The King Salami – Hot and Sweet Sopressata, Finocchiona, Red Peppers

When Speedy Romeo opened up in the Lower East Side (their first outpost is in Brooklyn), it was all the buzz on Eater NY.

I had attempted to brunch at the Brooklyn location but decided the lengthy wait was not worth it. But the place seemed charming and full of character, so I earmarked it for a future visit.

Speedy Romeo LES tries to infuse their decor with some quirkiness but the place doesn’t have nearly the same heart as the Brooklyn one. There was something a little too new about it.

Our nice and thin pepperoni pizza was…well…nice but overshadowed by the really fantastic meatball sub. That mammoth platter of meaty bready goodness really wowed me. Made me wish I hadn’t filled up on all that pizza.

We started with the mozzarella bruschetta appetizer, which was also really fantastic.

When you come to Speedy Romeo, you’ll order pizza because you’ll think you have to. But you’ll enjoy everything else you order, much more.

Bloody Mary

Mozarella Crostini – $16

THE GRAVLAX – $20
Grilled Dough, Fennel Cured Salmon, Ricotta, Red Onion, Capers, Lemon

Meatball Sandwich – $16
Pork & Veal Meatballs, Parmesan, Pecorino, Tomato Sauce, Italian Bread