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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in New York

Meatballs and minimalist spots

A minimalist setting that strips away the noise so you can focus on the meatball without the usual clutter.

Based on 715 Opinions
+712
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Updated May 2026
01
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Japanese restaurant

Multi-level layout with modern industrial design and dim lighting creates a chic, lively atmosphere. Two counter bars and an open kitchen add to the vibey interior, attracting groups and solo diners alike. Seating includes bar seats for walk-ins and private nooks, offering varied dining experiences.

Juicy chicken meatballs burst with flavor and cook to perfection. The menu also features seafood options like scallop, crab, and lobster miso butter meatballs.

Multi-level layout and dim lighting create a minimalistic yet chic ambiance. Decor focuses on maximal functionality with a clean, simple style.

People are saying

"The skewers, ceviche, and corn at these dinner spots are all delicious."

"The udon here is fantastic, especially the creamy cod roe version."

"You have to try the tsukune chicken meatballs; they're so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 PM with $9 beer and $5 whiskey highball.

2

Brunch menu is available on Saturday afternoons.

3

Reservations are highly recommended as walk-in wait times can exceed 90 minutes.

02
Toriya image 1
Japanese restaurant

Interior combines neon-soaked decor with wooden booths and paper lanterns, creating a warm, authentic izakaya vibe. Music varies from lively to loud, shaping a bustling atmosphere that suits groups more than quiet dates. Space feels roomy yet retains an underground Osaka bar charm.

Skewers highlight Kushikatsu Meatballs with tare sauce and chicken meatballs. Options include pork jowl and chicken thigh with scallions, all very tasty.

Chic minimalist Japanese style defines the exterior, matching the restaurant's thoughtful, authentic food and clean design.

People are saying

"The yakitori here is tender and grilled to perfection."

"The lunch special here is a great value at only $10."

"I found the meatballs here to be authentic Japanese."

Good to know

1

Don't miss their happy hour from 5-7 PM, where you can enjoy $1 (for 3 pieces) of okonomiyaki.

2

The restaurant charges a mandatory 20% gratuity and a 20% service charge on the bill.

3

The restaurant can accommodate big groups.

03
Flora image 1
Italian restaurant

Upscale modern Italian restaurant with intimate rustic decor and beautifully designed space. Atmosphere feels authentic and inviting, with carefully chosen wines and spritzes enhancing the experience. Seating includes both indoor and pleasant outdoor options, accommodating families, friends, and couples.

People are saying

"The Italian food here tastes like Southern Italy, bursting with fresh, authentic flavors."

"The wine list here is fun to explore with beautiful surprises."

"The desserts are imported straight from Italy."

Good to know

1

There is a hidden $7 credit card fee in addition to the food cost.

2

They have a no tipping policy which simplifies the payment process.

3

The tip is included in your meal at Flora.

04
Ace Hotel Brooklyn image 1

Lobby features warm wood tones and cozy nooks, shifting to a soft nightclub vibe with a DJ at night. Rooms offer soundproofing, city views, and homey touches like guitars and record players. Bar serves high-end cocktails with a local selection, creating a stylish yet relaxed atmosphere.

People are saying

"The hotel staff were the kindest and most helpful I've ever encountered."

"The communal work and lounge spaces are stylish and spacious."

"The views from here are absolutely breathtaking."

Good to know

1

The hotel charges a hidden $33 a night destination fee added to your bill.

2

Expect noise from events in the lobby, especially on the first Friday of the month.

3

The hotel is located in a crime-ridden area of Brooklyn.

05
Carroll Place image 1
Italian restaurant

Large, long space with rustic wood beams and dim Edison lighting creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Live bands and karaoke energize weekend nights, while private corners offer intimacy amid closely spaced tables. Front seating hosts bigger groups, and plenty of room encourages dancing.

Meatballs come out very flavorful and never dry. The sliders pair them with sautรฉed spinach and wood-fired rosemary wings for a full flavor experience.

People are saying

"The food here is great."

"I found the bottomless brunch to be a great value."

"I loved the live music from local artists here."

Good to know

1

Groups of more than 8 people must have family style brunch.

2

The Family Style Brunch includes 1 1/2 hours of unlimited drinks with any entrรฉe.

3

Reservations are a must as the place gets pretty crowded.

06
Fumo Upper East Side image 1
Italian restaurant

Sleek space with modern decor and wide plank flooring creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. A huge bar and open indoor seating offer a spacious feel without a sports bar vibe. Music selection adds to a relaxed, family-friendly environment.

Tender meatballs come with a flavorful pomodoro sauce. They are melt-in-your-mouth delicious and often served as a starter or with pasta.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing and excellent."

"You have to try the kale salad; it's amazing."

"The meatballs are tender and served with a flavorful pomodoro sauce."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and bar appetizers after lunch.

2

The lunch special is $12 for any pasta or salad until 4 PM.

3

Sunday evenings feature a $12 pasta special.

07
Rule of Thirds image 1
Japanese restaurant

Space combines airy high ceilings with light wood trim and a Zen garden featuring covered outdoor seating. Atmosphere shifts from relaxed to vibrant energy during busy times, creating an elegant yet unpretentious vibe. Many private dining areas and an outdoor booth setup make it comfortable and dog friendly.

Open space and natural materials create a clean, Scandinavian-chic vibe. Minimalist decor runs throughout the whole restaurant.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, authentic, and beautifully presented."

"I found the outdoor seating to be beautiful and really nice."

"The dinner spots here have staff with deep knowledge and pride."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table, especially for indoor seating.

2

Expect a wait time of up to 2 hours for walk-ins during peak hours.

3

The restaurant charges $31 for the flagship Japanese breakfast set.

08
Via Carota image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian gastroteca offers communal dining tables and a carefully curated menu that honors traditional roots. Atmosphere shifts from noisy indoors to quiet back room and a heated outdoor terrace perfect for people watching. Drinks include an amazing Negroni menu and unique spritzes.

Sicilian meatballs come tender and flavorful, served with tomato sauce. They stand out as a favorite, matching well with salads and appetizers.

People are saying

"The cacio e pepe here is the best Italian food I've ever had."

"The radicchio salad here is spectacular."

"The Sicilian Meatballs are flavorful and tender."

Good to know

1

To avoid the wait, go right before peak lunch or dinner dining hours.

2

The wait time at the restaurant is over 45 minutes.

3

Walking in on a less busy day is recommended.

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