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Cocktails and meatballs

You have a specific craving for meatballs and a cocktail, and you see no reason why you should have to hunt for a place that does both well.

Based on 825 Opinions
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Updated June 2026
01
Catezza Italian Kitchen + Bar image 1
Catezza Italian Kitchen + Bar image 2
Catezza Italian Kitchen + Bar image 3
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Space blends chic modern design with an old school Italian lounge vibe, featuring a round bar that encourages conversation. Atmosphere feels upscale yet comfortable, with stylish decor and thoughtful touches. Cocktails and Italian dishes emphasize quality and creativity, attracting a sophisticated crowd.

Cocktails feature an intimate menu with fresh ingredients and balanced flavors. Bartenders craft custom drinks that often outdo expectations.

Flavorful and perfectly tender meatballs come in a delicious sauce. They pair well with escarole and beans as a standout appetizer.

People are saying

"The pasta here is part of an epic, top-tier dining experience."

"The cocktails were delicious, fresh, and perfectly balanced."

"These meatballs are flavorful and perfectly tender."

Good to know

1

Wine is half off on Wednesdays.

2

Bread costs $8 per basket, and gelato is $14 for a couple of scoops.

3

A 3% fee for credit card payments is added to the bill.

02
OU LA Restaurant & Bar image 1

Elegant dining room with beautiful decor and large scenic windows creates a comfortable, homey vibe. Live music and a fantastic DJ keep energy lively, blending sophistication with a festive atmosphere. Guests enjoy a mix of top-tier food and drinks in a setting that feels both classy and welcoming.

Bartender Smiley crafts drinks with skill, flipping bottles and mixing cocktails impressively. The Exit 12 cocktail stands out alongside other great cocktails served here.

Haitian meatballs feature rich seasoning that stands out. They deliver an excellent flavor appreciated by those who try them.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and flavorful."

"This cocktail is sweet, tropical, and dangerous in the best way."

"The Haitian meatballs are so tender and tasty!"

Good to know

1

Happy hour features a special menu with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Live R&B performances occur every Thursday evening during happy hour.

3

Mixology classes are scheduled for upcoming weekends; check the website for details.

03
Angeloni's Club Madrid image 1
Italian restaurant

Interior blends eclectic mobsteresque decor with an 80s dive bar style, creating a dark, sultry atmosphere. Music features killer 80s jams that complement the laid-back vibe. Cocktails stand out with unique flavors like brown butter bourbon espresso martini and salami-infused meatini.

Cocktails here are super creative and consistently delicious. The bar offers a cool vibe that makes sitting there feel like a privilege, especially with their well-crafted martinis and unique drinks.

People are saying

"The orecchiette with crab sauce at these dinner spots is the best I've ever had."

"I loved their beautifully crafted cocktails; they were a game changer."

"The meatballs here feel like walking into a time capsule."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers snacks with each drink instead of drink discounts.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times like restaurant week.

3

A DJ plays music after 10 PM on weekends.

04
Fanny's image 1
Italian restaurant

Boutique Italian restaurant with modern, dimly lit interior and luxurious, dark aesthetic. Atmosphere offers good vibes and live jazz music on some nights, creating an intimate setting. Comfortable seating and unique cocktails complement the experience alongside homemade pasta and foccacia.

Cocktails feature a very nice menu with drinks like the 'Offer you can't refuse' made with Macallan 12. The cocktails consistently pair well with the food and are great in quality.

Wagyu meatballs come very moist and tender, served with a perfectly complemented tomato sauce. They arrive on crispy polenta, adding a great texture contrast.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and packed with flavor."

"The cocktails here are outstanding and delicious."

"The Wagyu meatballs on crispy polenta were amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

There is a large parking lot behind the restaurant for easy access.

3

Expect the restaurant to get busy within 40 minutes of opening.

05
Harryโ€™s Food and Drink image 1
New American restaurant

Classic-themed restaurant with mismatched china and plant decor creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere. Music complements the space, setting a great vibe that feels both lively and comfortable. Outdoor seating on a quiet side street adds a relaxed option to the experience.

