After the holidays, many people find themselves pining for the next big thing to look forward to. While some may turn to Valentine’s Day for a rapid pick-me-up, there are those that experience their joy on March 9, best known for being National Meatball Day. These tightly packed morsels of meat are oftentimes nothing more than a side to an elaborate Italian dish; but the following five establishments have transformed the meatball into the star of the show.

Fiamma Trattoria & Bar
MGM Grand Resort and Casino
3799 Las Vegas Blvd. S.
Las Vegas, NV 89109
(702) 891-7600
www.mgmgrand.com

Fiamma’s claim to fame is its impeccable ability to bring intricate old-world Italian fare to Las Vegas’ restaurant scene. The chef’s perfect pairing of spaghetti chitarra and tender kobe meatballs is just one delicious example of what makes Fiamma the premier Italian eatery on the Strip. Al dente spaghetti may be the frontrunner of this classic dish, but the kobe beef, tenderized and rolled to perfection, is the standout flavor.

Wolfgang Puck Pizzeria and Cucina
Crystals at CityCenter
3720 Las Vegas Blvd. S., Suite 240
Las Vegas, NV 89158
(702) 238-1000
www.wolfgangpuck.com

Though only a starter, Wolfgang Pucks’ grilled meatballs are worthy of center stage. Topped with freshly ground pecorino toscano and placed on a small pool of red pepper-olive ragu, these small grilled meatballs encapsulate more flavor than could ever be expected from ground meat. This unique take on deconstructed meatball parmesan is a fresh, bright and satisfying start to any meal at Wolfgang Puck’s Pizzeria and Cucina.

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Parma by Chef Marc
7591 W. Washington Ave., Suite 110
Las Vegas, NV 89128
(702) 233-6272
www.parmabychefmarc.com

No matter the size, Chef Marc’s take on the Big Apple’s homemade meatballs are an accurate interpretation that deliver in taste. These decently portioned balls of tender ground beef are drenched in Chef Marc’s own “Sunday sauce” and coated in gooey mozzarella cheese. Each bite into one of these authentic Italian morsels will have all patrons traveling back East to ole New York.

Cafe Volare
5190 S. Valley View Blvd.
Las Vegas, NV 89118
(702) 597-0604
www.cafevolarelv.com

Meatballs can be served in many forms, but the most classic method is between two slices of Italian bread topped with cheese and a rich tomato sauce. At Cafe Volare, the meatball hero is a welcomed addition to the long list of flavorful dishes. Using fontina cheese rather than the typical mozzarella, Cafe Volare’s take on the meatball hero provides a stronger taste that is sure to intrigue all walks of culinary life.

A Thyme for All Seasons
310 E. Warm Springs Road, Suite G
Las Vegas, NV 89119
(702) 614-0023
www.athymeforallseasons.com

Though it may be known for its catering capabilities, A Thyme for All Seasons is also home to a quaint breakfast and lunch cafe. Adorning the eclectic menu of Thyme’s cafe is the venue’s take on the delicacy of Swedish meatballs. These miniature balls of tenderized meat carry with them a large flavor and a thick gravy that complements each morsel.

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Mark is a steady content writer to several video game websites including http://www.explosion.com and http://www.thegamerstudio.com. Mark also ghostwrites for VIP businesses in his current home town of Las Vegas, NV. You can find the bulk of his pieces at Examiner.com.