From Wieners to Winners: Wally’s wins “Best Meatball on Federal Hill”

PROVIDENCE, R.I. — In a surprising twist at this year’s Festa di San Giuseppe on Federal Hill, Wally’s also known as Wally’s Wieners, a new Providence eatery known for its hot dogs, won “Best Meatball on the Hill”—despite not offering the dish on its regular menu.

Coming in second was Cafe Italia, who consistently offers meatballs on their menu.

Located in the former Old Canteen on Atwells Avenue, Wally’s recently its doors last month, but that didn’t stop the team from entering the festival’s contest, where they somehow outperformed a lineup of well-established Italian restaurants on Federal Hill, many of which are staples of the historic neighborhood.

The Festa di San Giuseppe, held annually on Federal Hill, celebrates St. Joseph with food, music, and community events, drawing thousands to the heart of Providence’s Italian district. But this year, it was a hot dog shop that walked away with the biggest headline.