Cocktails come with excellent bartenders crafting a vast selection alongside craft beers on draft and in cans.

Meatballs stand out with a flavor that reminds of Mama mia. They pair well with fried burrata and bao buns, making them a delicious highlight on the menu.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly top-notch."

"I enjoyed the great cocktails here."

"The meatballs here are delicious, just like Mama mia."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially for private events.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

3

The upstairs private area accommodates up to 50 guests for events.

06
Americano Italian Steakhouse image 1

Elegant Italian restaurant with old world charm and upscale decor creates a classy, peaceful atmosphere. Live jazz bands and tableside parmesan service add entertainment and sophistication. Plush bar seating complements expertly crafted cocktails, enhancing the refined vibe.

Cocktails here are consistently delicious and crafted with care. Frequent visits reveal a solid selection that satisfies regulars.

Meatballs come as both appetizers and in an eggplant version, both cooked well and flavorful. They pair nicely with other dishes like calamari and Caesar salad.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, and the service is attentive."

"The cocktails here are creative and perfectly balanced."

"The meatballs were tasty and the sauce was just wonderful."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for Jazz Night, especially on weekends.

2

Live music occurs every Tuesday and Thursday, starting at 8pm.

3

Dinner deals are available on Monday and Wednesday nights.

07
Burke's Tavern image 1
New American restaurant

Cozy restaurant with a New York bar vibe and a European feel offers a casual, lowkey atmosphere with warm lighting and no TVs. The space feels like a time capsule, featuring a vegetable and herb garden in the back. Music plays softly, creating a perfect background for quiet conversation and romantic dates.

Bartenders mix craft cocktails like The Last Word and Aviation with care. The bar offers an excellent selection of whiskeys, wines, and cocktails, all served attentively.

Moroccan lamb meatballs stand out with their juicy and flavorful profile. They come with earthy notes that make them distinct and well-prepared.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and unique."

"The cocktails here are beautiful and delicious."

"The Moroccan lamb meatballs were out of this world."

Good to know

1

Burke's Tavern is within walking distance from Newark Penn Station and Prudential Center.

2

Parking at Burke's Tavern can be challenging, so plan accordingly.

3

The chef accepts modifications to any dish for dietary restrictions.

08
Grano Pizzeria & Italian Tavern image 1

Industrial aesthetic blends with Italian class to create a warm, inviting atmosphere that shifts from cozy dining to lively party vibes. A friendly bar crowd gathers around a well-designed setup, with excellent cocktails enhancing the experience.

Creative cocktails stand out with a diverse menu and skilled bartending. The selection pairs well with the wine list and offers a delicious variety.

Meatballs come with ricotta and stand out for their flavor. They appeal to all ages, including toddlers, and pair well with other Italian dishes.

People are saying

"The Italian food here feels like visiting friends; the staff makes you feel so welcome."

"The food here for dinner is incredible and bursting with flavor."

"I loved the meatballs and ricotta."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

2

Boozy brunches are available on Sundays with unique drink options.

3

Happy hour features discounted drinks and appetizers from 4-6pm on weekdays.

09
Saltwater Bar and Kitchen by Big Mike image 1

Restaurant offers a multi-level dining area with elegant decor and soft lighting that creates a coastal cozy atmosphere. Bar features comfortable seating and TVs, attracting a mix of guests seeking strong cocktails and flavorful food. Space feels welcoming and relaxed, with a layout that balances intimacy and openness.

Strong cocktails stand out here, crafted with care. Staff stays attentive, keeping specialty drinks replenished for a relaxed vibe.

Meatballs have a manufactured flavor and lack an authentic, hand-made taste. They appear alongside dishes like Caesar Salad and pork belly buns but do not stand out as traditional.

People are saying

"The food here is outstanding, especially the thin-crust pizza."

