Ace Hardware Bruno's Home Center

A great neighborhood hardware store. They are bigger than they appear on the outside and always have what I need. Yes, we can shop from Amazon or a big box place like Home Depot or Lowe's but sometimes it's all about the customer service. That's where Timmy steps in and he is great! He will listen to the issue/need/project and not only show me what I asked for but also let me know if there is a better option. Then he will explain the difference and let me choose what's best. He is attentive, patient and knowledgeable. So if you're looking for something basic or that random thing that solves that issue that you just can't figure out, they have it. But when in doubt, ask for Timmy.

This is our go-to local hardware store, and for good reason. The entire staff is consistently friendly, amazing, and incredibly professional. Every time we walk in, they are ready to help and always find exactly what we need for our projects. It’s great to have such a reliable and helpful team right in the neighborhood. Highly recommended for anyone looking for great service and quality supplies!

Return policy on receipt shows 30 days return. Turns out some items you can’t return at all and it doesn’t say anywhere. Plus, items are very overpriced. Avoid this place buy at any big store but not here, they will not help you

Everything I’ve bought here breaks after a week of use. I made a copy of my keys once here and had to pay someone to come open my door because they didn’t work. As if this wasn’t enough, they never want to reimburse you or exchange it. If they don’t have the replacement they just tell you to keep coming and treat you like a nuisance. The guy behind the counter is so unpleasant. Just save yourself the time and don’t come here.

I only went there to get keys cut. I was disappointed that they were unable to cut an older key. No idea where I'll ever be able to get copies as Home Depot was also unable to do so. I also wanted keys with colored tops as 2 are the same shape and the colors would help distinguish the outer from the inner door key. They didn't have those either.

I brought a paint sample in to get a color match and the older bald gentleman with the glasses told me that the sample was too small and all I said was, wow, I'm surprised because home depot, can you use this sample as a color match? And he immediately Became angry and was very rude to me. All I was doing was making a statement. I will never give business to this location ever again.

I was able to get a refund without drama, but the guy recommended me something that would never work for my drywall

I always like this place. Old skool as heck and a wide assortment to choose from with expert service This time I got me some Neem MAX. Gonna kill all those bugs in my bush... so I can feel free again. "No comb necessary!" Thanks ru

People on the sales floor seemed nice and willing to help, but the cashier is extremely rude for no reason, that it felt almost comical. She was busy with her phone so I waited to get my coupon scanned, and she went "what the f*ck (yes, F word) you want?!" She definitely looked very old to have that high schooler attitude. Well don't worry honey, you look plenty cool with your sunglasses on inside the store... in the evening of late January in NYC.

Terrible store with a terrible staff. Don't shop here unless you want them to rob you. The return policy is nonexistent and they can change the policy at their own personal whims even if you are within the guidelines on the receipt.

Usually, the store is fine, but their key quality is quite mixed. I've had to go back three times for one key that they kept assuring me would work and it didn't work. Very disappointing.

Finally a hardware store within walking distance that has just about everything! And the customer service was great. That's my experience. Plus they were able to make copies of a relatively uncommon type of key I had.

I love this store. The owners and staff aren't chatty but they can find you what you need and I am incredibly glad that we have such a great store in our neighborhood. The prices are fair and I have found the staff and owners to be helpful and available.

WHY are they so RUDE, ARGUMENTATIVE, CONFRONTATIONAL, CORRECTIVE, and DIFFICULT here ? its a fine wellstocked store, but the unhappiness that pervades the staff sends me fleeing. try the other bruno's down the block. theyre knowledgable, kind, helpful, and having a very good time.

Just moved into the area and had to visit a couple times. Every time I walked in, someone asked if I needed help, and walked me to exactly what I needed. One of the guys spent quite a few minutes helping me match the exact lightbulb I needed for a very specific lamp. Everyone has been very nice and hasn't made me feel stupid at all. Their gardening items are priced more than fairly. In fact, most of their gardening stuff is priced lower than where I was in Boerum Hill. I'm glad to have a nice place to buy gardening supplies nearby.

What a gem! Everything you need in one place AND a super helpful staff!!!! Extra key made in a FLASH! Good prices too! Even found garden supplies! Love this place

Says they close at 19:00. I live 5 min away and called at 18:50. They said they'd wait for me so I literally ran over and got there at 18:55 only to find the door locked and the employees looking at me and indicating with their hands that they wouldn't open. Bad service. Bad people.

Hardware store is way overpriced. Staff is also dismissive and unhelpful. One would think with a pandemic and struggling economy better service would be provided. Here I come HomeDepot/Lowe's!

