Highlights
- Great beer selection
oChef » The Ballard Smoke Shop – Seattle
The Ballard Smoke Shop - Seattle
Photo from The Ballard Smoke Shop
The Ballard Smoke Shop at a glance
Seattle Ballard
- 🍻 Bar & Pub
$$
Price per Person $21–$30
mentioned by 20 of the guests
#442 out of 858 places to eat in Seattle
#49 Bar & Pub out of 78 in Seattle
Good
7.5 out of 10
Food
Service
Ambience
Value
230
Reviews
77.8%
Satisfaction
Often praised
- Friendly staff
- Good burgers
- Great atmosphere
Frequently criticized
- Inconsistent service
- Unpredictable hours
- Food inconsistencies
The restaurant The Ballard Smoke Shop, a popular Bar & Pub in Seattle’s vibrant Ballard neighborhood, invites you to discover its cozy and casual atmosphere. You can enjoy a great beer selection, making it a perfect spot for unwinding.
This establishment offers a welcoming environment where you can relax and savor your time.
Overview: Introducting The Ballard Smoke Shop
Ballard Smoke Shop offers a mixed experience, often praised for its friendly staff and a generally good food selection, particularly the burger. Many appreciate the relaxed vibe and the affordability of its offerings, making it a comfortable spot for a casual visit.
However, some visits have been marred by inconsistent service and unpredictable posted hours, leading to frustration. While the overall ambience is often a draw, occasional issues with noise or perceived high prices have been noted by a few patrons.
Good
7.5
out of 10
230
Reviews
77.8%
Satisfaction
36
negative
15
neutral
179
positive
Ballard Smoke Shop generally leaves a positive impression, reflected in its solid restaurant score of 7.5 and a customer satisfaction rate of 77.8%. These figures, drawn from 230 customer observations, with 179 positive remarks against 36 negative, suggest a largely agreeable experience for most visitors.
Diving deeper, the Ambience (8.1) stands out as a strong point, creating a welcoming atmosphere. Food (7.5) and Value (7.4) also receive good marks, indicating that patrons find the offerings satisfying and reasonably priced.
Service (6.7), while still good, is noted as an area with some room for improvement, as some experiences have been inconsistent.
What people like
- Friendly, attentive staff
- Good burger options
- Engaging, cozy atmosphere
What people don't like
- Inconsistent service
- Unpredictable hours
- Occasional food issues
With a solid recommendation score of 7.8, Ballard Smoke Shop appears to be a worthwhile stop, especially if you appreciate a casual spot with a good burger and a lively atmosphere. It’s a place where the friendly staff often makes a positive difference, contributing to a generally enjoyable visit.
However, be mindful that experiences can vary, particularly regarding service consistency and operating hours. If you’re seeking a reliable, no-frills local spot for drinks and a decent meal, it’s certainly worth considering, but manage expectations for absolute predictability.
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Verdict: Our expert take on The Ballard Smoke Shop
Food (7.5 out of 10)
mentioned by 62% of the guests
When it comes to the food here, youre generally in for a treat! With a solid score of 7.5 and customer satisfaction sitting at a good 73.8%, many diners rave about the offerings. Out of 65 comments, 48 were positive, highlighting favorites like the incredible smash burger, delicious fried food, and satisfying pub grub.
The pressure-fried chicken also gets a lot of love, making it a go-to for many. However, its not all five-star dishes. Some guests have noted a change in the menu, with a few missing the previous options like eggs Benedict and finding the pancakes tough or eggs runny.
While only 9 comments were negative, these specific concerns suggest that while the core offerings are strong, some past favorites or breakfast items might not hit the mark for everyone.
Food
65
Reviews
73%
Satisfaction
9
negative
8
neutral
48
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Great smash burgers
- Delicious pub grub
- Tasty fried chicken
What people don't like
- Menu changes disappoint
- Inconsistent breakfast items
Often praised
- foodMy experience at the restaurant was fantastic! I enjoyed the great service and food, as well as the drinks. I especially want to highlight the excellent service from Karrie and Drew, who are my favorites.
- drinksMy experience at the restaurant was fantastic! I enjoyed the great service and food, as well as the drinks. I especially want to highlight the excellent service from Karrie and Drew, who are my favorites.
- burgerI loved the great vibes and the super friendly bartender. It's fantastic that they have Radler on tap and a yum burger.
- smash burgerMy experience at this restaurant was fantastic, particularly regarding the food. I believe it serves the best burger in Ballard, and it's the only decent smash burger I've found this side of Lake Union. Beyond the excellent food, it's a chill spot to hang out, play some games, and enjoy some beers.
