Declared "Best Eyewear Shop in Chicago" by the Chicago Reader, we've become Chicago's destination for independent eyewear brands, prescription lenses, and radical sunglasses. Coyote DeGroot holds an Advanced-level Certification from the American Board of Opticianry, and provides fun, professional guidance.
Taking into account your prescription and frame choice, we help choose the lens product that's best for you. Our approach toward eyewear is artisanal and educated, and we take the time to ensure an optimum balance of good looks, comfort, and clear vision. Handmade by the master craftspeople of Fukui, Japan, this collection is the perfect realization of our years of experience in the optical industry.
Taking into account your prescription and frame choice, we help choose the lens product that's best for you. Our approach toward eyewear is artisanal and educated, and we take the time to ensure an optimum balance of good looks, comfort, and clear vision. Handmade by the master craftspeople of Fukui, Japan, this collection is the perfect realization of our years of experience in the optical industry.
Services
Do I need to make an appointment? Only one customer is allowed in the shop at a time, so every appointment is a private shopping session! Do you accept vision insurance? No, but we accept all flexible spending accounts (FSA) and health savings accounts (HSA). If you have vision insurance, you can probably submit an itemized receipt to your insurance company for reimbursement.
Reviews (26)
Jennifer Pineda
Jul 17, 2021
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I'm very satisfied with my new prescription glasses. The glasses are very good quality, fit perfect and look great. Above all, I appreciate the top level customer service. 👓
Coyote is very experienced, professional and has a strong passion for his work. He was very patient while I was browsing frames and provided suggestions. Then, he measured me and the frames that I chose and made sure the frames would fit well. He also provided advice, took the time to see if I had any questions, listened and explained things in detail.
Initially it was challenging for me to schedule a visit because I am
Coyote is very experienced, professional and has a strong passion for his work. He was very patient while I was browsing frames and provided suggestions. Then, he measured me and the frames that I chose and made sure the frames would fit well. He also provided advice, took the time to see if I had any questions, listened and explained things in detail.
Initially it was challenging for me to schedule a visit because I am
A. U.
Jun 15, 2021
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Superb -- what else can I say? The lenses are better, more customizable, cost pretty much the same (if not less) and are ready faster than some of the other shops here. AND you'll probably learn a thing or two about optics considering how knowledgeable and helpful Coyote is.
I came here with a common problem in 3 of my lenses (which were originally from another optical store in the area) -- I was seeing reflections of my eyes in all of them (2 were regular glasses, 1 was in my prescription sunglasses) in all sorts of lighting scenarios and it was driving me crazy. Other shops told me that I'd
I came here with a common problem in 3 of my lenses (which were originally from another optical store in the area) -- I was seeing reflections of my eyes in all of them (2 were regular glasses, 1 was in my prescription sunglasses) in all sorts of lighting scenarios and it was driving me crazy. Other shops told me that I'd
Alexander Kondratskiy
Mar 03, 2021
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Got my frames here, and prescription lenses, as well as replacement prescription lenses for my sunglasses. This place is fantastic. Coyote (the owner) makes sure everything is measured meticulously, and the results speak for themselves
I've had many pairs of glasses and lenses over my life, and I usually dread getting a new set, because if they're not done right you will get bad headaches and discomfort as your eyes adjust. Not so here - all my prescription lenses came out great, no discomfort whatsoever.
For replacement lenses for my sunglasses, I arranged everything over email - he just needed
I've had many pairs of glasses and lenses over my life, and I usually dread getting a new set, because if they're not done right you will get bad headaches and discomfort as your eyes adjust. Not so here - all my prescription lenses came out great, no discomfort whatsoever.
For replacement lenses for my sunglasses, I arranged everything over email - he just needed
Marlowe C.
Oct 06, 2020
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Coyote is the best. I picked out new eyeglasses near the beginning of the pandemic, when I basically stopped wearing contacts altogether. Maybe it's his partnership with quality, unique Japanese makers, the meticulousness of his shop and style, or just the name, but Coyote's selection is second to none. If you want a unique pair of lenses, options to choose from, and the best fit you'll ever get, look no further than Lab Rabbit. Will warn that the better the style, the pricier it often is, but some insurances are accepted (mine was - $100 off frames). In this instance, you get what
Nihal Sunthankar
Sep 22, 2019
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Amanda Price
Jun 28, 2019
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I highly recommend Lab Rabbit Optics. This little optical shop offers a unique and authentic experience you will not find anywhere else. Coyote who owns the space has impeccable taste in quality and design. All of his frames are artfully curated amongst an array of plants and curiosities, which makes for an playful shopping experience. Plus there is a diverse selection of “cool” frames. A little something for everyone.
