Chef Michel Richard to Launch Quick Serve Specialty Meatball Shop in Penn Quarter – Meatballs

Back in Apr. ’11 I passed on some scuttlebutt that a specialty meatball shop would be launched in Penn Quarter. It turns out the specialty meatball shop, Meatballs, is being launched by none other than Chef Michel Richard of Central and Citronelle fame. Meatballs is going to be located in the retail space next to Luke’s Lobster Shack at 626 E St, NW (though the size is about 3-4 times bigger than Luke’s).

There will be 4-5 different meatballs with various sauces. Choices will include traditional, lamb, crab, fried chicken and vegetarian. You can get a Grinder (“wit or witout” meaning the grinder will be made with garlic bread or regular bread). You can also make your order with pasta or a salad. I’m told the bread has been sourced from “the single most exclusive baker in the country, made fresh for meatballs twice daily. The secret is the pillowy interior.” Sauces include traditional marinara, alfredo, morel mushroom and a special one that will rotate. Prices will range from $6.99-$9.99.

The shop will offer dine in and to go options. They also plan on offering delivery so stay tuned for the delivery radius. I stopped in last week and the build out looked nearly completed. They say the shop will likely open in about 2 weeks. I was lucky enough to try the lamb meatballs and all I can say is that those who live or work nearby Meatballs are very very lucky.