Hard to believe it's only been five years since The Meatball Shop first foisted its balls upon the Lower East Side. To celebrate this most auspicious occasion, on Monday, February 9th the flagship shop on Stanton Street will be practically giving their balls away for free, with a special 5th anniversary menu for just $5.
Starting at 6 p.m., diners willing to brave the wait—which, to be fair, happens almost every night—can score any entree plus a side for $5. That includes their classic beef, spicy pork, chicken, veggie or special Mediterranean lamb meatballs served either "Naked" (with bread) or in a Meatball Hero (on a baguette), Meatball Smash (on brioche) or in the Kitchen Sink Salad (with mixed greens and vegetables).
Sides include a variety of starches like pasta, mashed potatoes, polenta and white beans, plus greens like a simple salad or steamed broccoli or spinach. Chef Daniel Holman—who'll be on hand to personally handle your balls—has also created a special TMS 5-Year Anniversary Menu, which includes the special lamb meatball; a Black Trumpet and Black Truffle Risotto; Roasted Fingerling Potatoes with Creme Fraiche and Caviar; a Celery and Romaine Market Salad with Fried Capers and Bottarga; and a veggie side of Creamed Chard with Fontina Parmesan.
Finally, the cocktail for the evening: The Last Word, a Bulldog Gin-based drink with green chartreuse, lime juice and a Maraschino liqueur. As an added philanthropic touch, all bar proceeds from the evening with be donated to Covenant House, providing housing and counseling to homeless youth.
84 Stanton Street, website
