By Doshka Harvey

On a recent hot summer day here in NYC, I sauntered over to The Meatball Shop on the Lower East Side of Manhattan.  I'd been hearing much talk about this place and thought it fitting to scope out this eatery that might challenge all grandmas and mothers who make homemade meatballs.

Needless to say, I was left quite impressed by this cozy restaurant jointly owned by Chef Daniel Holzman and Manager Michael Chernow.

They serve 5 types of meatballs:  classic beef, spicy pork, chicken, vegetable, and a weekly special.

Patrons can opt to have their balls with an array of sides ranging from the obvious spaghetti to polenta, mashed potatoes, white beans, market salad, and steamed broccoli just to mention a few.

There are also sandwiches and on my visit I chose the BBLT ($8): ball, bacon, lettuce, tomato.

A delicious and mouthwatering treat, one can taste each individual component of the sandwich as one bites into it:  the well seasoned ball, the fresh lettuce and tomatoes, the savory bacon and well baked focaccia bread.  All these flavors then meld and for a glorious moment one is left questioning, 'Do I stick with team grandma or switch to team Meatball Shop?'  Sorry grandma!!! 

The BBLT is available as the summer special.  It is accompanied by a simple salad of arugula and apples.  And, I must say, this is the most refreshing salad I've had in quite a long time in my adventures eating out.  Chef Daniel, I want to know your secret to that dressing.

Let me add that I also got a thirst quenching watermelon lemonade (flavors vary), on the house, with my BBLT.  For this I have to thank Daily Candy since I am a DC reader and I found out this bit via their site.  A freebie is always good, especially when you live in NYC and must live as a foodie-bugetista.

The Meatball Shop - 84 Stanton Street (between Allen and Orchard on the Lower East Side), Tel. (212) 982-8895

Images © 2010 Doshka Harvey