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Casual Meatballs in California

A bowl of meatballs is the ultimate comfort food when the mood is low-key and unpretentious. It is about finding a simple, hearty meal that does not demand a dress code.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
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Restaurant

Small, intimate space with an open kitchen creates an upscale fast casual vibe. Atmosphere feels cozy and relaxed but can get loud due to lack of sound dampening. Seating suits small parties with high bar stools that may limit stay duration.

Super casual atmosphere invites seating yourself in a small, intimate space with limited seating. It blends upscale fast casual dining with a relaxed vibe suitable for workdays or lazy mornings.

Beef meatballs come seasoned to perfection and packed with flavor. They arrive covered in red sauce with provolone and Grana Padano, adding a nutty, salty touch that pairs well with the baguette.

People are saying

"You have to try 'The Balls' sandwich; the meatballs are seasoned to perfection."

"I highly recommend this place as a lunch spot."

"This casual breakfast burrito is among the best I've had."

Good to know

1

Parking could be scarce, so arrive early to find a spot.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere, especially during lunch and brunch hours.

3

No reservations are accepted, so be prepared for potential wait times.

02
Cosmo's Italian Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Casual Italian bistro with a cozy, welcoming atmosphere and old school Rat Pack music playing overhead. Bright, remodeled bar adds a fresh touch to the family-friendly vibe. Guests enjoy classic Italian dishes alongside generous bread baskets with olive oil and balsamic for dipping.

A fun, casual spot fits well for groups or families. The interior feels like a casual bistro in a typical strip mall.

Meatballs come with a rich meat sauce and pair well with angel hair pasta. They have a great flavor and serve as a reliable choice for judging the kitchen's quality.

People are saying

"Rosie made our meal so comfortable and cared for, it felt kid friendly."

"I felt silly getting excited over this salad, it was really that good."

"I thought the meatballs were very good."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-minute wait on busy nights like Valentine's Day.

2

Parking is free and usually available in the shared lot.

3

Prices are inexpensive, with good deals on appetizers.

03
Slice House by Tony Gemignani image 1

Spacious pizza spot with high ceilings and plenty of TVs showing sports and game shows creates a casual, fun vibe. Seating extends indoors and outdoors, supporting game day hangouts and relaxed gatherings. Pizza slices display openly, inviting easy selection in a clean, welcoming environment.

Fun casual vibes set the tone here. TVs are everywhere, making it great for game days and casual hang-outs, plus the pizza stands out.

Meatballs stand out for being tasty and moist with a hearty and flavorful profile. They come in options like a sandwich or part of a special deal with pizza and cookies.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be great and delicious."

"It's a casual spot with great pizza and a perfect crust."

"These meatballs are amazing and the best part of the meal."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 3 pm to 5 pm.

2

Daily lunch combos are available from 11 am to 4 pm.

3

Trivia nights are hosted on select weekdays.

04
Philโ€™s image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant combines warm, inviting atmosphere with a lively bar area featuring karaoke and sports screens. Decor includes personal photos and memorabilia, creating a welcoming, family-owned vibe. Bar sits separate from dining room, offering a relaxed spot for drinks and socializing.

Terrific ambiance with a casual atmosphere and casual elegance in the decor. Music complements the relaxed vibe well.

Meatballs come in a sandwich and alongside dishes like spaghetti and Brussels sprouts. They are consistently well prepared and delicious across different meals.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, fresh, and wonderfully prepared."

"I thought the casual American comfort food was taken to a whole new level."

"I enjoyed the meatballs because they were so delicious."

Good to know

1

The menu prices at Philโ€™s are listed as cash prices.

2

I highly suggest making a reservation due to high demand.

3

Philโ€™s gets crowded during happy hour from 4-7pm on weekdays.

05
Spirito's Italian Diner image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian diner with cozy layout and generous portions creates a laid-back, dive-like atmosphere. Authentic dishes like eggplant Parmesan and thin-crust pizza stand out despite simple surroundings. Seating includes tables and chairs, with some outdoor options.

Offers well-made casual Italian food in a relaxed setting. Good spot for a quick bite without fuss.

Hand-rolled meatballs star in the Meatball Sub and spaghetti dishes. The meatballs deliver solid flavor and pair well with sandwiches and pasta.

People are saying

"The lasagna is divine, just like Nona made it."

"The Chicken Parmigiana here is delicious and flavorful."

"The spaghetti and meatballs here are fantastic and satisfying."

