When Club Meatballs opened their doors at Cross Street 3 years ago, they didn't quite change the scene like what a burger would at times. But now with a new chef on board, along with a revamped menu, this humble meatball may be on a roll this time round. Crafted by millennial chef La Mei Mei from New York, be thrilled by meatballs in all possible forms that you could ever imagine. “Food that makes people happy” quoting Chef Mei.
Ginger Pork Ball 3.5/5
Bar Bites menu here is a wardrobe of meatballs dishes that replace the usual boring caloried-pack finger food. Paying homage to her Vietnamese and Malaysian descent, Ginger Pork Ball Lettuce Cups ($14) exudes flavours of a Vietnamese dish. The piquant dressing may remind you of a fish sauce dip but better with a touch of acidity from lime juice, which makes it suitable as an appetizer too.
Cup of Chilli 3.8/5
The extended bar bites menu also feature comfort food such as Cup of Chili ($10). Thick and robust with minced beef and spices, it reminds me of a really good beef goulash I had in Eastern Europe. A small cup, yet so intense, goes a long way in satisfying one's appetite.
Mac & Cheese balls 3/5
The crust of the Mac and Cheese Balls ($12) was well done and remained crusty even after a while but what's lacking I feel is that highly anticipated ooze that is very much associated with Mac and Cheese, that usually drives the craving. Perhaps, a cheese dip at the side or simply a pour over onto the crusty balls may help to elevate the experience.
Club Meatball Pizza 3.5/5
Never thought of using meatball as pizza toppings but Club Meatball Pizza ($22) did it seamlessly. I love the charred bacon atop, not just because of its smokey flavour but the pizza just smelled so good when I brought a slice into my mouth. Visually, it would be more enticing if the meatballs are kept whole, as if meatballs have fallen onto our pizza!
Baller Platter 4.2/5
Time to really feast on meatballs! The Baller Platter ($25-$35) comes in a choice of signature balls - classic beef, ginger pork, garlic thyme chicken, cumin spiced lamb, panko crusted fish, tofu and mushroom; served on a bed of mashed potatoes and topped with a selection of sauces of your choice - tomato, garlic aioli, mushroom, red wine onion gravy or pesto. We had garlic thyme chicken balls, each dressed neatly with mushroom sauce. Surprisingly, I like it a lot more than I thought I would. These chicken balls are compact but enough room for the minced meat to release its juice within and react with the garlic and thyme. The spices cuts the meatiness which ensures you and your friends can work through the entire plate. The mash potatoes itself shines on its own - smooth and creamy, it completes a classic meatball dish, along with the rich shroomy sauce.
Shepherd's Pie 2.8/5
Shepherd’s Pie ($18) here is made with lamb and what's interesting is that the mini lamb balls gives an extra bite to it. Its taste did not sit quite well with me though. I would prefer a tomato based sauce to work with the gamey flavour of the lamb and the mash potatoes atop was too runny.
Beer Braised Short Ribs 3.8/5
Whole meats plates are available too and I would recommend this Beer Braised Short Ribs ($28), slow-cooked not sous vide, in San Miguel dark lager. Just look at how cushy the mashed potatoes is! The meat was fork-tender and the sauce complements not just the meat but the fluffy mashed potatoes underneath.
I hardly take notice of meatballs, other than the IKEA meatballs that we grow up with. Club Meatballs changes that. There are great drinks promotion going on, though we ladies benefit more - On Wednesday ladies night, 1 for 1 Aperol Spritz is at $15 and groups of 4 ladies enjoy a complimentary bottle of champagne!
Photos and words by Si An. A girl who is allured by travelling, loves the feel of freedom, smell of the rain and the aroma of fine coffee and food. Note: This is an invited tasting.
Club MeatBalls
China Court
20 Cross Street
#01-05/06
Singapore 048422
Tel: +65 62228660
Website
Nearest MRT: Chinatown (DT Line, NE Line), Telok Ayer (DT Line)
Opening hours:
Mon-Fri: 8am- 12midnight
Sat-Sun: 10am to 10pm
Direction:
1) Alight at Chinatown MRT station. Take Exit F. Walk to South Bridge Road. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]
2) Alight at Telok Ayer MRT station. Take Exit B. Walk to China Street. Cross the road. Walk to destination. Journey time about 5 minutes. [Map]
