The Fish Barn

My 13 year old son has really wanted to start keeping fish, and we weren't sure where to start. We have cats, so need to keep the fish safe, and we are complete novices overall. I'm SO GLAD we came to the Fish Barn! After helping the other customers ahead of us, A.J. devoted so much time to helping us figure out what was best for us, running through how to set everything up, giving us just the right amount of options for substrate and plants, and so much more. We came home with a tank, a filter/pump, gravel, rocks, wood, heater, thermometer, plants, a light, dechlorinator, and plant fertilizer. My son is so excited to start this hobby and spent the evening setting everything up, which he was able to do independently due to the level of care A.J. took in his explanations and demonstrations. We are thrilled to start adding fish once our aquarium environment is friendly and safe, and will 100% do this through Fish Barn because we felt welcomed, encouraged, and like we will get great advice/support going forward. Thanks A.J.!

I drive over an hour to get to the Fish Barn and it is absolutely worth the trip. At places closer to me, I found tanks with dead fish, fish that were being put into sales tanks straight from their shipping containers, and employees who ignored me or condescended to me. At the Fish Barn, they quarantine their fish to make sure they're healthy and will not let a fish go out the door if it's not looking in the peak of health.

Recently, I wanted to get some green neon tetras, but when I texted to check, I was told that while they had them, the fish had signs of white spot and would be held and treated. A week later when they were recovered I got a text and went to the store to pick up my fish, who are now doing great in my tank at home. I always get patient answers to my questions, too. I couldn't be happier with this store.

Our local aquarium store with e wry thing including accurate advice on what you might need for your existing or new fish tank no matter its capacity.

I love this spot and find myself wanting to go back here on the weekends just for fun. The guy that runs this store not only provides excellent customer service even when the store is really busy, but it's also very clear that he cares about the animals he sells.

I remember the first time I was in the store, he was so gentle in making sure that a family thinking of purchasing a fish was ready for the commitment and prepared for the process to make sure it would remain healthy.

Additionally, the store is gorgeous. The show tanks are immaculate and something to really aspire to as a hobbyist.

I feel that Fish Barn is an excellent business with excellent customer service. It is my go-to fish store.

Just started my first tank and I could not have done it without this store! The store owner is super helpful and knowledgeable and has thoroughly explained everything I need to know! I was able to find all the equipment and plants I needed and I am super excited to go back when I'm ready for my fish! An amazing store for both first time aquarium havers and experienced fish keepers, 10/10 recommend!!!

Was referred to this place by a worker at Walnut Creek Petco and I'm glad I stopped by! The owner AJ was extremely friendly and knowledgeable with the shrimps, fish, and tank setups. Great selection and prices on shrimps and will definitely be coming back to support this local shop!

The Fish Barn is a wonderful little place where I had one of the best customer service experiences in any shop, pet or otherwise. I have a 55 gallon tank and came in wanting to add some colorful fish. I didn't know exactly what I wanted and even though I've kept fish for years I am by no means an expert. AJ showed me several options and answered all my questions.

You can see the quality of the fish in every tank in the store. Ultimately I chose Cherry barbs and a week later they are all happily swimming around in my tank.

When I told him the tank is at a daycare center, he showed me a type of fish that tend to follow your hand if you put it up against the glass and move it. And when I mentioned that eventually I'd like to have cories again but was concerned about having an all-gravel substrate, he said they don't need a completely sandy substrate but that you can make a beach using a type of sand substrate that can withstand a gravel vacuum. Those are the kind of details or insights you simply won't get at the "big box" pet stores.

We also discussed live plants. I've never had luck with live plants, but I'm encouraged to try again after getting his perspective. I appreciated that he showed me the specimens and materials needed, without pressuring me to buy them.

My only suggestion is to have signage on the building (at the top, as with the other stores in the lot). The store is located right across the street from the Orinda Library, and there is easy, free parking in the area.

I have been here a few times, and the staff are very knowledgeable, friendly, and helpful. This has become my new favorite local fish store since Albany Aquarium has closed.

Healthy fish that go through quarantine before hitting the store floor which is something few fish stores do. Beautiful natural looking aquariums with great looking plants. The bettas are not in jars or cups! Great selection of food and everything is fairly priced.

Will continue to shop at this store for my fish needs!

AJ is the absolute BEST! His knowledge about fresh water fish tanks and their care is epic, and the result... the most AMAZING fish tank I have ever owned!!! His shop might be small, but it is mighty. It is so refreshing to go into a fish store and have someone actually care.

In my opinion this is one of the best shops in the SF Bay area. The customer service has always been great. They're quick to ask if you need any help but more than happy to let you take your time and browse, there's even a sand box so you can plan out your hardscape.

The fish and tanks are look very healthy, and while I forgot to confirm this is appears that all tanks go through quarantine. Their fish selection is amazing as well, I was particularly impressed by their selection of Dwarf Cichlids, and left with a beautiful pair of Apistogramma borellii "Opal" and a school of Corydora habrosus, which are getting along swimmingly.

I love the Fish Barn. This place has a great selection of fish, shrimp, snails plants, hardscape, supplies etc. I am new to the hobby and AJ is so patient in answering all my questions. Even when the store is busy he finds time for everyone. I also really love the sandbox space where you can design your next aquascape. Special thanks to Jay who helped me design my new shrimp scape. Great store, great owner!