Good to know

1

You need to stand in line to order and pay.

2

I placed my order by telephone and was told it would be ready in 20-25 minutes.

3

There is plenty of free parking in the lot in front.

06
Saijo - Los Angeles - Culver City image 1

Small, intimate bar-style seating with Asian-inspired decor creates a focused dining experience. Atmosphere feels sleek and inviting with dim lighting and a lively vibe despite the compact space. Fresh sushi and hand rolls prepare quickly in front of diners, emphasizing quality and swift service.

Chill vibe with counter seating suits casual dates or solo nights. Space feels classy yet casual, good for quick lunch or dinner.

Skewers highlight plump chicken meatballs and flavorful beef. The grill enhances the juicy kushiyaki chicken meatballs.

People are saying

"The Japanese food omakase here is excellent and a great value."

"The chicken and beef meatballs were my favorite skewers."

"The casual handrolls were fresh, flavorful, and tightly made."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; expect a wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant has only bar seating, which may not suit larger groups.

3

Lunch specials offer great value, with deals around $24 for five hand rolls.

07
CAVA image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant offers customizable bowls and wraps with generous servings in a modern, Instagram-able interior. The atmosphere feels welcoming and inviting, with smiles creating a friendly vibe. Seating suits singles and couples, emphasizing a cozy dining experience.

Offers a quick, healthier option for casual dining with meals that avoid common stomach issues. Serves flavorful food suitable for a fast-casual experience or a quick bite.

Lamb meatballs have a gamy flavor with decent seasoning. The Harrisa and spicy versions stand out with strong, bold tastes.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and the staff guides you through it."

"This casual spot has fresh, flavorful food with quality ingredients."

"The Harrisa and spicy lamb meatballs were very good."

Good to know

1

Parking for this place is terrible.

2

The restaurant is customizable with various grains, greens, proteins, and toppings.

3

Overall, the prices are considered expensive.

08
Pasta Supply Co image 1
Italian restaurant

Industrial space with high ceilings and a long wooden shelf displaying olive oils and sauces creates a casual, laid-back vibe. The atmosphere feels warm and inviting, suited for casual dining or picking up fresh pasta and sauces. It blends a homemade Italian feel with a no-frills, approachable setup.

Atmosphere feels casual and relaxed, fitting well for a weekday date night. Meals offer a delicious and easygoing dining experience.

Meatballs come in a great marinara sauce that pairs well with bread for dipping. The dishes feature juicy, well-balanced meatballs served in pastas like spaghetti and meatball parm.

People are saying

"I loved the unique and flavorful pasta they served."

"I found the pasta to be simply outstanding for a casual meal."

"The meatballs were delicious with a great sauce."

Good to know

1

Lunch service ends at 4 pm, and dinner service starts again at 5 pm.

2

Parking in the area is notoriously awful.

3

They offer both dine-in and grocery shopping options for fresh pastas and sauces.

09
ON+ON - Fresh Korean Kitchen image 1

Spacious Korean restaurant offers build-your-own bowls with generous portions and varied protein options including grilled salmon and meatballs. Atmosphere stays casual and peaceful, attracting those seeking healthy, customizable meals in a clean setting with ample parking.

Super casual atmosphere defines the dining experience here. It operates as a fast casual restaurant with a relaxed vibe.

Shrimp and pork meatballs stand out with bold flavors and a satisfying texture. The spicy pork meatballs add a nice kick, making both options solid choices for meatball dishes.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh and delicious."

"The flavors here are awesome and creative."

"I thought the shrimp and pork meatballs were extremely good."

Good to know

1

Expect generous portions for the price, making it a good value.

2

Parking is easy to find in the plaza where the restaurant is located.

3

You can customize your meal by building your own bowl or choose from favorites.

10
Sunday Gravy image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian restaurant with quaint, funky decor and a no-frills, homey vibe. Atmosphere feels social and lively with a great playlist adding to the energy. Seating is limited and ordering happens at the counter before finding a table.

A laid-back environment sets the tone with a casual Italian atmosphere that feels relaxed and easygoing.

Two well-endowed meatballs come with a zesty marinara sauce. They pair well with rich, creamy ricotta and show high quality.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the pasta and meatballs."

"The meatballs were moist and very flavorful."

"The pasta here is so flavorful and rich, you'll want to save room for it."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended because it gets busy.

2

The parking lot is tiny and only has one way in and out.

