Full disclosure: I only spoke to a staff member here. What I am told is that I need an appointment to view frames. During the pandemic, no doubt. Not saying COVID is over but 2025? Not so sure. Also, no appointments are possible on weekend. Last appt on weekdays is 5pm. Not sure if I will take time off work to view frames here. Rather go to Rockridge Optometry on the other side of the street is open until 6pm and on Saturdays. read more

I've been going to Moderne Eye for many years. I really don't remember when I started going there. When I retired I had the choice of staying on the eye care I got through work, or Kaiser. Even though I was more expensive I chose to stay on my work eye and dental insurance, so I could continue going to Moderne eye. Dr. Lin is wonderful. She's thorough and caring. I've found everyone who works there to be very helpful. For example, on my last visit, I wanted to get the same style frames as I had on my list pair of glasses, but they no longer carried them, so the man who does the fitting (I'm embarrassed to say his name has slipped my mind. Very embarrassing because he's so nice!) called the company that made the frames, and was able to order the exact same frames! I happily give Moderne Eye 5 Stars read more

outstanding and careful service by both Dr. Lin and Jose. Moderne Eye has been my go-to since the 90's.

Ok kids. Full disclosure: I've never purchased eyeglasses or sunglasses here, and I've never gotten my eyes checked by either of these optometrists. From what I can see, past reviews have not been particularly optimistic. However, I can only report on my own experience. I have a favorite pair of sunglasses. On a recent walk through Oakland, my favorite sunnies fell apart. One of the temples completely detached from the lenses. I wandered into modern eye optometry to see if they fixed sunglasses. There's a sign on the wall that announces that any repairs done to glasses not purchased at the store will cost $50. I decided to ask anyway. The optometrists looked at my sunglasses, said they thought they had a screw that would fit, promptly took my sunglasses behind the scenes, and fixed them for me - for no charge. It was very kind, and they didn't have to do it. A kindness deserves a kindness, so hey presto - this review. Pay it forward, kids. read more

See all

Phenomenal staff.. personable & very updated high tech machinery. Way better than Kaiser. People centered & have a wide selection of frames! Highly encourage & appreciate how they are a people of color staff! Very important to have culturally relevant & represented providers read more

Drs Sue Lin and Ruben Rivera are both phenomenal diagnosticians. My last prescription for glasses from them is still the best Rx I've had in the last 20 years. They are good communicators and clearly explained their findings. I recommend them highly and without any reservations. They are excellent! read more

Their optician here is horrible, you've been warned. They've lost a customer in me. Seriously bad!

At first I was afraid, I was petrified...to have four eyes. I'd always prided myself on my peepers, but over the years my distance vision has been getting blurrier and more Monet-esque. Aside from having to sit close to a film screen if it had subtitles, not being able to read chalk board menus, and ongoing implorations from my boyfriend to get glasses, my nearsightedness didn't affect me much. When I needed to start driving all of a sudden, due to a new job and move, and I knew that the DMV would disapprove of my current visionary capacity, I decided to remedy this problem. Moderne Eye had always caught my blurry eye as I'd lived in the neighborhood for a long time. I popped in and inquired about availability, and was told that there was a few week wait. When I explained my situation the office manager fit me in within two days; I was quite relieved and happy with their flexibility. Dr. Lin, the optometrist, was a delight to talk to, and Jennifer, the optician, was helpful in deciding which of the two Oliver Peoples frames I was debating between. The doctor did a great job with the lens prescription; trudging through all of those questions in the exam is for a reason! All of a sudden I could see signs across the street, birds in the sky, and a whole world of text and images that were foreign to my 20/60 vision. Just like the DMV wants. An eye for an eye may leave the world blind, but an eye for an improved eye, leaves me happy and clear-sighted. read more

Moderne Eye Optometry - Optometrists Near Me - Oakland, California

Dr Lin is awesome! She went above and beyond after a past exam to contact my personal physician after seeing high cholesterol symptoms in my eyes, resulting in my doctor prescribing meds that have have kept my cholesterol levels safe ever since. My routine appointment this morning was equally impressive. Dr Lin showed me how "computer lenses" could help my quality of life and address the changes in my sight that I face now with aging. I truly trust her and feel confident that I'm in the best hands. As a skeptical, cautious individual who's survived more than one bad medical experience, Dr Lin is a blessing. read more

