Ballard has become our home, and we love the walkable atmosphere, reminiscent of our time in Clinton Hill, Brooklyn. It’s a favorite among locals, offering a unique experience off the beaten path. This Ballard, Seattle neighborhood guide includes our top recommendations for visitors.
A Little Background on the Ballard Neighborhood
Originally independent from Seattle, Ballard’s land was once considered undesirable. Today, it’s a highly sought-after area with a focus on urban density and modern apartments. Historically centered around marine industries, Ballard boasts a rich maritime heritage. Located on the water, it’s home to a major Seattle marina and Golden Gardens Park, offering access to Puget Sound and stunning Olympic Mountain views. The area’s Scandinavian heritage is evident in its cultural centers and annual Syttende Mai parade, celebrating Norwegian Constitution Day. Another popular event is the Ballard Seafood Fest, a lively celebration of local cuisine and music.
Our Complete Ballard, Seattle Neighborhood Guide
This guide features our favorite Ballard restaurants, bars, and activities, categorized for easy navigation. We’ve also included sample itineraries to help you plan your visit.
14 of the Best Restaurants in Ballard, Seattle
We primarily eat vegetarian with occasional seafood. These are our top restaurant picks, and we’ll continue to update this list as we explore new dining experiences.
Delancey
Delancey is our go-to for classic, wood-oven pizza made with locally sourced ingredients. Arriving ten minutes before opening often guarantees a table. Asking the servers for wine recommendations has always been a pleasant surprise.
Rough & Tumble
This sports bar prioritizes women’s sporting events and offers a delicious menu. The mac and cheese is a personal favorite, and we appreciate the vegetarian options. The open patio with large windows creates a welcoming atmosphere.
Spice Waala
Spice Waala serves simple yet satisfying Indian street food. Choose from four Kathi rolls, including vegan and vegetarian options. Monthly ice cream specials, mango lassis, and a variety of snacks complete the menu.
Gracia
Gracia offers a refined dining experience with mezcal, margaritas, and a la carte tacos. The guava margarita and churros are particularly memorable. Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.
Portage Bay Cafe
With five Seattle locations, Portage Bay Cafe is a brunch staple. Their generous portions will keep you satisfied until dinner. Be sure to check the specials board.
Joli
Known for its gin selection, Joli also features a delightful small plate menu with seasonal seafood and vegetable dishes. The menu’s constant evolution ensures a fresh and exciting dining experience.
Matador
Matador is another excellent Mexican restaurant, serving some of our favorite fish tacos. Happy hour specials and monthly cocktails featuring seasonal ingredients make this a must-visit.
Rachel’s Bagels & Burritos
Rachel’s is a reliable choice for breakfast. Their one-pound burritos and bagels are perfect for fueling outdoor adventures. Online ordering and takeout make it convenient for grabbing a quick bite.
Ocho
Ocho offers Spanish-inspired tapas with a seasonal menu. The deviled eggs are a consistent favorite, and the Sangria is a crowd-pleaser. Happy hour and weekend brunch menus add to the appeal.
a sampling of the tapas you can order at Ocho in Ballard
Ray’s Boathouse
For waterfront dining with stunning views, Ray’s Boathouse is a classic choice. Celebrating its 50th anniversary, Ray’s offers a cafe and a fine dining restaurant, both specializing in fresh seafood.
The Monkey Bridge
The Monkey Bridge serves authentic Vietnamese cuisine. We’ve enjoyed their takeout menu, featuring Bahn Mi sandwiches and various noodle dishes.
Rupee Bar
A James Beard award winner, Rupee Bar features a seasonal Sri Lankan and Indian-inspired menu. Their innovative cocktails are also highly recommended.
Kiss Cafe
Kiss Cafe offers a wide variety of hot and cold sandwiches, all-day breakfast options, and a well-stocked beer fridge. The shaded patio provides a cool respite on warm days.
Sabine
This popular brunch spot serves delicious Mediterranean dishes. If you miss the daytime menu, the back bar offers a smaller menu into the evening. The whipped feta is a standout dish.
Best Bars and Breweries in the Ballard Neighborhood
Kings Hardware
Kings Hardware caters to every occasion, offering cheap beers, jello shots, food, and cocktails. The back patio and covered front area provide ample outdoor space. Skee-ball and unique decor add to the fun.
Balebreaker & Yonder Cider
Ballard is a beer lover’s paradise. Balebreaker is a local favorite, offering a great selection of beers and a spacious outdoor area. Yonder Cider, sharing the space, serves frozen cider slushies in the summer and hot ciders in the winter.