3

Expect a wait after events at the nearby Forum and SoFi.

11
DeSano Pizzeria Napoletana image 1

Four massive wood-fired stone ovens dominate the spacious interior, creating an authentic Italian vibe. The atmosphere is lively and casual, with high ceilings that amplify sound and a setup suited for large groups and sports viewing. Many dogs accompany diners, adding to the friendly, communal energy.

A large family-style brew Haus setup creates a homey and casual vibe. Service is very fast and the environment feels family-friendly and relaxed.

Meatballs come out consistently well made and flavorful. They pair nicely with other dishes like the Diavola pizza and salads.

People are saying

"This pizza is incredible, with fresh ingredients and perfect flavor."

"It's a casual spot with authentic, wood-fired pizzas."

"I loved their meatballs."

Good to know

1

There is a dedicated parking lot available for customers.

2

The restaurant is great for large gatherings and group dining.

3

Parking is free in the lot, but street parking may be needed during busy times.

12
Lo Coco's image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, cozy Italian restaurant with a classic quality and relaxed atmosphere. Space suits small groups comfortably, creating an intimate vibe. Known for high-quality pasta and delicious pizza, it offers a straightforward, inviting dining experience.

Atmosphere feels very casual and comfortable. Pasta dishes go beyond typical casual fare, making it a spot for a special-feeling dinner without fuss.

Spaghetti comes with homemade meatballs that taste rich and satisfying. A 6-pack of meatballs is available for sharing or leftovers.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pasta, tastes like it's straight from Italy."

"The casual pasta dishes here are exceptional and beyond typical fare."

"The meatballs here taste like we were actually in Italy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted; seating is first come, first serve.

2

The restaurant can comfortably accommodate up to four people.

3

Expect a wait to be seated during busy hours.

13
Beethoven Market image 1

Restored 1949 grocery space blends bright open design with a stunning outdoor patio warmed by portable heaters. Bar buzzes with a hip crowd and offers delicious cocktails alongside fresh Calโ€‘Ital cuisine. Atmosphere stays cozy and lively, fitting for dates, solo meals, or socializing.

Blends a classic yet casual vibe with a casual contemporary style that still feels classy. The ambiance stays cool and lively throughout.

Shredded short rib fills the meatballs, making them tender and perfectly seasoned. These fried balls offer a unique twist, not like typical Italian meatballs.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the pizza, is amazing."

"The casual brunch dishes, like the ricotta pizza, are flavorful and creamy."

"The meatballs are shredded short rib filled fried balls of deliciousness."

Good to know

1

Reservations are difficult to secure, especially for weekend dinners.

2

Currently, the establishment does not serve alcohol.

3

Parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours.

14
Best Pizza & Brew image 1
Pizza restaurant

Spacious pizza restaurant with a large dog-friendly patio and sports TVs creates a lively, social atmosphere. Bright, modern interior offers comfortable seating and plenty of natural light. Music plays loudly, adding to the energetic vibe favored by families and groups.

The spot feels casual and welcoming, great for hanging out with friends or grabbing a relaxed dinner. It suits family gatherings and easygoing nights out.

Meatballs stand out with amazing flavor and quality. Options include a meatball sub and dog menu meatballs that get strong approval.

People are saying

"The staff here are amazing and genuinely happy to be working."

"The pizza here is amazing, fresh, and full of flavor."

"I found the meatballs to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2-4 PM daily with great deals on food and drinks.

2

Wednesday is pint night with brewery-sponsored free glasses.

3

Expect $2 slice pizzas during happy hour, making it a budget-friendly option.

15
Macarena Restaurant in Palo Alto image 1

Upscale space blends marble tables, checkerboard floors, and wood accents for a stylish, intimate vibe. Warm, lively atmosphere transports diners with a Spanish-inspired energy. Cocktails and tapas complement the elegant setting, creating a distinctive dining experience.

A non-rushed casual atmosphere sets this place apart from overcrowded spots. The vibe stays warm and refined, making it feel relaxed yet polished.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, especially the suckling pig."

"The Spanish tapas here are authentic and of excellent quality."

"These meatballs taste just like childhood memories."

Good to know

1

Reservations are needed at peak hours to secure a table.

2

Expect a long wait if ordering the paella, as it takes time to prepare.

3

The catch of the day costs $78, so budget for higher-priced items.