I scheduled an appointment and had such a good experience, I ended up scheduling one for my children and husband. All of us received awesome treatment and got prescriptions we were in need of. By the way, the optometrists here helped me understand how important an actual optometry appointment is for children. I had thought that since all seemed fine in their eye exam with their pediatrician, they didn't need a specialized optometry appointment. I was so wrong! The sight test at your pediatrician visit is testing far sightedness. It doesn't test for reading or near sightedness! Needless to say, we were incredibly surprised to find out both of our children needed glasses for reading--big time! Both optometrists here were awesome and the admin staff was so helpful with navigating insurance and helping us find frames that we actually like. five stars all around!! read more

Dr. Reuben Rivera is one of my favorite doctors. Of all my medical appointments, I always look forward to seeing him and having my eye exam. He should teach bedside manner Dr. Rivera will explain anything until I feel completely comfortable, keeps a long eye on my prescriptions, and how they have or haven't changed, the health of my eyes and my ability to focus as I age. I found Moderne Eye when I was in my early 20's and in my 40's it's still one of the best exam's and medical experiences every year. I cannot emphasize enough how kind, gentle and considerate he and the staff I've worked with over the years are. read more

I've had wonky eyes all my life (astigmatism, severe near-sightedness), and I've been going to Monderne Eye for the past 8 years. I figured I should write a review. I've seen Dr. Lin annually, and been helped out by Jennifer and Jose in picking the right frames. At my first checkup, Dr. Lin gave me some articles on computer use and vision after I asked a lot of detailed questions about how to better take care of my eyes. Thanks for being willing to geek out with me about eyesight! When it comes to frames, I really appreciate Jennifer's honesty in what looks good and what doesn't. There isn't a huge selection of men's frames, but she's been willing to suggest alternative colors for what they have in stock. I've always walked away feeling good about what I've ordered. I've also had no problems with my insurance here. read more

Very dirty and they take advantage of people. They don't give you a receipt with the details of what you ordered. Then when it's wrong they want to charge extra. The office is very unprofessional. I called to complain becuase i got an eye infection AFTER my appointment and he said that's impossible hmmmm, he is the worst optometrist I have been to ever. Please be careful going there they don't clean and over charge you. You hear the staff bad mouthing other customers while waiting. Just go somewhere else! read more

I had my first experience with Moderne Eye Optometry recently. The staff was kind and helpful, and even though they were very busy I never felt rushed. They were thorough, knowledgeable and attentive. I honestly chose this optometrists' office only because they had an "Oakland stands united against hate" sign in the window. I'm happier supporting a business when I know people behind it have sound values. In my experience the place is kid-friendly, queer-friendly and trans-friendly. And, unlike another office on the same street they won't try and usher you out the door if you don't look rich - so I'm hoping for a long happy relationship with my new optometrist! read more

I had two prescriptions done by Dr. Lin. First one was fine. Second one (a couple years later) was not correct. I was in a hurry to have glasses made before a trip and wore the glasses with the new prescription. My eyes bothered me the entire trip. I saw Dr. Lin for a follow up. She insisted the prescription was right. I went back to my optometrist in SF (who I should never have stopped seeing, despite the commute from the east bay.). She took her time and got the prescription right and I had the glasses remade. Considerable inconvenience. I definitely do not recommend this place. read more

My wife and I have been coming here for the better part of a decade. Everyone is really personable, and Dr. Lin has a wealth of knowledge. She talked me into computer glasses, which I'm now very glad I got! read more

