Ballard Smoke Shop
5439 Ballard Ave NW, Seattle, WA, 98107
Ballard Smoke Shop Menu
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Address :
5439 Ballard Ave NW
Seattle, WA, 98107 - Phone (206) 784-6611
- Website https://ballardsmokeshop.com/
- Click To Get Directions
Opening Hours
- Mon :6:00 am - 2:00pm
Specialities
- Takes Reservations : No
Delivery : No
Take-out : Yes
Accepts Credit Cards : Yes
Good For : Breakfast
Parking : Street
Bike Parking : Yes
Wheelchair Accessible : Yes
Good for Kids : No
Good for Groups : Yes
Attire : Casual
Ambience : Divey
Noise Level : Average
Music : Juke Box
Good For Dancing : No
Alcohol : Full Bar
Happy Hour : No
Best Nights : Wed, Fri, Sat
Coat Check : No
Smoking : No
Outdoor Seating : No
Wi-Fi : No
Has TV : Yes
Waiter Service : Yes
Caters : No
WE SERVE THE FOLLOWING STATES
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Jay Y.
So glad I had my first Seattle breakfast in this quaint, retro-style diner! The moment I walked in the Smoke Shop, the staff has been super friendly and responsive to our needs. The food is also satisfyingly big-portioned and delicious. If you want a breakfast recommendation, try my order! My order of crab cake Benedict (~$13.99) was unique: instead of a biscuit, the poached egg rested on a steamed crab cake. The crab cake, which was the first one I had that wasn't fried, was a tasty component alone, and augmented with the perfectly poached egg and well-made hollandaise sauce! The accompanying hash brown was also nicely done and was perfect for cleaning up the plate of any leftover sauce from the Benedict. Even though I am not a morning person, I had a great morning experience because of this great breakfast diner that kickstarted it! If you are around the Ballard neighborhood or planning to visit the nearby lock, drop by here for a nice friendly breakfast!
(5)Brian L.
I really hate to give this place a mediocre score, and furthermore am surprised that so many people have given good reviews. Who doesn't love breakfast? I sure don't want to know them. I was excited about finally trying this place as the kitschy look and feel of it would imply that it is a great breakfast spot. Feels like a blue collar side of the road diner type of place you'd find in South Dakota somewhere. The interior is minimal and a sure throwback; I admire the fact that it is on the Ballard strip but they stray away from trendifying it up. Though the service was great and friendly, this place unfortunately did not hit the mark for me or my friend at all. The eggs Benedict and hash browns were both equally bland. The hollandaise sauce was lackluster. The coffee, terrible. My friend was equally unimpressed. If you're looking for satisfying no thrills diner food, you won't really get it here.
(2)Joe E.
The breakfast special is amazing. No one will look at you funny for ordering a double screwdriver at 10 in the morning. I love it.
(5)Nancy R.
I love to come in here for breakfast after working the night shift. I sit at the counter and Dugan is so nice all the time. I like the vibe. I will come back in the evening sometime and hang out at the bar. It's a beautiful bar in a rustic way. Very nice place in Ballard that is open early and late.
(5)Neha P.
We ordered for Meatloaf and biscuits and gravy with eggs and hash browns on the side.Unfortunately,meatloaf was unavailable that day so instead ordered herb chicken,nonetheless,we were not disappointed.Both the dishes were absolutely delicious and the portion size was great.The chicken was cooked to perfection,very succulent.The staff is very friendly too.Overall a good place with value for money.
(5)Austin D.
This place is pretty solid. Keep your expectations in check, because yes, it is a diner, but as far as diners go, this one is top notch!
(5)Adam C.
This place is a little slice of old Ballard. None of this fancy free-range, grass-fed, locally-educated meat business, just simple American diner food. A brunch date and I wound up here, after discovering that Saturday mornings in Ballard actually don't have the breadth of brunch options that Sunday provides. The staff were super friendly, and we were well taken care of. The eggs and hash browns were very good; nothing fancy. I had the scramble with the feta and gyro meat. It was way more than I could eat, with the browns and the spectacular biscuit and jam. We spent a long time at our table, just talking and relaxing, and the staff had no problem with us taking our sweet time. I'll keep the Smoke Shop in mind for good old fashioned greasy-spoon cravings in the future.
(4)A.J. S.
Are you feeling pretty drunk and generous? Are the other ~trendy~ bars on Ballard Ave making your neckbeard itch? Fogging up your specs? Come to the Smoke shop and "ring the bell." Doing so (says the large bolded printed sign hung behind said bell) enables you to buy a round for the WHOLE BAR. I have only had this happen once when I was visiting, and it was plain awesome (the free drink, not the bell ringing, thankyouverymuch). Are you feeling pretty drunk and hungry? Late into the night and the Jameson's getting lonely inside of you? Try Smoke Shops FREE SOUP. It requires enough sobriety to make spoonfuls of hot liquid fall successfully inside your lips, but by gosh it's free and tasty! Are you feeling pretty drunk and horny? The untz untz untz of nearby BelMar doesn't rustle your tailfeathers quite like the classic jukebox in the corner? Have no fear, the Smoke shop most always has ladies of the evening (and sweet female bartenders as well) to chat and reminisce about old times in Ballard when it was just a wee fishing village and yuppies hadnt moved into Amli yet. And if your primal urges still haven't been satisfied yet, the Smoke Shop is open the next morning for $5 french toast and massive egg scrambles with pre-buttered toast.
(3)Breanna A.
I gotta be honest, the food here isn't the BEST. It's no Portage Bay or anything. BUT the service is over and beyond the best. They are SO NICE here. That's what keeps me coming back!
(4)lily c.
Darlene & Kelah make my life so much better! Come here for the old-school, original ballard experience - complete with drunken sailors and the lot. This is perhaps the last true bar in Ballard. Classic Scandinavian shenanigans to be had. Don't ring the bell unless you mean it! "He who rings the bell in jest buys a drink for all the rest" - and they mean that.
(5)Sera S.
First time. .bartender was frigging adorable. I bartender and she was so fun. Will Def be back. Xoxox
(5)Jake K.
Another place at which I like to eat breakfast. This is my weekday place when in town. Big spacious booths, fast, friendly service and quality food offerings. I often hold morning business meetings here with a couple of fellow employees. They really like it, too Not fancy, but definitely capable of delivering a great dining experience.
(4)Regina D.
Breakfast 365 days a year in booths long enough to fit three footballers and portion sizes enough to keep those footballers happy, without compromising on taste of course. Try the French toast combo or pancake combo with a side of hash and coffee to feed your appetite and try a little of everything. Service was spectacular too. Support local!
(5)Elizabeth C.
Looking for that Seinfeld diner experience? Look no further! This place has great, reasonably priced food and that cozy diner atmosphere we all crave. Open even Thanksgiving and Christmas Day.
(5)Andy H.
