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Top picks in San Diego

Meatballs

A bowl of tender, savory meatballs is the ultimate comfort food.

Based on 690 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Evan’s Deli & Brew image 1
Evan’s Deli & Brew image 2
Evan’s Deli & Brew image 3
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Cozy deli offers handmade Philly cheesesteaks and mouthwatering meatball subs with a satisfying cheese pull. Bright, laid back space has ample group seating and a friendly, lowkey vibe with outdoor spots and sports on TV.

Meatball subs feature melted cheese with a satisfying cheese pull. The sandwich stands out as mouthwatering and enjoyable for all ages.

People are saying

"This Philly cheesesteak sandwich is the best I've ever had."

"The beer here is cold and amazing."

"The meatball sub had melted cheese and a cheese pull."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs every day until 6pm with $1 off select beers.

2

The deli is dog-friendly, allowing pets inside and on the patio.

3

Evan’s Deli & Brew offers high-quality meats and cheeses sourced from Philly.

02
Trattoria da Sofia image 1
Italian restaurant

Enjoy authentic Naples vibe with lively atmosphere and live music. Savor fresh homemade meatballs tender and full of flavor. Choose indoor or outdoor seating with charming views for a true Italian experience.

Fresh, home made meatballs come tender and packed with flavor. The sauce adds a delicious touch that complements the dish well.

People are saying

"The pasta here is so fresh, made in house."

"I found the food to be amazing and truly authentic Italian."

"The meatballs here are so tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to secure a table.

2

Happy hour runs from 4 to 5 PM with generous portions of bites and drinks.

3

Parking can be challenging; expect to drive around to find a spot.

03
Decore image 1
Restaurant

Cozy spot with romantic atmosphere and warm rustic decor invites intimate dining. Rich, flavorful meatballs shine alongside starters like Suppli. Authentic Italian dishes pair perfectly with rare wines and unique cocktails for a memorable meal.

Rich and flavorful meatballs stand out, cooked perfectly with a satisfying texture. They pair well with other starters like Suppli and Brussels sprouts, making them a memorable part of the meal.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, especially the pasta and lasagna."

"This Tiramisu is creamy, balanced, and the best I've ever had."

"The meatballs were rich, flavorful, and perfectly cooked."

Good to know

1

Reservations are limited to 90 minutes for dinner service.

2

Decore charges a $25 corkage fee for bringing your own wine.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

04
ARTIFACT at Mingei image 1

Open-concept design creates a modern vibe with lively energy inside, while outdoor seating offers scenic park views for calm. Vietnamese pork meatballs deliver bold fusion flavors and juicy texture, shining in dishes like Meatball Lettuce Wraps.

Vietnamese pork meatballs stand out with bold fusion flavors and a juicy, tender texture. They pair well with other dishes like the Meatball Lettuce Wraps, showcasing a mix of cultural inspirations.

People are saying

"This lunch spot's food is tasty and beautifully presented."

"The Vietnamese meatballs were incredible and flavorful."

"I loved eating on the beautiful, dog-friendly patio."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's popularity and limited hours.

2

Parking can be challenging around the museum location.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers, making it a popular time to visit.

05
The Whaling Bar image 1
Restaurant

Vintage decor and modern touches create a warm, nostalgic vibe perfect for romantic dinners and casual drinks. Duck meatballs stand out with their rich, tender texture, while cocktails and food earn high praise for enhancing the top-tier atmosphere.

Duck meatballs melt in your mouth with a rich, tender texture. The menu also features Urfa chicken and Zatar fried chicken, alongside a notable de ricotta dish.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so welcoming and kind."

"The cocktails here are inventive, fun, and perfectly balanced."

"These duck meatballs just melt in your mouth."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5 p.m. with limited menu options.

2

Valet parking is available at the connected hotel.

3

The kitchen closes at 10 p.m., not 11 p.m.

06
Taste of Denmark image 1
Danish restaurant

Small indoor space with a street front patio offers a relaxed vibe and casual outdoor dining. Danish meatballs shine with authentic fresh gravy and pair well with potato salad. Soft Danish classics create an inviting atmosphere that feels like a piece of Denmark.

Danish meatballs come with authentic, fresh gravy that pairs well with potato salad. Meatball sliders and plates offer delicious, well-seasoned options often served with rye bread or puff pastry.

People are saying

"The food, especially the rye bread and Danish pastries, is amazing."

"I loved the homemade rye bread; it was absolutely delicious."

