The Meatball Shop

We went for dinner a couple of weeks after the opening, right before Thanksgiving. The place is nice and cozy (the meet grinders on the wall are a funny touch!). I had the Thanksgiving special (turkey meatballs, one stuffing ball, mashed potatoes and cranberry sauce, with gravy). Overall very tasty, but a bit expensive in my view (especially the cocktails).

I went for brunch with a group of 8 people, and we were seated immediately because we had reservations. It wasn’t too crowded (although it was a later brunch at 1 p.m.), but if you’ve got a larger group, it would be a good idea to call ahead because there seemed to be limited options for seating groups larger than about 4 or so. I got a specialty drink: a Kentucky Blueberry Mule, which was refreshing and not too sweet despite the blueberry twist on a regular Kentucky Mule. The brunch menu is very limited — only four items — but they let you order off the regular menu too. I would say it’s more of a place to go around lunch time for that reason. I got a brunch item: pork meatballs, gravy and biscuits with eggs, which was very flavorful, came out nice and hot, and super filling. I was pleased that the gravy is the white creamy, southern style version. We also ordered some appetizers for the table — mozzarella balls and buffalo chicken balls. They were okay, but I would say you’re safe to skip those and just order a main dish. Nothing special. Overall, it’s a great concept with trying — the main draw is that you can customize bowls of meatballs with whatever sauce or topping you want, then pair it with a variety of sides. Something fun and different that will definitely leave you plenty full. Another fun twist on the menu is their jello shots, which we ordered a round of for the table.

The meatball shop is another New York to DC transplant. The theme, of course, is meatballs done in a variety of ways. They have appetizers, main dishes and sandwiches that they have crafted to elevate a few popular choices. You can also get your balls "naked" with a variety of meat and sauce options. Over several visits my husband and I have have generally taken up this latter option with classic (meat mixture) and spicy pork options with traditional sauces. We've also had the mozarella balls, which are tasty but definitely not worth the price. Love that they put water on the table. Wish the waiters would see if you want ice. I did ask for it, but was treated as if it were a hassle. Nice beer and non-alcoholic options like lemonade (really tasty). I haven't tried wine or cocktails. They feature ice cream sandwiches made with real cookies as a featured dessert with 3 or 4 cookie AND ice cream options. We tried the a classic choice of chocolate chip and vanilla. It was good. Decorations are cute and tasteful, but nothing special. Tables are close together. Try to get a booth if you want privacy.

Good for a casual bite in a neighborhood with not many places like that. The bowls are good, with plenty of food for even a hungry person. Classic combinations are better than new/different/weird ones. Sandwich was good too, but a bit too much bread for only two meatballs, and the price was high for what you got. A good local addition.

Really delicious options here, and the way the menu is structured allowing you to mix and match meats, sauces, and sides to create your perfect combo is a great and inventive way to approach things. The drinks are pretty good too, a solid mix of different choices and prices aren't too bad. Definitely recommend giving this place a try, they're doing something a little different and it works!