I’m not the biggest on writing reviews (and I’m in the customer experience industry ), but this was stellar from the phone call through checkout. 1. Called on Thanksgiving and asked for pest control product. The person who answered was awesome. I could tell she verified her colleague downstairs was available before transferring me to him (there will be no waiting for 15 rings and someone answering confused why you are calling at this ACE). 2. I was immediately greeted when I arrived and she (the person who answered) remembered me. She gave me detailed directions to the specific location of the Diatomaceous earth. (I’m sorry I don’t remember her name, but she was like the lobby greeter at a 5-star hotel.) 3. I head downstairs, thinking I would go find the product based on her directions, but no! Enters Jeff. I could tell he had just been radioed by his colleague and he turns to me and asks “Diatomaceous earth?” Say freaking what!!! I worked in hotels for 8 years, including 4-Diamond hotels. This is how we did it when guests would arrive. Valet radio in to front desk or the bellman introduced the guests to front desk. This is ACE hardware though! (Now you see why I’m sitting in my parking space writing this right now.) 4. Jeff continues to go above and beyond helping me with every inquiry I had. 5. The “lobby greeter” enters again after I go upstairs poking around at all the amazing products I never expected to see. She says “I see you found the Diatomaceous earth.” She also later sees me looking at the comedic towels and recommends the coasters too. Again stellar. 6. The nice lady who checked me out (with a total of 3 products when I only came for one) was very nice and explained how the ACE hardware stores are franchised and the owners wanted to bring a different experience here. Well they definitely did. This was one of my top customer experiences I’ve ever had in my life. Completely unexpected and this team and the owners can teach CX to other businesses. This is 5-Diamond Service. Thank you for this. I’ll be coming back for all the other non-traditional, but practical and community-relevant products. Stellar!!!

I'm a handyman and live nearby, and I've been here so often that most of the employees at least recognize me. But there's a relatively new (maybe a couple of years) floor manager who has no customer service skills. My once 5-star review (below) is now a 1. Every other employee is great - polite, friendly and helpful, almost to a fault, as were previous managers. But this one clearly doesn't care about loyal customers, nor does she have the ability or desire to fake it. This store has been my favorite, go-to hardware store for 6 years, and is now my last resort. I won't go into detail here, but I had a manufacturer coupon, and a "rewards" coupon, both of which were valid and should have been applied to my purchase, but weren't. No genuine attempts to make it work, or apologies. And when, in frustration, I said, "just forget it," and started to leave the 5 items I'd spent almost an hour selecting on the counter, her response was, "that's your choice." She's right. It's also my choice to shop anywhere else, whenever possible, and I will. My previous review: Excellent customer service, great inventory of items and very pleasant shopping experience. A little pricey, but not outrageous. Parking can be a bit of an issue at times.

I try and use Ace whenever I can. I refuse to do anything orange. I drop by here when I’m passing through because I really like the staff. The selection is very focused on the needs of North Park and Hillcrest. I wouldn’t use them as a primary for a major project. I would use the for day to day upkeep of my home. The selection of hinges, and such as an example is the best. So if you’re looking for that thing absolutely. The staff is absolutely top notch. I am rather slow physically and mentally lately. They helped me find exactly what needed. The young woman researched and was able to determine that what I was holding was exactly what I needed. On a previous visit trying to find replacement hinges the same thing. I would stop in here first. If they don’t have it they don’t give you thousand yard stare. The their bbq place next door is someplace I need to explore. They have. Great selection of supplies for anyone with chemical products concerns. Plus the stuff to make your house a little special is all over the place. I like this place

I came in to grab some hardware for a luggage repair I was trying to do. I had to come back in because I got the wrong parts and Chris in the hardware department downstairs was awesome. I brought the luggage in this time and he was so helpful with recommending the exact nuts & screws through trial and error with the actual item being repaired. He ended up finding the perfect combination that fixed the problem and even installed it on the bag for me. Thanks again for saving me from buying a new bag, Chris! To the store in general: this is the nicest Ace Hardware I've been to! All the staff here are really friendly and helpful, please be a good person and return the courtesy. The store is well-appointed with good inventory for the average renter/homeowner and even has some fun additions that make it more interesting than the average Ace. Street parking can be tough so try to come on off-hours.