- menuThe new trimmed down menu is a good value
- strong drinksNice strong drinks
- Buffalo TraceThe Buffalo Trace at $8/pour is a steal
- BurgerRecommended dishes:Burger
- FOODFOOD was definitely edible
- FoodFood:5
Frequently criticized
- foodthe food was mediocre at best
- Manhattan2nd one missed the mark, too much vermouth
- beer tapsI wish they had more beer taps though!
- eggsHowever, our second visit was quite different. The pancakes were tough, the eggs were extra runny, and they were out of several items, making the food mediocre at best. The service was super slow, with the waitress repeatedly bringing the wrong items and requiring us to ask for refills.
- eggs BenedictUsed to love having eggs Benedict
- menuNo longer a real menu
- pancakesPancakes were tough
- pressure-fried chickenwish I had the option to have it made-to-order so it arrives thermonuclear hot
If youre looking for a spot with reliably good bar food, especially a fantastic smash burger or fried chicken, this place is definitely worth checking out. Just be aware that the menu might have changed from what it once was, and some breakfast items might be a bit inconsistent. Stick to the pub grub, and youll likely leave happy.
Service (6.7 out of 10)
mentioned by 58% of the guests
When it comes to service, this spot generally hits the mark with a good score of 6.7, though customer satisfaction is a bit more mixed at 66.1%. Many guests rave about the friendly staff and excellent bartenders like Kerri, Drew, and Lauren, often praising their recommendations and quick drink-making abilities. Out of 59 total opinions, 39 were positive, highlighting a generally welcoming atmosphere.
However, the experience isn't always consistent. Some customers have faced issues with unpredictable hours, slow service, and even receiving the wrong food or drinks. There are also mentions of a lack of dependable table service and occasional credit card machine problems, which can definitely put a damper on your visit.
Service
59
Reviews
66%
Satisfaction
20
negative
0
neutral
39
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Friendly staff
- Excellent bartenders
- Good recommendations
What people don't like
- Unpredictable hours
- Slow service
- No table service
Often praised
- serviceMy experience at this restaurant has been a tale of two visits. On our first trip, the food was good, the service was friendly, and the overall price was well-suited. However, our second visit was quite different.
- bartenderMy experience here was so fun! I loved the great vibes and the super friendly bartender. It's fantastic that they have Radler on tap and a yum burger.
- bartendersKerry and Drew are such nice bartenders
- staffThe staff is dynamite!
- DrewI come here with my coworkers on occasion, and it's always a good time. Drew takes care of us, and the vibe is pretty good.
- Friendly folksNothing has changed, and I love everything about this historic spot! Friendly folks, good drinks, no frills or gimmicks. Just a great local place to sit and enjoy!
- Karrie and DrewKarrie and Drew are my favorites
- Kerri, Drew, and LaurenSuper appreciate Kerri, Drew, and Lauren
- bartender FarrahOur bartender Farrah was great in recommending food and bevs
- bartenders and staffThe bartenders and staff was fantastic
Frequently criticized
- serviceService was so bad that we left without being served
- posted hoursHowever, the cafe experience has been unpredictable for the last couple of years. You never know what to expect: sometimes closed, sometimes open, with posted hours changing at the drop of a hat, and often not even observing those hours. I think today will be the last time I attempt to eat here unless I call, and IF they answer the phone!
- bar staffThe bar staff we incredible rude
- businessNot sure how this is good for business
- cafethe cafe? The last couple of years, you never know what to expect
- closedthey were ether closed
- credit card machinecredit card machine goes down from time to time
- dependablemore dependable
- ownerthe owner told me I had to leave
- party sizeMy experience was that the bar was essentially empty, yet we were turned away for being too large of a party. I'm not sure how this is good for business, but good luck!
If youre looking for a place with genuinely friendly bartenders and a good vibe, especially if youre a regular, you'll likely have a great time. Just be aware that service consistency, particularly with hours and speed, can be a bit of a gamble, so it might be best to call ahead.
Ambience (8.1 out of 10)
mentioned by 77% of the guests
When it comes to ambience, this spot really shines, earning a good score of 8.1 and boasting a good customer satisfaction of 87.8%. Out of 90 total opinions, a whopping 79 rave about the atmosphere! People love the arcade games and pinball, praising the old school Ballard atmosphere and its nostalgic and charming vibe.
