Whether it’s the devastating break-up, the loss of a family member, or getting fired, there are times in life when solace is found in a glass. When those occasions occur, a certain kind of bar recommends itself. It requires cheap, stiff drinks, cozy corners to hide in, and most of all a sense that you’re probably not the only one with a good reason to be drinking your sorrows away, no matter what time of day. A place like the Ballard Smoke Shop. The chances are that there will always be at least one person in there having a rougher day than you. The staff is experienced (to put it lightly), but relatively friendly and usually there to lend you a sympathetic ear. Plus, there’s always the chance that some kind soul will ring the bell and buy the bar a round; it’s almost enough to make you forget why you need that drink in the first place.