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Sichuan Spot Meili Turns Up the Heat in Williamsburg
February 13, 2025, 7:46.09 pm ET

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Photo: Nile Brown

The team behind Midtown’s Sichuan hotspot, Chili, is turning up the heat in Brooklyn with their brand-new venture, Meili at 160 N 12th St in Williamsburg. Located on the lower level of the sleek Coda Hotel, Meili is already making waves with its bold flavors, chic vibes, and innovative cocktails.

Helmed by Chef Peter He, a Chengdu native with a Michelin-starred pedigree from his time at Café China, Meili promises an elevated dining experience that celebrates the fiery and complex flavors of Sichuan cuisine. Chef He, who’s been dazzling Midtown diners at Chili, is now bringing his culinary A-game to Brooklyn, where the creative energy of Williamsburg meets the cultural depth of Sichuan cooking.


Photo: Marcus Lloyd

Meili’s interior screams sultry sophistication. Hints of deep red, symbolizing luck and prosperity, can be found throughout the space including among the hand-blown glass sconces. A catwalk, highlighted elegantly with modern pendants, leads guests straight through the main dining room to an inviting stone bar and gold painted private dining room which seats up to 14 guests.


Photo: Nile Brown

Meili’s menu reads like a love letter to Sichuan cuisine, with Chef He pulling out all the stops to deliver a mix of classics and inventive dishes designed to thrill Brooklyn’s adventurous foodies. The standout Mapo Lobster reimagines the classic dish with succulent lobster sautéed in a garlic-laden, spicy chili sauce. Looking for something rich and soul-warming? The Red Style Chungking Braised Fish Stew features tender sole fillets swimming in a fiery broth loaded with tofu, vermicelli, and mushrooms.


Photo: Nile Brown

Carnivores, don’t miss the Tea Smoked Duck served with sticky rice, or the addictively crispy Chongqing Spicy Chicken, a mountain of stir-fried diced chicken with red chilies. Vegan offerings include Mung Bean Jelly, a tangy noodle dish made with garlic, peppercorns and chili, or the slow-cooked Spicy Cumin Mushrooms.


Photo: Marcus Lloyd

The beverage program includes signature drinks like Pearl Glow, a clarified coconut milk punch spiked with gin, pear, elderflower and citrus; and Red Dragon, a mix of black tea gin, campari, vermouth, and raspberry, along with craft beers and international wine list.

With its fiery flavors, Instagram-worthy dishes, and a vibe that’s equal parts edgy and elegant, Meili Williamsburg is set to become Brooklyn’s newest culinary obsession.



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