Los Angeles Gets Its First Vegan Meatball Shop

On February 26, Brothers Meatballs will open as the first fully vegan meatball shop in Los Angeles, CA. Founded by food industry veterans Mauro and Sergio Corbia alongside chef Mark Mittleman—their self-proclaimed “brother from another mother”—Brothers Meatballs will serve a menu inspired by their Italian mother’s Sunday suppers and centered around the brothers’ homemade vegan meatballs made with a secret recipe using local ingredients. 

The vegan meatballs can be ordered as part of sandwiches (on housemade ciabatta bread, with gluten-free options available) such as the Verde which comes with arugula pesto green tomato sauce, calabrese peppers, basil, and fresh vegan mozzarella or plates such as the Solamente Balls which come drenched in tomato sauce, topped with basil and a combination of dairy-free mozzarella and parmesan cheese, served with a side of garlic bread. The shop also serves vegan versions of other Italian classics, such as Eggplant Parm, Melanzana Lasagne, Panzanella Salad, along with sides such as Giardiniera (a medley of pickled vegetables), and dessert options such as Panna Cotta in Chocolate and Limoncello Raspberry flavors. 

“We wanted to create a restaurant that appeals to herbivores and omnivores alike, and we’re of the mindset that following a plant-based diet shouldn’t mean you’re deprived of great-tasting dining options,” Mauro Corbia told VegNews. “We grew up eating wholesome, delicious meals that our mother crafted with pure love; we want to offer food with that same authenticity and flavor to LA’s plant-based foodies.” 

Vegan with Italian flare

Mauro Corbia previously operated Mauro’s Cafe inside celebrity hangout Fred Segal and currently owns Fabiolus Cucina—a Hollywood-based restaurant where his brother Sergio Corbia serves as executive chef and co-owner. Brothers Meatballs’ 30-seater space was inspired by 1960’s Italian design and features mid-century decor, with walls adorned with photographs from the brothers’ own photo albums. The shop also offers merchandise such as custom T-shirts, hats, bags, and stickers, which were created in collaboration with creative agency Truffl. As an added sustainability bonus, all food at Brothers Meatballs will be packed in compostable containers supplied by sustainable brand VegWare.