I have a lot of sympathy for being a lone service-person with several customers waiting, but when I went to drop off my prescription and frames, the receptionist handled the situation terribly. Then she aggressively tried to sell me more expensive lenses, even after I repeatedly said I wanted the cheapest, and insulted me when I refused. And I thought: strike one, but OK, fine, salespeople have to make a living. A day or two later, I got a call: they've lost my prescription. What? I had to go back in to drop it off again. And I thought: strike two, but OK, fine, everyone makes mistakes. Finally the glasses were ready, yippee! But when I went to pick them up, the receptionist was engaged in a personal conversation with someone who was not a customer. I had to wait while they caught up on kids, mutual acquaintances, etc. Strike three. There's no excuse for that. My glasses were fine, but I will take my business elsewhere and tell my friends and family to do the same. read more

Scenerio: Ripped contact at work and needed a replacement. Went here to get a replacement thinking they would help. I knew exactly what I needed but I had to jump through hurdles. I knew my prescription however, she still had to have my perscription faxed here anyway. Oh yeah, i finally got my 1 Accuvue Oasis for......10 BUCKS? I will not be going back. read more

Moderne Eye Optometry is really, really good - especially Dr. Reuben Rivera, who has unbelievable diagnostic skills as well as people skills. Kudos also to their receptionist, who helps you figure out what frames go with your face. She even figures out the insurance breaks for you and lets you know how expensive they are. I have a particular dry eye problem, and Dr. Rivera helped me figure out what medications work best (and what their side effects are). AND he has the most modern equipment, which I really appreciate. I'd give them five stars except that their frames are so bloody expensive. Get the prescription from Moderne Eye, and then get it filled somewhere else. Like Costco. read more

Short summary of my experience there in chronological order: 1) Not greeted by any staff as I'm browsing. Still bought eyeglasses. Paid in full. Was told it'd take 10 business days. 2) Karen calls 1 day later to say she miscalculated the balance, and I owe $50 more. OK to handle when I pick up. 3) No call after 10 business days. I call, and Karen says it'll take another week and would let me know when they're ready. 4) No call after 7 days. I call back, and Karen says it should be shipped by the next day. 5) No call after 1 day. I follow up, and they were finally there. Left my credit card on the desk for Karen to charge the balance while another staff member is adjusting my eyeglasses. Once that was done, I asked if I was all set, and they confirmed yes. 6) Got a call from Karen ten minutes later that she forgot to charge the balance; therefore, I have to come back to their office. So, I return and pay my dues. I think it's also worth mentioning that the person that adjusted my eyeglasses left the legs uneven, so I had to get that taken care of again. No hello or goodbye from the staff either. If you don't want this kind of customer service (i.e. basic/simple greetings, actual follow up, etc.), just go to C2020 across the street. Their staff is awesome. read more

Terrible customer service, actively combative on multiple tries to communicate. They took stole money and claimed they didn't need follow through on delivering the product... If you enjoy being stolen from, this is the place for you. I also heard of a couple customers getting eye infections..? This business is a hard pass for me, and anyone I care about. Have a relative you hate? Send them here!! read more

Dr Susan Lin is awesome, she made me feel comfortable and assisted me with details about the status of my eye sight. No nonsense service, nice selection of my favorite brand of eye ware. Dr Susan gave me info on what was covered on my eye plan, and what was not. She made a point to give me all the necessary details assisting me to choose what I needed. Susan spent time to help me choose glasses that would fit me just right . They take my insurance and did not waste time during my appointment. I arrived and we started on time, within an hour I had gone through a much needed battery of eye tests and I felt relieved that my experience was so positive. I read the Yelp reviews and a few of these reviews were not gleaming, but I was glad I disregarded them and paid attention to the ones that spoke of: the cleanliness of the office the variety in the selection of the glasses the professionalism of the staff the most thorough eye exam Staff was friendly and courteous A friend of mine who just moved here from a different state, said she had been going to a eye doctor there. When she moved to California she found a new doctor, when the doctor looked at her prescription glasses the doctor told her he was surprised that she could actually use the glasses she was wearing because the prescription was wrong. If you go to Dr Susan Lin, you will not have this type experience. She enjoys what she does and her experience shows whiles she takes care of you. read more