I have neglected my grill for quite sometime. I figured I would do some restoration work for upcoming Spring. No matter what I tried; Simple Green, Distilled Vinegar, Stainless steel polish. None of it was able to remove the stubborn discoloration from the heat. I figured I'd go talk to a grill guy at ACE. I was kindly helped buy a young gentleman and young lady. They pointed me towards "Easy Off" oven cleaner. I was skeptical, as nothing else had worked. The two employees weren't sure it would work but mentioned if it didn't, keep my receipt and bring it back. But for future purpose, they'd like to know the outcome. Well, IT WORKED LIKE A CHAMP! Thank you to the two very friendly and helpful employees at ACE HARDWARE. My grill now looks brand new.

Amazing little hardware shop! So many handcrafted items, towels, soaps, socks, coffee cups with cute sayings and hard-to-find items. Cool Old popcorn makers that pop within it's lid, modern Items, paints, an entire down stairs that I never even got to! Method cleaning products, ball caps, absolutely need a few hours to look through this place! Employees are beyond helpful, polite and kind. My 4/5 stars is because this place is expensive. A single hand towel w/funny saying or a single bar of soap is $9.00. That popcorn maker is $48.00. Rubber maid bowls, whisks, all over priced. The saddest part is you will need to walk urine stained, uneven, hacked up walkways and step over homeless people to get to the front door. The neighborhood is not good.

The selection is great and all of the salespeople are very knowledgeable, personable, and friendly. The store doesn't swallow you whole like at one of the hardware warehouses like Lowe's or Home Depot. And if Hillcrest Ace Hardware doesn't have something in stock, they will order it for you. Hillcrest Ace Hardware is small enough to feel like a neighborhood hardware store with the personal touch, but they also have the ability to compete with the warehouse type hardware stores because they have the resources and supply chain available to cover anything that you might need. They are always my go-to place for all things household and hardware because of their attention to customer service and ability to obtain what I need to get the job done.

This place has made me NEVER want to shop at Ace Hardware again. I try to frequent smaller owned businesses instead of the big box stores but this is it. I purchased a fan online that was picked up there and it broke within a day. I took it back - this was during the heatwave - and the woman that worked there refused to take it back and exchange it. I've never heard of such a thing! Said I had to have it credited and buy a new one - no exchanges because it was purchased online. She was VERY RUDE AND CONDESCENDING! Also told me to not to bother contacting corporate because they won't do anything since they're privately owned. She said that she is the manager. Not a nice person at all!

Ace Hardware has such a variety of merchandise! I've found everything from specialty light bulbs to barbecues and birthday gifts! I needed pickling salt for a recipe recently and Ace Hardware had it, along with other pickling and canning supplies. Just yesterday I found a new kitchen sink faucet and a kit for repairing an old broken doorbell, both of which I'd tried unsuccessfully to find at Home Depot. All I had to do was walk into Ace and tell the first employee I saw what I was looking for and I was led right to them! One-stop shopping . . . well, almost. I do have to cross the street and head to Ralph's if I need eggs, chicken, and milk. (Ace has my favorite Gummi Bears, though!)

Very nice store. They have a nice selection of both hardware and home goods. The blending of the two make this Brand a nice place to shop. They are helpful and nice here. I do not like how at the register you are always asked for your number or if its not on file to be added to their reward/marketing program. It can be borderline annoying. I eventually gave them my number to make it easy on me. Now when I go I have to scream my phone number to them while everyone in line can hear. My recommendation would be to allow us to enter it. Sure, they have the little card to put on your Keychain; who has used those since 2005? Another positive note: really fun gift options.

The Ace in Hillcrest is great for finding anything for home repair and general hardware. Easy location on University. There is only street parking so finding a spot really depends on what's going on in the area. The store itself is really nice. It's clean and organized with that classic hardware store character. There are three floors of items. Hardware on the bottom basement floor, general stuff on the main floor, and office supplies, paper products and pet products on the upper floor. Prices aren't the best, but they aren't terrible. The store really shines with service. Everyone is super friendly and helpful. It's also dog friendly, so your pooch can come in.