I sometimes have a hard time making decisions when selecting frames, I get overwhelmed easily and like to try everything on multiple times. Coyote was very patient and professional
I sometimes have a hard time making decisions when selecting frames, I get overwhelmed easily and like to try everything on multiple times. Coyote was very patient and professional
Noa M.
Mar 15, 2019
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Jill S.
Jan 02, 2019
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I wear progressives and, since I'm in a creative field, prefer eyeglass frames that are trendy without being ostentatious. I love my new eyeglasses. The first day, I received several compliments on the frames. But most importantly, the lenses are awesome -- so clear and perfectly rendered. At one point, I even asked my husband where my glasses were and he answered, "Ummm...you're wearing them?" I "forgot" I was wearing glasses because it felt like my real eyesight. Really glad I read the Yelp reviews and found Coyote through them.
Kevin K.
Aug 10, 2018
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Time spent elsewhere is time wasted.
Coyote DeGroot is a consummate professional, an artisan - and a magician as well.
Go to LABRABBIT - select the finest frames and receive service that is on another plane: far, far above anything you've grown accustomed to.
Brilliance is the only word employable when one seeks to describe the best pieces of Coyote's exclusive personal line.
LABRABBIT is more than everything a shop in Chicago should be.
Absolutely first-rate and world-class.
Coyote DeGroot is a consummate professional, an artisan - and a magician as well.
Go to LABRABBIT - select the finest frames and receive service that is on another plane: far, far above anything you've grown accustomed to.
Brilliance is the only word employable when one seeks to describe the best pieces of Coyote's exclusive personal line.
LABRABBIT is more than everything a shop in Chicago should be.
Absolutely first-rate and world-class.
Marlene D.
Apr 21, 2018
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I could not be happier!!! I love my new eyeglasses and sunglasses from Lab Rabbit Optics!!! I read the reviews and decided to make the trek from the suburbs to this shop. I am a "senior citizen", but -- for a change -- wanted trendier glasses without looking like "mutton dressed as lamb" if you know what that means. Coyote delivered! He found two great frames that were very special, but age-appropriate. Both really improved my look. Best of all: I was so impressed with the attention Coyote devoted to fitting the finished glasses to my head. I have worn glasses all my
Peter C.
Jan 10, 2018
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My strategy for getting glasses this time was to go to a National chain for a good script based on all the new equipment they have s day then support someone local. Picked Lab Rabbit because he wasn't far away and got great reviews. Add another 5 stars - the lenses are probably the best I've had. Mr c was very helpful in helping me pick out some good frames. Hands down- best pair of glasses I've had in a long time. No large deviations on the side of my lenses despite my high script.
Support local artists - he designed the frames and he seems to be very proud of what he does!
Support local artists - he designed the frames and he seems to be very proud of what he does!
Julia Sonmi Heglund
Sep 10, 2017
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I've been a customer of Lab Rabbit for years and love stopping by whenever I'm in town. Their selection of frames feels meticulously curated and unique in a way I've yet to encounter at other eyewear shops. The owner, Coyote, is super friendly and knowledgeable, always ensuring my lenses are superbly cut and sparkling when I get them. Thanks so much!
Micah Waldron
Aug 18, 2017
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When I first moved to Chicago every time I would approach someone to ask them where they got their really cool frames from the answer was always Lab Rabbit Optics. I've been a customer for a couple of years since and have never walked away from the shop without having a top notch one of a kind experience. Coyote is as professional as it comes and only cares about you having the perfect fit and the perfect frames that will have people stopping and asking you where you got your cool glasses from. The last pair that I just picked up were the 'dancen' frames from lab rabbits own private label and they
DanDe DeGroot
Jul 23, 2017
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Very nice Andy Wolf frames. Coyote takes the time to explain everything about the eyewear you are purchasing, even how to pick them up with two hands. Nice shop that's centrally located. Check out all the things Coyote has collected over the years in his shop. He also has quite a large selection of frames from around the world. Check out his own Lab Rabbit brand of frames.
Jon D.
Apr 20, 2017
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All I can say is Coyote is the man. I live several blocks from Labrabbit and have been wanting to stop in for some time. I brought in some sunglass frames that needed lenses, and some dismantled frames my ex had played Dr. on for a reason still unknown.