I decided to go to Moderne because it was close to home, they accepted my insurance and I figured that since they had a store front, they'd have a good selection. Dr. Rivera was great. He has a nice, easy going vibe and it was a thorough exam. I'd definitely go back for an exam with him. However, the selection was not that great. For all that space, you think they'd be able to stock a wider selection. A lot of it was just too over the top trendy for me to even consider since I was looking for something that I could wear most days, so needed something somewhat inobtrusive. Maybe it was just bad luck, but most of the more neutral styles and colors didn't suit my face. One of the women manning the front desk was REALLY helpful, knowledgable and friendly. The other two I dealt with...not so much. And the one who helped me when I picked up the glasses? My fitting was conducted while we were both standing and her adjustment consisted of her manhandling the expensive new frames in a way that made me concerned for their well being(!). read more

I didn't think I would ever be writing a review for an optometrist but I had a uniquely positive experience here. Dr. Lin was very patient, knowledgeable and informative. I've had negative experiences with other eye doctors in the area, where billing and communication with insurance was confusing and unclear. This was not the case here. Jose at the front desk made a huge difference for me by having informational resources at the ready, and generally communicating the billing and insurance process with transparency and clarity. That way I felt I could make informed decisions about how to use my benefits. Lastly, they had a great selection of frames. Also they asked my pronouns. Which was v chill. read more

I've been a patient of Dr. Lin and Dr. Rivera since they opened Moderne Eye, and have kept coming back to them even after I moved to L.A. -- that's how highly I think of them. They do the most thorough eye exams I've ever had, and are caring and kind. Most impressive of all to me, when I asked Dr. Rivera about LASIK for my eyes, he did a thorough exam, and then gave me all the info, pro and con. I decided not to have the surgery, and after meeting lots of people who had "borderline" sorts of issues with LASIK, I am very grateful for his candor. They're good people, and their work is good. read more

I really liked everyone at the Moderne Eye. I saw Dr. Ho, who was very helpful and comunicative as she conducted her exam. She was careful and thorough, and explained everything she was doing. Jennifer helped me look for frames. Even though I didn't find frames that I liked, she was very helpful and patient in helping me look through their collection. I didn't give 5 stars, because I wish there was more of a selection and some cheaper prices. I realize that's how they make money. To that end, the store is laid out very nicely, and the frames they have are all very good quality. Did I mention they were super nice? I'll be back! Thanks guys! read more

They had more diversity of shapes and loads of cat eye frames. Color wise they mostly had dark frames unfortunately. I really liked the hands off approach to reception. She simply unlocked the cabinets and said have at it! I found numerous shapes that were perfect, but they were all black or dark brown. In general I would say their frames were more sophisticated and mature than other shops on the street. They were not boring shapes though. You will get noticed in their frames. Sadly I wanted a frame color they didn't have in stock. They looked up the designer's web page but the photos were bad, so the receptionist took my name and frame model. She said that she would talk to the rep and call me, if they got something in color. No calls yet - but I really liked the effort expressed. Other shops truly didn't go this distance. I also like that they have docs on site! read more

I have been going to Modern Eye for the past several years for my yearly eye exam. Dr. Rivera is awesome. He is thorough and takes his time with me on every visit. What I like best is his explanation of the exam and how my eyesight has changed from the year before. Over the years Jennifer has helped me pick out the coolest frames and the best possible lens. I get many compliments from friends and co-workers on my glasses. On my last visit, Jose helped me. He was great as well. Jose helped me select the perfect frames and made sure they were adjusted properly. If you want top quality and style frames with highly personalized service, then Modern Eye is the place to go. read more