It’s clearly a place that offers a great time with a unique feel. However, not every experience is perfect, with 5 negative remarks noted. Some found the entrance wasn't clearly labeled, and a few mentioned issues with no parking nearby.
A common concern was the noise, making it hard to hear company when a band was playing, and there were comments about sidewalk cleanliness outside.
Ambience
90
Reviews
87%
Satisfaction
5
negative
6
neutral
79
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Arcade and pinball games
- Nostalgic, cozy vibe
- Relaxed, chill spot
What people don't like
- Loud, hard to hear
- Sidewalk cleanliness issues
- Entrance not labeled
Often praised
- atmosphereMy experience at this smoke shop has been consistently positive over the past year, as it has become a regular hang-out spot. I really appreciate the great atmosphere and laid-back setting. The staff, specifically Kerri, Drew, and Lauren, have been exceptional, and I super appreciate them.
- arcade gamesThe arcade games in the back are definitely worth checking out
- dive barMy experience at this restaurant was that of a great little dive bar with a lot of history. The food was good, and the booze was also good.
- pinballThey also have pinball
- vibethe vibe is pretty good
- gamesI believe it serves the best burger in Ballard, and it's the only decent smash burger I've found this side of Lake Union. Beyond the excellent food, it's a chill spot to hang out, play some games, and enjoy some beers.
- historyMy experience at this restaurant was that of a great little dive bar with a lot of history. The food was good, and the booze was also good.
- pinball machinesMy experience at this restaurant was incredibly cozy. The atmosphere was enhanced by the presence of plenty of arcade games and pinball machines. It’s a place that’s never really crowded, contributing to a comfortable and inviting environment.
- vibesMy experience here was so fun! I loved the great vibes and the super friendly bartender. It's fantastic that they have Radler on tap and a yum burger.
- Small and intimateGreat historical nautical decor. Small and intimate, dimly lit, perfect spot. Mixed crowd.
Frequently criticized
- bandband is playing, but can't understand them
- entrancethe entrance wasn't labeled right
- hear companyhear your company is impossible
- no parkingNo parking, but not difficult to find parking
- sidewalk cleanlinessThey no longer have a real menu, and I miss having eggs Benedict. There's no longer table service, and the sidewalk is covered in cigarette butts.
If youre looking for a lively, nostalgic spot with plenty of arcade and pinball action, youll likely have a blast here. However, if you prefer quiet conversations or pristine surroundings, you might find the noise levels and exterior a bit challenging.
Value (7.4 out of 10)
mentioned by 22% of the guests
When it comes to value, this spot generally hits the mark! With a solid score of 7.4 and customer satisfaction at a good 81.3%, most guests are quite pleased. Out of 16 total opinions, a strong 13 highlight the excellent value, praising the reasonable prices, drink deals, cheap beer, and fantastic happy hour offerings.
Youll find many feel the food and drinks are very affordable, often calling them a steal for the quality. However, not everyone agrees, with 2 opinions noting some downsides. While most find the prices fair, a couple of guests did mention shocking prices in one instance.
Another point raised was the cost associated with street parking', which can add an unexpected charge to your visit. It seems these are isolated incidents, but worth keeping in mind.
Value
16
Reviews
81%
Satisfaction
2
negative
1
neutral
13
positive
Rating distribution
What people like
- Reasonable pricing
- Great drink deals
- Affordable food
What people don't like
- Unexpected high prices
- Parking charges
Often praised
- pricesthe prices were fair
- PricingThe food menu is stacked and of a higher quality than most dive bars. Pricing across both food and beverage is by far some of the lowest in central Seattle. I think this is a great bar for small groups, intimate conversations, and even solo dining.
- cheap beergreat place for cheap beer
- drink dealssolid drink deals
- food and drinksFood and drinks are very affordable
- good food valuegood food value
- good pricegood pours at a good price
- happy hourthe happy hour is a great deal
- pricethe place was well-priced
- price per pourBuffalo Trace at $8/pour is a steal
Frequently criticized
- pricesMy experience at this restaurant was marked by extremely shocking prices. While there was a band playing, their volume made it impossible to understand them and even to hear my company.
- street parkingparking on the strret have City parking charge.
If you're looking for a place that generally offers great bang for your buck, especially with its drink deals and happy hour, this restaurant is definitely worth checking out. While a rare few found the prices surprisingly high or parking a hassle, the overwhelming sentiment points to excellent affordability, making it a solid choice for budget-conscious diners.
How are the prices at The Ballard Smoke Shop?