***NO TOOL RETURNS*** Hopefully anyone wanting tools will see this and be aware. I bought two large wrenches, unsure if I'd need one or two. Got it done with one. Tried to return the other - 100% unused - several hours later. The clerk was not rude, but pointed to the store policy - which is up on the wall behind them, visually lost among many other signs and dozens of lotto winner printouts. I understand having issues with people scamming on tools. But post in huge letters where the tools are, NOT among a wall of other printouts and ads. I would have bought one and risked it, if they made clear I'd be keeping both either way. I've gone to them many times before, paying the higher price to support small business. Amazon is cheaper, and has a simple and clear "Free Returns" on most items. I will try other neighborhood hardware stores, but I will never go here again. They lost all our future business over an unused $17 wrench... Just bad customer service.

A neighborhood mainstay, this spot has whatever I need a good 99% of the time. From tools, to paint, to bins and other supplies, they do not disappoint. The customer service is usually on-point too. What more can you really ask of a hardware and goods store? So thankful Bruno's is still here.

Cool Hand Lu says; "A good alternative to Home Depot in a pinch. Shop small." Started looking for smaller local hardware stores after the tasteless comments from the Home Depot founder. I remembered this store and decided to check it out. The staff is friendly and helpful and all of what I needed I was able to find. The prices were manageable as well. I haven't had to shop for large items there yet. Hopefully their inventory will satisfy. I was also able to get some keys made without having to spend ~$4 for just one key like the robotic key machines charge. All in all, it's a great local hardware store and I'll continue to shop there as long as I can satisfy my needs.

How does one even rate a hardware store? Do I count the number of mops they have or varieties of garden tools? For me it's simple, do they have what I need and are they willing to help, aka good customer service? Yes and yes, always! It's a tight store that's significantly smaller than those chain locations, however, they have everything and help you find it. And the custoner service... Timmy is the best! He is patient, knowledgeable and professional. He goes above and beyond for all the customers. Examples, you ask?... I once spent 1 whole hour trying to buy light bulbs! Who knew there are so many different things ro consider like LED, CFL, cool, warm, watts, volts, What the hell?!! I couldn't decide and he helped.... now my home has great lighting. Another time I bought bug spray. There was a water bug found in my office and I freaked. Yes, the janitorial staff handled it but I'm not taking any chances... Timmy to the rescue. He picked the best one for my needs/peace of mind, explained why it was the best and even taped up the label (the bug images were too graphic... don't judge me!). Anyway, if you're in the area and are in need of some household items, stop by Bruno's. They'll help you out. FYI - This is the one with the True Value sign above Bruno''s name outside.

Really helpful staff working here. Every single time I've walked in here I am asked if I need any help and someone from the staff immediately helps me find my item and tells me how to use it/makes suggestions on what else to do. Not sure if they are expensive or not but it's nice to know I have a store I can rely on.

Great customer service with a good quality selection of items. Employees were knowledgeable and very polite. They let me take my dog in which was nice and convenient. Definitely take a look into this hardware store.

This is not your large box hardware store like Home Depot but instead more of a Ma and Pa style store with a home grown sensibility. However, don't let that fool you into thinking that you can't find just about every hardware or functional home good item you need because this place carries quite a big inventory. Bruno's is just a tad more expensive than Home Depot and Lowe's, but downtown Brooklyn residents will like the convenience of getting what they need without traveling too far away from home. Note also that the staff are super friendly and very knowledgable... and always ready to help answer any product questions you have.

Watch out. Their return policy is not customer friendly. Bought a lock there, lost the receipt. Lock didn't fit on storage space. They wouldn't take it back for refund. Store credit only.

I've moved to two different apartments in 11201 and the folks at Bruno's are pretty helpful with pretty much any kind of problem I come to them with. Whether it was drywalls, shelving, equipment, or just advice, the staff was very helpful and professional. I've been going there for over a year now, going at least two dozen times, and haven't been disappointed. Will keep coming back

I walked in, because I needed to purchase some twine to tie up some cardboard boxes and recyclable boxes. I walked in and noticed they have everything. From kitchen supplies, laundry hampers, garbage cans, and even knives. They have tons of household and home care items. I notice the prices are a bit on the high side, but it is downtown Brooklyn.

Bad advise. Worse customer service. I asked my fiancé to go pickup a 1/2" drill bit and some toggle bolts that I was going to use to mount our TV. She had a 1/2 inch bolt in hand and the clerk told her to get a 5/16 inch instead (even though the toggle is about 7/16 wide. I tried out the suggestion and the hole created wasn't even close to big enough. I tried to exchange it today explaining the situation and the guy at the counter couldn't have been more rude. "That's on your fiancé if she bought the wrong bit!" Normally you trust your local hardware store and I was excited to find it in my neighborhood have been there three time already in the five days since moving here, but I've never experienced worse customer treatment. I live one block away and will never set foot in the store again. The bald guy at the counter is probably Bruno - does not deserve to be in business.

