Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store Introduce
For pet lovers across the Greater Boston area, particularly those residing in Somerville and its surrounding communities, finding a pet store that offers more than just the basics is a true treasure. While many large chain stores dominate the market, they often lack the specialized knowledge, unique inventory, and personal touch that a small, independently owned business can provide. This is precisely where Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store shines as a hidden gem for local enthusiasts. Situated in the heart of Somerville, this store is a haven for those seeking exotic pets and personalized service. It’s not just a place to buy supplies; it’s an experience where you’re greeted by a stunning parrot named “Louie” and can find everything from colorful fish to rare reptiles and birds. This small business is a testament to the passion and dedication of its owner, creating a welcoming and knowledgeable environment that makes every visit a delight for both new and long-time customers.
Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store has built a reputation on its commitment to its animals and its customers. The owner's deep knowledge and genuine love for all creatures, whether fish, birds, or reptiles, are consistently highlighted in customer reviews. This expertise translates into an environment where customers can receive sound, un-rushed advice on everything from setting up the right tank to providing the proper care for their new pet. Unlike the often-impersonal experience at larger chains, this store offers a personal connection, with the owner greeting each customer and taking immense pride in his work. The store is described as his “baby,” a sentiment that is palpable in the care he takes with each animal and the time he spends with each person. This dedication not only ensures the health and vitality of the animals for sale but also empowers pet owners with the confidence and knowledge needed to provide a happy home for their new companions. It’s a place where supporting a local business feels genuinely rewarding, knowing you are contributing to a place that cares deeply about its craft and its community.
Located conveniently at 55 Elm St in Somerville, MA 02144, Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store is easily accessible for residents across Somerville, Cambridge, Medford, and other nearby towns. Its central location in a bustling area of Somerville makes it a straightforward drive or public transit trip for many in the Greater Boston area. The street itself is a hub of activity, making the store a great stop to include as part of a larger outing. For customer convenience, the establishment is wheelchair accessible, with a wheelchair-accessible entrance, ensuring that all community members can visit and enjoy the store. For those on a tight schedule, the store’s layout and efficient service make a quick visit possible, allowing you to grab what you need and get on your way. At the same time, the inviting and engaging atmosphere, filled with a wide variety of animals, encourages visitors to linger and explore all the unique offerings. The business also offers a variety of payment options, accepting major credit cards, debit cards, and convenient NFC mobile payments, making transactions seamless and easy for everyone.
While the business does not publicly list a detailed menu of services, customer reviews and the nature of the business itself highlight several key offerings that make it a standout choice for pet owners. The primary service is the in-store shopping experience, which is defined by its remarkable inventory and the owner’s expertise. Here is a breakdown of what customers can expect:
- Expert Advice and Guidance: The owner, Simon, is renowned for his extensive knowledge of all his animals, including fish, birds, and reptiles. He provides personalized, un-rushed consultations on tank setups and general pet care, ensuring customers are well-equipped to care for their new companions.
- Pet Sourcing and Variety: The store has a diverse and often exotic selection of animals, including axolotls, exotic birds, and various fish and reptiles. A key service is their ability to source specific animals for customers, as highlighted by a review where the owner was able to find a beautiful albino parakeet for a customer.
- Sale of Healthy Animals: The store's commitment to the health of its animals is a core service. Customers consistently praise the vitality and health of the pets they purchase, a direct result of the owner's loving care and deep knowledge.
- Pet Supplies: Alongside the animals, the store carries a wide range of essential supplies for birds, fish, and other pets, ensuring that you can find everything you need in one place.
The entire operation is geared toward providing a superior, more personalized experience than one would find at a large-scale chain store.
Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store distinguishes itself through several key features and highlights that make it a truly special place for pet enthusiasts. These unique aspects are what transform a simple shopping trip into a memorable experience and a core reason for the store's loyal following. The highlights are often the small, personal touches that set it apart.
- Welcoming Atmosphere and Personal Connection: From the moment you walk in, you are greeted by "Louie," the beautiful parrot, and the friendly owner. This personal welcome makes customers feel valued and at home, fostering a positive relationship from the very beginning.
- Expertise of the Owner: The owner's passion and knowledge are unparalleled. Customers feel confident in his advice, knowing that it comes from a place of genuine love and a deep understanding of animal care. This expertise is a stark contrast to the often generic advice found at larger stores.
- Remarkable Variety: The store is a "hidden gem" because of its wide and unique selection of animals. Finding exotic pets like axolotls and rare birds for sale in a local store is a major draw for hobbyists and curious newcomers alike.
- Commitment to Animal Health: Customers consistently note that the animals purchased from the store are healthy and full of life, which is a testament to the high standards of care maintained by the owner.