I love the Smoke Shop for a great breakfast that's cheap, available at all times on all days and comes with a stiff drink. I'd highly recommend the chicken friend steak or the biscuits and gravy. The crowd might seem a bit older and crude but if you look past that, and focus on the food and the bartenders you'll have a great time. Keri is awesome. If you get her you're in for a treat.
(5)Gushuffer G.
When you can't go to Beth's or the Five Point The Smokeshop will suffice. They have quite the variety on their menu. Go there! You'll like it.
(4)Bryan M.
Went for breakfast today and was very unsatisfied. Prices seemed higher than it should have been. Decor was awful and it kind of smelled. One positive was that our food came really fast. I got the Monterey scramble and Lia got the Popeye omelet. Our total bill including tip was $24, which is fine but for 6 eggs total I should have just stayed home and made it myself. At least the cooks hair wouldn't have made it into my scramble. Probably won't be going back which sucks because it is so close to where I live and I like our community.
(2)Mallory M.
updating my review because this is my favorite diner and it keeps getting better each and every time I come in. I love the atmosphere, the food, and above all the customer service I receive when dining here!
(5)H S.
Divey and clean. Classic american diner with no pretense. Fresh. Friendly service. Good to have some of that to mix with all the trendy newer stuff in Ballard. Also its pretty cheap.
(4)Ellie S.
Economic and well-located. Burgers are great and dishes are huge. Nice and friendly staff
(4)Braxton E.
I really used to love this place. I met there every week with a group of guys to catch up and talk about life. It was the perfect hangout, a good old greasy spoon type of diner that was cheap and tasty. The staff are great, really helpful and kind. My issue with it is that about 5 months ago, they refreshed their menu and along with it, added a $3 price increase to everything on the menu. It's just not worth it anymore. They've done some fun things with their menu, expanded it a bit, but just nothing to justify the steep price hike. What used to be a $20 tab amongst 3 of us is now $30-$40, for essentially what we had before. I hate to see great places like this succumb to the Ballard inflation explosion. I don't blame them, but I also won't be back.
(2)Kristine N.
When I get overwhelmed with the new yuppie Ballard I go to the Smoke Shop to get a dosage of what Ballard used to be. As soon as you walk in you instantly know it was a fishermen' hang out. I learned quickly that you never order a double of any drink in the bar. A single is definitely strong enough. Their breakfast is eclectic in variety and filling. The staff is your aunt, big sister, neighbor; of whom you feel like you have known your entire life and treat you as such. I believe this place to be a staple in and of Ballard.
(5)Jude B.
My elderly mother and I were in Ballard and walked around a bit looking for a place to eat. We chanced on the Smokehouse and were both delighted! It's a warm day in MInsk when we can find a place to eat we both like. The big booths are fabulous, and you can actually carry on a conversation without be drowned out by noise. We're looking forward to going back.
(5)Nathan B.
Ballard Smoke Shop is a wonderful blast to the past. I had lunch there and was blown away by the environment and my waitress. I got the daily special, which was a shrimp and mango salad that was incredibly large, and a side of crispy and delicious french fries. Also, I got a whiskey sour, because their stiff drinks are as advertised. Every aspect of this place was wonderful, and I will definitely be coming back.
(5)Marc M.
This place is right in the heart of Belltown's bar scene, but for some reason is often overlooked by most of the typical drinkers and socializers. Sure, its not all trendy like a lot of other places and they don't have all the typical things the hipsters have been told are cool by whatever blog they read, but what this place does have is an old school dive bar vibe that is actually cool without trying to be. Walk in the door and all the regulars will look up at you, but rather than glare at your unfamiliar presence, they will say hello and welcome you in to their world. My friend and I complimented one guy about his jacket and he was more than happy to tell us how he bought it for $14 at a thrift store. Thrift store jacket, mustache, glasses, drink in hand, but without the hipster attitude. This guy definitely knew how to get down. While you're here, take a look at the jukebox. Its pretty much the centerpiece of what makes this place cool as you will find anything from Johnny Cash and Shania Twain to The Platters and Bob Marley. There was even one of those "Now" CD's although it was about 10 years old. Also take a look at all the photos of fishing boats that cover the walls. From what I understand, the folks from Deadliest Catch spend time here or something along those lines. Not quite sure, but some of the photos have their autographs on them. There's also an adjoining restaurant area, but I wasn't able to go in there at all so not able to give any info. What I can say is that it had the same basic vibe, but with better lighting.
(4)Kate D.
Smoke Shop in Ballard is one of my favorite places in all of Seattle. The drinks are great, the staff is friendly and if you want to get away from the "fluff" that most of Seattle's bar scene consists of, then you will love it here. I've been a regular here for about 6-9 months, and I'm never disappointed with the quality of service or the taste of their beverages. A lot of the folks you find in there on a week night are regulars and if you get in on the right night, someone might just ring the bell. The regular patrons are extremely friendly; most minding their own business, but if you get a chance to strike up a conversation, it's usually pretty interesting. Great place.
(5)Solaris D.
Here on NYD and had brunch and a beer, awesome waitress, super nice , attractive and great. Cool jutebox tunes, strong drinks fun folks! Not too speedy but they are doing what they must to survive Seattle rents so not bad.
(4)Jessica G.
Oh man...this place is AMAZING! I mean that half sincerely and half sarcastically. Okay, so I ended up coming here on Thanksgiving with my friend for "brunch" before we went to our real dinner. (What can I say? I always have room for pancakes.) I would have never known that this establishment was half bar (on the left) and half restaurant/diner (on the right) if I hadn't read the reviews on Yelp. Interesting. When I saw that it was located in downtown Ballard, I figured it was probably decent, seeing as most of the restaurants there seem fairly popular and respected. When we arrived, there were a bunch of drunk people smoking outside. Like the kind of people you imagine probably never left from the night before. You get my idea. We headed inside to the right (only just peeking in the bar to the left - I quickly shut the door when I saw a large man in overalls at the counter) and were immediately seated in a booth. The décor...was like something out of the "Jaws" movie. Think sad, alcoholic Fisherman themes. I mean, my friend was really amused by it because we are both from a "fisherman town" in CA (San Pedro), but this was something else. I'd compare it to the R&R in Twin Peaks, but I think the R&R was 100% cleaner and less depressing than this place. Regardless, it was open on Thanksgiving, and I wanted coffee and pancakes. My friend ordered an open-faced hot turkey sandwich, and I went with a short stack of buttermilk pancakes with a side of bacon. We split a butter horn (that we never actually touched). Believe it or not, this place's food is actually REALLY good considering what it looks like (and the clientele who frequent it). I think that turkey sandwich was probably just as tasty as any turkey we could have been having for Thanksgiving (we were heading to a vegetarian Thanksgiving meal). The sandwich was served with delicious mashed potatoes with gravy and really tasty green bean casserole. And I have to admit...the pancakes were fluffy and delicious. Tons of butter and syrup, bacon, what more could I ask for? The coffee was pretty terrible, but I really wasn't expecting all that much considering it's a diner. Our server was super friendly...and I don't know why this surprised me. Maybe it was because she was working on Thanksgiving? In any case, I was pleased with her attitude and level of attention. The clientele were just SAD. I mean, I had to laugh even at myself for being there on Thanksgiving. But some (older) people were actually there eating their Thanksgiving dinner (complete with pumpkin pie for dessert), and it was pretty depressing. Like you want to slit-your-wrists you feel so bad for them. I dunno, maybe they were perfectly happy being there...but I think I'd rather stay at home and drink a bunch of battery acid before end up at a place like this for my holiday meal. *sad* I'm not sure I'll ever frequent the bar (scary people inside)...but if I do, at least I'll take comfort in knowing that I can get a hearty meal at the diner afterwards! LOL.