16
HATCH image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a beautiful space with calm, peaceful vibe suited for intimate dining. Loud 90s music and low lighting create a lively yet dim atmosphere. Bar seating provides views of kitchen prep and creative Japanese dishes stand out alongside interesting cocktails inspired by Japanese whiskey.

Stylish yet laid-back atmosphere fits casual dinners or after-work drinks. Food quality surprises with delicious dishes that match the lively vibe.

Three meatballs on a stick come tender with a large fry. Chicken Meatball with egg yolk and tare offers a rich but balanced flavor, alongside options like chicken & green onion and bacon wrapped asparagus.

People are saying

"These dinner spots offer unique, crispy squid ink karaage and perfectly grilled yakitori."

"It's a casual spot with surprisingly delicious Japanese skewers and small plates."

"The chicken meatballs with egg yolk and tare are rich without being overpowering."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy hours.

2

Parking validation is available to avoid extra charges.

3

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 pm with $10 Japanese highballs.

17
Hui Tou Xiang image 1
Dumpling restaurant

Small space with disco ball ceiling and modern decor creates a casual, bustling vibe. Bar seating and open kitchen window add to the intimate, creative atmosphere. Music and lighting give a relaxed, jazz bar feel.

Clean and comfortable interior with modern decor sets a casual tone. The atmosphere stays bustling and relaxed, with service matching that casual vibe despite the manager pushing for more formality.

Braised pork meatballs stand out with their incredible tenderness and bursting flavor, easily cut with chopsticks. Fried meatballs do not carry a frozen pork smell, maintaining a fresh taste.

People are saying

"These dumplings are fresh, flavorful, and handmade."

"The handmade dumplings here are delicious and crafted by skilled chefs."

"The braised pork meatballs are tender and bursting with flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended during peak hours to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early or call ahead.

3

Street parking is available, but it can be challenging to find.

18
VIET NOM image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small space with modern Vietnamese decor featuring colored lanterns and fans creates an inviting atmosphere. Music plays a lively R&B throwback playlist, adding energy to the cozy setting. The vibe is welcoming and comfortable, ideal for conversation and enjoying meals.

Atmosphere feels casual and welcoming with a warm, inviting vibe. Service style is a bit unclear, sitting between full-service and casual cafe.

Pho features flavorful meatballs paired with short ribs, often boneless. Broth is rich and complements the perfectly cooked noodles.

People are saying

"The Vietnamese food here has amazing pho with rich, flavorful broth."

"The pho short rib and meatballs were packed with tender, flavorful meat."

"The pho here has a rich, flavorful broth and fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby, but it can fill up quickly during peak hours.

2

Expect longer wait times on weekends due to limited staff.

3

The menu has limited options for gluten-free diets.

19
Ghisallo image 1
Pizza restaurant

Back patio offers cozy outdoor seating under olive trees with quaint lighting, creating a chill and intimate vibe. Sidewalk tables provide a chance for people-watching in a lively neighborhood setting. Dog-friendly space adds to the relaxed atmosphere.

The spot offers a casual vibe with a relaxed atmosphere. It suits grabbing a hot slice and enjoying a laid-back dinner.

Slices feature zesty spiciness with tomato, mozzarella, roasted red peppers, Fresno chili, and ricotta. Meatballs resemble small sausage pieces and appear in limited quantity on the pizza.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza had a delicious, fluffy, and crunchy sourdough crust."

"It's great for a casual dinner with seriously good pizza."

"I loved the meatballs; they were my favorite."

Good to know

1

A $5 per person cake cutting fee applies for birthday celebrations.

2

Expect to pay around $80 for two pizzas and two beers, including tip.

3

Online ordering may not work reliably; consider calling instead.

20
Drunken Monk image 1
Japanese restaurant

Modern izakaya style with wooden accents and soft lantern lighting creates a warm, relaxed atmosphere suited for small groups and dates. Seating is nicely spaced to allow easy conversation without disturbance. Energy varies from calm to lively during larger gatherings.

Japanese izakaya offers a casual vibe suited for get-togethers. Food is good but not exceptional, and service feels less relaxed than expected.

Juicy and well-seasoned chicken meatballs appear regularly, often alongside other skewers like oyster and lobster yakitori. Tsukune chicken meatballs stand out for their flavor and texture.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is stunning and delicious."

"The yakitori skewers were grilled to perfection."

"The meatballs here are stunning and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to avoid long waits, especially during peak hours.

2

Parking is very limited, with scarce street parking available nearby.

