New place for me. I was able to find frames that weren't overpriced and my lenses were made very well. My ophthalmologist had recommended I inquire re where the lenses are made. I asked the right questions, got the answer and staff fit me well. My glasses were ready when they said they'd be and I didn't take long to adjust to my new prescription . Thank you! read more

Today I called this office to schedule an appointment. The female staff member was polite at first. She asked for my date of birth, the last four digits of my Social Security number, and my first and last name. Surprisingly, she said she could not find my information in the system. She then gave me VSP's 800 customer service number to call. I contacted VSP, and they immediately found my information. The VSP representative then placed me, the office, and VSP on a three-way conference call and provided the office with an authorization number. The office told us to wait while they checked the information. After waiting for about 30 minutes with no response, I called back again. Later, a man who identified himself as the office manager called me. He said, "I overheard your conversation with our staff, and I don't think you are a good fit." He then told me to go to another eye care office on Solano Avenue instead. Throughout the entire process, I remained polite and respectful. I never raised my voice or said anything inappropriate. No one gave me any legitimate reason for refusing to see me. Simply telling a patient, "I don't think you are a good fit," without any explanation is unprofessional and unacceptable. I later contacted VSP Customer Service to report what happened. They told me they would investigate this office, and if my complaint is found to be valid, the office could be removed from the VSP provider network. I never even had the chance to see the doctor, so I cannot comment on the doctor's professional skills. However, based on my experience with the office manager and front desk staff, this was one of the worst customer service experiences I have ever had. read more

I went in for my first-ever eye exam and the staff were very courteous & professional. Dr. Andrew Halton explained the procedure very well and gave excellent care as well as everyone else here. The front desk person, Sakara, was also very helpful after the eye exam in helping me pick out frames I wanted. I highly recommend this establishment! read more

Dr. Andy is great. Very thorough and friendly. I've only had good experiences with him the last couple of years. Their front desk and administrative processes are a bit lacking though. If you try to make an appointment online by clicking their emails that remind you to, they say they'll call you and they never do. The only way to do it is to call them. It's weird that they give you the option to get a call back but never do. The front desk doesn't really make eye contact when you go, and are a bit cold. I guess that's fine, but it is a stark contrast to the friendliness of the doctors and such. Overall, I would recommend. read more

I found Solano EyeCare through my VSP coverage and made an appointment here for my annual checkup. Although everyone was very friendly, I found the optometrist unusually pushy on products and upgrades. Such as highly recommending additional tests just to be safe. And pushing for separate computer glasses without really providing an understanding of why they could be optional. Additionally, I suffer from the occasional red eye due to dry tear ducts and long hours in front of a computer due to work. To remedy this, I use a lubricating eye drop which the optometrist claimed I shouldn't use as it supposedly had preservatives. Instead, she tried to push a costly eyedrop brand they carried in-house. This claim however that my over-the-counter eyedrops contained preservatives was definitely false. As the bottles clearly state that they are preservative free. And was recommended to me by an ophthalmologist I had just seen last year. To add insult to injury, the salesperson who helped me to pick out new frames never disclosed to me additional discounts that VSP was offering for certain brands. I only wound up finding out about it after going home and seeing the various promotions through VSP's website for Solano EyeCare. When confronted about it when I went to pickup my new glasses, they stated that it was my responsibility to know what promotions my provider was offering. This is the only optometrist I've ever visited that wasn't aware of or otherwise disclosed additional discounts off specific brands at the time of sale. I understand the need to upsell. But everything about my experience at Solano EyeCare just felt dishonest and non-transparent. read more

