As a vegetarian, a good (non-meat) meatball is hard to find. Obviously. When I read that The Meatball Shop served vege meatballs as well as a wide range of vegetarian sides and options, I was there the next day. Or a few weeks later, when I got the chance – doesn’t sound as good though, does it?

Meatball Shop LES - Lower East Side
Only signage is on the top of the building.

The Lower East Side Meatball Shop is right near Alec’s office, so Cheese and I dropped by one Friday to take him to lunch. I walked right past it twice before realising it had no signage at ground level. Look up people, so you don’t look like the fool I did.

Meatball Shop LES - Lower East Side
Tick the boxes.

I adore any menu where I can pick and choose exactly what I want. I especially love when I can tick boxes so the server doesn’t get confused by my accent.

Meatball Shop LES - Lower East Side
Putting in the order.

We chose the naked balls (snigger) and two sides – mashed potato and steamed spinach.

Meatball Shop LES - Lower East Side
Street seating.

It’s worth noting here that we had an outdoor table as it was the best option with Cheese. The interior looked a bit small to squish in with a toddler and all of her gear. The helpful staff did store our stroller somewhere though – perhaps through some door that opened up into a magical portal of extra storage space.

Meatball Shop LES - Lower East Side
Vegetarian meatballs, side of mashed potatoes, steamed spinach and regular meatballs in the background.

The food arrived really quickly . It didn’t look like a huge amount, but afterwards I was so full I thought my stomach would explode.

Meatball Shop LES - Lower East Side
Cheese tucks into the mashed potatoes.

We gave Cheese some of the vegetarian meatballs and spinach, but all she was interested in was the mashed potato. What can I say, the girl loves carbs.

Last bite: The Meatball Shop is for carnivores and herbivores alike. Come hungry, pack light and be prepared to squeeze in and eat big.

Highchairs: Yes.
Stroller storage: Minimal.
Easy access: It’s a bit tight, but no stairs.
Change tables: No.
Kids’ menu: No.

The Meatball Shop, 84 Stanton
84 Stanton St
New York, NY
Phone: {212} 982 8895
Prices: $$
Hours: Sun-Thur 12pm-2am, Fri-Sat 12pm-4am

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