3

Expect to pay high prices for food, which some may find overpriced.

21
Docking Bay 7 Food and Cargo image 1

Indoor space offers dark, cool relief with cafeteria-style seating and loud music, creating a high-energy vibe that contrasts with quieter outdoor areas. Star Wars-themed decor and quick service support a lively, immersive atmosphere designed for brief dining rather than lingering. Crowds often make seating a challenge during busy times.

Fun casual vibes mix with a cool interior that stands out. Food ranges from unique fast casual options to more traditional fare, raising the bar for theme park dining.

Impossible meatballs come with herb hummus and pita, offering a plant-based vegan option that is filling and tasty.

People are saying

"I thought the fried chicken was some of the best I had ever eaten."

"The food here is unique and themed for a casual restaurant."

"The Impossible meatballs with hummus and pita were to die for."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for the dinner and fireworks show to secure a good viewing spot.

2

Expect long lines during peak hours; mobile ordering can save time.

3

The dinner and fireworks package costs $89 per person.

22
Jon & Vinny's Slauson image 1
Italian restaurant

Open kitchen with wood fire pizza oven creates a modern and bright dining space. Atmosphere feels chill and laid back but can be cramped and noisy with loud music. Crowd enjoys cool, trendy vibes and a down-to-earth setting.

The spot offers a casual atmosphere that suits laid-back dinners. It feels relaxed and unpretentious throughout.

Tasty meatballs stand out here, though they come at a slightly high price. They are consistently good and worth ordering.

People are saying

"I loved the pizza; the crust was amazing."

"The Gem salad here is crisp, fresh, and perfectly seasoned."

"I loved the pasta, especially the cavatelli."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for busy Friday nights.

2

Parking can be limited during dinner hours, so arrive early.

3

The restaurant offers a lively Italian meal experience every Friday night.

23
The Italian Homemade Company image 1

Casual Italian restaurant with bright white lighting and loud music that creates a noisy atmosphere. Interior feels cozy and rustic but includes uncomfortable seating. Offers a wide variety of fresh pasta and sauces with a homemade vibe.

Ordering happens at the register and dishes arrive quickly, creating a low key vibe. The atmosphere stays casual and suits a quick dinner or a relaxed date night.

Meatballs come in various dishes like a platter with flatbread, fettuccine, and pappardelle with Bolognese. They get high marks from both people and dogs, especially without cheese or marinara.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta here is delicious, especially with pesto."

"I thought the meat lasagna was outstanding and a healthy portion."

"I thought the meatballs were very good."

Good to know

1

Street parking can be an issue, but a public lot is nearby.

2

The portions are small, especially the Gnocchi for $17.50.

3

They make their own pasta fresh daily.

24
Roma Italian Kitchen image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a casual, cozy atmosphere with simple Italian decor and a family-friendly vibe. The environment feels clean and inviting, blending a chill mood with high-end food quality. A self-serve soda fountain and TVs showing MLB baseball add to the relaxed setting.

Generous portions and exceptional flavor stand out in a very casual environment with inviting staff. The interior feels laid-back while the food leans high-end.

Spaghetti and meatballs come with generous portions and fresh ingredients. Meatballs serve well as an appetizer or alongside dishes like lasagna and ravioli, offering a delicious, satisfying flavor.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious and generously portioned."

"The portions at this casual spot are generous and the flavor exceptional."

"I tried the spaghetti with meatballs; it was delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect a 40-minute wait for food during peak hours.

2

Credit card payments incur a 3.99% surcharge.

3

Portions are generous, often enough for two people.

25
Mama's Boy image 1
Pizza restaurant

Spacious pizza restaurant with upstairs mezzanine seating overlooking a lively street scene. Atmosphere blends New York pizzeria vibes with a casual, chill energy and often loud music. Frequented during busy events, it offers a fun, social setting with friendly staff and classic arcade games.

Small size creates a cozy atmosphere for casual lunches. Thin crust pizza fits the laid-back dining style. Seating and setup keep things unpretentious and relaxed.

Meatballs hold their shape well and come in a decent size. The meatball sub is only available on Wednesdays and offers a good but not very saucy option, while the hero meatball sandwich is solid but can feel a bit overpriced.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best slice in the Bay Area."

"This casual spot has authentic, crispy pizza crust."

"I found the hero meatball sandwich to be good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Meatball Wednesday features a special meatball sub available only on that day.

3

Pizza by the slice is available, making it a quick option for lunch.

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