Pagano's Hardware — Local services in Alameda

Pagano's Hardware is a local (to Alameda) gem. Whoever owns it is thoughtful of potential customers needs and cares about providing quality goods and services at reasonable prices. While I paid more for what I purchased than it would have cost at a "big box" store, the convenience and ease of access was worth the extra dollars. They even had products that were not available elsewhere and few enough other shoppers that it was relatively easy to maintain social distancing in the narrow aisles. One especially significant sign of caring is the large fan sitting in front of an open rear door, blowing cool air inside the store. I discovered the store after making an unintended detour coming back from a walk along the shoreline (avoiding crowds) and am so thankful to have done so! This discovery saved me from the noise, confusion, and line waiting that is standard at larger chain hardware and home supply stores, especially these days. Less mental and physical strain, less stress and exactly what I needed to buy. Helped make my day satisfying,...

Paganos hardware in Alameda used to be amazing. Now it is awful. Knowledgeable staff used to ask if they could help you. The staff today ignores you and they sit at the front talking to each other. Even when you check out they don’t stop their conversations to speak to you. The few times I have asked for help the staff has had no knowledge. Just got off the phone after waiting on hold for 6 minutes. I asked if they carried an item and it took six minutes for the person to come back to confirm. Sadly they confirmed the wrong item because they are clueless. I like to support my local independents but at this point I would rather be ignored in a...

Alameda resident over 30 years. Went to Paganos Hardware at South Shore Center for hardware, bolts nuts washers. They didnt have washers I needed in stock, went to ask if they have the size. The ladies went oh we out of stock. Yeah alot of bolts nuts and other things are out of stock in that store. Even the bag to put in the bolts was missing, went to a gentleman working there. He then refilled the bags and pens to write down the quantity and pricing. I left the store without buying anything. Instead went to the hardware store on Encinal Ave. They had everything I wanted and helped me looked for it. Never going into Pagano for...