I’d been wanting to try The Hi-Life for some time now, and I’m happy to say that it’s a place I’d readily return to whenever I’m in or around Ballard.

The location is ideal for stopping in for a bit when walking around the core of the neighborhood, and the decor within this old firehouse is casual enough for most any group, but is still spaciously and artfully decorated enough to make you feel like it’s not just another regular meal.

We were seated by the window which turned out to be pretty chilly. The service was prompt and friendly, and overall the small taste of the food we had was tasty. There were a lot of things on the menu that looked good, so I’ll definitely be returning in the future.

We used to go here for breakfast pretty often last summer but have cut back a bit due mainly to the big wait to get in.

Breakfast is good in general and a step above many places. Bacon is way above average, potatoes are good and flavorful yet sometimes burned in places and a bit oily. Coffee is strong.

Excellent unique atmostphere. Really love the bar. Recommend this place for happy hr especially. See a movie at the nearby theater and then go enjoy the late night happy hr. They have outstanding small pizza’s, some other good hr specials – no drink specials. Boundary Bay beer on tap.

This Chow Foods installation is nicely done in the fromer Ballard Firehouse (it really was built as the main firestation). The huge firehouse garage is hung with works by rotating artists. Nothing is done to induce intimacy. It’s a big, busy breakfast spot. It’s open morning noon and night.

I go there for the Firehouse Mary. If I’m hungry, I’ll order some more substantial food.

The dinner menu rotates through themes of foods of the world