There’s plenty of competition in meatball-obsessed Gotham, so it takes a true heavy-hitter to snag that spot on this list. Chef Gabe Thompson steps up to the plate with these spicy, tender pork orbs in amatriciana sauce, served over silky, Parmesan-infused Anson Mills polenta on a spianatora (Italian for “wooden plank”). Thompson’s secret is subbing bacon for guanciale in the amatriciana sauce, which adds a smoky depth to this decadent dish. 13 E First St at Bowery (212-533-7400, lapicio.com). $18.—Stefanie Tuder
Calling all meat lovers! Are you ready to sink your teeth into the year’s best carne-centric dishes? Check out our favorites, including an elegant Wagyu steak at the Pines, homey chicken and waffles at Sweet Chick and righteous BBQ at Mighty Quinn’s.
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