(3)Sarah P.
Dark, dirty, and delicious: Ballard Smoke Shop makes me feel like I BELONG in Ballard. It's not stuffy; it's not overpriced; it's not fancy-pants; it's a good old-fashioned dive. The food is surprisingly bright and fresh. I always get a veggieburger with fries, and the fries are crispy in the best way imaginable. The veggie patty is wholesome and substantial (doesn't crumble apart!), and the bun tastes like a grilled pancake. The drinks are poured with a heavy hand. Come here after a good show or a long night drinking and you'll feel right at home. Just don't ring the bell unless you want to buy everyone a drink!
(5)Wesley Dale R.
Love it here. Old place and culture and it is oddly welcoming. Food average at best, drinks are very well priced. Service not A-1 Plus (not quick, smooth, or fast) but wait people are satisfactory. I believe that it is a slower-hustle attitude and moving at a snail's pace behind the bar seems to be the norm here. Ask for Marsha, who is an excellent representative of the place and Ballard. She has worked there for over 30 years and makes it a point to remember your name. Best server in The Smoke Shop by far!
(4)Leonard P.
Ah, the grandeur of the local. And locals don't get much more local than the Smoke Shop. This place is a survival of the old Ballard, when it was all sailors, fishermen, longshoremen, and their families; that's still the crowd during the daytime (and there are times when they fill up the little side bar at 11AM), but they've expanded their clientele to allow for soft-ass information workers like myself without losing any of their old-school charm. The expansion of the menu under the new chef is all for the good; prices are a little higher, but the quality of the food makes it more than worth it. Service is always excellent; even when they're really busy and can't get to you as often as they'd like, they make sure you aren't ignored. Even in a neighborhood as jam-packed with good restaurants as Ballard, the Smoke Shop is still my go-to dining choice, especially late at night with a bit of a drunk on. Good, hearty food, unpretentious strong drinks, and a hell of an atmosphere.
(4)Masha v.
Cheap, stiff drinks. Great people watching. Awesome bartenders. Those ladies are sweet AND sassy. Free soup and just an all around good time. Ballard style. Old diner next door.
(5)Johnny W.
I brought a group of friends here one early evening, not having read the fine (or any, for that matter) print on Yelp reviews prior to this. I realized my mistake in doing so the moment we walked into a bar where every other patron is old enough to be our grandparents (too early for all the other young whippersnappers to have wandered in, apparently). We sit down anyway, each order a drink, then make a quick and quiet exit, all the while under the lazing gaze of our elders. I see a number of reasons why people come here - when you want to hang out with old people, when you want to make fun of old people with your group of younguns, when you want to get incredibly drunk for dirt cheap, or some combination of the aforementioned. They're a no-nonsense place with no fancy or frilly drinks, and for about $5 you can get something like a cranberry vodka that's three parts vodka to one of cranberry (hey that's like 3x the drinks for half the price!).
(3)Alan H.
A nearly extinct breed in rapidly gentrifying Ballard. This is still a working class bar near the waterfront where you can expect a bar fight either inside or out and a heavy police presence on "drinking holidays" like St. Patrick's Day. Relax, and enjoy the show. The wait staff ranges from non-existent to no-nonsense; best elbow your way to the bar to get a refill. The best summary for this place is "stimulating" - take it as you like!
(4)Ron S.
Last time I was here, there were two "walkers" set aside for a couple of bar patrons. Classic!
(4)Amy F.
Great place to stop in and get a quick stiff drink. Before or after dinner or a show. It's old school in this place. I know they have food, yet I've never ordered it here. I can only attest to the stiffness of the beverages.
(4)Marybeth C.
Stiff drinks. 'Nuff said.
(3)Kelly L.
We were walking around Ballard at 11am after we had dropped our car off to get fixed and had some time to kill. There wasn't much open during that time. We finally settled with the Ballard Smoke Shop. Seemed like the place was divided into a lounge area and then a really run down diner. We thought the lounge was only open at night (per the sign) but it seemed like they were seating people there for breakfast. Wish we ate on that side because the diner side was kind of depressing. Did not feel like we were in Ballard when we were eating there! The breakfast menu was very basic, food and prices were ok. Probably wouldn't go back unless we were in the area around that time again when there isn't much else around that's open.
(3)Winnie A.
Marsha at the Smoke Shop is one of the best bartenders in Seattle! This no frills joint always keeps your drinks full and the bartenders will talk to you if you feel chatty or leave you the hell alone if you are nursing a hangover or having a crappy day. Food is amazing as well and there is a lot of great memorabilia on the walls to see. They also have a restaurant side with amazingly good food!
(5)R H.
Authentic Fisherman's Bar Pee Stains from the Sailors of the last century on the ceiling(floor of the rent by the night room above the bar.). A Big Brass Bell for a round on the ringer. Kind of a sticky feel to the place. But if you wan to just breathe history while you drink, this place is full of it.
(5)Adriana K.
A true hold out in a neighborhood drowning in trendy brunch spots - this is the real thing. No lines or fancy names or pretentious waitstaff - this is what being from a small town is all about. Try the pancakes. And the strong cheap drinks.
(3)Meghan S.
Great dive bar. Please don't let some jerk turn this into some POS cocktail bar!!!
(4)Cristina L.
Totally dive-y Ballard joint, we went for breakfast. Jeez where can you get a breakfast for $5-$6 bucks anymore? Nothing exotic, but good ole American diner-type breakfast for cheap. Can't go wrong with this place, especially with the great service we had!
(4)Barnett T.
You are my bar, Smoke Shop. I don't have to "go out." I don't have to "dress up." I just have to come, with me, and enjoy a drink. And in the process, I'll make friends and enjoy the conversation. Finally!
(5)Sean C.
"I wasn't even supposed to be here today!" I was literally walking by minding my own business coming back from a show when through the window I noticed a few Yelp people sitting at the bar, so I dropped in to say hi and ended up hanging out for a few hours. Ballard Smoke Shop is a dive bar in the truest sense of the word. It seems like a destination for (1) artsy Ballard townies, (2) end-of-nighters looking to wind down after other adventures in Ballard and (3) an older crowd of regulars who are just looking to have a drink, and that mix keeps undesirable elements, like Belltown-ites Behaving Badly, away from the bar, which definitely enhances one's drinking experience.
