As a resident of San Carlos for 25 years, I've walked past Tiernan Optical many times, but never gone inside. I have gotten my eye exams and glasses mostly down in Mountain View. However, my eye situation has gotten more complicated, so I now see a retinal specialist in a medical office. I got a new prescription there, but they don't actually fit glasses. For that, I needed a standalone optician. So I looked around and realized that Tiernan is one of the best rated places near me. I called up and made an appointment. Mike was honest with me that he was going to be out of the office, but made an appointment for me to see someone who would be handling some customers while he was out. I have pretty quirky tastes in glasses, and a lot of issues with past bad experiences picking and buying glasses. I was a little anxious, but I ended up having a wonderful appointment with Mike's "stand-in." I was there for over an hour, trying on different frames and getting information and advice about lens shape and fitting. This place has a smallish but very well-curated selection of frames. A range of styles and brands, with prices from modest to a bit more expensive for some of the higher-end frames. I ended up picking out a pair of frames and tinted lenses. A couple of weeks later, I got a call from Mike letting me know they were in. I went in for the second appointment, for fitting. Again, I had a great time -- Mike was incredibly helpful in fitting the frames. I even brought two other pairs I had recently purchased that were not fitted well, and he took the time to take care of those for me, too. I'm writing this review because it's been about two months, and I have recently realized I like these glasses more than any pair I have ever had in my life. They're unique, elegant and definitely show off my personality and vibe. They're fitted impeccably and are a pleasure to wear, something I could not have imagined saying about a pair of glasses. So, I'm another Tiernan fan. I expect to send my partner and friend here moving forward. It's just a great place, and Mike Tiernan is an excellent optician. read more

I've been getting my glasses here for ages now, and would never consider going anywhere else. Fantastic service, glasses always come out great, great selection of frames. Mike Tiernan is just the best! read more

I have shopped Tiernan Optical for years. They are great. They are extremely professional.

While I didn't need a reminder that Mike Tiernan is the best optician ever, he once again went above and beyond to help me out. My glasses frames got bent (my bad), so he got me in for an appointment within 24 hours, straightened the frames and tightened all the screws. All of this was free of charge! I wish all the businesses with whom I work were as customer friendly! read more

Mike Tiernan is the absolute best at his trade! He has the best selection of glasses and is a terrific Optician! He has been helping me choose the most creative, elegant and top notch glasses for decades. People stop me on the street to ask where I purchased my glasses. He stands behind his glasses and helps you keep them in top condition! You will be thrilled that you chose his business to purchase your glasses! read more

I want to thank Mike at Tiernan Opticians for the extraordinary effort he made to make my new glasses be correct for me. I had given Mike an ophthalmology prescription that was unfortunately not correct for me from my ophthalmologist. After I sent Mike the corrected prescription , and Mike confirmed some information with my ophthalmologist several times, Mike remade my glasses. This was all done safely and remotely during the COVID-19 pandemic. Mike mailed my finished glasses to me. My glasses are now correct and I can see great from them. My heartfelt thanks again to Mike and his incredible professionalism and customer service. I recommend Tiernan Opticians to anyone needing quality eyewear and customer service. Gary read more

Well, I've never written a negative review, but felt I needed to after the experience I had at Tiernan Opticians the other day. First let me say that I've previously purchased 2 pairs of glasses (1 with frames; the other just lenses) from Tiernan. Mike Tiernan and Bonnie were both incredibly wonderful. They were patient as we worked through 3 tries on my first pair of progressive lenses. (My optometrist changed my prescription 3 times to get it right.) Anyway, I love LaFont frames and Tiernan carries them, and those glasses were a perfect fit all the way around. Then I lost my glasses a couple of weeks ago. Unfortunately, my husband is between jobs and so I was trying to be as frugal as possible while still getting frames that would work for me. On Sunday, Mike helped me select a new frame and let me take it home to see if my husband would like it. He asked me to bring it back on Monday and stated their hours as 9am to 5:30pm. By the way, Tiernan does not accept VSP insurance and I knew this was the case. Mike suggested that I ask my husband to find out how much would be covered out-of-network. So, my husband investigated our insurance and I "lived" with the new frames on Monday. By the end of the day, I had decided I didn't like the frames, and my husband found it would cost us at least $200 less if we purchased in network and he asked me to find an optician who will take our insurance. So, I took the frames back to Mike, thanked him and told him that my husband requested that I find an in-network optician this time and that I would come back for my next pair if hubby's job situation was better. Mike was visibly upset. He took the glasses from me and said "That's fine, thanks", in a short tone of voice. He then said "You should have brought them back earlier today." I was stunned and offended. Mike didn't ask me to bring them back earlier than later and I respectfully brought them back on Monday. I truly meant what I said about coming back the next time, but after he treated me the way he did, I'll never go back there and am now writing my first negative review. I own my own business and run into customers who are cutting back due to the economy - every day . I would never treat a customer as though they owed me something for spending a little time with them. What goes around, always comes back sooner or later. Too bad Mike doesn't understand this concept. read more

