Meatball Mania

I've been a bit slow on the uptake when it comes to the meatball phenomenon which has slowly been creeping it's way into the social sphere, but last night the Boy and I took the plunge and went to the appropriately 'does what it says on the tin' named restaurant Meatballs.

Located in the uber-fashionable Clerkenwell, it's well placed near a number of decent pubs and bars on the Farringdon Road.  After finishing up a glass of vino in The Eagle (apparently one of London's first ever gastro pub no less) we sauntered over the road to see what all the fuss is with this Meatballs shizzle.

We were seated at a wooden table with church style pews and offered complimentary bruschetta and tapenade (won't say no) whilst we ordered our drinks (Peroni for him and a Margarita pour moi - with a cocktail umbrella and everything!).  The menu isn't extensive, which is probably a good thing as otherwise we'd never have been able to choose.  The premise of the restaurant is to choose a selection of meatballs (surprise, surprise) and then choose what you want underneath.  We each  decided upon the chorizo and chicken 'Guest Balls' with aioli on a bed of spaghetti and tomato sauce (there's nothing like food envy to ruin a meal after all), with two extra meatballs on the side:  beef & ricotta and Greek lamb.  As well as some fries for quality control.   

And you know what?  The hype is completely founded.  These meatballs were goooood, really good and worth every ounce of fuss they have generated.  And not hugely expensive either.  For £38 we ate well, were full but not to bursting.  The interior is unfussy and perfect for ensuring the yummy balls of meat were the star of the show and the Boy and I left happy, well fed and looking forward to a future meatball feast.

My verdict?  Go.  Go now.

http://www.meatballs.co.uk/