I have shopped at this store for more than 20 years, and I will never set foot in there again. They refused to refund me $35 for a clock radio I purchased, despite having a receipt, the box, and the instructions. The manager had the nerve to tell me I bought it a week ago and should have returned it sooner. The online retailers who will put this store out of business would have refunded me without question. I always prefer to shop local, but Bruno's will never see a dime of my money again.

Agree with other reviewers. I left the store at 6:22 p.m. and there was already someone locking the door. While I was inside, the guy kept pressing me to check out though I had 10 more minutes to go. Just close the place at 6 p.m., people.

Called them up to see if they had shower curtains. They said yes, so I jogged 10 minutes to get there before they close at 7. The store clerk locked up a couple minutes early, but he still had a customer, so when he opened the door to let the customer out I said "I just called, I only need 1 thing, theres still a minute left until 7. Can I buy it?" The clerk just shut the door in my face. Not friendly/helpful/nice people... go to home depot or lowes if you can!

Went there today. Super nice and helpful staff. Organized well. Just a really good, nice place.

I have lived in the neighborhood for over 11 years and alway try to shop local. This place never fails to disappoint. I usually go to Variety Mart or Mazzone's but Bruno's was closer and I thought I'd try it again. Besides the terrible service there was no social distancing and neither of the cashiers was wearing a mask. It's my last time in that store.

I have gone to Bruno's a few times and it was OK. Today I called to see if they had dehumidifiers. I was told they had 2 models and the lower priced one was $159. I walked 11 blocks to get that one on a terribly hot day. When I got there I was told it was $199. The person admitted he gave me the wrong price on the phone - he said it "had been $159" and he didn't know it changed. They brought it up to the cash register just to check the price. I was told it was $199, so I started to leave. A person behind the cash register (who turned out to be the owner!!) yelled loudly "Yeah it's $199". So, I said in a normal tone "I just called and was told it was $159 that's why I came". He said "Why argue, I'm not going to give you a lower price" ?? I hadn't asked for one, or argued at all, just told him why I had come. He then accused me of being rude! No one at the store gave me the slightest apology at all. Not, gosh we can't change the price but we're sorry we gave you the wrong price and caused you to waste half an hour. Needless to say, I will never patronize them again

Extremely Rude Customer Service! I work in the area, and I came here for an insecticide spray for fungus gnats in my houseplants. I had already tried other remedies for this problem, and done a ton of research online as to how to control them. I knew basically the type of product that I wanted, and I hoped to be in and out quickly after work. As I entered I saw the insecticide section. As I began to look, an employee in that area pricing items asked if he could help me. I replied, "No thank you. I think I'm ok." I found a spray, but I wanted to check the application instructions which were under a peel-up adhesive flap on the label. As I began to peel up the flap he said, "What are you doing?" I explained that I just wanted to check the application instructions. He turned back away from me and let out a loud sigh and began shaking his head. I said, "It sticks right back in place, it's really not a problem." He said "It's fine." But then, he began muttering under his breath, "If you told me what you where trying to do it would have helped. Some people actually go online and do a little bit of research..." At this point I cut him off and said, "You know what, forget it" and left. Since when is it not my right to browse when shopping, or to consider a product on my own before purchasing? There was absolutely no reason for him to be so rude and especially to imply that I had no idea what I was doing, when in fact the exact opposite was the case. I then went to the hardware store down the street where I received very nice service and bought the product that I needed. I will never set foot back in this place again, and I would discourage anyone else from every doing so as well.

Excellent hardware store--Extensive supply of everything a hardware store should offer, with a very helpful staff, particularly downstairs, where they have their resident problem solver. And prices are very reasonable.

I will never shop here again. I've been working in BK heights for a little over 6 years now and have popped into Bruno's hardware for various items over the years. But the sexist way one of their male staffers just treated me has me livid. He proceeded to make faces, & "cutesy" noises and point out items to me when I told him I was fine. He continued to mansplain what I was looking for, and I got a little bit of satisfaction pointing out that I needed lights with dimmers and after I read the product boxes I didn't think they had them, & he was forced to admit I was right. In the end they didn't have what I needed. Had he left me alone when I said I was fine I probably wouldn't have had 15 minutes of my life wasted. And I KNOW he would NEVER have treated a male customer in such a condescending way. Go to the Variety Mart on Montague if you want professional courtesy.

