About
Reef Plus in North Aurora, Illinois has quietly built a devoted following among saltwater hobbyists across the western suburbs and well beyond. Owner Steve has been a fixture in the local reef community for over two decades — some customers have relied on his guidance for 20-plus years — and that longevity shows in every detail of the operation. Walk in and the first thing you notice is how immaculately clean the tanks are.
Massive leather corals sway in display systems that rival institutional aquariums, while healthy fish and vibrant frags fill the livestock racks. What sets Reef Plus apart is the depth of service. Steve and his team handle full turnkey installations, from delivering and setting up a 150-gallon Planet Aquariums Mega Matrix reef system to arranging rockscapes, mixing saltwater, and neatly organizing equipment inside the cabinet stand.
Through his IRONFISH fabrication business, Steve also builds custom light brackets and other hardware — one customer raves about a setup housing two Radion XR15 G6 Pro lights controlled through the Mobius app. The shop carries serious equipment from brands like Neptune Systems (Apex controllers), Ecotech Marine, and Planet Aquariums, alongside a deep inventory of dry goods, food, and RO water. Tank maintenance is another cornerstone.
Trevor handles ongoing service for marine tanks ranging from home setups to a 150-gallon office display, performing deep cleanings and water changes that keep corals thriving and fish healthy. And when emergencies strike — like a Neptune COR-20 return pump dying on Christmas Eve — Steve has been known to open the store after hours to get customers back up and running. The consistent thread through every review is trust.
Steve won't sell you something you don't need, won't push livestock onto an unprepared tank, and will answer the same beginner question ten times without a hint of impatience. Peppermint shrimp at a great price, healthy corals that stay healthy at home, and the kind of personal relationship that makes driving past closer shops worthwhile — that's what keeps people coming back to Reef Plus.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- Services
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Turnkey custom reef aquarium installations including Planet Aquariums Mega Matrix systems
- Custom fabrication through IRONFISH for light brackets and hardware
- After-hours emergency support — owner Steve has opened on Christmas Eve for equipment failures
- Stunning in-store displays featuring massive leather corals and pristine livestock
- Professional tank maintenance services by Trevor for home and office marine tanks
From keepers
Customer reviews
“I have a 117 gallon marine tank. Trevor does an amazing job of deep cleaning and water changes. He is very knowledgeable and helpful with advice regarding the tank and wellbeing of the fish. Couldn’t be happier.”
— Jeff Sword5.06 days ago“Never a disappointment when waking in the store. The tanks look amazing and super clean. The livestock looks great and healthy. Top notch LFS highly recommend.”
— Thomas Newman5.03 months ago“Stopped in as we were in the area. Super clean store, good selection. Hadn't planned on buying anything, but had to give them some business. Guy gave me a smokin deal on some peppermint shrimp. We don't have much close to home, and this is a bit of a drive for us, but well worth the trip and will be my first stop/call when looking for livestock. Thanks again!!”
— Nick Steder5.03 months ago“Excellent service, corals and fish in excellent condition, I highly recommend it”
— Alejandro Villa5.05 months ago“Awesome little store. I’ve been fish-keeping, planted fw and mixed reef for 20+ years. I’ve been to a lot of places being ex-military and this little shop is awesome. Good prices on livestock, RO, food, accessories, etc. The real kicker is that the tanks in the shop are absolutely beautiful. Some of the biggest leathers I’ve seen outside of the ocean or an institutional aquarium. Great little spot and I’m glad it’s only 10 minutes away. Will keep shopping here for sure.”
— B to the T5.07 months ago“Great guy to do business with”
— William Wilson5.08 months ago“Steve is awesome! I got into saltwater about 16 years ago and Steve was always my go to. I had to move and took a break but now I’m back at it and he has made the process easy! Highly recommend going here for all of your saltwater needs!”
— Jess (Jess)5.0Edited 9 months ago“Great fish. Great owner. Will not sale you fish just to sale. He takes pride in his store and his marine fish”
— Edward Lynch5.010 months ago“Steve has helped me with my 90 gallon tank for over 20 years. Great guy , knowledgeable and he cares about the quality of salt water fish that he sells.😊”
— Bob B5.010 months ago“I have been a repeat customer here for maybe 4 months or so now. At least 10 visits to the shop. Steve is a really cool owner and all of his staff are very helpful and friendly. He is alway open to giving me advice on anything i need since i am new to the hobby. He never treats me poorly if i dont understand or ask the same questions over and over. If i text him something weird going on in my tank or have a simple question he is always there to help. I couldnt say more positive things about this shop. Theres never a need to order anything from internet suppliers when you have a store this good right in your own backyard and why doesnt love supporting local businesses. Id give steve and reef plus 10 stars if it would let me.”
— Mario Sparto5.010 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (630) 906-7333 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Reef Plus.