Where should you celebrate National Meatball Day?

It's true, there are all kinds of meatballs. But for this Kansas City native and the sake of simplicity, let's concentrate on the traditional Italian variety. I know what a quality meatball should taste like. I was raised by a grandmother that made homemade meatballs using a recipe handed down directly from her southern Itay descendants. Piled on a plate of spagaitti, in a sandwich, or just by themselves, I can consume more than my fair share.

It is not clear how this national day got its start, but who wouldn't want to celebrate National Meatball Day? According to Yelp, here are some of Grand Junction's favorite Italian restaurants.

il Bistro Italiano- I'll start with my favorite. This little joint downtown Grand Junction was one of the first restaurants I ventured into shortly after moving here. The restaurant's founder Brunella came to the US in 1990 and studied Mesa State College (before it became a University), graduating in 1994 with a Business and Hospitality degree. She opened il Bistro Italiano in 1998. You won't find meatballs on the menu here but I can tell you the Rosetta is some of the best I've ever had!  

Enzo's Ristorante Italiano-  I've been here several times. Well known for their pizzas and two locations at 3235 I-70 business loop in Clifton and 707 Horizon Drive in Grand Junction, they've been serving up quality Italian cuisine since the summer of 2009. This Saturday, order up your favorite pasta and make sure to add the meatballs. They're just $2.99 more.

Citrolas Pizzaria-  This little joint at 759 Horizon drive in Grand Junction has been serving up New York style pizza and other Italian specialties since 1993. They're open Monday through Saturday 11 AM to 9 PM.

Pantuso’s Ristorante-  This place is where I've celebrated my last two company Christmas parties. They have a huge menu and long tradition in Grand Junction. This place has been serving the community since 1958. Their bread is baked fresh daily, there are hand-cut steaks, fresh fish flown in 3 times a week and homemade old-world Italian specialties from the Tuscany region and their southern Italian family recipes.

All this talk about meatballs and Italian food has made me hungry! Maybe you too? Gather up your friends and support locally-owned family operated Italian restaurants this Saturday and make sure to order up a few meatballs. Make sure to share your experience by using the hashtag #NationalMeatballDay on social media.

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