When you walk in the front door someone immediately asks you if you need help. And I was having a hard time trying to find the right lightbulb. It sounds dumb but apparently there are a lot of choices and I keep ordering the wrong one from Amazon. They were very helpful and letting me know which lightbulb was the right one for my house. I then came back and they also helped me find some industrial hooks for my closet so I can hang my broom and a trashcan. I will definitely be back.

I'm all about supporting local businesses. This place lacks customer service. Very rude employees and not helpful. There are plenty of other hardware stores in the area. I rather walk a little further for cheaper prices and nicer service.

Don't recommend no one to work here. The store manager it's always screaming at everyone. Every time I go into this store it's a different cashier didn't understand why at first but now I understand who wants to work with someone that's always screaming and so disrespectful to them. I was in the store last week and he was screaming at one of the girls telling her she going to get fired if she changes her schedule. I felt so bad for the poor girl. The bald guy is bad for business bad management

I went to Bruno's in search of 2 replacement light bulbs for my bathroom, both very specific and not easily found in a drug store, for example. I took down the specifics of each bulb on the Reminders app on my Mac at home, to ensure I'd be able to select the correct ones in the store and to avoid the obnoxious sexism that I have often experienced as a female looking around a hardware store. When I arrived at the store, I located the light bulbs and opened my Reminders app on my iPhone. Frustratingly, it wouldn't update because there was little to no cell reception in, and even outside of, the store (I wandered around for a bit). I should have opened the app at home to ensure it had synced, but this is so rarely ever an issue that I didn't think to take this crucial extra step. I remembered enough about the long fluorescent bulb to determine they didn't carry the length I needed - just under 40". For the small, recessed lighting bulb, I recalled the numbers for the bulb type and wattage, and also the look of the pins, but not the voltage or pin type (which relates to how far apart the two pins are). As a result, I was carrying around two bulbs, identical except for the wattage and pin type, while attempting to get my phone to update - turned on airplane mode, closed the Reminders app & reopened it, walked toward the front of the store again, etc. One of the salesmen saw me walking around with two items in my hand and asked if I needed help. I said yes, that I have a question about light bulbs (referring to the long fluorescent bulb, thinking they might have the length I need in the stock room or elsewhere in the store - obviously he can't help me remember the voltage of the small bulb I need). He said okay, let's go (back to the light bulb section, as he had approached me near the front window trying to solve my phone issue) and as we started walking, he pointed out that I was holding two different types of bulbs. I thought, 'oh boy, here we go - dumb little lady doesn't even realize she's picked up 2 different things!' but let it slide because it's entirely possible that someone might not realize they've done this. (Although his tone was definitely a bit condescending.) I replied that yes, I knew they were different and that I had written down the numbers on an app on my computer but the app on my phone wasn't updating, so I'm trying to remember which one I need. He responded that you gotta write those numbers down. .... Right after I had told him that I had written them down.... Strike two... but again, let it slide as of course he's not wrong, just not listening either. We went over to the long fluorescent bulbs and I asked if they had one around 40". He said 'this one here's 40'. I pointed out that the big 40 on the side was 40W, not 40". He agreed that I was correct and acknowledged that there were no 40" long bulbs. That should have been the end of the conversation. Instead, he asked me what the letters/numbers are for the bulb I need. Again, I said that I had written the numbers down, but unfortunately couldn't access them in the store as my phone was refusing to update. He asked if it was fat or skinny, and I said skinny. We looked at the skinny bulbs on offer and confirmed, again, that none of them were 40". At this point, he very helpfully told me that there are letters and numbers on the bulbs and you gotta write those things down. ... Am I on candid camera or is this guy serious? Especially since the numbers are irrelevant when they don't carry the length I need. I told him I'd find the long bulb online and I think I know which of the small bulbs I need as I'd just taken the ceiling light apart right before coming to the store (on my own, thank you!) and think I knew what the pin spacing looked like. To his credit, he told me I could exchange it if it was wrong, as long as the package was unopened. I thanked him for that (though I bristled a bit at being told not to open the package - that's pretty standard for a thing like this). I purchased the small bulb and was delighted to realize when I got home that I had guessed correctly and don't need to walk 15 minutes back there and be patronized again. Men reading this review will likely think I'm overreacting - as women do, obviously. But I imagine plenty of women will, unfortunately, relate. In short, they may have what you need. Just be sure to write down your numbers - maybe on actual paper.

Went in on Sunday morning looking for #4 screws. Random, right? This was the only hardware store open in a 2-mile radius. The guys were super helpful, they even opened up some of the screw boxes for me to make sure I got the right size.