Balebreaker is one of the best spots in Ballard, Seattle with outdoor space.
Little Tin Apothecary
Little Tin Apothecary offers craft cocktails with creative names and a festive patio. While the drinks are pricey, the unique flavors and Instagram-worthy presentation make it a worthwhile experience.
Ballard Beer Box
This new spot combines local craft beers on tap with a wide selection of bottled beers from around the world. Freshly made pizzas and a comfortable back patio complete the experience.
Ballard Beer Box is a great beer bar in Ballard, Seattle with a huge variety of beers to choose from
Reuben’s Brewery
Reuben’s is a classic Ballard brewery with a wide beer selection, a welcoming outdoor space, and a resident food truck serving fries and sandwiches. Its central location makes it a perfect starting point for a brewery tour.
Olaf’s
This dog-friendly corner bar offers classic bar food, pinball machines, and classic arcade games. A hidden doorway resembling female anatomy adds a unique touch.
Shingletown Saloon
For line dancing lessons, karaoke, and a taste of Nashville, Shingletown Saloon is the place to be. The peach and bourbon drink is a local favorite.
Skal Beer Hall
Skal Beer Hall celebrates Ballard’s Scandinavian roots with Nordic dishes made with Pacific Northwest ingredients. The decor evokes a Norwegian lodge, and the beer and small plates are delicious.
Skal beer hall in Ballard, Seattle has incredible snacks
Cloudburst Brewery
With two Seattle locations, Cloudburst Brewery is known for its excellent beers and distinctive can designs. The covered and heated beer garden in Ballard provides a comfortable setting.
The Dray
Located on the east side of the neighborhood, The Dray is a dog-friendly spot with pub snacks and an extensive tap list. Fresh coffee is brewed throughout the day.
Tractor Tavern
This historic music venue hosts a variety of shows. Check their event calendar for upcoming performances. The intimate setting and on-site bar create a great concert experience.
Other Fun Things to Do in Ballard
Beyond dining and drinking, Ballard offers numerous attractions and local shops to explore.
Golden Gardens Park
Golden Gardens Park provides breathtaking mountain and waterfront views. With wetlands, Shilshole Marina, and beach bonfires, it’s a perfect place to spend a summer day.
the boats at Shilshole Marina next to Golden Gardens in the Ballard, Seattle neighborhood
Hiram M. Chittenden Locks & the Salmon Ladder
The Chittenden Locks, the busiest locks in the United States, are a must-see. Observe boat traffic, watch salmon climb the fish ladder, and explore the adjacent Botanic Gardens.
Ballard Ave Historic District
The Ballard Ave Historic District offers unique shopping experiences. Browse clothing stores, PNW gift shops, and old-fashioned candy stores. Our favorite shops include Standard Goods, Secret Garden Books, Woodland Mod, Venue, Ballard Consignment, Good & Well Supply Co, and Sonic Boom Records.
National Nordic Museum
The National Nordic Museum celebrates the cultures of Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden. Traveling exhibits and a fantastic gift shop make this a worthwhile visit.
Sunday Farmers Market
The year-round Ballard Farmers Market offers local produce, farm-fresh eggs, unique snacks, and food trucks. It’s a great alternative to the Pike Place Market crowds.
Macefield House
The Macefield House, a symbol of local resilience, stands as a reminder of Edith Macefield’s refusal to sell her property to developers. It’s a quirky landmark worth seeing.
Majestic Bay Theater
The Majestic Bay Theater, a vintage-style movie theater with three screens, offers a nostalgic movie-going experience. Tuesday’s $6 all-day tickets are a great deal.
Sample Itineraries to Explore the Ballard Neighborhood in Seattle
My Ideal Day in Ballard
- Morning coffee and pastry at Venture Coffee or Dough Joy
- Stroll through the Ballard Farmers Market
- Kayak around Shilshole Marina and Golden Gardens Park
- Lunch at Matador
- Shopping on Ballard Ave and Market
- Beer at Cloudburst
- Pizza and wine at Delancey
- Relax at Balebreaker by the fire pits
How to Celebrate a Special Occasion in Ballard
- Pre-dinner drinks at Little Tin Apothecary
- Dinner at Gracia
- Live music at Tractor Tavern
- Stay at the Hotel Ballard
- Brunch at Sabine
Where to Stay in Ballard, Seattle
Ballard offers several accommodation options, from boutique hotels like Hotel Ballard and Ballard Inn to townhouses and single-family homes available on VRBO. The neighborhood has multiple grocery stores and is easily navigable on foot, by bike, or public transportation.
