Polpette Grande, the Giant Meatball, at Siena Restaurant on Atwells Ave.

As a pisan, I love Federal Hill.  I love the little start-up espresso shops, the abundance of Italian grocery items at Venda Ravioli, and the tasty treats at Pastiche. But perhaps most of all, I love the giant meatball, or as they say in Italian “Polpette Grande.” This appetizer at Siena Restaurant on Atwells Ave consists of an enormous meatball made from ground sirloin, veal and pork, topped with San Marzano marinara and a large scoop of a homemade ricotta cheese. My phone camera photo truly doesn’t do it justice — you’ll have to go and see (and taste) for yourself. Overall, the food at Siena is quite good. But it’s that giant meatball that keeps me coming back.

Siena Restaurant
238 Atwells Avenue
Providence, RI
(401) 521-3311
or
5600 Post Road
East Greenwich, RI
(401) 885-8850
www.sienari.com

Venda Ravioli
265 Atwells Avenue
Providence RI 02903
401-421-9105
www.vendaravioli.com

Pastiche Fine Desserts
92 Spruce Street
Providence, RI
(401) 861-5190
www.pastichefinedesserts.com‎