After shopping around in the area for a pair of frames (which I've yet to purchase) over the past few weeks, I've experienced the typical "ignore you unless you have a credit card out" sales mentality. Which is what I've come to expect these days. Which I don't mind when I'm shopping around for glasses, but usually they're locked behind glass which makes for a time consuming and frustrating shopping experience. And then, I found Tiernan Opticians. I'm not sure I will end up buying frames from this store but I was so blown away by their amazing customer service and great, artsy selection that I felt compelled to write a 5-star review. As you can see I haven't written many reviews lately because I've been so busy, so when I say this place deserves 5 stars, they've earned it. I walk in and instantly the salesman begins to practically throw frames at me that he thinks would work on my face. I was admittedly a little taken aback at first because I'm used to being ignored, but as soon as I got over my "want to shop alone in peace and quiet" sentiment I started to appreciate what good customer service is like - something that's lacking from many other stores (not just glasses stores.) For selection, I'd say they get somewhere between 4 and 5 stars. Don't go here to get basic frames or any designer that every other glasses store carries. If you want your glasses to stand out, then this is a good place to shop. I was impressed by the designs and mix of "I wish I could have 10 pairs of glasses and this would be my 10th pair to match my one dress that has all three of those colors in it" to "that has just the perfect mix of elegance and a little unique detailing that makes it unique." I tend to go for the latter, but it's been so hard to find these days. Mostly you have to buy designer frames and then the detailing is so much about the brand (GUCCI. FENDI. COACH) which puts me off a little, despite that sometimes they are nice designs. I'd rather the design (and quality) speak for itself. The salesman (whose name I've forgotten but I'll add it here when I find it out next week, I'm so bad with names) certainly knows how to flatter a woman shopping for glasses "your face is PERFECT for glasses" (yea, I'm sure he uses that line one everybody but I totally eat that stuff up, esp after a day of shopping American frames that just didn't look right on my oh-so European face.) Thanks to Teirnan Opticians, I'm now in love with French frames. There's something about the shape and colors that just flatters my high cheekbones and wide nose bridge. Pricewise - most are on the expensive side, but there are a few frames that aren't that bad. The one pair that I'm leaning towards is about $150, but I definitely tried one a few that were more like $300. Either way, I'd rather spend $300 on something unique and beautiful than something that costs $300 just because it has the coach logo printed on it a thousand times. I'll write a follow up to this review if I end up ordering glasses here, but regardless this store deserves 5 stars for the shopping experience alone. I feel justified spending the extra $ on the frames in-store versus online because the service is worth it. Glad places like this still exist! read more

Great place! If you are in San Carlos or RWC and need an optometry, this place is it... Called in to inquire on their services and happened to have spoken with Mike who was the owner. After an informative chat via phone, he suggested that I come in to discuss more in detail. Upon my consultation visit, Mike candidly answered all of my questions, addressed my concerns and itemized each cost to provide as many options as possible while clearly laying out the pros and cons of each selection. In other words, no BS! and you get a highly-informative, highly-engaged human being who is still passionate about providing a high level of service.. super rare in this day and age of strip-mall optometry. Also, upon a second visit, I dealt with a woman who was equally helpful, knowledgeable and friendly . Just a great overall business to have discovered for all of my optometry needs. This business has been around since the 70's according to Mike, and now I know why. read more

stepped inside today to have my sunglasses repaired. I never walked into the store before and the women didn't hesitate to help me fix my sunglasses (which was missing a screw). She was super friendly and fast. In contrast, I had walked into Sunglass Hut in Palo Alto about a month ago and their store people refused to repair my sunglasses since it "wasn't a brand that they carried". I noticed the store was quite lovely and had a huge selection of LaFont glasses if you're into those. I may quit going to my other optician in San Francisco - these guys are super nice. read more

I was so impressed with Tiernan Opticians. When I went in the first time to select two new frames (distance and reading), I worked with Mike. He took his time and helped me find the perfect glasses. They have been in San Carlos for decades and I remember going there with my mom many years ago. I went back a week later to pick up my new glasses and worked with Jenna - I can't say enough great things about my experience with both Mike and Jenna and highly recommend them! read more

