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| - Location: In the up and coming Southern part of town. The closest is subway is probably Georges-Vanier (though you'll have to walk from there) - street parking is available, both metered and free. Check the signs to avoid useless parking tickets, though.
The place: I like it. Very clean, big windows, lots of white walls. Some may think it's a little sterile, in a hospital ward kind of way but I found it to be fresh. The space isn't very big so if you plan to go on a weekend night, I would recommend making a reservation.
The goods: I'll be honest - I'd been looking forward to checking these guys out since I found out about them. Despite not being much of a meat eater, my Italian bloodline necessitates that I love meatballs. It's like, a culinary rule or something. In any case, I know a good meatball when I see it (thanks mama T!). Sadly, Nini's did not blow me away with their meatballs. They offer several different varieties: the traditional beef & Parmesan, chicken and hot sauce, shrimp, and a veggie option as well. I went with what I consider to be the traditional option: beef and Parmesan in a tomato sauce, with a side of linguini (spicy tomato sauce). I was served 3 very small meatballs in one bowl and a separate plate of linguini. I think it makes more sense to get everything in one plate (and with the same sauce) but to each their own, I guess. The meatball was lacking in overall flavor and there was something off about the texture. It was too firm for my liking. Also, the Parmesan was on top of the meatballs in thin sheets. Typically (at least in my experience), Parmesan is used to make the meatballs and therefore part of the mixture. You don't actually see it. In any case, you can easily find better at Elio's, who will happily serve you tennis ball-sized meatballs that rock.
The pasta, though good, was boxed. What can I say? I like fresh pasta. I should point out that it was perfectly al dente which is a plus for me. I enjoyed the spicy tomato sauce - it was super tasty and had the right level of zing. For dessert, we tried the deep-fried goat-cheese meatball with spiced honey. This was a definite hit!
Service: The wait staff was super friendly and quick. They made sure we always had water on hand.
Price point: Basically, for the amount of food that you're getting, it's too expensive. Also, charging $3 for cold, store-bought bread, to me, is ridiculous. It's a meatball place - what are you supposed to clean up the rest of your sauce with? Your napkin. I think bread should be automatically included free of charge - almost any other restaurant that you walk into will offer bread on the house.
I wish these guys the best with their new endeavor, but unfortunately, will not be returning.
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