- Support for a Local Business: By choosing to shop here, customers are directly supporting a small, local business that takes pride in its work and contributes to the community, an increasingly important factor for many consumers.
This combination of personalized service, expert knowledge, and a unique inventory makes Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store a standout destination.
For more information or to inquire about a specific animal, you can contact Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store directly. The store is located at 55 Elm St, Somerville, MA 02144, USA. Their phone number is (617) 666-2444, and they can also be reached by mobile at +1 617-666-2444. These contact details provide a direct line to the owner, allowing you to ask questions about current stock or special orders before your visit.
For any pet enthusiast in Massachusetts, particularly in the Greater Boston area, choosing Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store is an easy and rewarding decision. What makes this store worth choosing over the competition is its complete embrace of being a local, small business. It is a place where you are not just a customer but part of a community. The owner’s passion for his animals and his commitment to providing personalized, knowledgeable service create an experience that cannot be replicated by large chain stores. The store's ability to offer a diverse range of exotic pets and its willingness to source specific animals for customers make it a unique and invaluable resource. The consistent positive feedback about the health of the animals and the kindness of the owner highlights that this is a business built on love and integrity. For those who value expert advice, a personal connection, and the opportunity to support a local business that truly cares about its craft, Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store is a must-visit destination. It's more than a pet store; it's a cherished local institution that serves as a beacon for animal lovers in the community.
Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store Details
From the business
- Small business
Service options
- Delivery
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
Planning
- Quick visit
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
- NFC mobile payments
- Credit cards
Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store Photos










Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store Location
Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store
55 Elm St, Somerville, MA 02144, USA
Big Fish Little Fish Pet Store Reviews
tankknowledgebettareptilesownersmellshrimpinformationrodentsfreshwater fish
★ 5★ 4★ 3★ 2★ 1This place is a hidden gem! When you walk in, you’re greeted by “Louie,” the most beautiful parrot I have ever seen for sale in a pet store, and let me tell you, if you want it, this place has it, and if not, they can get it!! From axolotls to exotic birds, there’s quite the variety. From now on I will simply only buy my birds from Simon. He was the only one able to find me my beautiful albino parakeet! Very kind, welcoming, and knowledgeable. The bird I was given is very healthy and full of life. I would highly recommend it!
March 27 · A. CThe owner of this store has a lot of knowledge regarding all of his animals, fish, birds and reptiles. You can tell he truly loves all animals. He takes his time with each customer to explain things on setting up the right tank or things needed for their care. He does not rush anyone. Unlike other chainPet stores, the owner actually greets you and takes pride in his work. You can tell this store is his baby, I would recommend anyone to go here to support local business along with an excellent pet store. I hope this place is around for a long timeThank youCatherine
June 14 · Catherine BendeckDecent place to find fish and shrimp. They carry bamboo shrimp most of the time! Adding a video of my bamboo shrimp tank. They added this cool hanging lantern aquarium! Love the new addition!
May 17 · Richard PI like this place for aquarium stuff. It's a one person operation so it's a little grungy but not too grungy and the fish seem happy. The owner is a nice guy and he'll also special order whatever isn't in stock.
June 24 · Aaron FanI’ve kept betta fish for eight years (important context for later — I’m no stranger to aquatics and consider myself competent when it comes to the hobby). I’ve been a repeat customer though I’m not always thrilled to do so. Let me start with the good: it’s a convenient location being right next to Porter Square and the prices are slightly cheaper than your regular chain pet stores. When I know exactly what supplies I need to restock, it’s great for a quick pickup. The betta selection is small but decent and the owner Armand doesn’t house them in cups which is what I like to see. I’ve bought two bettas from him before and health-wise they’re about the same as ones I’ve gotten from other pet chains. That’s not a knock against BFLF though, that’s just how bettas are as a breed. To speak to the not-so-good: as a local resource for gaining knowledge or troubleshooting tank problems, I’m conflicted. Armand is friendly, makes himself available, and gives credible basic advice if you are an absolute beginner and wouldn’t know where to start. But if you have intermediate-to-advanced experience with fish be warned you may come into disagreement with him. His attitude can come across as dismissive and some of the advice he’s given me before ranges from either things I already know to seemingly off and suspicious. He insists on the “bettas live in puddles and do better in smaller tanks” myth. I get the impression that he’s very set in his ways about how aquariums should be kept and hasn’t evolved his views. All the tanks on display have also been filthy every time I visit. The vibe of the store overall is dingy, shabby, cluttered, cramped, and kind of depressing. Real hole-in-the-wall kind of place and not in a charming way.
February 21 · Kitt Kogut
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