I'm surprised by the mixed reviews. I've been seeing Dr. Lin since at least 2003 and I have consistently been impressed by her warmth and professionalism. The exam equipment is very current and Dr. Lin stays on top of the latest research in her field. She takes the time to thoroughly explain everything she does, answers my (many) questions and even points out features of my optic nerve in the digital images she takes using a machine I couldn't even begin to guess the name of. I never feel rushed when I'm there. In fact, we chat a lot on a personal level during my exam which feels nice. I like that every year we pick up our conversation from where we left off the year before. Jennifer at the front desk is wonderful. I depend on her fashionable and critical eye when picking out frames. True, the selection is more limited than other places and the prices overall are a bit higher, but I prefer to buy high quality frames every two+ years instead of cheap frames every year. Also, I like that the selection is small. I get overwhelmed easily. For me, the best frames seem to "pop" when there are fewer choices. One time I left my glasses in a hot car and the lenses cracked (oops). Jennifer got replacement lenses covered under the warranty at no charge but cautioned me that future replacements would not be possible. She had a polite, friendly way of speaking which I really appreciated since after all it was my mistake. I also appreciate that they clean up and refit my glasses when I stop in. They once found me a spare case after I lost mine. And they are endlessly patient with me when I ask them to break down ALL the costs so I can figure out the best deal or how to budget for expenses and save on shipping costs for contacts. Back when I had VSP I didn't fuss with the expenses so much. Now I use my FSA debit card and need to be more careful. I've never considered having anyone else take care of my eyes. I totally trust Dr. Lin. As far as frames and contacts go, I've only bought one pair of sunglasses elsewhere. They're fine. But I like the personal attention I get at Moderne Eye so I tend to stick with them whenever it's time for new eyewear. read more

Incredibly rude service like many others have said. I don't leave many reviews but the incredibly hostile and argumentative staff at Modern Eye inspired me to warn others. AVOID this place at all costs. read more

Dr. Rivera is great - he's gentle and very very accurate. I am pleased with my prescription every time. He checks every aspect of my sight and I always leave feeling very pleased with the service I've received. They take VSP and although I don't buy frames there (too expensive!) the office has a nice selection. read more

I have basic age-related far-sightedness and I actually look forward to my annual appointments with Dr. Lin. She's so down to earth and interesting and funny and super knowledgeable. She puts you at ease because she really knows what she's doing. She's been at this location for 25 years and I have to say she obviously knows how to make a practice thrive. Jose is a hoot as well, always friendly, funny, and oh-so professional. Oh I got my frames there too. Love them. read more

Moderne Eye is awesome, that's really all there is to say. I'm a geek that's been wearing the same style of wire-frame glasses for the past 5 years. I figured I needed something new, and the receptionist at Moderne Eye helped me pick out a cool pair of green frames that look amazing. She was polite and professional, and put up wonderfully with my indecisiveness. To update my prescription, Dr. Lin put me through every optometry device available to mankind. We then talked for about 20 minutes about the kinds of work I do and how I can protect my eyes. She even game me links to research articles online about eye health when working with computers. Thanks Dr. Lin, you certainly know how to appeal to a geek's heart! A month after I got my glasses, I noticed the paint on my frames had chipped. I took it back and the receptionist got me a new pair, free of charge. No hassle, no fuss. read more

Super friendly, very efficient (but not rushed) staff, and a wide variety of choices! I love this place. The only reason I didn't give it 5 stars? The eye-glasses frames tend to run on the pricier side :( read more

José is awesome. He knows a ton about lenses. Jennifer, on the other hand, basically told me never to come back, and I won't be. I had ordered a pair of glasses that they used to carry from José, and he told me I didn't have to buy them when they came in, because I wasn't sure if they'd go with my new hairstyle. Today I went in to try them on, they didn't go, and I let Jennifer know. She then tried to get me to pay some $20 restocking fee that had never been mentioned or agreed to, and when I refused, she basically told me never to come back. So I won't. Buyer beware. read more

I've been here on and off. First several years ago (2003-2006) and more recently in 2012. The only reason I left was that I had moved out of the area. For awhile. I've been pleased with each of my visits here. The receptionist is friendly and the doctors are great. The understand what is covered by my insurance and help me figure out the best way to use those dollars. Yes they charge the annoying "contact lense inspection" fee - but so has every on eof hte other 4 or 5 optometrists I've seen over the years. VSP just doesn't cover contact lense inspection or fitting. Most recently I saw Dr. Lin. I noticed that the perscription she wrote down didn't match my current perscription, and she explained why. She also decided to dialate my eyes to check my perscription again because I am far sighted and you can only get a truly accurate [erscription with far sightedness if you dialate the eyes. When the perscription didn't match, she gave me both perscriptions and recommended that I try the new one in an old pair of glasses before I spent nay significant money so that I cold decide which one I preferred. I was skeptical, but I tried the new prescription and it's much better! I'm very glad I was able to wait to spend money on contacts until I knew which I preferred. My only complaint is that their glasses are expensive, just like every other full service optometrist I've ever been to. However, they are fine with giving me my perscription and then I can go grab extra pairs online. read more

