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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of California

Family owned meatball spots

Meatballs that taste like a family heirloom recipe rather than a mass-produced, frozen commodity.

Based on 764 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Anna Pizza image 1
Anna Pizza image 2
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Pizza restaurant

Small, cozy space blends modern elegance with old-school touches and a family photo wall that adds warmth. Atmosphere feels like a community gem with a relaxing, authentic Italian vibe. Guests enjoy NYC-style pizza with fresh ingredients in a setting that suits casual dates and family hangouts.

A brother and sister team run the place with their mother Anna. This setup creates a family-owned and operated atmosphere throughout the restaurant.

Meatballs come tender and homemade, with a light and airy texture. The meatball sub features soft yet crunchy bread that complements the filling well.

People are saying

"This New York-style pizza is chewy and delicious."

"It's a family owned spot with a sweet owner and friendly family."

"The meatballs were so light and airy, it felt like magic."

Good to know

1

A slice costs $4-$6, making it an affordable option for lunch or dinner.

2

Anna Pizza offers a big selection of dishes, catering to various tastes.

3

The restaurant is family-owned, adding a personal touch to the dining experience.

02
Brooklyn City Pizzeria & Market image 1

Small, busy pizzeria with a hole-in-the-wall vibe and NYC-style decor creates a cozy neighborhood atmosphere. Loud, blaring music fills the space, contributing to a fun, lively energy. Outdoor picnic tables offer additional seating beyond the limited indoor spots.

A family-owned pizzeria runs this place, keeping it local and authentic. The business feels small and personal, reflecting its family roots.

Meatballs come in several forms here, including in spaghetti, sandwiches, and on pizza. The meatballs are consistently delicious and pair well with ricotta toppings on pizza.

People are saying

"I found the most authentic New York style pizza here."

"I thought the meatballs were delicious and great."

"I loved this family owned authentic Brooklyn pizza."

Good to know

1

The place is mainly for takeout with limited seating inside or outside.

2

A staff member mentioned they shut off internet ordering when busy.

3

Order ahead on weekends as they can get quite busy.

03
Pazzos Italian image 1
Southern Italian restaurant

Small family-run Italian spot offers a warm, welcoming vibe with a neighborhood pizza joint atmosphere. Guests can enjoy making their own pizza and pasta while watching games on big, nice TVs. The place feels chill and family-friendly, often hosting little helpers and allowing dogs inside.

Family ownership shines through with a mom-and-pop operation that keeps things authentic and casual. The place has a good vibe typical of a beach town and serves delicious Italian food.

Meatballs come with a light texture and a balanced sauce and cheese mix. Spaghetti and meatballs taste like a homemade masterpiece.

People are saying

"The pizza here is fantastic, especially the Sicilian style."

"It's a great family-owned spot, very authentic and delicious."

"The meatball sub was one of the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is family-owned and operated, providing a homey atmosphere.

2

Pizza slices are a great size for the price, typically around $10 each.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly, allowing pets in the outdoor seating area.

04
Scarantino's Italian Inn image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, family-run Italian restaurant with old-school charm and rustic wooden tables creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere where conversation flows easily. The setting feels nostalgic and homely, inviting guests to relax like they're part of a close-knit neighborhood.

The restaurant has a good old-fashioned feel and has been family owned for over 50 years. It maintains a strong sense of tradition through its family ownership.

Meatballs come with a homemade marinara rich in vine-ripened tomatoes and fresh herbs. They pair well with dishes like lasagna and Fettuccine pesto, offering a fresh and tasty bite every time.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is delicious and plentiful."

"It's a true vintage Italian spot with old-school food and atmosphere."

"The meatballs here are so fresh and tasty."

Good to know

1

Parking is located next door, with additional street parking available.

2

Prices are reasonable, and entrees include a free small soup and salad.

3

The restaurant offers takeout until closing time at 10:00 PM.

05
Jack's Pizza & Subs image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small dine-in area offers a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with a strong family and community feel. The place serves authentic, high-quality pizza with a crust that folds without breaking and robust tomato sauce. It stands out as a local favorite known for reasonable prices and generous community support.

Owners run the place directly, keeping it family-owned through generations. This creates amazing customer service rooted in personal care.

Meatball sandwiches stand out as a go-to comfort food here. Spaghetti with meatballs also features as a popular choice.

People are saying

"I thought their pizza was the best ever."

"It's a great local spot that generously gives back to the community."

"It's family owned and run by the owners."

Good to know

1

Jack's Pizza & Subs is a family-owned place run by the owners.

2

There is plenty of parking available, including disabled spots.

3

The prices at Jack's Pizza & Subs are reasonable.

06
Massimos Pizza and Pasta image 1

Family-owned restaurant with a cozy, relaxed atmosphere and spacious tables encourages socializing. TVs show sports and movies at low volume to keep the vibe chill and comfortable. Offers Halal options and a kid-friendly environment with a strong sense of tradition.

Family ownership spans over 50 years, showing clear pride in the experience. The business consistently delivers solid food with a strong commitment to tradition.

Homemade meatballs come in an all-beef recipe that satisfies. Spaghetti and meatballs arrive hot and ready quickly. The meatball sub is decent but less favored than the pizza.

People are saying

"The food here is always fresh, fast, and delicious."

"It's a family owned business that continues to deliver awesome food."

"The spaghetti and meatballs were delicious and hot."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a weekday lunch deal from 1-3pm for $8.

2

Halal options are available, which are rare in the area.

3

Parking is convenient and easy to find.

07
Globe Delicatessen image 1

Small deli with authentic German vibe and cozy, homey atmosphere feels like a European Gasthaus. Friendly energy invites relaxation and enjoyment. Known for exceptional sandwiches and great German beer selection.