### Yelp Review I had an extremely disappointing experience with this optician. They sold me very expensive Trivex lenses and progressive lenses, which I later discovered I didn't need due to my low prescription and the type of frame I have. Despite this, they managed to mess up the lenses twice! They kept my Lindberg frames, which I bought at another shop, for over two months. Dave, the manager, aggressively pushed these costly lenses on me without any valid reason. When I pointed out the issues, he refused to take responsibility, insisting that I just needed to "get used to them" even though the width of view was so narrow that I could only see clearly within a 3-inch range straight ahead. These were supposed to be "custom progressives." After numerous visits--about five times--, a barrage of excessive text messages back and forth and an additional eye exam to rule out prescription issues, they finally refunded me, but only after my insurance intervened. In retaliation for the refund, Viry damaged my $700 Lindberg frames by taking the liberty to remove the faulty lenses herself, which are supposed to be handled by a Lindberg lab specialist with special tools. When I inquired about the process, she dismissively said, "I figured it out." When I picked up the frames, the left lock was clearly bent (see attached photo). I had to take them to a specialized Lindberg optician to get them fixed. Ultimately, I ended up paying full price ($400) for single vision lenses instead of using VSP. Overall, this was a horrible experience from start to finish--unprofessional staff and a complete waste of time and money. I do not recommend this optician at all. read more

Solano EyeCare - Optometrists Near Me - Albany, California

Needing a new prescription of contacts/glasses I got an appointment with Dr. Chen. She was very thorough and I liked that she took her time to answer any questions I had. She also found out about my eyes that I didn't know that my previous optometrist never told me. Dr. Chen wanted me to come back in a week to dilate my eyes; however I wasn't able to come in the days that she worked due to my work schedule. I appreciate that Dr. Chen was able to fit me in on a weekend despite being fully booked so I could get my prescription I needed for my contacts. I highly recommend coming here to get your eyes checked and Dr. Chen is an amazing optometrist. Downfall of this place is that there is NO reception so don't expect to be able to browse the internet while you wait for your appointment. read more

extreme incompetence and a seeming lack of desire to help. called to ask them to order frames for me and price them along with lenses, and was met with bewildering communication, lack of knowledge from two different employees whether or not they can order it, and more bewildering communication around pricing them for me for frames and lenses with VSP. it felt as if i accidentally called a grocery store instead of an eye care business and was troubling them with my irrelevant inquiries. if you don't want hundreds of dollars in business no problem i'll take my money elsewhere. read more

We saw Demi Chen OD for our exams. She is hands-down, after 30 years, the best Doctor of Optometry we have ever seen. Thorough, smart, patient and time efficient. Loved her. The frames at this location are pricey, but you can always go elsewhere for frames.. Thank you much, Demi- read more

This review is long overdue. My whole family has been going to Solano Eyecare for many many years now. Our family normally see Dr. Chen. She is very thorough and patient with her eye exams. I never ever felt rushed as she spends time making making sure I get the correct prescription each time. The office is state of the art with all the modern technologies and most importantly very clean. The staff is professional and helpful. Claudia who assisted us today was awesome! Lots of nice frame selections which makes it harder to pick just one but she was very patient and helped me decide the one looks best for me! Couldn't be more happy and definitely will recommend Solano Eyecare to anyone. 5 stars to Solano Eyecare!! read more

Great visit here, Dr and staff were awesome and I love my new glasses. Thank you a lot read more

Solano EyeCare - GLASSES - Optometrists Near Me - Albany, California

After Dr. Woodring retired, the practice was taken over by Dr.Chen. I had been seeing Dr. Woodring for over eight years and was very satisfied. In contrast, Dr. Chen treated me in a cold, condescending and sometimes rude manner. She has a terrible "bedside manner" for a healthcare professional. She gave me tests I didn't need and tried to upsell me unnecessary products. She said my health plan would cover all of the extra tests and they didn't. I received a bill for about $50.00, which I had to contest with her office. My glasses took over three weeks to arrive and I was told they were having trouble with their carrier. Every time I visited, there was new staff at the reception desk who didn't quite know what was going on. Finally, I had enough and sought another optometrist who I am very satisfied with. read more

Good doctor, terrible costumer service After one month of given wrong information, being left on hold, difficulty getting an appointment and unhelpful service during the appointments I did get, I'm now looking for another eyewear center. When I asked the representative if Solano EyeCare took Care Credit, she said that they were not set up for it, but that if I brought a Care Credit card they could run it like a regular credit card. That is wrong info I now know, after waiting 2 weeks for my card to arrive and trying to pay with it unsuccessfully. Adding insult to injury, the rep retorted "I told you we were not set up for Care Credit from the beginning." I didn't even respond to her partially true statement since it was clear to me that she was avoiding responsibility and didn't care about my predicament at all. read more