(4)Jason M.
$4 wells in the heart of old Ballard, and nary a skinny jean or ironic t-shirt in sight? Winning. Our bartender was very friendly, even though we were obviously not regulars, and the drinks were stiff. My only hesitation in giving this the five star treatment was that there was a regular who looked like I was from Mars for 45 seconds when I gave a hearty clap when the Mariners won (on the tv). Creepers, dude.
(4)Dan L.
This review for the Diner side only. We walked in and there was only one little old lady sitting there eating her dinner by herself. Other than that, we had the place to ourselves the entire time we ate dinner. 7pm on a weeknight. We both ordered the "Dinner Special" which was written on the dry erase board: Spaghetti and meatballs. Right after we ordered however we noticed that it's on the everyday menu as well, and it's the same price?? Our food was good and the service was adequate. The menu left a little to be desired though. I was in the mood for grilled chicken or fish and they didn't really have much of that. We got a kick out of how the corner booth was reserved on a night that was so slow it's amazing they stayed open, maybe they get a rush for late night? I read some funny reviews about stealing mints so I had an eye out for them, but they were underneath the counter, impossible to get at... maybe that's why everyone gets caught?
(3)Tony G.
Drinking Rainier beer and watching football while some older gent is spitting game to my friend. He even had some earrings for her. Fun times. Zipzap Zubidy Bop!
(4)Todd B.
The bartender was wearing Jordache jeans and a t-shirt 2 sizes two small. Folks, we're halfway there. Stiff drinks, comfy, priced to own, suitable for framing, and a clientele who each deserve their own Saturday morning cartoon. I love the Smoke Shop. These are my drinks. These are my people.
(5)Heather F.
Never start your night here unless you want it to end 15 short minutes after you've walked in. If you've ever been here, I don't have to explain myself any further. There was a time that I spent many an evening here playing cards, chatting with folks and having a grand old time! (Or I assume that I had a grand old time. Most of those glory days are hazy at best. Thanks, booze!) I even spent an evening sharing a few drinks with the lead singer from the Verve Pipe at the Ballard Smoke shop. Yep, I just admitted that out loud. Good people, stiff drinks and that old Ballard feel. What's not to love?!
(5)Scott K.
I come from three known generations of clairvoyants. My Great-grandmother called it "My Psychics." as in, "My Psychics say you've been stealing beans from my handbag." (she went a little weird in the end). My Grandmother went by the nickname "Magic Millie", and claimed 85% accuracy. Reading out of her house and at various psychic fairs she was able to supplement her income with her amazing predictions. And my Mother... who believes that she can influence slot machines, my Dad, and EBay... but only when she really needs to. All three claimed to be empathic, and said that they were able to physically pick up on others emotions. If it were true... and I'm not saying it is... I'm glad I never took any of them within a block of the bar side of the Smoke Shop. They would have fallen to the ground empathically drunk, depressed, and lonely! This place is sad, it's grumpy, and has a line outside the bar at 6am. Some people will tell you that The Smoke Shop has "character"... I say... thank God my family had enough to go around so I don't have to go looking around here for some! I've only heard laughter in here once... and I was the one making it, as I left to count some freshly stolen handbag beans! If you're wondering why it has three stars... well... it grows on you.
(3)Jenn A.
Strong drinks and salty characters! This was exactly the type of place we were looking for on a saunter through Seattle. After dodging strollers hell-bent for the nearby farmer's market on a Sunday afternoon, we ducked in here and had a few drinks with the locals. It's not young or hip -- just regular working class folks who are very friendly. Bartender was super sweet and had many stories to tell.
(4)Jackie K.
Dear Ballard Smoke Shop, You Complete Me. Captain Sig from Deadliest Catch sat 2 stools down the bar from me. One of the bartenders, when asked what kind of beer they had, replied, "Just order a cocktail. We make 'em strong". Someone asked me, "Hey do you wanna be in my movie?". I politely declined. Darlene behind the bar makes a mean vodka soda and doesn't put up with any crap. Someone rang the bell. I think I bought some earrings. No, wait, that was my friend. I can't wait to go back. Maybe next time I'll remember leaving.
(5)Martin P.
Not just a great place to get drunk, but a great place to ARRIVE drunk too! The banquettes are comfy and you can count all the beards walking by through the big windows. Friday night is free chowder night; you just need to ask. Does this mean Friday is also clean the fridge day? Probably. Could be why the chowder's so delicious.
(5)Uhura J.
Even though I'm one of those damned too young transplants destroying the grit and history of Ballard, this is hands down my favorite place to hit on the inevitable bar crawl. Every. Single. Time we're here? Straight up Shenanigans, yo. Whether it's a birthday stop or a late night drink after Chen's, something interesting always happens here because The Smoke Shop is inherently interesting. The old salts at the bar, Darlene behind the counter who pours a stiff drink and take the most minimal of crap, the jukebox that sits with disdain, and the bell. Last time I was there, it was rang twice! Whoo hoo! Free drinks! ProTip: Check out the earrings. And seriously, do NOT be tempted by the Andes mints in the restaurant. You will pay more than $ for them!
(4)Will L.
So I'm standing there in the bathroom peeing and singing the theme song of the Jeffersons when one of the regulars busts in. Whoops, does that door really lock? Anyway, I'm not one to allow company to stop me from relieving myself, because sometimes when Nature calls, she dials 9-1-1. And this fucker criticizes my singing. "You really shouldn't be singing. Your voice sucks," he says. "Oooh I love a man who talks dirty to me while he watches me urinate!" I respond. "I'm not watching," he says. "Would you like to?" I reply. *pause* *I begin singing again* "You really shouldn't sing. Your voice sucks," he tells me. Apparently this guy used to sing backups for the band Survivor. Well, at least I had a qualified music critic. Oh, and if you steal chocolate mints from the restaurant next door, they WILL catch you and make you pay for them.
(3)Allison C.
The food was good, the waitress was awesome. Good coffee. I haven't been there for drinks yet, but I will soon! I'm surprised it hasn't been overrun by hipsters, but maybe that's the Brooklyn in me talking.
(4)Kyla C.
This place is heaven on earth after dealing with BalMar! We got a seat at the bar and got served right away, what a difference from what we had just experienced. The bartender was really friendly and hooked us up with two shot of Patron and two crappy beers - what's up $24, awesome! Those shots were huge too! This place is no fuss, no muss but it gets the job done and it's divey and awesome. The prices can't be beat in Ballard and if you get lucky, someone might buy the bar a round while you're in there, ring that bell!!
(5)Kerry S.
