Forest Hills, Queens NY · Est. 1999
About Austin Optics —
Your Forest Hills,
Queens Eye Care
Specialists
A trusted Forest Hills institution since 1999. Under Iris and Mark's ownership since 2016, Austin Optics has grown into the premier optical destination for Queens and all five NYC boroughs.
Our History
Austin Optics — Forest Hills Eye Care Specialists
From a neighborhood optical shop to one of Queens' most trusted eye care destinations — here's how we got here.
Austin Optics Opens on Austin Street
Founded by Myron Molden and Irene Mercado, who had already been serving the Forest Hills community for over 20 years. Austin Optics quickly became a trusted neighborhood institution.
Mark Kimyagarov Joins the Practice
Mark — now co-owner — begins working at Austin Optics. His deep roots in Forest Hills and optical expertise make him a natural fit. He would remain until 2010 before pursuing other ventures.
Iris Builds a 30-Year Legacy Across NYC
While Austin Optics grew in Forest Hills, Iris was forging her reputation — first at an exclusive Park Avenue private practice serving NYC socialites and Fortune 500 executives, then at a landmark Brooklyn Heights practice for nearly 13 years, personally serving over 78,000 patients.
Iris & Mark Take Over — A Full-Circle Moment
Founder Myron Molden retires and sells Austin Optics to Iris and Mark. They return to Forest Hills with a combined 30+ years of NYC optical expertise. The transformation begins immediately — new technology, curated premium brands, and the kind of personal care that built their reputations across the city.
From 2,500 to 7,500+ Patients Per Year
Under Iris and Mark's leadership, Austin Optics tripled its patient base. Loyal patients from Brooklyn Heights followed Iris to Forest Hills. Word spread across Queens and all five boroughs. The practice became known for something simple but rare: they refuse to compromise on quality.
Approaching 10 Years of Community Service
In August 2025, Austin Optics celebrates 10 years under Iris and Mark's ownership — and 25+ years as a Forest Hills institution. Dr. Anushka Mistry, OD joined the team, bringing board-certified optometry care to match the practice's world-class optical expertise.
What We Stand For
Our Commitment to Personalized Vision Care
Three principles that have defined Austin Optics since the day Iris and Mark took over.
No Compromise on Quality
We carry only premium lenses — Zeiss, Crizal, Varilux — and handcrafted frames in 100% cotton acetate. Your eyes wear these 14–16 hours a day. They deserve the best.
Personal Attention, Every Visit
We're not a chain. We're not a clinic. We're a practice where Iris, Mark, or Dr. Mistry personally takes care of you — every single time. That's why patients drive from Manhattan.
Rooted in Forest Hills
Forest Hills is our home. We sponsor, we serve, we show up. When you choose Austin Optics, you're supporting a locally owned practice that gives back to the community it loves.
Meet Our Optometrists & Licensed Opticians
The People Behind Austin Optics
A board-certified optometrist, two licensed opticians, and a combined 30+ years of New York City eye care expertise.
Forest Hills, Queens NY
Visit Our Forest Hills Optical Shop
We're located on Austin Street in Forest Hills — one of Queens' most vibrant, high-traffic neighborhoods. Easily accessible by subway, bus, and car. Street parking and lots are nearby.
- 72-20 Austin Street, Forest Hills, NY 11375
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- F, E, M, R subway lines nearby
- Street parking and lots available
- Tuesday–Saturday, 10am–7pm (varies by day)
Ready to Visit?
Schedule Your First Appointment
at Austin Optics
Most major insurance accepted. Walk-ins welcome. Appointments preferred — call us and we'll take care of the rest.