Came here with broken glasses and an expired prescription. Wouldn't sell me a pair of glasses due to the expired prescription. Of course California law specifically provides that an expired prescription can be filled if the patient's glasses are "broken". Cal Bus & Prof Code section 2541.1(e)(1). Pretty messed up that these folks refused to sell new glasses to somebody with broken glasses. read more

I've been going to these folks for over ten years - Dr. Chen is great, and the opticians are helpful and a delight. The frames selection is also incredible - I'll always appreciate being able to get Ditas on insurance. I'll miss going to them after my lose my VSP. Thanks for everything. read more

Got my glasses repaired in 20 mins. They were so kind and did it for free since it was my birthday! 5/5 Thank you for your kindness! read more

I have been a patient here since for 33 years?! I was recommended to see Dr Woodring because he was the eye doctor that eye doctors go to. He is wonderful and I been bringing my husband and son here too. They did a great job when my antsy little boy was getting his exams. My eyes are complicated and they get it right every time. Highly recommend read more

I had a very negative interaction with the office manager who denied my service dog entry and tried to deny me service. I was really shocked and upset because she asked several illegal questions and was downright rude. But I can't think Dr. Chen enough for reaching out regarding the incident and reassuring me that they want to correct things and educate their staff for the future. Definitely willing to give these guys another chance considering the very prompt and appropriate response by Dr. Chen. read more

Solano EyeCare - These were two of the reasons the manager tried to deny me entry. Clearly she has not read up on her ADA service dog laws. - Optometrists Near Me - Albany, California

Best eye office I've ever been too. They are very professional fast and efficient. I also love how clean it is.

I've been a patient of Dr. Chen's for several years now and really appreciate her warm, friendly, professional care. I know I'm in good hands. I took her advice to get computer glasses recently and I love them. It's always a pleasure to go to Solano Eye Care, where all the staff are kind and friendly. read more

I really like Dr. Chen; she has been helpful, competent and professional taking care of my eyes for the past several years. However I have been less enamored recently of the staff who is helping customers select glasses-- I really appreciated the young man who was there a few years back, who offered helpful advice and suggested particular frames. I was always happy with the result. This past year though, the person who helped me seemed quite inexperienced-- she did nothing more than hand me whichever frames I wanted to try on. I felt pressured to pick something quickly because of the store's COVID policies about how many customers could be in the retail section at a time-- ultimately I chose a pair of frames which not only didn't suit me, it was clear when they arrived that they didn't even fit my face. So I spent hundreds of dollars on glasses which I cannot use. Of course, this was my own fault, but honestly, this is why I have been buying my glasses here over the years (as opposed to online)-- to support a local business and because I appreciate their personalized and professional guidance. Also, I called recently to schedule an appointment for my son who is home from college for the summer-- he has been seen there for years. They were unable to find an appointment for 2 months. I can understand that as they are busy, but I was bothered that the young woman answering the phone seemed really not to care at all about our business. She might have offered to call us in case of a cancellation or to check with Dr. Chen to see if he could be squeezed in, but she really seemed uninterested in helping us. I will continue to see Dr. Chen, but will buy my glasses elsewhere. read more

I haven't gotten my eyes check for about 10 years. After hearing about some devastating news about my 4 year old niece getting eye surgery. I decided it was time for me to get my eyes checked. I called a couple of places to shop around. This place was one of the pricer options around, but the receptionist was really friendly. So I decided to go for it. Lucky me, they had a cancellation the next day. I went in to see Dr. Ngo. He was super friendly, professional, and quick. The thing I really appreciate about him was that he didn't up sell. He was honest with me. Even though I could have used slight prescriptions, he honestly told me I didn't need them. I also had to dilate my eyes this appointment (which was something I have never experienced before. To be honest I was a little scared). Dr. Ngo explained to me exactly what was going to happen and what some of the after effects were going to be. He was spot on! Other than Dr. Ngo, the rest of the staff was really nice. Roger (the office manager) gave me a 10% discount even though I wasn't eligible for one. (He was because he mis-communicated to me, he'll offer me the 10% anyways.) Such a nice guy! That really helps me out since I'm a student that doesn't have a lot of income. Overall: I had a great experience at this place. I would definitely recommend for your eye care needs. read more

