House Aquarium

Tucked into Rowland Heights, House Aquarium is the kind of neighborhood fish store that earns its loyal following one careful conversation at a time. Owner Tony, a Shanghai native, has been in the ornamental fish business for over 20 years, and that depth of experience is evident the moment you walk in. The shop is clean and well-organized, stocked with tanks full of healthy, active fish — primarily freshwater species with a strong emphasis on goldfish, including imported Ranchu varieties that sell out fast enough to warrant pre-ordering.

Goldfish are the heart of this operation, but the selection extends well beyond. Tony carries koi, angelfish, plecos, arowanas, and blood parrots (red parrot cichlids), along with the tanks, equipment, and fish food to support them. Multiple reviewers note that his prices consistently undercut big-box competitors — two large goldfish for $15 compared to $10 each for smaller specimens at chain pet stores — and the fish arrive home healthier and hardier.

One customer described years of buying from PetSmart only to watch fish die, then finding lasting success with Tony's stock. What truly sets House Aquarium apart is Tony's genuine investment in his customers' success. He'll patiently walk young kids through the tanks, explaining each species' habits and care requirements.

He responds to questions about fish health with detailed troubleshooting advice, and regulars in his WeChat circle know he even travels back to China to source specific varieties that hobbyists request. He helped at least one customer build a complete home aquarium setup from scratch. The bilingual community here — served in both English and Chinese — keeps coming back because Tony treats every purchase like an ongoing relationship rather than a transaction.

His prices have stayed remarkably consistent over two decades, and the quality of his fish speaks for itself. If you're in the San Gabriel Valley and serious about goldfish, koi, or any of the freshwater ornamentals Tony specializes in, this small shop on Rowland Heights is worth the trip.