Laid-back and welcoming enough for the wide-eyed novice, yet sufficiently sophisticated and well-stocked for the experienced pro, this rustic-chic Ballard wine shop and bar is civilized, and you feel like a slightly better version of yourself for being here. Beyond wine served in goblets big enough to stick your head into, Portalis serves light food (soup, salad, cheese plates, and a few seasonal dishes), coffee, and an array of schmancy imported beer. A trip here for delicious snacks and chocolatey desserts (and some red wine) at the right moment could well make life worth living again.