Atly Logo
New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Rigatoni and meatballs in New Jersey

A bowl of rigatoni where the meatballs are integrated into the dish, rather than just sitting on top as an accessory.

Based on 751 Opinions
+748
User
User
User
Updated May 2026
01
Dante's Restaurant image 1
Dante's Restaurant image 2
Dante's Restaurant image 3
View all
Italian restaurant

Modern space blends upscale sports bar with intimate lounge areas and a large bar with multiple TVs. Atmosphere feels welcoming and balanced, combining cozy and elegant elements without music or heavy decoration. Popular spot for pregame gatherings and casual dining with a clean, refreshed interior.

Tender and full of flavor, the meatballs stand out as an authentic Italian appetizer. They deliver a consistently top-notch taste that draws repeat visits.

Spicy rigatoni vodka features perfectly cooked noodles with a flavorful vodka sauce loaded with guanciale. The dish is cooked al dente but the spice level is mild.

People are saying

"The food here is creative and delicious."

"The rigatoni vodka sauce was loaded with guanciale."

"The meatballs were tender and full of flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with excellent drink deals.

2

Parking is available on-site, but it can fill up quickly during peak hours.

3

Dante's hosts a grand opening event with complimentary appetizers for attendees.

02
IL Forno a Legna - Raritan image 1
Italian restaurant

Wood-fired oven creates smoky, crispy pizza in a cozy, inviting space with modern decor and authentic Italian music. The atmosphere balances warmth with occasional noise from hard walls, making it suitable for relaxed meals with friends or family. Semi-private corners offer separation for larger groups.

Meatballs come tender and richly flavored with a homemade taste and a generous portion size. They pair well with the flavorful sauce and stand out even compared to other well-known spots.

Rigatoni Bolognese stands out with its classic preparation and rich flavor. Variations include Shrimp Parm over Rigatoni with Vodka Sauce and marinara, showing a range of hearty options.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic and packed with fresh, rich flavors."

"These meatballs taste homemade and are a must-try appetizer."

"The Rigatoni Bolognese was made to perfection."

Good to know

1

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

2

The restaurant has a BYOB policy, allowing guests to bring their own alcohol.

3

Weekday lunch specials offer great value and quality for diners.

03
Nolaโ€™s Osteria and Pizza image 1

Small space blends old-world Italian charm with a modern, cozy vibe. Atmosphere feels fun and lively, often crowded and noisy with many takeout orders. Known for outstanding thin crust pizza that draws a devoted crowd despite limited seating.

Large meatballs come with a separate sauce. They have a rich flavor and a delicious texture that stands out.

Spicy rigatoni comes with a real kick and cooks to perfect al dente. Rigatoni bolognese features a creamy scoop of fresh ricotta and pairs well with insanely delicious meatballs.

People are saying

"The Italian food here has a perfectly balanced, tangy sauce and world-class crust."

"This thin crust pizza is delicious with fresh ingredients."

"The rigatoni bolognese was to die for, with fresh ricotta."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant books up fast.

2

Expect a 2-hour wait for pickup during peak hours.

3

Parking on South Avenue can be difficult and chaotic.

04
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.

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

Lobster scampi rigatoni offers a spicy kick and can be customized for shellfish allergies by swapping lobster for crab. It pairs well with dishes like Caesar salad with salmon.

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.

05
From Scratch image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, intimate space with an open kitchen that feels like dining in Italy. Warm, inviting atmosphere balances cozy charm with joyful energy, ideal for quiet meals or dates. Offers authentic homemade pasta and cooking classes, emphasizing genuine Italian experience.

Juicy, well-seasoned meatballs sit on a creamy cheese sauce or come with a Mortadella sauce featuring lemon zest. Fresh ingredients make the meatballs and accompanying dishes stand out.

Rigatoni dishes feature al dente pasta with standout sauces like Gricia and Amatriciana. The carbonara version also highlights firm pasta texture and rich flavors.

People are saying

"The pasta here is incredible, fresh, and authentic."

"The Rigatoni here is delicious and authentic Italian."

"The meatballs were juicy, well-seasoned, and melt-in-your-mouth good."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, so planning ahead is necessary.

2

The restaurant offers a special Valentineโ€™s Day menu.

3

Bringing a bottle of wine is recommended when visiting.

06
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.

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.

Rigatoni comes with melted smoked provolone adding a touch of heat or served with vodka sauce. Portions arrive in a small half bowl and can be lukewarm.

People are saying

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

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

"The rigatoni with vodka sauce was very good."

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.

07
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.

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.

Spicy rigatoni stands out with its perfect cooking and bursting flavor. It pairs well with dishes like dry-aged ribeye and braised short rib pasta.

People are saying

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

"The spicy rigatoni here is surprisingly really good."

"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.

08
BOSCHETTO image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant combines upscale casual design with a spacious outdoor patio and dog-friendly seating. Atmosphere feels welcoming and cozy, with thoughtful decor and a vibe that recalls authentic Italy. Small size leads to limited seating, creating an intimate dining experience.

Meatballs come out fresh and quickly, showing a consistent delicious quality across visits. They stand out alongside other dishes like pizza and octopus.

Rigatoni pasta stands out with a great taste that makes you want more. The pesto and rigatoni entrees are solid choices among the options.

People are saying

"The casual pizzas here have a fantastic crust and fresh ingredients."

"I thought the meatballs were delicious."

"I couldn't get enough of this rigatoni; it was so good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

2

Free parking is available in the lot attached to the restaurant.

3

The order-at-the-counter system streamlines the dining experience.

09
Catezza Italian Kitchen + Bar image 1

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.

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

Broccoli Rabe Mint Rigatoni stands out with perfect cooking and a delightful blend of flavors. Spicy Rigatoni offers a balanced heat that pairs well with other dishes like sausage and octopus.