"The seafood here is fresh and cooked to perfection."

"These meatballs will give any Italian grandma a run for her money."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy summer months.

2

Taco Tuesdays offer great deals on food and drinks.

3

Happy hour features discounted full-size dishes.

10
STRADA image 1
Italian restaurant

Small space with packed tables and a gorgeous blue tile pizza oven creates an intimate setting. Atmosphere is warm and cozy but often uncomfortably loud, resembling a lively bar with a strong music beat. Crowds gather frequently, especially at the bar, adding to the energetic vibe.

Cocktails stand out for their amazing quality and unmatched flavors. They rank among the best ever had.

Tomato braised meatballs come with a rich sauce and pair well with pane di casa topped with prosciutto. They serve as a solid appetizer or part of a shared meal alongside pizza and other dishes.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was incredible and amazing."

"The cocktails here were amazing and perfectly curated."

"These meatballs were so good, the best bolognese I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for larger parties, as seating is limited.

2

Expect high prices, with meals averaging over $100 for a family of four.

3

A $3 service fee applies for opening a bottle of wine.

11
Felina - Summit image 1
Food and drink

High arched ceilings and massive cozy fireplaces create an inviting, warm atmosphere in a stylish, open space. Live music often plays in separate rooms, adding lively energy without overwhelming conversation. A whiskey lounge with over 200 varieties and creative cocktails complement the chef-driven menu and attentive service.

Craft cocktails stand out with specialty mixes and bartenders who know their craft. Drinks pair well with appetizers and desserts, offering a luxurious and bold flavor experience.

Meatballs come as a standout appetizer alongside calamari and mussels. They pair well with dishes like Veal Milanese and Caesar salad, offering a hearty and flavorful option.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots truly stole the show; everything was delicious."

"The cocktails here were delicious and expertly made."

"The meatballs were fresh and came in a good sauce."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs on Thursdays with a lively atmosphere.

2

Live music starts around 7:30 PM on select nights.

3

Reservations are recommended for special events and busy nights.

12
Felina Steak - Jersey City image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers stunning skyline views including the Statue of Liberty, visible from tables and a rooftop bar. Atmosphere combines live piano and band music with a romantic, inviting vibe. Patrons enjoy signature cocktails and expertly cooked steaks in a setting that blends cityscape and live entertainment.

Fantastic mixologists craft great original cocktails with care. Signature drinks like the 'Back to Summer' stand out, showing skilled bartending on the rooftop.

Appetizer meatballs stand out with full flavor and rank among the highlights alongside calamari. They deliver a good taste compared to other dinner options.

People are saying

"The city skyline views from here are amazing."

"Tyler, the bartender, made us delicious cocktails and was super attentive."

"These meatballs are so full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Access to the rooftop is granted only to patrons who purchase a steak.

2

Reservations are recommended for special events like weddings and galas.

3

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers on weekdays.

13
Superfrico Atlantic City image 1

Restaurant features themed rooms with Alice in Wonderland-inspired decor creating a unique dining atmosphere. Entertainment includes pop-up performances blending comedy, magic, and acrobatics that add lively energy. The vibe is fun and loud, attracting a diverse crowd seeking an unconventional experience.

Mimosas flight offers a fun and tasty twist on the classic cocktail. Servers like Todd know everything about the dishes and ingredients, enhancing the cocktail experience with detailed insights.

Meatballs stand out as delicious and a must-try item here. They come highly recommended alongside other dishes like kale salad and lemon cake.

People are saying

"Chef Noah's Italian food is innovative and prepared with passion."

"The bartenders here create really good original cocktails."

"These meatballs were amazing, melting in my mouth."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers half-price appetizers from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

The show at The Hook features acrobatic acts and comedy after dinner.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner to avoid long wait times.

14
Jane Doe image 1
Restaurant

Sleek modern interior with soaring ceilings and impeccable lighting creates an unfussy, welcoming atmosphere. Top-notch sound system plays vinyl records at a volume that supports conversation. The space attracts those seeking a high-end feel with comfortable seating and a cool bar.