First of all this is a gorgeous ACE and all of the staff are super nice. This visit was just to have a guest key made and when I pulled into a spot on Robinson the meter said it still had 12 mins on it and I thought "I wonder if they could have it done in that amount of time?" So I set a timer just in case I needed to run out and put some money into the meter. Walk in, as always super helpful staff... Gave the gentleman my current key, picked out a PRIMO new on, and in LITERALLY under 10 mins I was done, paid and heading home. There was still 6 mins on the meter when I got back in my car. I wish I could give this place 6 stars. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Great hardware store! Not as massive as a Lowes or Home depot, but if you're not there for huge projects or lumber it has a ton of great products. Call ahead if you're unsure. Parking is not the greatest. There is a parking lot across the street by the Trader Joe's etc, but if picking up a large order, they offer to hold at door, and bring it to your car curbside. Super friendly staff, I was helped by 4 different people who all walked me to my product. Great selection. If they don't have it, they will find it for you and refer you to the vendor that does! Fantastic selection for Big green Egg products too!

This is an incredible hardware store. It’s three stories. It has a basement and a second floor and you never know it as you go inside I think you can find anything you would ever need in here and it’s classy. People are very friendly very helpful. Prices are good. They always have coupons and sales, I love that it’s in my neighborhood and I can walk there. They have all garden accessories which is what I shop mostly for but everything to do with paints and tools and parts. I’m still checking it out because I just moved here in the last few months, but I super recommend it and they’re so helpful!

As always - great customer service. Store was busy but team member told me he would get back to me as soon as he was done helping customers he was with. Sure enough he came back in a few minutes- helped me find my item (actually they didn't have the item I came in for but he found a great substitute - I could have ordered but wanted for a BBQ this weekend). I LOVE THIS ACE HARDWARE - has typical Hardware stuff but also great for browsing because it has so many home good items also. Nothing is better than the hardware store in the gay neighborhood - has everything on both sides of the aisle!

I haven't been in this store for maybe 6 or 7 years. I recently needed to run into a hardware store for paint and was in the neighborhood. I forgot how fabulous this store was! It's a hardware store that offers so much more! There was fun, quirky gift type items like socks, soaps, dish towels, etc. Then household equipments. Since I only had half hour on the meter, I perused the store swiftly. Downstairs, you'll find every type of tool, nail, screw, pipe, etc. you'll need. Associates were so helpful and nice. I have to go back and take a little more time on all 3 levels.

Ace Hardware is a convenient hardware store that you will always be surprised by their inventory. What I honestly like the most and knowing some of their employees that always help you and recognize you when you come back. Is my go to place when I start any of my projects. They offer me a reliable explanation of what I will need and the options. Specially Mr Ray their gentleman manager that has always a smile and helped me a lot to choose the products I needed. And Mr Bryan that helped me choose our new barbecue station and they even come to your house to install.

I don't think I have ever left an online review for any establishment before, but I thought that since I've had such great experiences here I'd write one. I'm moving into my new place in Hillcrest, and the employees at Ace have been extremely helpful with guiding me through the interior painting process. I am especially grateful to one of their employees who has helped me out a few times. He's an older gentleman. He was very knowledgeable and personable. Helped me tremendously and gave me a lot of good tips for places to visit and dine in Hillcrest. Thanks again!

Great local hardware store, with good selection of pieces parts, and lots of kitschy odds and ends. Great local Hillcrest flavor (nicknamed "Gay Hardware" by many). Knowledgeable and friendly staff. My only two complaints are - cost, and limited assortment. I love shopping there and want to support smaller stores, but often they just don't have what I need, and many times when they do, its definitely more than elsewhere. They do have regular promotions, and like "$5 off $25 or more" mailers occasionally. Great little place overall.

Ace has always been there for me when I didn't want to go all the way down to Home Depot. But lately I've noticed a little slipping in the maintenance of their stock as well as the introduction of new products into the store that they used to bring in all the time. The last 2 times I've gone in, they've been out of the items (basic items) that I was looking for. I'm certain that this is an isolated incident, as Ace Hardware has always been fast, friendly, and full of items that have helped me with my project(s).

I just moved to San Diego and this was the first time I've been in the store. I never knew a hardware store could be so colorful and friendly! Amanda helped me find what I was looking for and was super friendly and helpful. In fact, everyone I encountered was super friendly. The displays were fun and colorful and the selection of cool and unique products was impressive. I found a super cool bistro set for the patio! They even helped me bring it out to my car! This is my new favorite hardware store!