"The Danish meatballs and gravy were excellent and authentic."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult and requires payment.

2

Everything at Taste of Denmark is cooked to order.

3

You can buy the bread and take a huge loaf home.

07
Pazzos Italian image 1
Southern Italian restaurant

Small family-run Italian spot has a warm vibe and neighborhood pizza joint feel. Guests enjoy making their own pizza and watching games on big TVs. Spaghetti and meatballs taste like a homemade masterpiece with light texture and balanced sauce.

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.

08
Best Pizza & Brew image 1
Pizza restaurant

Spacious pizza spot shines with amazing meatballs and a large dog-friendly patio. Bright, modern space buzzes with sports TVs and loud music. Families and groups love the energetic vibe and comfy seating.

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."

"I loved their great selection of local beers."

"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.

09
VULTURE image 1
Restaurant

Speakeasy-style spot with intimate atmosphere and otherworldly decor offers a fully vegan menu featuring plant-based fine dining. BBQ meatballs shine with a sweet apricot BBQ sauce, while cocktail meatballs deliver a flavorful, straightforward bite. Warm 80's music adds to the inviting vibe.

BBQ meatballs come with a simple apricot BBQ sauce that adds a sweet touch. Cocktail meatballs offer a flavorful, straightforward bite that pairs well with other dishes like crab cakes.

People are saying

"I can't wait to return for the amazing vegan options."

"The desserts, like tableside Bananas Foster, are a showstopper."

"The BBQ meatballs were an experience, so good."

Good to know

1

A reservation is needed to dine at VULTURE.

2

VULTURE adds an automatic 20% gratuity on all checks.

3

Many items on the menu were unavailable during my visit.

10
Chef Zhu 老正兴 image 1
Chinese restaurant

Restaurant mixes traditional and modern design with a lively, comfortable vibe. Lion’s head meatballs shine with melting texture and subtle spices. Braised meatballs also impress, making it a top spot for meatball lovers.

Lion’s head meatballs offer great flavor with subtle spices and a texture that melts in your mouth. Braised meatballs also stand out as a favorite dish here.

People are saying

"The food here is really tasty and cooked to order."

"I loved the authentic Chinese dishes, they really reflected the essence of the cuisine."

"These meatballs melt in your mouth with great flavor."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights like Wednesdays.

2

The restaurant can be full, so expect wait times during peak hours.

3

Parking is free in the shopping center, making access easy.

11
Massachusetts Mike's Pizzeria image 1

Small pizza spot with a Teenage Mutant Ninja Turtles mural and upbeat vibe. Meatballs are tender and tasty, especially in the fabulous meatball sub. Urban kitchen feel and lively staff make dining here a charming experience.

Meatballs come tender and very tasty here. The meatball sub stands out as fabulous and no joke.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I've ever had."

"Their gluten-free food options felt safe and tasted delicious."

"I thought the meatball sub was excellent and tasted exactly as it was supposed to."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Thursday night starting at 10pm with a two-drink minimum.

2

Dinner and comedy shows are available on select nights; check the schedule.

3

Parking costs $8 for two hours in the rear lot.

12
Thien Huong image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small Vietnamese eatery offers a cozy, authentic vibe with communal seating. Meatballs shine with rich flavor, paired with eggs and sausage. Unique menu options deliver a genuine taste of Vietnam's culinary traditions.

Meatballs come with rich flavor and pair well with eggs and sausage. Dishes often include beef tenderloin slices and a tasty sauce that blends with eggs.

People are saying

"I loved the flavorful Vietnamese breakfast with generous portions."

"The banh cuon here is soft, fresh, and wonderfully tasty."

"The meatballs and beef were very flavorful."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait in line during busy weekend lunch hours.

2

Parking is limited, with no street parking available.

3

A waitlist is started outside when all tables are filled.

13
VIET NOM image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small space with modern Vietnamese decor and lively R&B music creates a cozy vibe. Pho shines with flavorful meatballs and rich broth. Perfect for enjoying boneless short ribs and great conversation.

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 ribs here are fall-off-the-bone tender."

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

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.

14
Fortuna Ristorante Italiano image 1
Italian restaurant

Small Italian spot offers top-rated meatballs that shine in appetizers and pasta dishes. Warm, inviting ambiance blends modern design with tradition. Outdoor seating stays cozy with heaters, perfect for relaxed chats despite some uncomfortable chairs inside.

Meatballs come as a top-rated appetizer and pair well with gnocchi. They show up in various dishes like lasagna and ravioli, always well done and flavorful.