Staff offer samples of obscure ingredients in cocktails. Drinks like the Lupe and Sumika stand out, with the Sumika being refreshing and not sweet. Sake cocktails pair well with vinyl music for a unique vibe.

Super juicy meatballs come with onions, cheese, and sauce that boost flavor. Options include beef and meatball skewers and Meatball Yakitori with a spicy but balanced sauce.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is impeccable and the service is top-notch."

"The cocktails here are creative and well-balanced."

"The meatballs were okay, I wasnโ€™t impressed."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 12-7 pm with $10 classic cocktails.

2

Half-priced pasta is available on Tuesdays.

3

The happy hour features a tiered pricing structure: $10 cocktails from 4-5 pm and $11 from 5-6 pm.

15
ARTIE'S image 1
Pizza restaurant

Renovated industrial space with an open kitchen featuring brick ovens creates a fresh, clean environment. Upbeat music raises the noise level, encouraging lively conversation in a laid-back atmosphere. Outdoor seating includes a patio and bar area serving drinks, enhancing the social vibe.

Menus feature many unique cocktails alongside a solid wine selection. Mixed drinks come out on point and pair well with food like pizza.

Meatballs come as a delicious appetizer often paired with a dab of ricotta. They serve alongside fresh homemade bread, making for a solid start to the meal.

People are saying

"I found the pizza here to be extraordinary."

"The meatballs here are juicy and full of flavor."

"I loved their unique wine selection and cocktail menus."

Good to know

1

On the evening we visited, there was an oyster pop-up on the terrace outside.

2

ARTIE'S opened for breakfast every day at 8am.

3

ARTIE'S does not currently accept reservations.

16
Nostrana Ristorante image 1

Converted house with rustic charm and refined decor creates an inviting, cozy atmosphere. Upstairs bar offers a different vibe with drinks and tapas, while main dining feels elegant yet warm. Space can get loud when busy, and seating is uncomfortable.

Cocktails feature unique flavors and stay well-balanced across options. Choices range from a standard gin and tonic to a holiday spritzer and mocktail.

Nonna meatballs pack nostalgic, savory goodness. They stand out alongside homemade pastas and are served with rice balls that complement the dish well.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta here is cooked perfectly al dente."

"The food and drinks at these dinner spots are delicious and creative."

"The nonna meatballs are packed with nostalgic, savory goodness."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available upstairs, but options are limited.

2

The restaurant does not accommodate allergies or make substitutions.

3

The menu is limited to one page with no specials.

17
La Reggia image 1
Italian restaurant

Elegant Italian restaurant with authentic cuisine and a warm, inviting atmosphere featuring live music and a piano bar. Spacious event halls with natural light and floral details create a timeless setting. The venue combines traditional design with opportunities for dancing and social gatherings.

Cocktails come with excellent service and ambiance. Guests enjoy the drinks alongside the food during cocktail hour and dinner.

Meatballs come premade and appear alongside dishes like pasta and tomato sauce. They serve Swedish meatballs that are decent but not standout.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and really good."

"The drinks here are strong and delicious."

"The meatballs here were premade."

Good to know

1

La Reggia has dine-in options and two halls suitable for any type of event.

2

Prices are reasonable considering the quality of the food.

3

The place can accommodate large parties.

18
Porta Montclair image 1
Restaurant

Rustic design with old doors, long wood tables, and benches creates a distinctive setting. Large space includes a rooftop patio and an upstairs area that transforms into a disco with live music and a bar. Atmosphere ranges from lively and noisy to cozy, attracting diverse crowds for dining and dancing.

Bartenders craft cocktails with great attention to detail and skill. Drinks like the Amore with Drumshanbo sausage tree vodka and pomegranate syrup stand out as refreshing and well-made.

Meatballs here stand out for their high quality and consistent flavor. They appear on dishes like the carbonara pizza with excellent marinara sauce and deliver solid taste every time.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing and freshly baked from the oven."