I don't know how this place stays so awesome when it is in such a prime Ballard location. The decor is kind of like your old drunk uncle's basement, if your uncle was really into boating, navigation, and fishing. Awesome. The bottles of Rainier are something insanely cheap like $2, and you get the bottle caps, which have riddles on them. Riddles!!! It's like Highlights the magazine but in a bar. The mixed drinks are strong and there are plenty of old time regulars and zero servers with trendy tattoos.
(5)Emily T.
My liver would really like to exchange some words with the Smoke Shop. Yowza.
(4)Bethany L.
This diner is amazing. The bar is where to go for stiff drinks. Great atmosphere, super chill, nice staff. if you enjoy diners, this is your place.
(5)Matt R.
It is what it is. Dark and dive-like, mostly because it's the ultimate dive in a world where dives are quickly going extinct. It scares some people. Some smile warily and say, "I really will miss it when it's gone." Others say, "I'll miss this place like I'd miss a boil on my neck." If you get a group of people in here you can take over a long row of tables and have a grand old time. It happened at the drunken shopping Elite event. The drinks are cheap and almost all liquor. It's an experience in and of itself just going there. That's gotta count for something. Even at a dive. I apologize for using the word dive so much.
(4)Laura B.
This is the best place in Ballard to people watch. Ever. Ev-er. (Disclaimer: I only went to the diner not the lounge.) What really makes this place is the people. It was nearly dead on a Sunday afternoon but the patrons who were there seemed to know the staff quite well, the regulars I guess. My favorite was a beautiful elderly woman who was wearing the most amazing fur hat, a full set of pearls and a bright teal sweater. She was drinking coffee with a friend and chatting about her trip to the casino. She is my new role model. I want to be that awesome when I'm her age. (And I mean that completely seriously...all you sarcastic people shouldn't read anything mean-spirited into that.) The food was decent but really nothing special. Regular diner fare at regular diner prices. The waitress was friendly and didn't hover despite the fact that we were one of only three tables she was serving.
(4)Cameron B.
The Smoke Shop is Ballard at its best, and by best, I mean how it was a decade or two ago. The beers are cold and the drinks are stiff and almost always brown or clear colored, and both are cheap. The tables wrap around the bar to form a U, which makes it easy for the bartenders to keep the drinkings flowing. They also have a nice selection of pull tabs, which during the last time I was here I won enough to buy a round of drinks. Everytime I go here something notable happens. Last weekend it was talking to an old salt about the days of Ballard when I was a kid and our sailboat used to be Shilshole Marina. Another time at happy hour, I walked in wearing my work clothes (business casual) and i swore the place went silent! To make matters worse, I thought I was being cool by ordering domestic bottles of beer, but to my horror I was the ONLY person in the bar ordering beer, the rest (about ~15) had some sort of vodka or whiskey. The Smoke Shop will always have a place in my heart, and I will always know that Old Ballard still is alive and kicking in the land of Scandinavia.
(5)Ryan B.
I have grown up in Ballard and this seems to be one of the only 'old' Ballard bars remaining. I continue to go to other bars around the neighborhood but this is a bar I always end up coming back to! Darlene is the best bartender around and the rest of the staff are great as well. The drinks are stiff and if you ever get the chance: RING the BELL! ;)
(5)Kristin B.
Bad ass bar in Ballard where you are guaranteed to get a stiff drink! Although there's not much seating, the place is still great and always a stop on our bar hopping excursions through Ballard. I've never eaten in the restaurant next door because once I have a drink in the bar, I'm a little too tipsy to make it over. Keep on doin' what you're doin' Smoke Shop. It works.
(4)Rylee O.
My feelings about the Ballard Smoke Shop can be summed up quoting the introduction I received from one of their regulars immediately after sitting at the bar on a visit over a year ago. Please note I replaced his name with "Ballard Smoke Shop". "Hi, I'm the Ballard Smoke Shop. How do you like me so far?" I like you. I like you a lot.
(4)Neil M.
The Ballard Smoke Shop...I must say one can never judge a book by it's cover! "the Smoke Shop" is one of the best places in Ballard! to meet real down to earth people. I've have been going to the Ballard Smoke Shop for 12 years; and have met so many "GREAT" people over the years. It is a crazy fun place to hangout; some nights it's quite and then their are nights that it is completely crazy fun! So I recommend that if you are going out on the town on a Friday or Saturday night in the Seattle area, you have to stop by for a drink...(the drinks are so strong you only need 2) to start your night out. So if you find yourself in good ole Ballard; hit the smoke shop for an awesome cocktail and some good conversation...(Marsha) will treat you like you are a regular!! Since moving to Phoenix,AZ I sure miss the smoke shop, and all of the great people there; I'm looking forward to visiting Seattle very soon, so I can stop in and see all of my friends at the Ballard Smoke Shop!!! "CHEERS"
(5)Rea F.
I had to review this restaurant simply because I saw it had 4 stars and I was appalled. The atmosphere of The Smoke Shop is retirement home cafe circa 1978. Our food took forever to arrive and when it did I was embarrassed that I'd suggested the restaurant to my group. And don't be fooled you can't smoke there. lol!
(1)Me H.
I finally made it to the Ballard Smoke Shop a while back and it was all that I expected and more I mean they had fruit salad pull tabs and turkey noodle soup! What more could you need people especially when you're with your GBF#2? Unfortunately or fortunately, as in my case, there was no smoke just booze, turkey noodle soup, pull tabs and service with a smile. And so for a dive bar I'd have to give it a solid four stars.
(4)Tracy Z.
I don't believe in heaven- but if I did, it would be just like the Smoke Shop. Of course it was better in the days of old (when you could smoke!) but still as close as it gets to heaven in the modern Ballard!
(5)Stina T.
Back when you could still smoke indoors, and back when I was bad to the bone, I bought some Parliaments from the cigarette machine here at ye olde Ballard Smoke Shoppe. It was also a Long Island night, so my boyfriend and I sucked 'em down at the bar. We were a clear minority that night (read: under 65 years old), even though there was a punk show going on at The Sunset. We made friends with Randy and John, who invited us to join them at their table in the back. Randy insisted on punching the table forcefully with both fists to emphasize random points. "The Mariners suck!" "I need a hot dog!" "You're pretty!" We got to the bottom of our drinks, when I noticed a giant loogie (sp?) underneath the remaining ice. Could it be someone's cracker? Remnants of dish detergent? I showed my glass to the bartender, a petite Golden Girl look-alike in purple. She scratched her Aqua Net coif with her pen and just shrugged. "I dunno? Want another one?" Time to go. But next time, sweet Smoke Shop, I think I'll go with a can.
(4)A B.
