Boston Nightlife Ventures has introduced its latest concept, Certified Meatball Company, to South Boston. Pawtucket, Rhode Island-based practice Morris Nathanson Design crafted the 2,270-square-foot space akin to that of a former butcher shop, evoking an authentic, Italian ambiance.
A counter installed in the back of the restaurant faces a partially open kitchen, while knives and other butcher tools hang behind the window for a gritty, vintage quality. The 16-seat bar serves as the focal point of the interior, painted a bright, distressed red with a black undercoat that exposes rubbed and sanded areas. The bar is topped with quartz agglomerate, which is crafted to resemble warm, white Carrara marble, while the tilted bar front showcases black and white graphic stripes. Punctuated with antiqued window frames and historic photography, walls feature a high wainscot of taupe-colored wide beadboard and embossed patterns. Three large wood collages grace the walls in the shape of a pig, cow, and one with elements that say “butcher.”
Booths, banquettes, and loose chairs span the dining room, upholstered in classic burgundy faux leather vinyl and rimmed with antique brass nailheads. Chairs feature metal frames with an aged patina as well as wooden seats and crest rails. Hightop tables made from reclaimed wood line the walls, galvanized with plumbing pipe bases and surrounded by wooden stools with caged backs. Muted gray and white tiles span the floor in nine randomly assorted patterns illuminated by vintage fixtures, industrial pendants, and a retractable skylight at the front half of the restaurant.