A family-owned business that makes recipes by hand and prioritizes quality. It stands out as a rare spot where traditional methods meet personal care.

Hot meatball sandwiches come on C'est Si Bon bread and taste delicious. The meatball sub stands out in a German deli setting.

People are saying

"I loved the German beer selection here."

"I thought the meatball sandwich was delicious."

"It's a family-owned business."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging on Saturday afternoons.

2

Goulash is a generous portion for $20.

3

The deli sources high-quality meats from a small company.

08
Tony's Subs and Pizza image 1

Old-time pizza place with original 1979 decor and long tables creates a cozy, local joint vibe. Friendly, familiar atmosphere where regulars know the staff. Spacious seating and family-owned feel stand out.

Over 40 years of operation show deep roots in the community. The place has a welcoming atmosphere that reflects its family-owned nature.

Meatballs come in generous portions for subs, staying warm in a tiny crockpot. The spaghetti and meatball dish offers only two small meatballs, which feels insufficient for the price.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best ever."

"I loved the subs and sandwiches here."

"I love the meatballs here; they never disappoint."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers both indoor and outdoor dining options.

2

There is plenty of seating available for guests.

3

Prices are competitive, making it a budget-friendly choice.

09
Mama T Parenti's Delicatessen image 1

Mom and Pop deli with authentic soul kitchen vibes and a take-out only setup. Sandwiches feature high-end meats and cheeses with large, juicy meatballs and fresh bread. Atmosphere feels like a clean New York deli with affordable prices and a family-run feel.

Meatballs come big, juicy, and seasoned to perfection with an authentic family Italian flavor. The meatball sub stands out as delicious and authentic, often paired with spaghetti for a classic combo.

People are saying

"I thought the meatball sub was the best I ever had."

"The subs at this deli use the freshest meats and salads."

"The family owned spot has great sandwiches and service."

Good to know

1

The spaghetti dinner costs $10 on Wednesday.

2

Wednesday specials include a spaghetti and meatballs dinner.

3

You can't dine in at this deli; it's takeout only.

10
PHOnomenal image 1
Cambodian restaurant

Small space with floor-to-ceiling windows creates a bright, airy feel. Atmosphere blends modern minimalism with a family vibe and lively energy from hip-hop music and car videos. Crowds gather early, but conversation stays comfortable amid the friendly, welcoming setting.

Family owned and operated atmosphere shapes the entire experience. The shop feels personal and welcoming, reflecting strong family involvement.

Marinated meatballs come with the House Special Pho, blending well with simmered short ribs and beef bone broth. Each bowl with meatballs offers a fantastic flavor and plenty of meat.

People are saying

"I experienced the best Cambodian style pho in San Diego."

"The meatballs in the pho were fantastic and flavorful."

"This Family Owned spot has a rich, layered broth that's amazing."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to secure a seat as they sell out quickly.

2

The soup is only available between 10 am and 1 pm.

3

Expect a wait of 30 minutes to an hour during weekend lunch hours.

11
Mama Cozza's image 1
Italian restaurant

Quaint old school Italian restaurant with nostalgic ambiance and warm, inviting atmosphere like a family gathering. Live music on weekends adds lively energy, blending jazz and rock with occasional comedy. Spacious venue includes a banquet room ideal for group events, combining casual decor with a full bar.

A local family-owned restaurant with a history dating back to the 1960s. Suitable for banquet events and run by the same family throughout.

Spaghetti and meatballs stand out with rich flavor and a satisfying texture. The meatball sandwich features fresh bread and a delicious filling that complements the sub well.

People are saying

"The Italian food here, especially the fried mozzarella, is delicious."

"The spaghetti and meatballs were amazing and delicious."

"It's a family-owned restaurant, operating since the 1960s."

Good to know

1

The banquet hall is available for hosting events and parties.

2

Lunch meals cost around $16.11, including lasagne, soup or salad, and a drink.

3

Parking can be challenging, so plan accordingly.

12
Frank's Pizza Joint image 1

Restaurant offers family-oriented atmosphere with warm, welcoming vibe and rat pack music playing softly. Booths and bar area create a comfortable setting that feels like a classic New York pizza joint. Space stays generally quiet unless busy, encouraging guests to linger.

Family owned and operated stands out here, with the business run by the family itself. This creates a personal touch in how things are managed and presented.

Meatball subs come hot and cheesy with extra cheese available. Sauce stays minimal, and meatball pizzas also feature on the menu.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, hot, and delicious."

"I considered this the best pizza in San Diego."

"The meatball sub was hot and cheesy."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of about 30-60 minutes during peak dinner hours.

2

Cash payments receive a discount, so bring cash for savings.

3

Pizza orders typically take 15-20 minutes to prepare.

13
Marri's Pizza & Pasta image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, family-run Italian restaurant with an old-fashioned takeout vibe and affordable prices. Atmosphere can get loud and warm due to limited space and no air conditioning. Known for fresh, cheesy pizza and generous toppings that arrive hot, alongside popular garlic cheese bread and buffalo wings.

Fresh food comes from a family-owned kitchen with nice folks running the place. The atmosphere reflects a genuine family-owned Italian restaurant vibe.

Meatballs come in a meat sauce but lack strong flavor and texture. They appear bland even when ordered as an extra charge. Sandwiches with meatballs are large but do not stand out in taste.

People are saying

"The food here is seriously good and freshly made."

"I found the pizza to be the best homemade pizza in town."

"You could only eat half of the great meatball sandwich."

Good to know

1

Delivery orders are packaged well and arrive hot.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

Lunch specials end at 3 pm, so arrive before then.

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