Ian CheesemanIf you ever mistakenly picked up a kid from daycare only to realize halfway to the exit that he’s not yours, then it might be time for an eye exam! At least, that’s what I told my friend when that happened to him recently.
Unfortunately, his trip to an optometrist near him was less than ideal. He felt rushed during the exam, and his glasses arrived very, very late.
This whole debacle got me thinking: where are the best optometrists in Toronto?
Determined to find out, I first checked the various services that optometrists in Toronto offer just for background. Then, I scoured the internet and interviewed former patients.
After all my research, I’ve narrowed it down to the 10 best optometrists in Toronto. Whether you’re due for an eye exam, need new glasses, or just want to switch to a better optometrist, I hope this guide helps you find your perfect eye guy!
How much does an eye exam cost in Toronto?
Eye exam costs in Toronto can vary but typically range from $70 to $90 without insurance. Â
Comprehensive exams (including refraction tests) fall within the $150-$200 range. Vision insurance can significantly reduce costs, with some covered entirely or co-pays as low as $10-$50.
You can learn more about Toronto Eye Exam Prices in this article.Â
1. Tonic Eye Care
If you’re looking for an optometrist who’s both passionate and experienced, then Tonic Eye Care, led by Dr. Kelly Lee, might be a great fit! This local, independent practice offers a comprehensive range of services, all under one roof.
Dr. Lee isn’t just your average eye doc—she’s been providing care in Toronto since 2014, and even taught at the University of Waterloo’s School of Optometry. Plus, she completed extra training in vision therapy.
Tonic offers everything from routine eye exams to vision therapy for kiddos (and adults!). Speaking of, we heard they’re particularly awesome with kids, helping them feel at ease all throughout their visit.
They can also help you navigate the world of LASIK and other vision correction surgeries.
We like that they provide emergency eye care—no referrals are necessary. Speaking of referrals, you can check the referral requirements of optometrists in this guide.
Just a heads up, they’re closed Wednesdays, so plan your appointment accordingly.
Entire team at Tonic Eye Care is absolutely amazing!
“The entire team at Tonic Eye Care is absolutely amazing! I cannot say enough great things about my experience. It was my children’s first visit to the eye doctor and Dr. Kelly Lee was just incredible. She made the entire experience enjoyable for them and eased any nerves they had. Everyone was so incredibly friendly and helpful.”
Cristina Rutigliano, Google Review
My toddler did not cry and actually enjoyed his visit!
“My little one had an accident involving his eye. Between his ER visit and ophthalmologist appointment, I had to see someone as soon as possible but it was pretty hard to find optometrists that are good with little ones. We drove almost an hour to see Dr. Lee but it was well worth it. She is not only friendly with kids (my toddler did not cry and actually enjoyed his visit!) but is extremely knowledgeable and caring. Thank you❤️”
Sumin Ahn, Google Review
2. View Eye Care
View Eye Care offers comprehensive eye exams, contact lens services, and a variety of glasses to choose from. Whether you’re a little sprout or a seasoned senior, their team of five certified optometrists can handle your vision needs.
We like that they have a stock of lenses right there in the clinic—ideal for those who need a new pair in a pinch. And they can work with major manufacturers for custom lenses, ensuring you get the brand (and fit) you love.
As a cherry on top, they offer free periodic eyewear adjustments, whenever needed.
Now, there’s a catch: they’re only open on weekdays, so if weekend appointments are your jam, this might not be the perfect fit.
Also, we noticed that their optometry services are comparatively limited—no vision therapy or LASIK-related services are offered.
Best experience in eyecare I’ve ever had!
“Best experience in eyecare I’ve ever had! The careful customer care and appreciation the staff and doctors always deliver. Even living 2 1/2 hours away, I still travel for the experience and friendships at View Eye Care. Offering the care and professional knowledge of my medical, and how it relates to my eyecare always makes me feel taken care of by the team!”
Steve H., Google Review
Full service office with exceptional doctors and technicians
“View Eye Care is a very professional full service office with exceptional doctors and technicians. Dr.Cheryl Talsky is advanced in all of her knowledge and is excellent in everything she does. She explains everything and makes you feel at ease at all times. I highly recommend Dr. Talsky at View Eye Care. My entire family and my friend group would say the same about her care.”