This is one of my favorite hardware stores. Lots of extra "nice" items that makes it feel less like the typical hardware store. Plus it's nice to see friendly faces some old employees some new. After eleven yrs. it just keeps getting better. And it's about a twenty min. walk so not only do I get my walking exercise I get to shop for whatever I like. Today, in fact here in a few I am walking to pick up paint, incense and the last few items on my earthquake/survival list. Well done Ace Hardware.

I came in to have a house front door key copied. I had previously gone to the big box home improvement store twice to have the same key copied and both keys did not work. The person at ACE hardware that helped us was friendly. He informed us the probable reason why is that an improper blank was used to make the copy key. I got home and newly cut key works great thank you Ace hardware!!! I always appreciate your friendly personalized customer service!

Old building that's very well maintained. Has that old-timey feeling. Three floors counting the basement and the loft. Clean, well managed, well stocked. Long hours. Freeway close. Super-friendly, knowledgeable and mature staff. Not that Home Depot/Lowes grind by any means. Order on line and pick it up at ACE. Since I found this one a few years back I go out of my way to shop there and avoid the big name stores. A much better experience for me.

Love this little store! They have all the things you would expect to find in an Ace hardware store, they also have a lot if really interesting, random things like kitchen gadgets, candles, yard decor, flasks etc. Also some very funny "off color" items. Love to wander around in here when I have time. I gave 4 stars only cause they wouldn't take back a key they made me that didn't work, because it had been more than 30 days since purchase.

The tag line says it all: Ace, the helpful place! Literally one of the friendliest Ace's I've been to. Every time I come here there's always someone around to answer questions or assist with anything, in a kind, respectful, and selfless manner. They must treat their employees well because they all seem pretty chipper. A lot of business could learn a thing or two from the way this store is structured. ♠️

The are conveniently located walking distance from where I live, and usually have a lot of staff on the floor. However, they are expensive, and most staff is inexperienced (I think they have high turn over). Keep the receipt and try out your wears immediately, I had to return two big ticket items due to being faulty, and they did not take them back outside 30 days and receipt. Go to the mom and pop hardware in North Park.

As a hardware store, this location has a wide selection, with 2 stories of goods. The people who work here are friendly, accommodating, and knowledgeable. I showed them a photo of a project I wanted to do to turn a pallet into a planter, and they helped me select everything I needed. If you’re a tourist, it’s worth popping in to browse, as there are tons of interesting kitschy decorative items and sundries.

We’d love to give our business to a local GLBTQI friendly store like this. They seem well or even over staffed but it’s a challenge to get actual help. We waited 30 min at the paint counter while the sales person had a lovely conversation with another customer. That’s nice but others were waiting. I asked to use the restroom, which I’ve used there before, and I was told they don’t have a public restroom.

Very Helpful staff. Helped me find what I was looking for, and if they didn't have what I needed they were honest about it. Knowledge seems to vary between employees (not sure depending on experience or due to dedicated departments) but the staff worked well with each other to get the right information to customers. There is a reason for their slogan "the helpful place" it is very accurate, great job!

Super good Ace Hardware store and I've been to a bunch! You can get everything but the kitchen sink here. Who knows you might even be able to get that. I always feel like a celebrity when I visit since there are so many people asking me if I need help and then directing me to the proper floor and then new people ask me if I'm ok. Historic building too. Check out the artsy mural on the side.

I rely on the the two Ace Hardware stores in Metropolitan San Diego. When it isn't too busy, I can always find help in one aspect or another, even if the repair item is not in stock or the customer representative doesn't know what I am talking about. Also, it is nice and close to the Artist & Craftsman Supply, the other Ace, and close enough to the Coronado and Clairemont hardware stores.

This is a great local hardware store. They don't have a ton of variety, but they almost always have what you are looking for. In addition, their service is top notch! You can't get 20 feet into the store without someone politely asking if you need any help finding something. A great improvement over the "service" you find at the big box stores.