People are saying

"The Italian food here tastes straight out of Italy."

"The Italian food, especially the pappardelle, is pure silk and deeply comforting."

"The meatball appetizer here was a 10/10."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak dining hours.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food and service provided.

3

Parking is available nearby, but it can get crowded during weekends.

15
Pho Nom image 1
Pho restaurant

Modern decor with cozy lanterns sets a dreamlike mood while chill music enhances the vibe. Pho bowls feature tender meatballs paired with fresh herbs and thinly sliced beef for rich flavor. The space feels authentic and invites relaxed dining.

Pho bowls come with tender meatballs alongside short rib and brisket. Each bite mixes fresh herbs and thinly sliced beef with the meatballs for a flavorful experience.

People are saying

"The food here is so flavorful and fresh."

"I had the best pho I've ever experienced."

"The pho with short rib and meatballs is delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 2–5 PM with a variety of drinks at good prices.

2

Parking can be tough, especially at night due to nearby attractions.

3

Pho Nom closes late at 10:30 PM, perfect for late-night cravings.

16
Romanissimo Cucina Italiana image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian spot with authentic music and Roma decor sets a warm mood. Spaghetti with oxtail meatballs delivers rich, genuine flavor. Indoor and outdoor seating offer privacy and comfort for a relaxed meal.

Spaghetti with meatballs offers a solid, enjoyable dish. Oxtail meatballs stand out as authentically Italian and amazing in flavor.

People are saying

"The Italian food here tastes like you're actually in Italy."

"The Happy Hour food here is delicious and well prepared."

"The oxtail meatballs are super comfort food you can only get here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4 pm to 6 pm with food and drink specials.

2

Expect a variety of food options during happy hour for around $60 total.

3

The restaurant is dog-friendly on the patio for those with pets.

17
Sardina's Italian Restaurant and Bar image 1

Italian restaurant offers a warm, inviting atmosphere with lively noise levels and modern decor. Homemade Sicilian style meatballs shine in dishes like spaghetti and calzones. Outdoor patios welcome dogs, blending family feel with quiet spots.

Meatballs here have a homemade Sicilian style that stands out. They appear in various dishes like spaghetti, subs, and calzones, all with a rich, satisfying flavor.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is out of this world, especially the pasta."

"The happy hour deals here offer excellent value."

"These meatballs are just like grandma used to make."

Good to know

1

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

2

Parking is free but can be limited during peak hours.

3

The restaurant offers a half and half pasta menu for a great price.

18
CinKuni (Italian & Japanese Cuisine) image 1

Spacious spot blends Japanese and Italian culture with brick pizza oven and art-filled walls. Meatballs shine as a hearty appetizer and in ramen and sausage bowls. Lively vibe with 80s-90s music and a dog-friendly patio makes it great for casual upscale dining.

Meatballs appear as a standout appetizer and also feature in dishes like ramen and a bowl with Italian sausage. They pair with various meals, adding a hearty touch to the menu.

People are saying

"The Gnocchi Urbino was delicious and tender."

"The flatbread's textures are amazing, with oven crispy spots."

"I found the meatballs to be really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 p.m. on industry Mondays with great drink selections.

2

Every Wednesday, there are free comedy shows starting at 8 p.m.

3

Karaoke night happens every Thursday at 10 p.m. with a two-drink minimum.

19
IKEA image 1
Furniture store

Spacious showroom feels like a live Pinterest board with stylish, cozy rooms. Cafeteria serves rich Swedish meatballs and tasty veggie options in a large dining area. Kids enjoy fun activities, making it a family amusement park.

Swedish meatballs come with mash and have a rich flavor that draws many for a meal. Veggie meatballs offer a top-notch alternative alongside the classic option.

People are saying

"I went for the Swedish meatballs and they were delicious."

"I found stylish and affordable furniture for all tastes here."

"It's a fun adventure just wandering through the showrooms."

Good to know

1

IKEA offers furniture at affordable prices.

2

I found plenty of parking at IKEA.

3

IKEA Family members can get two free kids meals with one adult entrée on Wednesdays.

20
Morton's The Steakhouse image 1

Elegant interior with dim lighting sets a cozy mood. Wagyu meatballs offer rich flavor, perfect alongside hearty steaks like the Prime Cajun Ribeye. Casual crowd fits well for date nights and group events, with thoughtful service adding charm.