For a local hardware store Bruno's meets all my needs! I live round the corner and have occassional weeks where I decide I'm on a home improvement / garden management drive. Bruno's has yet to not come up trumps with whatever random thing I'm looking for (door spindle to secateurs, paint to soil), and more besides. Always with staff that are helpful & informed. Does just what a local hardware store should.

I'll start with the one positive: it's conveniently located if you're in Brooklyn Heights. Other than that it's a terrible store. Overpriced. Unhelpful staff. I gave them several chances, but I'll be avoiding them from now on after repeated unpleasant experiences.

My boyfriend and I came in here after moving to the neighborhood and realizing our walls were drywall not concrete like they were in Manhattan. We were trying to find specific toggle screws but weren't sure if the basics. The sweet Hispanic employee that helped us was SO sweet, suggested his preferences (which were often the most affordable options) and explained how things worked. He didn't make us feel stupid at all, almost as if you had your dad or uncle to come over and help you!! We will be returning for all of our home goods needs. Thank you!

Other reviewers describe the situation here well. The floor staff is kind and knowledgable but the owner (older man) is angry, rude, aggressive, and the staff seems to be afraid of him. I was there all of 5 minutes and it was such an uncomfortable shopping experience I had to jump on Yelp after leaving to see what is up with this place, and I saw the other reviews. Yikes!

This is a great neighborhood hardware store... They have such a wide selection you may very well end up walking out having purchased a lot more than you had originally planned. But you'll be happy with the prices!

This is a family owned business and returning defective merchandise or even exchanging a product is unlikely. Be sure to read the numerous bright yellow return policies posted on the wall near the registers, as the staff refer all their customers to them. If your still unhappy the Manager will quickly tell you to come back and talk to Sal. Obviously Sal makes decisions on what can and can not be returned or exchanged.

This is a great place, they seem to have a little of everything. They were very nice, helpful, and knowledgeable. Speaking just of the area I was in the place was also wheelchair accessible.

Never go here if you buy something and open the package they will not give exchange, and do not have the consumer affairs policy posted, this the store closest to Livingston street

I want to start my saying that I love mom and pop stores and I always support them. While in Brooklyn I happened to come across this store and went in to purchase something. The day I got my things the gentlemen that helped me was quite helpful and knowledgeable. Unfortunately when I got home, to the Bronx, I noticed that it wasn't exactly what I was looking for nor needed. As I was in the process of moving I was unable to return right away to return my item. So I called and explained my situation and spoke to someone named Nicky. This guy, Nicky, was extremely rude to me and it only got worse when I got to the store. I asked if I could please receive a refund. He in an unprofessional tone and attitude told me I should have come back in 7 days and he could only give me a store credit. Now I got that but I didn't like his tone nor the way that he spoke to me it was belittling and outright rude. He raised his voice at me told me I need to think about my purchases before making them or don't make them at all. To say the least, I don't go to BK that often but I Will NEVER support this business again after the treatment I received just for asking simple questions that didn't need to be addressed in the way that they were.

I can't speak on the customer service here as I only ever pop in to nab some simple, easy, no-brain-necessary item. They have all the standard hardware 'stuff' one typically needs; *usually* in stock. Decent rotation of inventory; nothing past expiration date. But it also depends on what it is you need, what it is you're asking for. I've never had a problem with a purchase but of course I always pay cash in such local little stores and never buy anything over $50. There's also the usual collection of 'hardware store characters' on hand, seems to be a place where crusty, wizened ex-handyman know-it-alls hang out. Eh, no biggie. The best thing about the place is the convenient location. You'd have to walk many blocks to find the next nearest competitor. The worst thing about the place is that there's no air conditioning here on a hot sticky day--just blade fans. Oh well. If you don't enter a store like this with any outsize, grandiose expectations, you should be fine. In-and-out, one-and-done. Remember, where you are: this is Bruh-klyn. It is what it is.

This is a good alternative to Home Depot if you're in the neighborhood. They have a good selection of all kinds of house maintenance, cleaning and repair products, from paints to electrical and plumbing, too many really to list. They have brands you won't find at Home Depot at reasonable prices. I bought a few quality items here that I was very happy with, including a nice and sturdy can opener. The staff who work the floor are more courteous and helpful than average Newyorkers. The excitement however ends when time comes to pay. The middle-aged balding guy behind the register treats you like you were a pest and takes your gratitude that he allowed you to shop there for granted and immediately brushed off as completely meaningless. If you want to know why Neworkers are perceived as rude jerks you only have to take one look at this guy. Having to deal with this guy is enough reason for me to stay away from this place. But who knows, one day I may be desperate enough to do it again.