If I could give them no stars I would. They were incredibly rude to me, questioning whether or not I had insurance and being ageist against me since I'm a young person. I wanted to look for some new frames because they are a local business but I was disrespected and rudely treated hence the reason why I'm writing this review. I hope anyone who chooses to visit this business does not experience the same treatment and if you have other trusted optometrists I recommend you go there instead. read more

This is a fantastic office for eye care. Dr., Chen is gentle, caring and an excellent doc. Joshua was amazingly patient and helpful as we sorted through a host of frames to choose from. And finally, their staff is cordial and helpful. They also have late hours on Monday which is great. It's a pleasure to go there and I highly recommend them! read more

I have been coming to this specific place for over 10 years. I always leave very satisfied. Dr Ruth always takes her time to explain in details what is going on with the diagnoses. I highly recommend this place. I am a person Who gets mad easily over little thing. but for 10 years Solano place failed to make me mad. Dr Ruth, thank you for caring. 5 star plus. read more

I have been a customer for years. Dr. Woodring is patient, thorough and very knowledgeable. I have had my share of emergencies from losing my contacts to bad allergies. They work hard to help fit me in. The exam is very extensive and now they have new equipment that can give an early diagnosis on macular degeneration. It is extra but very worth it. Having an early diagnosis allows preventative steps and diet changes. My father-in-law got a late diagnosis that affected his quality of life, especially as he enjoyed painting in oil. The office staff is friendly and congenial. read more

Called & made an appointment to get some glasses adjusted. During my consult, I was told I'd need to sign a waiver in case they break my glasses during the adjustment since I didn't purchase it there. First I'd heard of that restriction. I declined and explained what the problem was and asked for instructions on what adjustments they'd recommend. The staff repeated my issue back to me as if I hadn't just explained it, so listening clearly isn't a strength here. I was also told that my concern wasn't real. So I got the advice I needed and left but will never return to interact with such a condescending and uninformed staff. Didn't even offer to clean their fingerprints off my glasses after handling them. read more

What a delight! 20/15. That is how perfect Dr. Woodring got my vision, even after other optometrists have been waving away my complaints, claiming "Its just your age." At 38?! Dr. Woodring's curiosity and devotion to his profession was refreshing. Using a wide range of testing techniques - including ones I've never seen - solved these "mysteries" that stumped others, and he seemed to genuinely enjoy the challenge. He is NOT just a technician twiddling machinery! The office staff was welcoming and helpful, too. A problem with a box of contacts was handled immediately, with no inconvenience to me. Thanks, Roger! (office manager) read more

Best of the Bay! Always get super service and they've got GREAT frames! Roger (optician) has a true gift for selecting the PERFECT frames! And let me tell you- for me, that is no simple task! I find myself longing for new frames before the traditional 2 yrs. that my insurance covers- but something about this place makes it easy to justify gettingthat extra pair "just because". Besides- you wear them every day - right? Can a girl get some variety? Apparently Dr. Woodring has a great reputation in the Bay Area, I don't know much about that end, but he's addressed my changing needs with expertise. If your looking for great service and a look to change your life, make an afternoon of it, stroll Solano Ave, lot's of great shops and restuarnts check them you- you won't be sorry. read more

I had THE BEST vision service here!! Dr.Chen was very friendly and generous; she helped me choose my eyeglasses for an hour. Then her staff helped my husband to choose a pair of very modern sunglasses. The best is that there's a new machine for treating dry eyes! read more

I had a great experience at Solano Eye Care, both with my exam and buying glasses and sunglasses from Roger. He obviously takes a great deal of pride in providing excellent, personal service. I appreciate that he asks you to make an appointment for selecting and fitting frames so that he has the time to do it right. I've bought frames from other opticians and from Warby Parker, but this was a much more satisfying experience all around. read more

Been my spot for eye care for two years and a half, their stuff incredibly professional and nice. Their equipment is on top of the technology and their ophthalmologists are savvy and well prepared. They truly do care for their customers, and that's why they're my eye doctors and I've referred people to them. read more