Caroline Freedman Devon, Google Review
3. Broadview Eyecare
Broadview Eyecare offers a whole range of specialized services and treatments. You might even find the best eye doctor in Toronto amongst their 24 optometrists in various locations.
At Broadview, you can skip the old-school eye puff test! Their EyeTrust Visual Analysis uses advanced technology to measure eye pressure, map your cornea, and assess your vision in detail, including color perception.
Plus, they offer customized dry eye treatments, from lubricating drops to eyelid therapy.
For those who need frames, they carry eyewear packages. These include frames and lenses with a basic scratch-resistant coating, but you can upgrade the lenses to fit your specific needs.
We also love their free eyewear repair and cleaning services!
Now, a word of caution—be prepared for a potential wait! While appointments are encouraged, some optometrists may run behind schedule, leading to longer wait times.
I have been going to Broadview Eyecare for more than 30 years!
“I have been going to Broadview Eyecare for more than 30 years! I trust them with my eye health and my entire family’s. Dr Tse is so thorough and explains things so easily to remove all confusion and worries. She answers all questions and offer wise guidance. So grateful to have found them. The frames are great quality, stylish and affordable! I love the Broadview location because we have an excuse to enjoy a delicious meal afterwards!”
Lynda Tam, Google Review
The optometrist I had was fantastic
“I went for an eye exam here and found the people there extremely caring. Great service from start to finish! The optometrist I had was fantastic; he explained every step of the exam I had. After the exam I decided to buy my glasses there as the prices were reasonable. After a week I picked up my new glasses. When I went in to pick thrm up, there was someone there to adjust my glasses. All in all a very excellent experience. “
Rosemary Lee, Google Review
4. Yonge & College Optometry
At Yonge & College Optometry, it’s clear eye care runs in the family! Dr. Lisa Anidjar and Dr. Rebecca Anidjar seemed to have inherited the vision (ahem) from their parents who own the optical boutique right next door.
They have three optometrists, and each one is a certified specialist. This means they can handle a wider range of eye conditions, from run-of-the-mill nearsightedness to more complex refractive issues.
We learned that they’re a popular spot for eye care near the University of Toronto, Toronto Metropolitan University, and other schools. Many student insurance plans cover regular eye exams in Toronto, so just bring your ID and save some money!
And unlike other clinics, they offer diabetic eye exams.
However, we heard about their long waiting times, which is understandable since they have fewer optometrists on staff.
The best experience I have ever had in an eye clinic
“The best experience I have ever had in an eye clinic. The staff is very friendly and knowledgeable, they take the time to explain everything and do the proper exams. I had issues with my contact lenses so in response I received 5 different brands of samples to try, never had that at any other place I’ve been to. Highly recommend this clinic!!!”
Sofia Sargy, Google Review
This optometry office is awesome
“This optometry office is awesome. Quick to get me in. Kind, efficient front desk staff. No waiting. Dr Lisa Anidjar is so informative. I had a lot going on with my eyes that I wanted to address and she answered everything for me. I never felt rushed. Great clinic!”
Ellen McCormack, Google Review
5. SeeRite Eye Clinic
SeeRite Eye Clinic offers a comprehensive range of services, from routine eye exams to specialized care for conditions like diabetes and myopia (nearsightedness).
Their team of three experienced optometrists in Toronto each brings something unique to the table.
Dr. Georgatos has been practicing since 2005, while Dr. Theiss is passionate about giving back through international eye care missions. Dr. Motomura adds their expertise as a member of various optometry associations.
For those worried about nearsightedness getting worse, SeeRite offers a specialty Myopia Control Clinic. They use options like low-dose atropine drops and special contact lenses to potentially slow down its progression.
They also provide pre- and post-operative care, assessing your candidacy for LASIK, cataract removal, and other procedures. And if you have an eye-related emergency, SeeRite takes walk-in appointments for urgent situations.
Sadly, former patients have told us about their fees being on the pricier side.
Amazing clinic
“Amazing clinic. Knowledgeable and friendly staff, clean and well organized location. They really explain things to you in a clear and concise manner, never pushing you to purchase anything from them or trying to pressure you into other things. Can’t wait for my next eye appointment!”