It's a remnant of scary old Ballard. I give it 4 stars, because they carded me when I walked in to use the bathroom, and I'm well past 21. This place is what Hattie's Hat used to be before the yuppies ruined it. But not for long. I have already heard complaints from locals about the "loud, obnoxious" crowds that go bar hopping down Ballard ave looking for some place to drink that's, well, "kewl!" The bar hopping nouveau and up and coming drunks may not like what I have to say. I don't care. Telling the truth is often a revolutionary act. The natives no longer have a quiet spot to talk about old times (yes, there are some people who don't TEXT but remember and still practice the art of face-to-face interaction) because of the imbecile Gen Y jerks who have a very strange tendency to say "look at me!!, LOOOK AT MEEEE!!!!!!!!!!~" by way of howling instead of using a normal conversational tone. Cripes. Why don't you assholes either 1) get married, grow up and move into some overpriced townshouse in Sammamish 2) Go back to sunny mother8***ing Cali-for-ni-yay? or 3) just shut the FU*K up! Thank you. In spite of all that, don't get the idea you're unwelcome. Everyone understands money. It's just that the locals would prefer to have some comfy place to go, where you don't have to look like you got outfitted at a boutique, that doesn't yet look or sound like it belongs in Malibu or Santa Monica.
(4)Lenny L.
This place is fantastic!! However, I can only attest to the diner portion.. I have never actually stepped foot in the bar. The diner is like a 60s throwback place. It seems to be stuck in time all around. Food is great.. I am from NY and have spent many years eating in greasy diners.. and this fits just fine in that category! One of the few places to actually get a cheap cup of coffee. Cheap food too, which is just as you expect from a diner that has stood till today.. Servers seem as if they have been there since they opened.. Even though it is on Ballard ave.. it seems to be pretty isolated once inside... check it out if you have not been! If its been a while since you have been.. go again!!
(4)Brent F.
Why go to the Smoke Shop? This vestigal old timers bar in the heart of Ballard has very little to offer beyond cheap STIFF drinks, but it has those in aplenty. Grizzled patrons hunkered over their drinks, tabacco stained walls and an appallingly small selection of country and bad rock only add to the atmosphere of "oh why the hell did I come in here?". Didn't try the food in the adjacent restaurant but if you walk past the the bathrooms and peek in you will swear you have passed through some crazy dimensional portal into a twisted Twin-Peaks cafe - odd things happen here. You can feel it.
(2)Kat T.
Do not come in here sober unless you are coming to breakfast (even then you should be slightly snockered). Stiff, cheap drinks served to you by seasoned (read: ancient) bar maids wearing fuzzy sweaters. You can hold a disco in the bathroom (trust me). My head hurts today. Did I say stiff drinks...???
(5)Sarah S.
I can't figure out why this place is always empty when I go. The food's not amazing, but it's solid, decent diner food and it's cheap. They're also one of the few places in Ballard where you can get breakfast all day, and their pancakes are pretty damned good. It's very Midwest - the waitstaff is friendly and pleasant but not in a fake, overattentive "customer service" way. The decor can't have been updated much in the last thirty years, and you can see the brown stains in the wallpaper from the days when it was a Smoke Shop in more than name, but that kind of unaffected practicality is something to treasure here in Seattle. Their pie is just Marie Calendar's, but the bread pudding is homemade and it is amazing! I ordered it last night, despite the fact that my friend and I had both stuffed ourselves on a Monte Cristo with fries and a French Dip with mashed potatoes. Two sandwiches, two coffees, desert, tax, and tip came to $25. Sadly the restaurant closes at 8, but one time the waitress said they were thinking of staying open later on Fridays and Saturdays. Go in, try it out, and tell them you vote YES for later hours!
(4)Katherine T.
The only place in Ballard that is TRUE Ballard. My parents went here when it was still called the Blue Room. My Father did the carpets when they remodeled in the 80's. This place is like Cheers for me. They all know me because they have the same bartenders since i was a little girl. I remember they would give me a cup of cherrys with a dollar wrapped around it after i had my cocoa and toast in the morning. I just turned 21 and was able to have my first drink in the bar, needless to say i was drunk off of one drink. Tom has owned this place since the beginning and i believe is the only person in Ballard that hasn't sold out. This is, or at least was, a fisherman's bar. Most of the older folk have been going ages. I will be very sad when Tom retires. I love this place an always will.
(5)Riss J.
My first visit to the Ballard Smoke Shop was a memorable experience! I loved it right off the bat just for it being it's own "yeah, this is us and we've been here forever" self. We sit and right there on the wall at our seat is written, "Smell my f*ck". (+1 star) During the first round of the jute box quarters, a regular turns to our group and compliments the music chosen. The country music. A giggle escapes on of the group as he reveals the last song in that string to be Cher. When the song comes on from across the bar you here: "what f*g put this on"...(points across table) (+1 star) For one of the best "Man, I look hot and love my" Mullets I've seen in a looong time (and getting a picture with him!!) (+1 star) The regulars (seriously, first name basis people..yeeears of their asses on those stools) talked to us, made sure we voted (oops), begged us not to vote for Hillary, regaled stories of Alaska, SF, and complimented my hair =) (+1 star) And the final, and most precious star goes to the regular who sells his homemade jewelry GIVING Drue the MOOSE POOP earrings on her way out. MOOSE POOP! for your EARS! oh yeah...and DRUE RANG THE BELL BETCHES!
(5)Jj B.
I felt right at home here. It's a breath of fresh air to get a stiff drink in ballard sans the douche bag hipsters and weirdo ballard elite. Loved this place!
(4)Whitney M.
This is the place where alcoholics go to be alone... together. Don't get me wrong, I looooves the sauce. I personally keep my local haunts in business. That's all fine and good, but the smoke shop is filled with serious addicts who are drowning their sorrows in stiff drinks and awkwardness. I like that the bartender makes you eat soup if you're too drunk, but I don't think I'll be going back (unless, of course, I'm looking to score some meth).
(2)kim h.
A definite dive bar with loads of appeal and character. Friendly bartenders who are total throwbacks. Good conversation and stiff drinks. Don't expect frills its a place to drink and possibly hold an epic drunk conversation :)
(3)Laura K.
I always come here when I feel ugly because I'm usually the best looking person here but maybe thats because I'm only missing one of my teeth. When a female walks in all the stinky old drunks smile at you and sit up a little straighter and you feel like you 're about to be courted. p.s. If you ring the bell at the bar you have to buy everyone a drink or prepare to run out and never come back.
(3)Betsy H.
So... last night was my first time to the Smoke Shop. Some might say (Oh, and I know who you are) that my "Smoke Shop cherry was popped". Yes, yes, it was... and it was soooo good! Four words for you - I Rang The Bell! Granted, a Sunday night is probably the best time to introduce someone to this place since it allows you to ease into the experience, but I truly feel like I found a hidden gem in this wonderful dive bar. It also made for a pretty cheap round for ringing the bell since there were only three other patrons besides my friends and I in the entire bar. (**if you ring the bell, you have to by the house a round of drinks - beware!) I guess I had always just gone past the smoke shop thinking it was "just a restaurant" or having better things to do like get to a show next door at the Sunset tavern. Boy was I wrong. Listen to me and the other reviewers when we say, these will be the stiffest drinks under $5 that will ever be made outside of your own home. My God! I'm trying to remember the last time that I got drunk for only $10.... Not to mention the delicious turkey noodle soup that we got for free because they were just going to throw it out otherwise. Oh, and let's not forget the entertainment! Not only do they have a jukebox with a pretty darn good selection of randomness, but we got to watch like six cops bust a guy for stalking one of the bartenders - where else can you find that kind of excitement I ask you!
