other spectacles monger in the area. This was to be my first pair of glasses ever, and so I was laboring the decision of which frames to buy - I received my prescription back in December. The first thing I noticed was how different the frames are. Labrabbit has, by far, the most unique selection of Frames in the city. Apparently, Coyote (proprietor) has a TARDIS that enables him to travel back in time between 20 and 30 years to procure frames that simply do not exist anymore. His frames vary tremendously, and most of them are one of a kind (at least in our time-line). There really is something for everyone at this store, from Ira Glass to Dieter from Sprockets. Beyond the selection, the prices are INCREDIBLE. Most of the frames do not have prices, which is usually cause for concern for the visually impaired of modest means. However, Labrabbit's prices are far lower than the average high-street chain-store prices. Seriously, my frames and lenses were cheaper than what comparable frames alone would have been at the aforementioned stores. Finally, the service was fantastic. Labrabbit is currently a small operation, giving Coyote the opportunity to really get to know his customers. He knew my name after my second visit. And I'm foreign! After making my much labored decision, my frames and lenses were ready in 3 days. And should I need any further assistance with my frames, I know I can bring them back to Coyote for mending without any hassle. Awesome. I am 100% satisfied with my frames, I'd even publicly endorse Labrabbit on network TV, if given the opportunity. read more

When it comes to your face... don't mess around. Labrabbit Optics is a beautiful, clean lined shop with the best selection of eyewear in Chicago. Coyote, the owner, is a true professional. Knowledgable and an expert in his craft. Since shopping with Labrabbit putting glasses on in the morning has turned from a drab necessity to an exciting part of my morning routine. read more