Luv. Luv. Luv this store!! Everyone is SO friendly and helpful that it's a joy to walk into. Very knowledgeable staff. It looks small from the outside, but when you get inside, it's so amazingly large and well organized, That, I have yet to fail in finding anything I need. BRAVO Keep up the good work! LUV! LUV! LUV this store!!!

never busy. selection... well just remember this store (company) is NOT for professionals. customer service is 5 stars and is every time i go there. hard to notice that there is a down stairs to this place and that's where all the tools are. ... pssss..(whispering)"hey"... "they have a secret parking lot out back in the ally "

Incredibly helpful and kind staff. Spoke with each other between floors to let another staff member know I was on my way, so they could help me immediately. Helped me pick out proper sized bolts and washers and spackle for repairing my wall and mounting a TV. Our new go-to for any home repair equipment needs, hands down.

How have I not reviewed this place before?! Several stories, this is the biggest, most well-stocked Ace Hardware I've been to. While that may not excite everyone, there is cute decor, fun, unqiue light bulbs and stringlights,, dog themed wall hooks and dish towels, and plenty staff for your customer service needs.

I'm going to the store twice so far, it's very well stocked, with pretty much anything you're going to go looking for, and there's always someone there to assist you to find the item you're looking for so you don't have to search Forever by yourself, and the prices are reasonable, it's where I'll be shopping

I went into Ace Hardware to do my shopping I had about $200 worth of stuff I needed I was told I could shop there but I could not use a restroom there if I wanted to use a restroom I would have to walk two block down the street to a coffee shop Then return to do my shopping I left my items in will not return

Live the selection and the atmosphere. I miss their old spot but the new place is super nice. The staff here are excellent, very friendly and helpful. Had a gentleman take great care in mixing a can of paint for me to get a particular color. Prices are really steep however. I love their selection of plants

Nice people, really organized, proactive communication between staff and welcoming to everyone who walks in the door. Refreshing change from classic hardware stores. Got what I needed and genuine interaction start to finish left me pleased to have chosen this store. Definitely recommend it!

They've managed to make a large chain (franchise) feel local. Kitschy and welcoming, this Ace feels like it fits well into Hillcrest. Surprisingly large and a good selection considering it's mere fractions of the size of big Orange or big Blue. We'd come back if we're in the neighborhood.

Once Again ACE HARDWARE saves the day! I want to give a HUGE shout out to JEFF!!! Every project I needed to complete in my home Jeff and Ace Hardware not only have anything we needed but Jeff supports you every step of the way. I want to thank you all so very much. Jeff you are amazing!!!

I love this place, the employees are friendly and knowledgeable, and you can find pretty much everything here. I found some of the best Christmas gifts/decorations and Pride decorations and anything I need for my gardening or plumbing needs. It's fun to stop by and see what's fun and new.

I work down the street from this location. I have found the staff to be super friendly and helpful. Its clear that Ace people love helping. Being in service of others myself, I value this connections approach. Also, cannot support Trump-ism and the big home repair/building companies do.

Friendly and helpful employees! Would recommend and will return. Edit 03/24/22 Severina was fantastic in helping me find the items I needed. The manager also handled an evil customer being petty very well. Everyone here is there to help, treat them with kindness and respect!

I had the most lovely experience with Brian (who was helping out on the floor). I had a lot of questions and he was wonderful. He helped me with everything and was patient and knowledgeable. Thank you Brian, you are exceptional. I know I will always come back to this Ace.

Such a cool store with helpful, friendly people there to help. Odds-and-ends, staple supplies, stuff you haven't thought of. Its fun shopping there. AND! They actually beat Amazon on pricing of a few items, plus.. I get to take it home today (not delivered tomorrow)!

This must be the Happiest Ace on Earth. Convenient parking in rear of store. Seriously great customer service and fully stocked for all your home and hardware needs. Glad to see this long standing Ace continues to be the best hardware store in the area for decades.

This is my favorite, go to hardware store. It’s within easy walking distance of where I live. Everyone is very friendly and helpful. The store is very clean very well-kept and well stocked. They have a great selection of items, and everything is reasonably priced.

I tripped and hurt myself in the store (just being an idiot, no fault of theirs) and the cashiers were super kind and helpful getting me a bandage and hydrogen peroxide. I just moved here and they’re already solidified as my go-to hardware store while I live here

The staff is amazing. They are incredibly helpful and knowledgeable. Slightly more expensive then Home Depot but it's worth the extra cost to shop here. I ALWAYS get exactly what I need and I am in and out in 10 mins or less. I LOVE shopping here.