(4)Betsey S.
Even though smoking has been banned in this bar and all others in Seattle for two years, it still smells smoky and thus continues to live up to its name. It's like the smoke seeped way, way into the banquettes, carpets, walls, regulars, and the overall aura of the place. I highly enjoyed the selections in the non-computerized juke box: Patsy Cline lives happily right alongside NOW! 17 and Stevie Ray Vaughn. It is clear upon entering who the regulars are, and they're some friendly folks. I like how one of them sells his homemade jewelry on one of the tables. The waitresses are excellent, sweet and sassy. Definitely take Cici's advice about the buckets. I consider my liver to be extremely well seasoned and the one rum and coke I had at the Smoke Shop dang near put me on my butt. I had also had a Sidecar and glass of wine at a previous stop, but really, that is not a lot for me. Bucket. I can't believe I missed Drue ringing the bell!
(5)Katherine I.
Second time was just as good.... Holy Toledo Batman, it's a diner in Ballard! I came here once before an interview, and thought that if I got the job, this would be a regular haunt. Didn't get the job, but I returned to the Smoke Shop. Last night, didn't feel like cooking after putting in a 11 hour day. Who would? So after a dissapointing trip to the Dollar Plus across the street, we stopped here for some grub. Hubster had a Reuben that came with absolutely freshly ground horseradish. Not a sauce, but the actual Horseradish, freshly ground up! I had an Egg Salad Sandwich with L&T and looooooooved the Potatoe Bread it came on. just slightly sweet, absolutely soft and fresh. The Munchkin had the Chicken Fingers appetizers which came with a whole heck of a lot more than we expected! The waitress was a bit of a character, the place was a greasy spoon and gave me a bit of an East Coast feel (where Diners are rampant!). Made me miss home....
(4)Katie A.
Strongest drinks @ $4.75 I've ever had in my life. This is where the old school Ballardites hang. This is 'keepin' it reeeeaaaah' if I've ever seen it. The head bartendress has been tending Ballard bar since the 60's. No joke. PS- DO NOT ring the bell unless you're buying EVERYONE in the bar a round. Seriously. It's been done many a time, I've been told.. just be there when the ships come in (it's true) and you might get a lil' somethin' for free! Holla!
(4)Melissa R.
Mmmm mm good! I love spots like this that are full of regulars, lots of men (raargh!!) and cheap drinks. Drinking good ol' Rainier out of the bottle, trying to determine the little puzzles on the caps... AND how can you not enjoy a place that has a jukebox. Awesome. Oh, and if you see me there - def ring the bell. I'd love for you to buy me a drink. :)
(5)Trevor R.
I don't see myself spending a lot of time at the Smoke Shop, but when I do, I'll count myself lucky. It means I'll be reconnecting with the decade of my birth, in a time capsule of the 1970s, it's faux woodgrain finery preserved beneath layers of amber-colored cigarette tar. It means I must be in the company of good friends, who appreciate the coziness of a dive, not caring at all that it's not a place to be seen. It means I can get as drunk as I want for under $20. (No one makes drinks this cheap and strong except Earl's on the Ave, and trust me, Earl's has far scarier clientele.) And finally, it means that the condo developers and yuppies have not yet destroyed the last roots of old Ballard.
(3)Ninja S.
If this is representative of the Old Ballard that should to be preserved, give me the keys to the bulldozer. I want to help make some space for condos. I amused myself by feeding quarters into the pull tab machines and getting disturbingly sober. This is not the place you want to be sober. You want to have a water glass full of the paint thinner they serve here and gulp it to keep away the horror. Thankfully while I was sober and wondering what the hell I was doing here, it allowed me the chance to slip away without people asking where I was going. The party didn't stop, so I wasn't a buzzkill. Thank you, Smoke Shop! Perhaps if I woke up drunk nearby, I might come here for one of their weekend breakfast specials; parboiled in grease with three kinds of meat with potatoes and a drink for under $10.
(2)Chris H.
Ring the bell. Now. Just do it. See what happens.... I guess there are those people to whom the charm of this gem is totally lost on, and that's fine. For me, it's a neat little joint to climb into where the leathery barkeep pours stiff drinks and and you can chew the fat with an ecclectic crowd. If you like dive bars, this place is on the must visit list. Weekends can be a bit crowded here, so duck in for a few drinks on a weeknight....and a few more drinks will be the inevitable decision instead of moving on. I can't speak for the diner, but the lounge is deliciously full of character, characters, and a little bit of history from Ballard's rapidly vanishing barnacle hang-outs.
(4)Carol H.
Great place to eat and if you so do, drink as well... Lots of kids have grown up eating at the Smoke Shop. They have color crayons for kids. Someone said not good for kids. It is too, just ask Claire and the other kids that come in. Gee whiz. time to update here it is now 2015. Still good food , good for kids of all ages. Bar has the best ever old time juke box
(5)Steven B.
okay, so i tried the Smoke Shop out for the first time the other day on a whim. the place has a drab, stale decor with stained walls and clientele that are sadness personified. i ordered a bowl of chili... it took almost a half hour to get it although, there were only a handful of people in the place. the waitress apologized by saying, "i am sorry that took so long.. i really have no excuse for it.." the chili was bland, at best. i went again for breakfast today. my buddy noticed that the Half & Half that he poured in his coffee was solid.. gross.. he asked for a new cup of coffee that didn't show up for 10 minutes.. we ordered the chicken fried steak and eggs.. it showed up without gravy.. i thought that was weird.. they forgot my buddy's extra egg. the toaster blew a fuse so, they delayed our toast a bit.. after i had almost finished my meal, the gravy showed up, finally.. which did help the underwhelming food a bit. on the upside, the pepper shaker works. needless to say, this is my new favorite place.
(5)Shu Z.
Like the atmosphere, seriously divey. Good spot for people watching if you're into that. I love it for their way-too-strong mixed drinks - 1 or 2 will get you wasted. Their idea of a mixed drink is a glass full of liquor with a splash of soda. Sold!
(4)David M.
Just got home from breakfast and thought I should write a quick review of my favorite breakfast spot, I've lived in ballard the last 11 years and seen it change alot except for this place. My review is on breakfast in the restaurant which at least once a week I get and it never dissapoints. Cheap, good, close to home and always consistant......cant beat it. Now the bar for me which I occasionally go to at night has the best, cheap strong drinks available......need I say more?
(5)Denice M.
