Ultimate Aquarium Inc — Local services in San Mateo

Long overdue return visit. Years ago while working on the SF Peninsula I used to visit this store regularly and was always pleased. At that time I had a full blown 55 gallon reef tank with all the goodies. Well after a long absence I went back yesterday and can say that this store in my opinion is unequivocally one (if not) the best tropical fish store within a 30 mile radius and trust me I have been to them all, kicking the tires. The gentleman I spoke with I assume was the owner. He was extremely welcoming and so knowledgeable. He actually explained what I needed to do with my new Fluval Flex 5 nano freshwater tank (which on reflection I should have purchased from him - "shop local"). He talked me out of making mistakes and corrected me on what and when to purchase live stock. I felt compelled to purchase some not so needed supplies just as a thank you for his help. He also had a very cool Koi plastic tank running (for my back yard in San Francisco) with a great idea for keeping racoons out. I got home and that idea got no traction. But hope springs eternal. Just a great experience. Going back as soon as...

This fish store is only a few minutes from my house so I visit fairly often to buy food and look around. They have a decent selection of dry goods and frozen foods, prices there fairly typical. Fairly good selection of freshwater and saltwater fish. The health of the fish, especially in the saltwater tanks is often poor. I have often seen dead, severely injured, and obviously sick fish in the tanks with other fish. I understand that losses are a normal part of the industry, but there is no reason not to remove these fish. The fish prices are ok, but certainly not a particularly good deal. Saltwater invert selection is fairly small, but they get some interesting things occasionally. The corals are the most confusing. The selection and coral health are ok but the prices are insane. Way more than other shops even for...

Can’t ever get enough of this place. Joe(owner)plus his staff members definitely have a big love, passion, enthusiasm for this hobby. Prices are always superior and affordable. Have a huge selection of different freshwater/marine/plants/aquarium products and all the in between. Knowledge and helpful in every way shape/form. Everyone here has great input to help you thru your journey in this hobby. Place always is super clean maintained and the quality shows immensely. The fish/plants all show too how well they take care of them. Can’t thank this place enough for helping to take in fish I can no longer have/to many of. Definitely worth the stop to get all your wants/needs. Highly recommended place if ya haven’t visited. You won’t be disappointed. Thanks again everyone at The...