Wagyu meatballs stand out as a rich, flavorful appetizer. They pair well with other hearty dishes like the Prime Cajun Ribeye and double pork chop.

People are saying

"This steak was cooked to perfection and tasted amazing."

"The service at these dinner spots is outstanding and attentive."

"You have to try the wagyu meatballs; they're amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for special occasions like anniversaries.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers on weekdays.

3

Expect a total price of around $100+ per person for a full meal.

21
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean spot boasts breathtaking ocean views and a lively patio with live music. Lamb and beef meatballs shine with feta and rich sauce, paired with homemade pita and dips. Atmosphere blends classy beach town vibe with a welcoming, vibrant feel.

Lamb and beef meatballs come with a sauce and feta that pair perfectly. They appear alongside a trip of dips and homemade pita, making for a solid savory option.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and did not disappoint."

"The ocean view from the balcony is breathtaking."

"The lamb and beef meatballs were outstanding."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu is available upon request from the staff.

3

Parking is generally easy, but can be difficult during peak hours.

22
IKEA Restaurant image 1
Swedish restaurant

Bright, clean cafeteria offers affordable meals with quick service. Swedish influence shines in Swedish meatballs served with mashed potatoes and peas. Vegan options include a veggie ball with fresh flavors and a plant ball mimicking meat texture.

Swedish meatballs come in a 12-piece option with mashed potatoes and peas, costing under a dollar each. Vegan choices include a veggie ball with a vegetable-forward taste and a plant ball with a traditional meat-like texture.

People are saying

"I found the Swedish meatballs to be delicious and enjoyable."

"The vegan meatballs at this Lunch Spot are delicious and reasonably priced."

"Breakfast here is a good value, especially for members."

Good to know

1

IKEA members receive free coffee and special discounts on meals.

2

The Saturday breakfast offers 50% off for members.

3

Wednesday deals let members buy one adult entrée and get two kids' meals for free.

23
Filippi's Pizza Grotto Kearny Mesa image 1

Spacious Italian spot offers gigantic meatballs in sandwiches and spaghetti with rich sauce. Comfortable outdoor patio welcomes dogs, perfect for groups. Quiet vibe suits relaxed dining without the usual wine decor.

Meatballs here are gigantic and flavorful. They come in sandwiches and with spaghetti, both served with great meat sauce.

People are saying

"I've been coming here for decades for their phenomenal pizza."

"This lunch spot is a great value, I got a complete meal for under $10."

"The meatballs here are gigantic and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs $9.60 and includes soup or salad and bread.

2

Filippi's offers a $32 family meal on Sundays, perfect for large groups.

3

Parking is easy with many spots available right off the 163.

24
Romanella Cucina Romana image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant shines with oxtail meatballs that are tender and rich. Elegant décor features frescoes and portraits creating a cozy, classy vibe. Guests enjoy a convivial atmosphere with fresh dishes and lively outdoor seating.

Oxtail meatballs stand out for their super tender texture and rich flavor. They pair well with other dishes like pizza and pasta, adding a hearty touch.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The pasta dishes here are rich, flavorful, and authentically done."

"The oxtail meatballs were super tender and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy Hour runs daily from 2-5pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu features a variety of cocktails and small plates.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

25
Elvira image 1
Italian restaurant

Cozy Italian restaurant with old-school charm and villa-inspired decor creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Outdoor patio features space heaters and throw blankets for comfort. Guests enjoy a quaint, intimate vibe reminiscent of a traditional trattoria.

People are saying

"I found the food to be amazing and incredible."

"The server was so knowledgeable about the wine and made great recommendations."

"I'd rate the meatballs here a 10 out of 10."

Good to know

1

It's advisable to make a reservation at Elvira because it can get busy.

2

Gnocchi night happens every Thursday, which is a popular event.

3

The restaurant offers gluten-free and vegan options.

26
STK Steakhouse image 1
Steak house

Modern steakhouse shines with Wagyu meatballs and top-notch steaks. Live DJ fuels a lively atmosphere perfect for celebrations. Rooftop bar adds a stylish vibe, making cocktails a highlight.

Meatballs come in different styles here, including Wagyu meatballs that offer good value. They range from delicious to just okay depending on the visit.

People are saying

"I loved each dish I tried; the food was spectacular."

"The service at dinner spots was top-tier and made the whole experience effortless."

"I started with the meatballs, which were delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on weekdays from 2:30 to 6:30 pm with great deals.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy weekends.

3

Parking can be challenging during holidays due to downtown location.

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