Ballard Lock’s Grocery & Deli

Hey folks, I live around the corner from this place and in searching for their number to get a sandwich from them i figured I’d update it’s page. they reopened a couple months ago as «Sharif’s .» Since they’ve changed management the place has been on the upswing; the titular deli is actually operating –hence the aforementioned sandwich– and the beer and wine selection that i walk past to get to the Pabst has expanded greatly. Anyway, good stuff down there.

This is a strange corner store. I live nearby so I end up grabbing something from here from time to time. But only because I’m too lazy to walk the extra block to 7 – 11. It used to also house the Fresh Fish Company, but they recently moved up near Larsen’s Bakery. Good move for them. This place is your typical dodgy corner store and then some. Kinda dirty, lots of bums buying beer in the middle of the day, questionable freshness with some of their items, all that jazz. They do have a decent selection of cheap booze (40 oz PBR & Miller High Life), which explains it being the hobo magnet that it is.
But wait, I didn’t mention the best part! Their amazing porno selection which is totally out in the open for all to see. When referring to this place to friends, I call it the porno market. Everybody knows what I’m talking about when I say that. Right next to the doritos and cheetos is one of the most impressive selections of porn. Right in the next aisle before the drinks. It’s almost impossible to not notice the porn when going to the place. They got videos, dvds, and a ton of magazines all just right there. I don’t partake myself, but I can’t help but look when I’m standing in line waiting to pay for my sprite and funyuns. Among the great titles visable from plain sight are «Buttman» & «Big Black Butt». Good stuff.
Now I’m not going to rate them a 2 star just cuz they are less than discreet with their porn. No, that comes from the constant presence of drunk smelly bums and the overall dirty vibe of the store. And on more than a couple occasions I’ve realized just after leaving that I was overcharged. Not on purpose I don’t think, just because the guy working there wasn’t paying attention. But still, not cool.
But if you are having a hard time finding «Buttman» magazine and want some beef jerkey, this is your place.