Maddie in Paint was efficient, patient and very pleasant. I joined Ace Rewards with Natalya when I paid for firewood and the Cashier, I can't remember her name but it starts with an M, who checked me out with my paint was excellent as well.

This is easily the best hardware store I have ever been to. First off, it's remarkably beautiful, especially for a hardware store. Secondly, the staff are the most friendly and helpful staff I think I've ever encountered. Great place.

Just stopped by Ace to grab a few things and was blown away by the staff! Everyone was so welcoming and friendly. Any moment someone walked past me they checked in, asking if I needed help or how I was doing. Keep up the good work!

This store has far more than just hardware and tools. They have kitchen items, decorative items, and a really nice outdoor grill section. Service is friendly and helpful. They have limited parking in back. I like this store.

Very clean store with some of the best customer service staff available. They are both knowledgeable and extremely helpful despite how busy that they may seem to have been. It's worth supporting a business like this one.

Good variety and central location makes this place easy to go to, you just have to expect to spend more because of it. Helpful Tip: there's like 3 or 4 FREE back alley parking spots that belong to Ace that you can use.

To start, every ace hardware I've been too has been pleasant. Which is so impressive to go to one that takes it even further. The staff was so nice and provided my wife and I all the answers we needed.

You don't get more than 2 feet into this immaculate store before an employee asks if they can help. Thousands of items, meticulously displayed. Not a bargain store, but super customer service.

Compact, thorough urban hardware store with very helpful staff. Bigger on the inside than you can imagine. I will always come here first before trying the big, dehumanizing super stores.

Cool a** hardware store with tons of stuff and a knowledgeable and usually friendly staff. But I hate that coupons don't work on sale or clearance items. Funny random things like ..

Large old fashioned, neighborhood hardware store. Lots of employees, all friendly and offering to help. Only negative are limited parking, and homeless sleeping on the street.

Friendliest and most helpful staff I've ever experienced. Feels like a really big mom and pop shop in a small town. Cool selection of stuff and a good place to wander around

Still the best hardware store in the world. You are always greeted with a smile and then walked to whatever are looking for, and did I mention that this store is spotless?

We were very surprises at the size of Ace hardware (3 stories), and the variety of merchandise they have there. Also, the employees were very friendly and helpful.

I'm moving out of the area, and I'm genuinely going to miss this Ace location. Some of the nicest and most helpful people work there with a great selection. 10/10

Hard to believe this is a hardware store. It's incredible. So much fun shopping and finding new ideas for projects. A must go if you need a few nuts and bolts.

My favorite hardware store of all time. Three levels of the coolest gift items and regular hardware too. Nice people and good vibe in the store.

This place is the best choice for smaller quantities. Rarely busy, wide selection, small appliances, and "standard" hardware store down stairs.

Oh my! So much more than a hardware store! Lots of unique, handmade items, pots & pans, cleaning supplies & succulents! Plus all the hardware!

This store has the best customer service I have experienced from any establishment. They are courteous, helpful, reliable, and consistent.

Excellent service, great selection, and the place SMELLS amazing! The only hardware store I've ever been in that has only women employees.

Wow, very nice hardware store and very friendly service. A lot of nice things on the top floor, then regular hardware stuff downstairs.

Friendly and helpful staff. Very clean store. Well organized and well stocked. There's also parking around back, which is nice.

This store & employees are the best ! Courteous, friendly, helpful - this is how a business should be run !! Kudos !!!

Always friendly and knowledgeable people working there. Although their prices are higher than the big box store.

The staff is always so helpful and friendly. Plenty of parking around back and they always have what I need.

You can find everything you need at this Ace Hardware. Everyone that works here is so helpful and cheerful.

Its a great store with a lot of stock and the stuff are friendly, polite and very knowledgeable!

The staff are very knowledgeable. Prices are similar to Home Depot with a small town feel.

The workers there are well trained and know how to help people find the right items.

Super friendly and knowledgeable staff. Also have incentives to shop there. A gem.

Friendly staff! More than a diy store... Check out all their products!!!!

First time in the store great service friendly people will visit again.

great service. incredible selections of unique items. super building

This place has everything! And an awesome staff to help you find it!

Just so you know.. the tools are downstairs. Parking sucks.

Great knife sharpening service … while I waited. Thanks.

Very Nice Store I Found mine things so Good