About
Tucked away in Garland, Texas, Beantown Aquatics has built a reputation that extends far beyond the DFW metroplex — all the way to New York, in fact, where satisfied customers rave about receiving beautifully packed African cichlids shipped by owner Andre. This is a specialist operation, laser-focused on what it does best: sourcing, maintaining, and selling some of the most vibrant, healthy African cichlids you'll find anywhere in the country. The facility operates by appointment, giving Andre the chance to offer each visitor his full attention and deep expertise.
Reviewers with 20-plus years in the hobby call his selection the best they've ever encountered, and the sourcing backs that up — Beantown stocks fish from respected breeders like Uncle Woody and Aquahaus-Gaus. The tanks are immaculately maintained, and every fish on display shows the kind of robust coloration and health that only comes from meticulous husbandry. What makes Beantown stand out beyond the livestock is the pricing.
Customers note that specific, hand-selected cichlids here run around $55, compared to $75 for assorted fish at competing shops. For the size and quality of the specimens, repeat buyers say the value is unmatched. Andre's willingness to share his knowledge — discussing species, compatibility, and care — turns a purchase into an education.
The space itself is clean and well-organized, though first-time visitors should note it can be a little tricky to locate. Once inside, the sheer variety of colors, types, and sizes is what keeps people coming back, sometimes for years. Several customers describe Beantown as their number one fish store, period.
For cichlid enthusiasts in the DFW area or anywhere Andre ships, this is the kind of focused, passion-driven operation that makes the hobby better. The fish speak for themselves — vibrant, healthy, and clearly raised by someone who genuinely cares about every specimen that leaves his facility.
What they offer
Livestock, services, water
- Livestock & products
- African CichlidsCichlids
- Services
- Ships FishConsultation
- Specializes in
Highlights
What makes them special
- Widely regarded as the best African cichlid selection in the DFW area
- Ships fish nationwide with excellent packaging — customers in New York report flawless arrivals
- Sources from respected breeders including Uncle Woody and Aquahaus-Gaus
- Competitive pricing with specific cichlids at $55 vs. $75 for assorted elsewhere
- Appointment-based visits with personalized, knowledgeable service from owner Andre
From keepers
Customer reviews
“Great business !!! Quality of fish in Texas is unmatched. Thanks for a great experience”
— Kelly Lucas5.02 weeks ago“Thankyou for being so experienced Gave great advice Coming back to buy fish”
— camile harkins5.03 weeks ago“If I could give it 10 stars I would!!! I’ve gotten fish from Andre 4 or 5 times ( shipped to NY from Texas)and each time I’m more impressed! Beautiful fish and very well packed and shipped!!”
— FRANCIS BOWIE5.0a month ago“Beantown Aquatics has an excellent selection of African cichlids, including fish from Uncle Woody and Aquahaus-Gaus. The variety is impressive, with healthy, vibrant fish and well-maintained tanks throughout. You can tell real care goes into their sourcing and husbandry. A great spot for anyone looking for quality African cichlids. Highly recommended.”
— Ananta B5.0a month ago“There is a great selection of African cichlids. Really nice prices. Andre was very nice and extremely knowledgeable. I have not found the variety of fish anywhere else.”
— Rondey Callahan5.03 months ago“Bean Town Aquatics in Garland, Texas, stands as a premier destination for enthusiasts of African cichlids, a reputation that sets it apart as arguably the best spot in the country. My recent appointment with Andre, the proprietor, underscored the exceptional service and expertise that Bean Town Aquatics offers. From the moment I arrived, Andre demonstrated a remarkable depth of knowledge regarding African cichlids, a testament to his many years in the field. His patient demeanor and willingness to address my queries enhanced my experience, ensuring that I felt both informed and valued as a customer. The facility itself is impeccably maintained, reflecting Andre’s dedication to the health and well-being of the fish. Each specimen displays vibrant colors and robust health, which speaks volumes about the careful curation and breeding practices employed at Bean Town. Andre's commitment to ethical fishkeeping further solidifies his reputation within the community. In conclusion, my visit to Bean Town Aquatics was not only a success in terms of purchasing high-quality African cichlids but also an enlightening experience. I left with newfound knowledge and appreciation for the hobby. For anyone passionate about cichlids or aquariums in general, I highly recommend making an appointment at Bean Town; it is an experience that promises satisfaction and enriched understanding.”
— Carl Landry5.04 months ago“Top quality fish. Cream of the crop for cichlids. Owner is very knowledgeable and helpful.”
— Albert Herod5.04 months ago“Healthy and colorful fish. Amazed by the variety of cichlids.”
— charolett houston5.05 months ago“I have been in the Fish game for about 20 years and this has to be hands-down one of the best selections of Fish that I have ever seen. It is in fact the BEST selection of African cichlids I have ever come across. These guys know their game! it’s very refreshing to see a new location that does this so well in DFW.”
— Gareth Miller5.05 months ago“Amazing fish! Andre is a great guy and really knows his stuff! I have never seen such a great inventory like this! We will be back. This will be my husband's new playground.”
— Casey5.05 months ago
Reference
Frequently asked questions
Note — Store information and services may change. Always call (508) 565-8337 to confirm current availability, hours, and services before visiting Beantown Aquatics.