"The bartenders' cocktail making skills are truly on point."

"I thought the meatballs here were of high quality."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for events, especially during busy concert nights.

2

The drag brunch happens every Sunday and features live performances.

3

Parking is available in the deck behind Porta Montclair for easy access.

19
The Bar - Pizza Napoletana image 1

Large bar with friendly bartenders and plenty of TVs creates a lively setting. DJ spins house music with high-quality sound, making the atmosphere loud and energetic. Crowd enjoys authentic pizza and top-shelf cocktails in a clean, classy space with cool lighting.

Cocktails feature top-shelf spirits with strong martinis and negronis. The menu offers many beers on tap and a variety of cocktail options, showing clear pride in every drink served.

Packed with flavor and highly recommended, the meatball appetizer stands out here. Some consider these among the best meatballs in Jersey.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and delicious."

"I thought the cocktails were on point and made with top-shelf spirits."

"You have to try these flavorful meatballs."

Good to know

1

The bar hosts a Love Island watch party every Thursday night.

2

NFL Sundays feature all games broadcasted live at the bar.

3

Pizza is only served on weekends, so plan accordingly.

20
Marcus Live! Bar & Grille image 1
American restaurant

Spacious American restaurant with modern urban decor and subtle lighting creates a stylish setting. Loud live music fills the space, energizing the atmosphere but making conversation challenging. Guests enjoy flavorful cocktails and a mix of bold, spicy dishes amid a lively vibe.

Cocktails feature bold flavors like the All Smoke and Dance with Somebody, which blends tequila and passion fruit. Options include the Mโ€™s Block Party Punch, Pretty in Pink, and an Old School Cocktail priced at $18.

Swedish meatballs come with cornbread and stand out for their quality. Kidsโ€™ spaghetti and meatballs taste better than typical kid meals. The spaghetti and meatballs rank among the best I've had.

People are saying

"The Seafood here is amazing, especially Carmen's drinks."

"I thought the cocktails were wonderful and had great flavors."

"Carmen's service was spot-on and she was a lot of fun."

Good to know

1

A $20 cake cutting fee is charged for bringing in your own cake.

2

Happy hour offers great deals during the week; check the menu for specifics.

3

Live jazz performances occur every Friday, enhancing the dining experience.

21
Mozzarella Bar image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant features balcony views overlooking multiple mall levels and a bright, modern feel with comfortable seating. Atmosphere stays calm and cozy, inviting for relaxed meals amid mall activity. Kids menu and seating options accommodate families despite open layout.

Creative cocktails use quality ingredients and offer well-balanced flavors. Drinks like the Tulum-Tulum and Harleys stand out for their taste and refreshment.

Meatballs come basic but flavorful and are served hot. They stand out as delicious appetizers that even get extra orders.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, flavorful, and amazing."

"The meatballs here are basic but flavorful and delicious."

"I enjoyed the creative cocktails and quality ingredients."

Good to know

1

Expect an hour wait time after orders are submitted.

2

The restaurant often runs out of menu items, including bread and Parmesan cheese.

3

There is no kids menu available, limiting options for families.

22
Ocean Steak image 1
Steak house

Spacious steakhouse with beautiful ocean views and comfortable seating creates a setting for fine dining. Atmosphere is dark yet private, with music at a balanced volume, though it can feel busy and loud at times. The vibe suits those seeking a lively, upscale experience near a casino.

Happy hour features amazing cocktails served at the bar. Guests enjoy drinks with a stunning view while waiting for dinner.

Wagyu meatballs stand out for their moist texture and rich flavor. They appear as a key appetizer and part of larger fixed menus, offering a satisfying choice among other dishes.

People are saying

"The steak service was attentive and friendly, with thoughtful touches."

"The cocktails here are attentive and friendly."

"The wagyu meatballs were so moist and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large parties, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Expect to pay around $100 per person for a full meal.

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