Tucked next to the Alki Surf Shop on Alki Ave SW, Alki Smoke Shop & Grocery fills a practical gap in the beach community, offering the everyday items neighbors ask for.

Jane Baldorj, who opened the shop with her husband Bagi, says they started by asking people what they needed. “First week we were just asking the people what they need…. We are still listening.” On the second Saturday morning she was open, two neighbors popped in for a box of butter — not what you’d expect at a smoke shop, but exactly what the neighborhood wanted. “It’s easier for the neighborhood to get something. It’s nice for the people who live down here,” Jane said.

Early customers suggested produce and items people might borrow from each other when they don’t have time to run to a grocery store — things like milk and butter. The shop is small, but Jane points out they can carry basics: garlic, onion, banana and apple. “They were (the neighbors’) ideas, and so we listened and they want some produce.”

Responding to those requests, the shop now stocks a variety of milk and butter, candy and a wide selection of drinks. “Space is limited but we will try to have at least what you need,” Jane said. She also says prices are lower than the closest grocery stores: “I stopped by (a large chain grocery store) yesterday and I thought oh my god so expensive!”

Business has been steady even “in the slow season.” “It’s better than expected because it’s a brand new store.” Despite lower beach traffic in November, Jane has seen returning customers and lots of word-of-mouth referrals. “I really appreciate the neighborhood because they were saying to another person and another one,” she said. “Everyone is saying, Oh we don’t want to go up the hill,” gesturing toward the road to West Seattle’s Admiral District.

The shop mixes snacks and smoke products on its shelves, though cigarettes and other nicotine items are kept behind the counter. Customer K.D. summed up local sentiment: “Yes 100%. It’s such a cute shop and I just want the best for them.” She picked up a Red Bull while running an errand on Alki beach and called the location perfect for quick trips: “I was like oh hey it’s just right here.”

Jane and Bagi found the space through his work as a contractor. Bagi helped remodel the upstairs, and when they learned the small storefront was available they considered opening another restaurant — they’d previously run a teriyaki restaurant in North Seattle — but decided a neighborhood grocery made more sense given the many restaurants already in the area.

The space previously housed Alki Miniatures and Brocante (now in the West Seattle Junction). The cheery shop is kid-friendly and open to all ages; smoke products remain behind the counter. Alki Smoke Shop & Grocery is located at 2622 Alki Ave SW Suite 102.

This article was adapted from an original report published on westsideseattle.com. All rights belong to the original publisher.