I always feel I am understood with Dr. Sue Lin. I have been going here for a few years for my eye exams and eye glasses. Dr. Lin is very thorough and knowledgeable in the industry. She has helped me understand my unique vision issues to where I can make the best decisions for my eyesight. Additionally, I am always treated well by Jennifer and Jose. Both know their stuff and never forget a client's name or history. I would highly recommend Moderne Eye Optometry! read more

I should have read reviews before going to them. There are many negative ones writing about getting ripped off. There is absolutely no way I would recommend this business. They are in the practice of making as much profit as possible by screwing the patient/customer. They're not in it to actually provide the right balance of care while also being a business. This isn't a smart way to obtain and keep patients/customers. My list of grievances include the following, so buyer beware: 1) High non-competitive prices and fees for products and services is their business model 2) They will charge you more as a "new" patient even if you've seen them before but not within the past year. I had to challenge that because I was months over the year! They removed the "new patient" charge when challenged. 3) They sell and push vitamin "supplements" tha may or may not be effective, at $100+ per 3-pack! 4) Even if you have insurance but they did not verify for authorization, you will be asked to pay in full. After the fact, they will refuse to refund you the difference. You can only have store credit to apply to their exorbitant high prices on things there, include said supplements 5) If they write you an Rx for contacts that are discontinued, they will not see you to fit a different brand unless you pay for the service again. Of course, this time it would be at full out of pocket charges because you've already used your annual insurance (which they did not verify before and billed only after you've already paid cash price --but hey you have store credit for the difference to apply to overly priced ineffective supplements--, so you're looking at having to pay cash price again at hundred of dollars...for an Rx that you'd actually be able to fill) I told them to discard my appointment reminder postcard that they have you fill out to remind you to come in and get screwed again. No thanks. Crude to say, but I like my screwing differently. read more

Dr. Lin! Quite simply the best. I'm grateful to have found her at a time in life when my eyes are only going in one direction...south. Jose was extremely helpful with repeated requests. I'll never go elsewhere. read more

I came here about a year and a half ago because it had been a year since my last vision exam, and I needed to update my prescription. They were the nearest place that accepted my insurance, so I went ahead and made an appointment. After a standard vision exam (I told them I didn't need to be dilated or any of that extra stuff; I just needed to update my prescription), I went to the front counter to pay. To my shock and horror, in addition to my $15 copay, I was charged an extra $75 for a "contact lens exam". WTF. The exam I had was the exact same vision test given for people who only wear glasses, yet for some reason, according to them, the fact that they were writing out a prescription for contacts instead of glasses warranted an extra seventy-five dollars? That's ridiculous, appalling, and illogical. I could understand (maybe) if I had never worn contacts before and needed to be fitted and taught how to put them in, but I've been wearing contacts for over 10 years, and they didn't perform any extra services that they wouldn't have done if it was just for glasses. I should have refused to pay it, but I was so stunned and upset that I just paid and walked out in shock. Later, I discovered that the contacts she prescribed weren't even right; they were way too strong and gave me headaches. It had been a month or two by the time I discovered this (I was still using up the rest of my old contacts before getting new ones) and when I called to complain about the incorrect prescription, the receptionist said that it had been "so long" that my vision probably changed again since my appointment. Okay? I understand that it could have got worse in that time, but it most certainly wouldn't have magically got better. She said I could come in for another appointment but I would have to pay for the whole thing again; she had a really bad attitude and actually yelled at me when I tried to protest. I ended up having to make another appointment elsewhere to get the correct prescription. My experience with Modern Eye Optometry was thoroughly terrible, and I will absolutely never be back. read more