This post is all about my completely honest and non-sponsored Meili restaurant review in Brooklyn.
The last thing Williamsburg needs is another high-end Sichuan restaurant.
But restaurateur Miki Niu and Michelin-starred chef Peter He, went against the odds and led with passion, creating a spot that delivers not just on looks, but on flavor too.
I generally hate fancy hotel restaurants (for almost no good reason, other than the fact that I’m rarely impressed). So when I found myself pulling up to the CODA Hotel in Williamsburg, home to Meili, I was prepared to spend way too much money and leave feeling unsatisfied.
My Honest Review of Meili Restaurant in Williamsburg
From a menu overview, how much you’ll spend, and an overall vibe overview – here’s everything you need to know about eating at Meili Restaurant in Williamsburg.
About Meili
Between a roster of new Sichuan restaurants emerging in Williamsburg (some even under, or once previously, Chef Peter He’s cultural direction), Meili actually got some bad press and a fair share of eye rolls.
You can read all about it here, if you care. But I was annoyed that this Eater article about feuding restaurants was the only substantial thing I could find online about this new restaurant. People are mad that Williamsburg is a melting pot of copycat ideas? Tell me something I don’t know.
Meili made its Williamsburg debut on Wednesday, February 12. It’s located at 160 North 12th Street between Bedford and Berry.
Reservations
While Meili is still elbowing its way up to the top, reservations may not be required – just yet. At the very least, you can probably score a spot at their beautiful Art Deco bar top.
However, don’t get too comfortable walking in this place for too long. I have no doubt in the future it may be booked up well in advance.
Ambiance
The restaurant is beautiful. With wooden ceilings framing the space, an illuminated bar as the focal point, and emerald green accents beaming throughout. It’s an inspiring space to enjoy a unique and delicious meal.
Food + Drinks
Starting off, we ordered the Pork Soup Dumplings in Chili Oil and the Dan Dan Noodles.
Don’t skip the dim sum. These were my favorite part of the dinner!
The dumplings were so soft and flavorful. And the noodles were drenched in this wildly delicious sauce. We ate every bit of our appetizers.
Next up was the Kung Pao Chicken. I had checked the reviews beforehand, and a lot of people mentioned it, and I LOVE kung pao chicken. It truly hit the spot and was fantastic. The portion is huge, and it’s thankfully not too spicy.
We also ordered the truffle beef tenderloin. which was what the server recommended. It came smoking on a bowl of dry ice, which made the presentation of it all very impressive. Don’t get me wrong, this dish is also very tasty – but in comparison to everything else, this was personally my least favorite.
Still, we enjoyed every bite.
While I’ve heard the cocktails here are delicious, we were craving a light glass of wine with our meals. Next time I dine at Meili, I will definitely give them a try!
Service
At times, the service was a little slow. But once we got the ball rolling, the pace was a bit quicker. This is definitely a place to dine and take your time.
Price
For two people, our total was $162 (including tax and tip).
We ordered two glasses of wine, two appetizers, two entrees, a side of rice, and bottled water.
Upstairs Bar
At the end of our dinner, our server gave us a 50% off drink coupon at the bar upstairs. It’s a rooftop bar, and it was the dead of winter, so perhaps it was just to bring some business. But hey, it worked!
The bar is also really nice, and I’m sure it’s a hit in the summer.
Dress Code
While there’s no official dress code, this is a pretty chic restaurant. You’ll want to put some thought into your outfit.
Is Meili Restaurant in Williamsburg Worth Dining At?
Yes! Meili honestly blew me away in terms of price, quality, and overall was just a really fun dining experience. It was great to try a new restaurant in Williamsburg that genuinely felt unique and had insanely delicious food. I can’t wait to return!
PS – my leftovers fed me for three days !!
Other Restaurants in Brooklyn to Try:
Check out Recette, Misi, or LaRina Pastificio.
This post was all about Meili Restaurant Review in Williamsburg.
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