Tracy Vendiola, Google Review
If I could give more stars I would
“If I could give more stars I would. I’ve had the pleasure of seeing both Dr Georgatos and Dr Theiss this past week. Literally life changing experience! So thankful that we’ve got such knowledgeable, professional, kind and generous doctors in north york! I went in for an emergency visit for my eye, extremely scared, nervous and anxious but right away their staff made me feel so welcome and truly made me feel at ease. Both Dr Georgatos and Dr Theiss were so unbelievably sweet and treated me like a human and not rushing my appointment like I’m just another client. Truly thankful for their help and everything they did for my eye!!”
Sheyda S, Google Review
6. Dr. Archie Chung & Associates
Dr. Archie Chung & Associates has been providing eye care in Toronto for over 30 years. Their focus on family-oriented care is for those who prefer a warmer environment.
We’re impressed that Dr. Chung stays up-to-date on the latest eye care advancements through his involvement with advisory boards for major eye care companies. He also has a particular interest in specialty contact lenses and sports vision.
Their services include comprehensive eye exams that check for a wide range of conditions. They even cater to pediatric patients as young as 6-12 months old.
For those struggling with nearsightedness, they offer a myopia control program using a special type of hard contact lens. And they guarantee their prescriptions for 3 months.
Those looking for Riverdale and Leslieville optometrists should give them a call. These optometrists in Toronto also serve the Danforth, Rexdale, and Woodbine areas.
Note that some patients have mentioned experiencing longer wait times for receiving their glasses or contacts after their appointments. If you’re in a hurry, you could get your glasses in one of the top eyewear stores in Toronto.
Friendly, thorough, professional, and informative
“It is always a pleasant experience. They accommodated me on very short notice and although I did not see my main optometrist, the one who assessed me was equally friendly, thorough, professional and informative. Thank you all for the quality care you continue to provide”
Tonia Richard, Google Review
Dr. Chung genuinely cares about the well-being of the patients
“I recently had an outstanding experience at Dr. Archie Chung and associates Optometrist with Doctor Chung. From the moment I walked in, the staff was friendly and welcoming. Dr. Chung is not only highly skilled but also genuinely cares about the well-being of the patients. He took the time to explain every step of the eye exam, ensuring I felt comfortable and informed throughout the process. The store also has an impressive variety of frames, catering to all styles and preferences. The staff members were knowledgeable and assisted me in finding the perfect pair that suited both my prescription needs and fashion taste. Great experience overall!!!”
Mezgebu Nigatu, Google Review
7. Bochner Eye Institute
Bochner Eye Institute has been the go-to optometrist for those in Toronto, Scarborough, and Unionville since 1929. They even won over big names like athletes from the Leafs and Blue Jays, News Anchor, Peter Kent, and LPGA Champion, Sandra Post.
Their doctors are known for top-notch surgical procedures like LASIK, PRK, traditional cataract, laser cataract, and cosmetic eyelid surgery. In fact, Bochner is included in the top clinics for laser eye surgery in Toronto.
They also perform implantable contact lenses (ICLs). Similar to cataract surgery, an ICL is a synthetic lens permanently placed inside the eye to improve your vision without needing glasses or traditional contacts.
While they do offer optometry services, like treating dry eye or diagnosing macular degeneration and keratoconus, getting an appointment can be a marathon, not a sprint. We’re talking months, even a whole year of waiting!
I had a great experience with the Bochner Eye Institute
“I had a great experience with the Bochner Eye Institute. I had the ICL procedure done and it was quick and painless. My vision was greatly improved by the next day after surgery. Big thanks to Dr. Stein and especially the surgical team who were very kind as well as Kristin who was a great first point of contact. Thanks again to the team at Bochner!”
Julie Truong, Google Review
INCREDIBLE!
“INCREDIBLE! I went into ICL surgery wearing glasses for 27 years. I was not seeing even close to 20/20 with corrective lenses. I was unable to wear contacts. 9 days post ICL surgery and I am seeing 20/20 in both eyes. Surgery took around 6 minutes per eye and was painless. Dr. Stein was incredible. Follow up was quick and thorough. Could not be happier with the results!”
Jason Waxman, Google Review
8. Spadina Optometry
Spadina Optometry, owned by Dr. Kristin Heeney, is a solid option if you’re looking to level up your eye care. She’s a member of several prestigious organizations, such as the Ontario Association of Optometrists, so you know she’s got game.