I've been to my fair share of optometrists but I have to say that Solano Eyecare has quickly risen to the very top of my short list. Even with the distance from my home, I have no issues driving to Berkeley for my eye exams. They are that enjoyable and don't take much time at all. Their receptionists a delight to interact with, and very professional but they were willing to put forth that extra effort to make me feel like more than just a customer. And don't get me started on the optometrists who work there, as they are simply a delight. So personable, and friendly, they really do take the extra time to discuss your issues and present multiple solutions. I especially appreciated Dr. Chen as she was willing to adjust her busy schedule to squeeze me in at the last minute, due to some last minutes changes I had to make. All I can say is that if you're in need of an eye exam or some new glasses or contacts, you should just go to Solano Eyecare. read more

Dr. Chen was great - very friendly but not in a cheesy salesmanship way. The exam was thorough and fairly quick, and she made some good recommendations about my eye care while keeping price in mind. I really want to give five stars for Dr. Chen but I didn't find the receptionists to be the most friendly or helpful. Otherwise, no complaints! read more

I needed help adjusting my Mykita frames' nosepads and although I did not buy my frame from them, they happily welcomed me in for a free adjustment. Tim helped me and mentioned if the adjustment didn't feel good I was welcomed back anytime for further adjustments. Truly shows their willingness to help out. I didn't spend much time looking at their selection but noticed beyond Mykita they also carry Dita frames, another favorite brand of mine. I would happily return here for an optometrist visit or for when I need a new frame next time. Thank you for being so helpful and nice, Solano EyeCare! read more

Solano eye care is awesome. Rodger and all the docs were super nice. Wouldn't go anywhere else!

I left this place in tears after receiving the WORST customer service. When I first went in there, I informed them that I had never worn glasses before. Instead of helping me select a pair, I was basically ignored for over an hour as I browsed hopelessly in the store. When the time came to pick up my way over priced glasses, I once again received no help. I tried wearing them into work, but everyone told me that they were clearly too big for my face. I originally bought glasses because I was having a hard time seeing when driving at night, but I do not feel comfortable at all wearing these glasses. When I returned to the shop to let them know about the problems that I was having-they basically said too bad so sad we got our sale. How do these people have repeat customers?!?! I feel like I was robbed and abandoned! I would never recommend this place! read more

Can't recommend enough. My glasses broke over the weekend, and I called asking if they did repairs (they do). That same day I came in and got them repaired in front of me with no wait. The staff was super friendly and clearly knew what they were talking about. (I also asked to get my glasses tightened, and they did a great job. Other places I've gone to can never get them to fit right for some reason) Will definitely be coming here for anything optical related in the future. read more

Super professional, friendly staff. Up-to-the-second technology. Very fashionable frames. There is no reason not to go here. Well...there's one reason: you're in the middle class. I walked in here for an exam and a decent pair of glasses and walked out $1,100 lighter. I can afford it, but a lot of folks can't. So, just be aware that you're going into a place that isn't really priced for ordinary people. The frames I bought retail for about $150 less online and I assume that same markup applies to lenses. Exams go for $148. So, I think you'll enjoy this place if you stick to a simple two-step formula: (1) get rich, (2) make an appointment. read more

I've been a patient of Dr. Woodring for 24 years. After bad experiences elsewhere, I was glad to find an optometrist who does things correctly and takes the time to do a very thorough exam. My eyes are sensitive to slight changes in acuity and a .25 diopter difference can be big for me, even if I'm close to the middle between two values. Other doctors might get to the point that you can read at 20/20 and see no need to figure out what's ideal for you. Even worse, with some doctors if you can make out the letters, it doesn't matter if they are sharp or not. I agree that the selection of frames is limited. It's not a big problem for me, but my wife and daughters are not happy with it. Also, Dr. Woodring is cutting down his hours and is there only on three weekdays, all before 5 pm. It's an issue for me since I live in Union City. Dr Chen is very helpful and friendly, but I've only seen her for follow up after an exam so I can't say more. Also, parking can be an issue, but if you live in Berkeley you already know that. read more