On average, you’ll spend around 21 per person – from 20 guests. That puts the restaurant in the $21–$30 category. For a Bar & Pub, that’s mid-range, maybe slightly above.
Looking at the full picture, while the average is 21, most diners actually spend a bit less, often in the $11–$20 range, with some even finding options under 10 $. There’s also a mix of mid-range options and even a premium experience reported.
This chart shows what people usually spend per person, using the 20 most recent reviews.
Heres how this spots value for money stacks up against similar places in Seattle.
Overall, considering the variety of price points available and the Bar & Pub setting, we think the pricing here feels pretty fair for Seattle. You can likely find something to fit your budget.
Customer Reviews: what people think about The Ballard Smoke Shop
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Tourist Experience
Service Type
- Dine-in
9
Ballard Institution: Great Diner Food
My experience at this Ballard institution was fantastic! The diner food was great, served in an authentic old school Ballard atmosphere. It's a must see if you're in town.
- diner food10
- old school Ballard atmosphere9
Price per Person
- $21–$30
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
9
Favorite No-Frills Dive Bar
My favorite bar in Ballard is a no-frills spot, and I appreciate that simplicity. As someone who isn't a big drinker, I prefer a simple and divey atmosphere when I go out, and this place delivers. I always have a good time here, and my experience at Freak Fest was a blast!
- no-frills9
- simple and divey9
- good time9
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Large Group
Group Size
- Large Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
Noise Level
- Quiet
2
Turned Away Despite Empty Bar
My experience was that the bar was essentially empty, yet we were turned away for being too large of a party. I'm not sure how this is good for business, but good luck!
- party size2
- business3
Visit Type
- Casual Outing
Group Type
- Friends
Group Size
- Small Group
Service Type
- Dine-in
10
Best Dive Bar with Delicious Food!
My experience at this place was fantastic! The food was consistently delicious, and the prices were reasonable. I also loved the great vibe and atmosphere.
It's truly the best dive bar in the neighborhood 🍻👍.
- food10
- prices8
- vibe9
Price per Person
- $1–$10
Visit Type
- Food Exploration
Service Type
- Dine-in
Wait Time
- Immediate (0–5 min.)
8
Great Wings and Bartenders!
I want to leave a review about the buffalo wings since there aren't any mentions of them. They were good. Great bartenders too.
Ask for Nathan!
- buffalo wings8
- bartenders9
What The Ballard Smoke Shop offers
Accessibility
- Wheelchair accessible entrance
- Wheelchair accessible restroom
Crowd
- LGBTQ+ friendly
- Transgender safespace
- Groups
Payments
- Credit cards
- Debit cards
Popular for
- Solo dining
Amenities
- Restroom
- Free Wi-Fi
- Wi-Fi
Offerings
- Food at bar
- Hard liquor
- Happy hour drinks
- Food
- Wine
- Beer
- Happy hour food
- Cocktails
- Alcohol
Dining options
- Table service
- Seating
Service Options
- Dine-in
- Takeout
- Onsite services
Parking
- Free street parking
Atmosphere
- Cozy
- Casual
FAQs
What kind of atmosphere and offerings can you expect at The Ballard Smoke Shop?
At The Ballard Smoke Shop, you will find a cozy and casual atmosphere perfect for relaxing. You can enjoy a wide range of offerings including food at the bar, hard liquor, wine, beer, and cocktails. Don’t miss out on their happy hour drinks and food specials.
Does The Ballard Smoke Shop provide accessibility and parking options?
Yes, The Ballard Smoke Shop is committed to accessibility, offering a wheelchair accessible entrance and restroom for your convenience. Additionally, you can easily find free street parking nearby, making your visit hassle-free.
What is the overall customer sentiment for Ballard Smoke Shop?
Ballard Smoke Shop generally receives good feedback, with a restaurant score of **7.5** and customer satisfaction at **77.8%**. The **Ambience** (8.1), **Food** (7.5), and **Value** (7.4) are well-regarded, though **Service** (6.7) has some room for improvement.
What do customers particularly enjoy about the atmosphere at Ballard Smoke Shop?
Patrons frequently praise the engaging and cozy atmosphere, often highlighting the presence of arcade games and pinball machines. It’s described as a chill, laid-back spot with a good vibe and a sense of history.
Are there any common issues or inconsistencies reported by visitors?
Some visitors have noted inconsistencies with service and unpredictable operating hours. There have also been occasional remarks about certain food items being mediocre or the environment becoming noisy, making conversation difficult.