Coyote was quick and efficient- He cut some great new lens for me and he re-assembled my frames. I'm pretty bummed I don't wear eyeglasses otherwise I'd buy a pair of frames from him in a heartbeat. He has a very cool assortment of imported, super high quality stuff. I may stop in at some point in the future and buy a pair of his
Coyote was quick and efficient- He cut some great new lens for me and he re-assembled my frames. I'm pretty bummed I don't wear eyeglasses otherwise I'd buy a pair of frames from him in a heartbeat. He has a very cool assortment of imported, super high quality stuff. I may stop in at some point in the future and buy a pair of his
Lorenzo L.
Nov 15, 2016
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This is one of those places that didn't exactly gel with all of the hype I had read about it. I agree with all of the positive comments regarding the selection of upscale/ trendy frames. However where it fell really short was customer service.
Mid week during the late afternoon, I was the only person in the shop. The person behind the counter explained that all of the frames were gender neutral, and prices were on each pair . While he did look up from his smartphone for part of our conversation , he immediately returned to his text message / web search . All other questions I asked were
Mid week during the late afternoon, I was the only person in the shop. The person behind the counter explained that all of the frames were gender neutral, and prices were on each pair . While he did look up from his smartphone for part of our conversation , he immediately returned to his text message / web search . All other questions I asked were
Patti DeGroot
Oct 15, 2016
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Coyote treats all his clients with a high level of dedication, so that they
leave his shop with the best pair of eyeglasses possible. His selection
of frames is varied and will fit most tastes. He has taken it one step
further and has designed his own line of frames. I have a hard time finding glasses that fit and his line of frames fit me. I usually end up with glasses that are ugly and now I can have pretty ones. Check him out!!
leave his shop with the best pair of eyeglasses possible. His selection
of frames is varied and will fit most tastes. He has taken it one step
further and has designed his own line of frames. I have a hard time finding glasses that fit and his line of frames fit me. I usually end up with glasses that are ugly and now I can have pretty ones. Check him out!!
Christina C.
Apr 08, 2016
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I really wasn't planning on getting new glasses this year, but my 5 month old puppy thought I needed new glasses, apparently. She chewed them up with no remorse whatsoever. Incidentally, a week prior to this, I took the long route to walk sweet little Millie to Wicker Bark and passed by Labrabbit.
I'd been going to Lenscrafters for years, and I've only ever owned the same frame shape, so I thought to myself, you know what? I'm going to try something new and I'm going to support a local business.
Alright, I'm done with my backstory. I walked into Labrabbit to find
I'd been going to Lenscrafters for years, and I've only ever owned the same frame shape, so I thought to myself, you know what? I'm going to try something new and I'm going to support a local business.
Alright, I'm done with my backstory. I walked into Labrabbit to find
Steve H.
Oct 31, 2015
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So I had super advanced fancy LASIK surgery done in 2008. Had to work through a ton of anxiety, but the perfect storm of a dear Ophthalmology friend getting me in a study and an accidental 1500 HSA balance about to expire pushed me to just get it done. And it was a miracle! Within 3 days, I had been freed from the 30-year shackles of my coke-bottle glasses. I was a different person bursting with clarity!
And so I ignored that I was slowly drifting away from 20/20 vision over the past year (years?). And maybe I couldn't see the bands on stage as well as i hoped. And occasionally, I would
And so I ignored that I was slowly drifting away from 20/20 vision over the past year (years?). And maybe I couldn't see the bands on stage as well as i hoped. And occasionally, I would
Holly O.
Aug 14, 2015
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This place is the craft cocktail version of eyewear. Coyote is a one-man show who has carefully curated one of the most unique and interesting collections of frames I've ever seen. ...And my husband is an optometrist - so there is a LOT of eyewear in my life :)
If you're looking to blend in, go to one of the obvious chain stores and support Corporate America. If you're looking to support a local Chicago business, find something that reflects the individual that you are, or even if you're just looking for an environmental change-of-pace for a minute - Labrabbit is for you
If you're looking to blend in, go to one of the obvious chain stores and support Corporate America. If you're looking to support a local Chicago business, find something that reflects the individual that you are, or even if you're just looking for an environmental change-of-pace for a minute - Labrabbit is for you
Claire T.
Aug 14, 2015
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When it comes to your face... don't mess around.