People are saying

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

"You have to try the spicy rigatoni; it's amazing."

"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.

10
Patricia's Downtown image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, cozy Italian restaurant with crystal chandeliers and understated decor creates an upscale yet intimate atmosphere. Loud noise level and tight seating bring high energy, often filled with soft jazzy music. Space feels packed, with tables close together near the entrance.

Meatballs here taste very close to a classic family recipe, with the Grandma's meatballs appetizer standing out as both delicious and substantial enough to serve as a meal.

Sauce options include a Marzano tomato sauce and a creamy vodka sauce. Rigatoni pairs well with spicy grilled chicken and classic dishes like chicken marsala.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and amazing."

"I thought the meatballs were the best I have ever had."

"The rigatoni with Marzano tomato sauce was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required due to the restaurant's small size.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, but ice buckets are not provided.

3

A 3.29% service fee applies to debit card transactions.

11
Bella Trattoria E Pizzeria image 1
Italian restaurant

Elegant space with unique decor and great curb appeal creates a cozy, family-oriented atmosphere. Relaxing background music enhances the inviting vibe, while BYOB service adds a personal touch. Known for authentic Italian dishes and standout pizza, it offers a warm, intimate dining experience.

Spaghetti comes with yummy meatballs that can be added to other dishes for an extra charge. The meatballs pair well with pasta like penne vodka and are a highlight of the meal.

The rigatoni Bolognese features a rich meat sauce that coats the pasta well. It stands out as a genuinely flavorful and satisfying dish.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and flavorful."

"I've never had better rigatoni bolognese; it was unbelievable."

"I thought the meatballs were yummy."

Good to know

1

Brunch is available on weekends.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, allowing you to bring your own drink.

3

All desserts are homemade, ensuring freshness.

12
Enzo Restaurant + Pizzeria image 1
Italian restaurant

Space combines speakeasy vibes with a beautiful back dining area and soft lighting that creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Acoustics can make it loud when crowded, but the overall mood stays elegant and cozy. Guests often bring their own drinks, adding to the relaxed, personal feel.

Meatballs follow a Grandmotherโ€™s recipe and stand out for their rich, traditional flavor. They appear alongside various pizza slices, pies, pasta, and salads, adding a hearty touch to the menu.

Rigatoni Bolognese stands out with rich, hearty sauce. The vodka rigatoni offers a creamy, flavorful twist with prosciutto, ham, and chicken adding depth.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and delicious."

"Frank and his team made our event so special and memorable."

"I was obsessed with their vodka rigatoni pasta."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on Fridays and Saturdays due to high demand.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

3

They offer gluten-free options and are celiac friendly.

13
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.

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.

Sauce and garlic stand out in the rigatoni, giving it a rich flavor. It pairs well with orange wine and includes white beans for added texture.

People are saying

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

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

"The rigatoni was fantastic, with lots of garlic and sauce."

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.

14
SETTE image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers an intimate setting with warm lighting and upscale decor inspired by New York motifs. Live jazz music and a one-man band provide vibrant entertainment, though space is cramped with closely set tables. Outdoor patio adds a relaxed option for dining.

Meatballs come as a classic appetizer served with ricotta or added to fresh pasta dishes, including kids' meals. They have a rich flavor and a delicious texture that stands out.

Rigatoni vodka stands out with a creamy, rich sauce. The rigatoni bolognese earns high marks for its hearty, flavorful meat sauce.

People are saying

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

"I had the most amazing meatballs as an appetizer."

"The bolognese with Rigatoni was good, but missing Marscapone cheese."

Good to know

1

Parking is only available via valet service.

2

SETTE has a BYO policy, so bring your own beverages.

3

Expect a wait during busy times, especially on weekends.

15
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.

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

Rigatoni bolognese stands out as a delightful choice, paired well with dishes like chicken parmesan. The spicy lobster rigatoni offers a rich, flavorful twist on the classic pasta.

People are saying

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

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

"I loved the rigatoni bolognese, it was delightful."

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.

16
Al Dente Fresh Pasta Co. image 1

Open kitchen showcases fresh pasta made on-site, creating a casual yet elevated vibe with Old World charm and modern twist. Atmosphere feels cozy and inviting with a family-friendly setting. Small tables and plastic utensils contrast with the overall warm environment.

Huge portions stand out, especially the delicious meatballs. They pair well with penne marinara and have a terrific flavor that appeals to all ages.

Tender chicken and mushrooms come in a marsala cream sauce with caramelized onions. The rigatoni is fresh pasta cooked to perfection and serves well for two with leftovers.

People are saying

"The fresh pasta here is delicious and homemade."

"I thought the salads were great here."

"The rigatoni was cooked to perfection in a flavorful sauce."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

2

Parking is free from 6pm onwards.

3

The restaurant does not offer traditional waiter service.

17
081 Cafe image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant with old-fashioned style decor featuring flower trees and murals creates a beautiful, lively setting. Atmosphere varies from welcoming and relaxed to very loud and crowded due to tightly packed tables. Offers small portion sizes and a great dessert selection.

Meatballs come very tender and flavorful, often served as an appetizer. They appear homemade and get topped with ricotta for extra richness.

Spicy rigatoni vodka stands out with its bold flavor and heat. Rigatoni arrabiatta also delivers a good kick, making the pasta dishes notably spicy and rich.

People are saying

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

"The meatballs were so tender and flavorful."

"The rigatoni vodka arrabiata was fantastic and a game changer."

Good to know

1

081 Cafe is BYOB, allowing guests to bring their own drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially on weekends to avoid long waits.

3

The dress code is business casual; avoid shorts and athletic wear.

Discover more

New Jersey

Area guide
Loading Map...