She doesn’t just do basic check-ups—she does cataract surgery consultations, treats conditions like dry eyes and keratoconus, and offers specialty contact lenses.
Her clinic also offers a cutting-edge treatment called TempSure Envi. This uses radiofrequency to tackle dry eyes and puffiness, leaving you with refreshed and healthier-looking peepers.
We appreciate their one-year warranty on full-priced glasses (frames and lenses, both!) gives you some peace of mind if anything goes wonky.
As a bonus, they also accept OHIP patients. To find out which services by optometrists are covered by OHIP, check out this article.
However, Spadina Optometry might not be the cheapest option on the block. Eye exams start at $185, which is a bit steeper than some other places.
I’ve been a patient of Dr. Heeney for almost 20 years!
“I’ve been a patient of Dr. Heeney for almost 20 years! She has counselled me through laser eye surgery, and now takes good care of my two children. She is the definition of a professional – highly knowledgeable and has the kindest, most considerate manner with her patients. I can say the same for everyone on her team I have interacted with. Beautiful, spacious and well-located office is a plus.”
Iris Glaser, Google Review
Was able to secure an appointment the same day!
“Was able to secure an appointment the same day! The friendly staff and Doctor were able to walk me through a complete eye examination and discussed the results with me. No pressure and a wide selection of frames to choose from- Let me comfortably decide Today. I Would not hesitate to recommend to anyone looking to enhance their vision and their look-“
NICK WHITTINGTON, Google Review
9. Toronto Eye Clinic
If you’re looking for an optometrist in the Yonge & Eglinton area, we recommend Toronto Eye Clinic. They’ve been around since 1998, so they have experience handling everything, from routine checkups to trickier eye conditions.
Their team includes optometrists who do the exams and opticians who can help you find the perfect glasses or contacts. They have a good selection of lenses, including soft contacts, specialty contacts for sports, and even those cool overnight wear ones.
They also have ophthalmologists to perform eye-related surgeries.
One thing that stood out to us was their emergency services vision assessment. If you’re a firefighter, paramedic, or another frontline worker, this exam is designed specifically for your vision needs.
Getting to the clinic is easy—there’s TTC access and parking nearby.
However, we did hear about their not-so-great aftercare service. So, while the exam itself might be good, you might want to double-check you get clear instructions on follow-up care.
What a wonderful experience!
“What a wonderful experience! Easy to talk with , modern and advance equipment on my examination. Dr. Ly was phenomenal and her approach to my medical needs made me feel secure. I can honestly say I have found a perfect eye clinic for my needs. They had Fantastic options on my prescription and outstanding speedy service.”
   Naft Oil, Google Review
Always very sweet and accommodating
“Great experience here. I come here for my eye checkups, lens, and contacts. The staff are always very sweet and accommodating. The doctors are pleasant and the store is well designed. Nice selection of frames too. 10/10”
Kai Lim, Google Review
10. Corktown Eyecare
Corktown Eyecare in Downtown Toronto seems like a great option if you’re looking for a trendy new pair of glasses. They boast a wide variety of designer frames to suit any style, from classic to fashion-forward.
They cater to the whole family, offering pediatric eye exams for children of all ages. They even address myopia control, a treatment option for slowing down nearsightedness in children.
While the focus seems to be on glasses and contact lenses, Corktown Eyecare also offers comprehensive eye exams for adults. If you have a diagnosed eye condition, they can provide treatment plans for various eye diseases.
There have been reports of pushy sales tactics, so be prepared to stick to your needs when browsing their designer frames. Additionally, we noticed that their range of services is somewhat limited.
Extremely helpful in finding me the right glasses
“Great customer service. Extremely helpful in finding me the right glasses for me. Took me awhile to decide, but they were attentive throughout the entire process. Greatly appreciated. Also, the examination, was thorough, and I was advised of each step and what to expect during the examination. Dr. Sanjay had a great sense of humor and super personable. Book here, you won’t be disappointed. Cheers!”
Corinna Petronic, Google Review
The most lovely staff and doctor
“The most lovely staff and doctor. Great selection of frames. Quick and efficient process. Would strongly recommend!”
Caroline S, Google Review
