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Top picks in San Jose

Meatball spots

Made for those who view the meatball as a culinary benchmark and judge a kitchen by its ability to master this specific comfort food.

Based on 518 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Chiaramonte's Deli & Sausages image 1
Chiaramonte's Deli & Sausages image 2
Chiaramonte's Deli & Sausages image 3
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Old-school Italian deli boasts 117-year family history and vintage 1920s decor, creating a cozy, authentic vibe. Meatball subs feature soft, pillowy textures that kids love, served simply but packed with flavor. Atmosphere feels like a step back in time with family memorabilia lining the walls.

Soft, gooey, and pillowy textures define the meatball sub, making it enjoyable for kids. The sandwich comes without dressing but remains very tasty and highly enjoyable.

People are saying

"This old-school Italian deli has been family-owned for over 100 years."

"This old-school Italian deli feels like it's from the early 1900s."

"It feels like stepping back in time with these meatballs."

Good to know

1

Chiaramonte's Deli & Sausages has been family-owned since 1908, making it the oldest deli in the area.

2

The deli offers both indoor and outdoor seating, though outdoor seating is limited.

3

Sandwiches are reasonably priced, with options starting around $13.

02
Happiness Cafe image 1
Vegan restaurant

Small vegan spot offers casual outdoor seating in a quiet area. Menu blends cultures with avocado rolls and a sweet & sour chick'n rice plate. Tomato pasta with meatballs and spaghetti is a solid, familiar favorite.

Tomato pasta with meatballs stands out as a consistent favorite. The meatballs come with spaghetti, offering a solid, familiar flavor.

People are saying

"The vegetarian avocado rolls here are some of the best I've ever had."

"The Italian food here is delicious and cooked with love."

"The tomato pasta with meatballs tasted so good."

Good to know

1

The cafe has limited seating, so plan your visit accordingly.

2

Happiness Cafe is a vegan restaurant offering a blended cultural menu.

3

The cafe features compostable cups and recycled toilet paper in the restroom.

03
Tan Dinh Cafe image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Small space with intimate vibe offers fresh Vietnamese dishes in generous portions. Meatballs are tasty and well made, paired with pate and fried eggs. Casual atmosphere with a TV playing music videos adds to the homey energy.

Sizzling steaks come with a well made meatball and two fried eggs. The meatball stands out for its tasty flavor and pairs well with pate. Portions usually include just one meatball.

People are saying

"The bรฒ nรฉ bread with eggs and pate is so satisfying."

"The pรขtรฉ in the Bo Ne is so good, I keep coming back for it."

"The bo ne comes out on a sizzling plate with a perfect, runny egg."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a small menu with about 12 Vietnamese dishes.

2

Prices are reasonable, with meals offered at a good value.

3

There is no wait time, making it easy to get a table.

04
Firehouse Subs image 1
Sandwich shop

Enjoy mouthwatering meatballs in a quiet, family-friendly setting with community murals and ample parking. Fresh, flavorful meatball subs on garlic bread make for a reliable meal in a clean, spacious shop.

Meatballs come in many styles here, with the meatball sub standing out for its fresh, flavorful taste on garlic bread. The mouthwatering meatballs make the sandwich a reliable and popular choice.

People are saying

"I found the food to be fresh and hot."

"The parking available here is really convenient."

"I thought the meatball subs were the best I had."

Good to know

1

The ordering process is done through a screen, which may be challenging for some.

2

Parking is ample and convenient for customers.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment, including the bathrooms.

05
Pho Dang image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Modern Vietnamese spot offers a cozy, family-friendly vibe with stylish decor and comfortable seating. Meatballs are tender and flavorful, shining in the pho with a rich broth and well-seasoned texture. Unique touches like bamboo straws add authentic charm.

Meatballs stand out with a tender, flavorful texture. The pho featuring rare beef and meatballs combines rich broth with these soft, well-seasoned balls, though some beef slices can be tough.

People are saying

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

"The broth tastes authentic, clear, and fragrant."

"I've never had meatballs this good anywhere."

Good to know

1

Expect to pay around $20 for a bowl of pho.

2

There is an extra charge of $2.50 for fresh noodles.

3

Parking is available on-site, making it easy to access.

06
Bertucelli's La Villa Gourmet image 1

Small Italian deli buzzes with classic Italian charm and New York swag. Meatballs are big and filling, especially the meatball sandwich known for rich flavor. Mostly takeout with a few outdoor tables keeps the vibe lively and friendly.

Big and filling meatballs stand out here. The meatball sandwich offers a rich, satisfying flavor that many find memorable. Various meatball options appear on the hot table alongside other dishes.

People are saying

"I thought the sandwiches were made with care."

"I thought their meatballs were excellent and the best I ever had."

"The ravioli here is perfectly cooked and authentic."

Good to know

1

Customers have to get a numbered ticket and wait in line.

2

Expect a long line around lunchtime, but it moves quickly.

3

Parking in their lot is sometimes difficult due to its downtown location.

07
The Last Round Tavern image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small pizza spot with intimate seating and a full bar offers a relaxed, bar-like vibe. Known for best meatballs, often sampled free, alongside tasty wings and salads. Outdoor seating adds charm to this quaint, boxing-themed place.

Meatballs come highly praised here, often described as the best alongside wings and salads. A cook sometimes offers a free sample, and the meatballs consistently look and smell very appealing.

People are saying

"The pizza crust here has a nice chew and good flavor."

"It's a cool local spot with excellent staff."

"The meatballs here are so good, you can't go wrong."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7 pm with discounted drinks.

2

Expect long wait times during busy hours, especially on weekends.

3

Street parking is available near the tavern.

08
Pho Nhat Minh image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese spot shines with fresh meatballs and tender brisket in pho. Bright, modern space blends old-world decor with soft pop tunes for a chill vibe. Ceramic bowls keep soup hot, perfect for family gatherings in a welcoming setting.

Meatballs come freshly made and pair well with tender meat in the pho. The meatball pho also includes brisket for added flavor.

People are saying

"The pho broth here is so rich and flavorful."

"I thought the spring rolls were the best, tasting handmade."

"The meatballs here are hearty and didn't feel greasy."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a free drink promotion with each entree purchase.

2

Parking is easy and convenient for visitors.

3

Food is served quickly, typically within 7-10 minutes after ordering.

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San Jose, California

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