One of the best experiences of buying a pair of glasses. Mr. Tiernan is the sweet and a very knowledgeable optician. He makes sure you get the right glasses for your face and also helps with all the paperwork needed for our of network insurance claims. I would definitely recommend this place for all your optical needs. You wont be disappointed. read more

I had the best experience ever for buying new eyeglasses and sunglasses. Mike's excellent service and professionalism is exceptional. I liked every frame Mike suggested for my prescription and face. I love my new glasses, they fit perfectly, and will be back next time I need new ones. read more

I have been a customer for about 20 years and continue to be pleased with the excellent quality of their service. I shop there because I always feel welcome and they give me personal attention when choosing new frames. Bonnie is the best and is experienced in all phases of optometry. In addition, the quality of their eye ware is outstanding and my new glasses were ready in three working days and Bonnie filled out a receipt to send into VSP with an addressed envelope with a stamp on it! Service Plus at Tiernans. read more

These folks mean business. they are seriously knowledgeable about their product. the customer service is first rate. a pleasure to deal with. furthermore, i feel better giving my business to the smaller, brick and mortar establishments. Mike G read more

I LOVE THIS PLACE. The staff there are very friendly and helpful. and very professional. The opticians are also very good with kids. and they have a wide selection of eyewear to choose from. read more

Have to join the rest of the 5 star reviews. I have known Mike for as many years as he has been in business in San Carlos, and my many pairs of glasses attest to the fact that Mike is "the best of the rest" You can not go wrong with using Tiernan Optical for your optical needs. I noticed a less than 5 star review, and all I can say is I am sorry for their financial situation. Their review was unfair in my opinion and based on their financial inability to meet their commitments. When my wife and I think of Mike and his business the following comes to mind; concern for his clients, integrity, good value, and followup. You will not be disappointed with any part of their services. read more

I've been going here for a few years and find the staff very knowledgeable and attentative. Selection of frames balanced between fashion forward and stuffy, so it possible to find a frame that is reasonably priced with some flair but not going too far in either direction. Staff very helpful in explaining the various options for lenses and the price/peformance for each. read more

Really good selection of frames. The employees make a real effort to help you choose a frame to suit your face. Pricey, but good quality. Takes a week to get your finished glasses, but they will be right (unlike my experience with LensCrafters). read more

Our family have been customer's of Tiernan for many years. My grandmother, mother and father all shop there as well as my husband, my daughters and myself. 24 hours before my daughter was to leave on a 7-day trip, the arm of her glasses detached from the frame. We took the glasses in first thing on a Friday morning, concerned that we may have to go to a quickie glasses store and spend $300+ on 1-hour glasses. Bonnie asked us to leave the glasses for a little bit so that she could work on replacing the hinge/screw. She phoned us back within the hour to say they were ready! When we returned, she had replaced the entire frame, explaining that they were under a year old and they had the identical frames in the store! This is why I consistently support our local merchants - you cannot beat the level of customer service that comes from having an ongoing relationship with a small business owner. Thanks to Mike and Bonnie for proving the BEST customer service!!! read more

Mike is a patient and kind person but I think that he does not communicate well with the lab he uses. The first pair I got there took three attempt from the lab but they finally got them after almost four weeks. I went back there because I thought they've got the right recipe. This time it took only a week to receive the new pair but with the same issue as with the previous pair, i.e. my glassed were too thick and uneven. Mike and I had gone over the initial issues and he assured me that the lab would get it right the second time since there was a history. What buttered me was that he was aware of the issue; he knew it was resolved the first time but this second time, he told me that he would be willing to send them back but he was sure that the glasses were not going to get any better I paid $1,000.00 for each pair and I think that for that kind of money I should be getting it right the first time. I'll never go back to Tiernan Opticians, nothing personal against Mike. I understand that my issues were related to a communication between him and the lab.... read more

This is a terrific place with GREAT management and owner. They go out of their way to help me find what I need. They also stock a company that owns and manufacturers here in California, so I like to support as many local companies as I can. They are kind, polite, informative and attentive. I would highly recommend you taking the time to go to Tiernan. It reminds me of how customer service should be. : ) read more

Carolyn and I lived in San Francisco in the early '90s and travelled down to San Carlos for eyeglasses because we heard about this terrific optician with an amazing collection of frames and a real funny sense of humor. Not only did we get our glasses from Mike Tiernan, but since we travel to northern California at least once a year, we have our eyes examined before our trip, so we can drive down to his wonderful shop for our newest "set of eyes". Mike gets to know his clients and really wants them to look the way they want ... or even better. Tiernan's prices cover a good range for sports and everyday glasses. My eye doctor in NYC thinks Mike's lens are excellent and his frames, real cool. He's got a great eye. Worth the trip! read more

great service - great first pair of glasses for me - quick.