I will get in a car (especially if someone else is driving), leave my little 'hood on Cap Hill, and travel to Ballard--just to go to this place. I will then order up some vodka drink (it doesn't matter what it is because you will not be able to taste the mixer), and then I will mosey over to the jukebox. And nirvana. They have the Texas Tornadoes. There is nothing like throwing on a little "Guacamole" and sitting in a booth with some of your favorite peeps, while sipping your vodka (cocktail). Such a great scene of people just in for a drink and a good time--not trying to be seen or make a scene (at least around 9:30 on a Friday night).
(5)Lydia G.
I LOVE The Smoke Shop... it's a family run business and it's what Ballard is all about. This community was founded on people like this. You get a good stiff drink and interesting conversation.
(5)Sara B.
The Ballard Smoke Shop is one of the last bastions of old Ballard, before all the monied yuppies came tromping on in and started opening foo-foo boutiques and bars that charge $12 for cocktails with ten ingredients in them. Unfortunately, I do not remember old Ballard, as I am one of those horrifying transplants. But when I go to the Smoke Shop, I can pretend I'm a seasoned old salt just like everyone else sitting at the bar. This place is a real, honest-to-God dive bar, complete with seasoned old drinkers who don't mess around and the first bartender I've found in Seattle who actually knows how to make a tasty whiskey ginger without ginger ale. Hopefully, the yuppies don't take over and ruin this place too.
(5)Kai K.
One of the only dive bars left in Ballard. I hope it stays around. It's awesome. I've never eaten here... so nothing on that front.
(4)Laural B.
Restaurant only. They serve breakfast all day and the menu resembles a southern Waffle House. This is a truly excellent thing, and the waiters are appropriately funny-looking but approachable and friendly. Definitely returning when I want breakfast for dinner.
(4)James H.
this is the best place to be in Ballard. they don't care who you are or where you're from, how much money you have or who you know. Be nice, meet your neighbor, get drunk and catch a cab home!
(5)Kei F.
This place gives you the most bang for your buck. It has a great divey feel to it w/ stiff drinks and tough waitresses. You can even see the bar now that the smoking ban has taken place.
(4)Drue C.
Part 70s diner, part 70s bar and a little slice of the OK Corral, the latter two being the only parts I am qualified to comment on. This place has been around forever and the Formica, wood paneling, brown vinyl booths and bartenders who have been working there 20 years plus are a testament to that. If you look around you will find that most of the clientele may have worn a customized ass shaped groove into their bar stool as well. There is a bell on the wall, near the square shaped bar that sits in the center of the room, that clearly states that should you ring it you must buy the bar a round. I would not test this theory if I were you because these people are serious about their drinking! I have seen it all at this place. I saw the best non-ironic mullet I have ever encountered, I watched a 300 pound man pass out and get dragged out of the place via one of the most painful wedgies I have ever seen, I have been given earrings made out of moose shit - yes moose shit, I have seen sequins as a fashion statement on middle aged women and bolo ties and cowboy hats as adornment on men, I have seen the bartender scrub graffiti off the wall (quite upset that someone would deface this classy place in such a manner), I have received free drinks from strangers as well as the establishment, I have seen a crazy woman almost go ape shit because every ones political views did not match hers, I have seen a man offer a woman money for sex only to find out she was not actually a prostitute and, best of all, I have actually been caught in the near crossfire of a potential gun fight as I chatted with a man who asked another to square off outside. Did I mention I have only been here twice? In the same day? Yeah, this place rocks!!!!
(5)Gregor G.
I was admittedly a little apprehensive about entering this place, but was flat-out in love with it about three sips later. It was disappointing that not one soul rang that damn bell to buy a round for the house, given the gaggle of fun-loving regulars perched around the bar with fresh Social Security checks burning holes in their pockets. Still, this unique, low-key bar made me feel very relaxed and happy. Oh, be sure to wander over to the adjacent restaurant side -- you'll swear you've just stumbled into Mel's Diner from "Alice." Kiss MY grits, suckas!
(5)Minda w.
maybe we came at the wrong time....the bar portion of the establishment was definitely what we were not looking for...sure, the drinks are cheap and strong but the crowd was something like 50+. we definitely got odd looks walking in. one quick round of drinks later as we were getting ready to leave, some hip hop came on. lack of music is odd but hip hop here is even more so odd. thursday night is not a happening night.
(2)Stefan K.
As Ballard becomes more and more like Belltown and Fremont, the Ballard Smoke Shop still retains the good ol' low-key fisherman-esque style.
(4)Jordan C.
Place is a dive but strangely inviting. Cheap booze, more intimate than the Sunset next door, probably one of the few places in town that has a working cigarette machine. The kind of place seafarers come to after a long deployment at sea. Sig, from the popular Discovery Channel show Deadliest Catch is a bar fly here -a drunken bar fly. It's pretty cool to earjack tales of fishing out at sea.
(4)Melissa B.
One of the last vestiages of old Ballard left in town. Had many a great night talking with friends with comments peppered in by the neighborhood folks. Pretty good juke box also.
(5)mary c.
the smokeshop is one of the last ballard originals. yes, the drinks are strong. yes, Tony G can be seen there often (how many ppl know the town's best filmGeek?)... yes, they've breakfasts straight out of uncle duane's 1967 diner and yes, you'll see more true ballard locals than anywhere in town. the thing about the smokeshop is that it hasn't succumbed to the ballard gentrification nightmare. you can still share a drink with a filmmaker, a fisherman, a waitress, a local and a few "old timers". i hope the place stays in business and doesn't change. seriously, if you want something else, go someplace else. there's more than enough locations in walking/stumbling distance.
(5)Rick L.
I go to my smoke shop to buy a nice cigar, not to sit and drink there. The crowd here is really.. kind of older, almost ancient so avoid if you're not over 50.
(2)megan d.
if you like jade pagdo you'll love this place. cheap STIFF drinks! thats all i have to say....but just incase i'll say it one more time..cheap STIFF drinks. i don't think ive ever left this place with out getting a little too tipsy for less than $10.
(5)Glen B.
I went into this place looking for cigarettes. I usually smoke roll your own, and I wasn't sure if this was a tobacco shop, or bar, or a bar you could actually smoke in (I was naive to think Seattle allowed ANY exceptions to its smoking ban when I was first here). I went in looking for a pouch of Bali Shag. I didn't see a counter so I walked up to the machine, and the server stopped me, literally with her hand, and said "what do you think you're doing?" I said I was checking out the machine. She said "nuh-uh. What are you looking for?" I told her what I usually smoked and I looked at the machine. At which point she bitched me out, and said not to look at the machine, to rather "look at her" and "don't get any ideas about getting smokes with your attitude." Well, I didn't take this well, and we had a few words. Everyone there seemed haggard, tired, and very very old, and the waitstaff is THE WORST of anywhere I've been in Seattle. It is a wonder that they are still around. I spit on the sidewalk as I pass this place since then.
(1)