Our Story

Childhood best friends Daniel Holzman and Michael Chernow dreamed of opening their first restaurant when they were delivery boys working together on the Upper East Side. Years later, in 2010, the dream was realized when they were looking to share a more accessible culinary concept with their fellow New Yorkers in the Lower East Side. The Meatball Shop was an instant hit, quickly evolving into not only a restaurant destination but also a lifestyle brand.

The Meatball Shop serves the best meatballs in the world with a mix and match menu utilizing sustainable and natural ingredients whenever possible. Menu highlights include seasonal veggies, market-driven salads, sandwiches, handmade ice cream sandwiches, craft cocktails, and an approachable wine program. Each restaurant’s distinct vibe reflects the vibrancy of its specific neighborhood and offers a fun and supportive environment for its staff, which was Michael and Daniel's original vision; create an environment where people would want to work.

In addition to the restaurants, The Meatball Shop published their cookbook in 2011 to much acclaim and their Classic Tomato Sauce can be found in grocery stores nationwide including Whole Foods Markets. The Meatball Shop has collaborated with partners such as Vans, Shut Skateboards, Carhartt, and various charities such as the Covenant House and Heritage Pride NYC. The Meatball Shop's infectious enthusiasm and delicious food have been featured on Late Night with Jimmy Fallon, The Tonight Show with Jay Leno, Chelsea Lately, Good Morning America, GQ, Glamour, Food & Wine, Playboy, Men’s Journal, Esquire and much more.