Labrabbit Optics is a beautiful, clean lined shop with the best selection of eyewear in Chicago. Coyote, the owner, is a true professional. Knowledgable and an expert in his craft.
Since shopping with Labrabbit putting glasses on in the morning has turned from a drab necessity to an exciting part of my morning routine.
Labrabbit Optics is a beautiful, clean lined shop with the best selection of eyewear in Chicago. Coyote, the owner, is a true professional. Knowledgable and an expert in his craft.
Since shopping with Labrabbit putting glasses on in the morning has turned from a drab necessity to an exciting part of my morning routine.
James B.
Aug 12, 2015
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There is definitely something to be said for individual attention. After trying online frames and being dissatisfied, I came in to Labrabbit specifically to get some high-quality frames personally fitted to me. Coyote helped me through the selection process and had my frames and lenses ready a few days later, and then worked with me to ensure that they fit properly so I could leave constantly pushing my glasses up as a distant memory.
I've been back a couple times since, and will continue to go here for all my optical needs. Something that is such a big part of my personal appearance warrants
I've been back a couple times since, and will continue to go here for all my optical needs. Something that is such a big part of my personal appearance warrants
Dagny K.
Jul 03, 2015
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I buy glasses obsessively but rarely get to this neighborhood so I'd never been to Labrabbit. I'd just acquired a new pair of vintage frames that needed adjusting so I thought it would be a great reason to finally get over there, get an adjustment from an optician I knew carries vintage frames, and have a look around.
The guy was friendly enough when I came in but he took a call while I was mid-sentence explaining why I was there. After he got off the phone, I took out my vintage frames and he immediately announced that he doesn't adjust frames he didn't sell because he might
The guy was friendly enough when I came in but he took a call while I was mid-sentence explaining why I was there. After he got off the phone, I took out my vintage frames and he immediately announced that he doesn't adjust frames he didn't sell because he might
Michelle M.
Jun 24, 2015
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Did you know? Labrabbit optics replaces lenses if you have your own frames.
On a recent trip to Japan, I decided to buy some Kaneko optical frames since most of the asian frames have nose pads to help with my small bridge. I brought my frames here to have the lenses made and couldn't be more pleased.
My vision is -5.75/-6.00 and the price for the lenses was extremely reasonable. In addition, I believe the lenses are 1.74 hi-index Essilor lenses with Crizal Avance coating. The reviews may complain that the lenses are "expensive," but you actually get MORE than what you pay
On a recent trip to Japan, I decided to buy some Kaneko optical frames since most of the asian frames have nose pads to help with my small bridge. I brought my frames here to have the lenses made and couldn't be more pleased.
My vision is -5.75/-6.00 and the price for the lenses was extremely reasonable. In addition, I believe the lenses are 1.74 hi-index Essilor lenses with Crizal Avance coating. The reviews may complain that the lenses are "expensive," but you actually get MORE than what you pay
Rachel R.
Jan 22, 2014
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I probably should have written a review earlier, but honestly Labrabbit is the best eyeglass shop I have walked into. All of the frames are so completely unique, but there is still a wide variety that most high end shops don't seem to offer.
The guy that runs the place is so nice and helpful. Besides hooking me up with the glasses, I locked myself out of my car and he let me hang around for an hour since it was cold out.
Additionally, I paid $120 for my frames (which I love). A year later my prescription changed and I took them to a different shop closer to home just to have the lenses
The guy that runs the place is so nice and helpful. Besides hooking me up with the glasses, I locked myself out of my car and he let me hang around for an hour since it was cold out.
Additionally, I paid $120 for my frames (which I love). A year later my prescription changed and I took them to a different shop closer to home just to have the lenses
Kent S.
Aug 04, 2011
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It took way too long for the initial visit to Labrabbit. Then it finally happened. I haven't worn glasses for about 8 years and I wanted to try and make up for lost time the moment that I entered.
Coyote is the greatest optician in history.
When I put that set of Andy Wolf frames on my face, I fell in love. Then I asked Coyote if there is even the slightest chance that I will possibly encounter a second set of these walking around Chicago. He assured me that that is far less than likely. Then I checked the frame designer's site. Turns out that I likely own the only pair of these glasses
Coyote is the greatest optician in history.
When I put that set of Andy Wolf frames on my face, I fell in love. Then I asked Coyote if there is even the slightest chance that I will possibly encounter a second set of these walking around Chicago. He assured me that that is far less than likely. Then I checked the frame designer's site. Turns out that I likely own the only pair of these glasses
