Amazing Italian ... Little Maria's

Little Maria's Porchetta & Meatballs has been consistently on the top of Urbanspoon's talk of the town. Combining a unique story, charming decor and amazing food, it rocked up to the top of my wishlist of restaurants. Unfortunately they are open for somewhat limited hours which restricted my ability to dine there. Thus with a free Saturday I made it a mission to trek out to Little Maria's for lunch.

Located on the corner of Edmonton Street and Broadway, Little Maria's exudes a sense of coziness. The classy name-board and huge windows make window-dining (I may have made this term up) a necessity. The menu is simple and robust, highlighting bold Italian flavours.

In keeping with its name, I felt obligated to order the meatballs (and porchetta). An order of Naked Balls gives you the choice of three types (I got the classic beef & pork), a choice of six sauces (Bolognese for me) and a side of vegetables or pasta.

These meatballs were divine. Incredibly tender and moist, Little Maria's attempts to showcase simple and bold flavours that work well with one another. The tangy bolognese sauce and sharp Parmesan cheese completed this fantastic dish. 

The Porchetta sandwich consists of sliced oven roasted Italian pork with garlic sauteed spinach on a fresh Italian bun. This was amazing. The porchetta was incredibly tender, fatty and rich. It had the thick fattiness of country ham with the tender and subtle flavours of Italian prosciutto.

The garlic spinach in this dish add a simple but excellent contrast to the pork. The wonderfully crusty bun works well to keep all the ingredients inside without getting too soggy. Overall this was one of the best sandwiches I have ever had.

Little Maria's Porchetta and Meatballs is, by my estimation, the best Italian restaurant in Winnipeg. Not only does it serve incredible food, but the story behind the restaurant, a single father who moved away from haute cuisine to spend  time with and to provide for his daughter, and fun decor make it the entire package.