MEILI 沉香

- 160 N 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249

Introduction / Overview

In a city where exceptional Chinese cuisine is a tradition, MEILI 沉香 in Williamsburg elevates the experience, presenting a modern, stylish destination for bold, exciting flavors. Located at $160$ North $12$th Street, this establishment has quickly made a name for itself as a trendy, must-visit spot that artfully blends traditional Szechuan culinary principles with an upscale, contemporary Brooklyn vibe. Identifying proudly as an Asian-owned and women-owned business, MEILI 沉香 brings a fresh, dynamic perspective to the local dining scene.

The restaurant is far from your traditional neighborhood spot, featuring a sophisticated atmosphere designed for both casual dining and special occasions. It is a place where the dining experience extends beyond the plate, highlighted by unique amenities such as rooftop seating and live music, making it a compelling option for those seeking ambiance alongside world-class food. The bold, authentic nature of the Szechuan cuisine—known for its complex, spicy, and fragrant 'mala' profile—is beautifully represented in a menu that caters to diverse tastes and preferences.

MEILI 沉香 successfully bridges the gap between traditional Chinese gastronomy and New York’s demanding modern palate. This is exemplified in signature high-end entrees like the decadent Ma Po Lobster and the richly flavorful Truffle Beef Tenderloin. Alongside these luxurious options, the restaurant provides extensive offerings for plant-based diners, including dishes like Kung Pao Vegan Chicken and various Szechuan-style vegetable plates. Whether you are coming in for a solo bite, an intimate dinner, or a group gathering, MEILI 沉香 provides a memorable experience that celebrates the depth and complexity of Chinese cooking in a stylish, welcoming environment.

Location and Accessibility

MEILI 沉香 is perfectly situated in the bustling heart of Williamsburg at $160$ N $12$th St, Brooklyn, NY $11249$. This North Brooklyn address is renowned for its easy access and vibrant atmosphere, placing the restaurant at a central location near popular local attractions, shops, and the East River waterfront.

For New York locals, the accessibility of the $11249$ area is a major benefit. The restaurant is within easy walking distance of the Bedford Avenue L train station, a primary transportation hub providing fast and direct connectivity to Manhattan. This makes MEILI 沉香 an effortless choice for both neighborhood residents and those traveling in from other boroughs. Furthermore, the area is well-served by local bus lines and is bicycle-friendly, catering to all forms of urban transit.

The establishment goes above and beyond to ensure physical accessibility for all patrons. It features a wheelchair accessible entrance and a wheelchair accessible parking lot, demonstrating thoughtful planning for mobility needs, which is a key consideration for New Yorkers. The trendy, yet casual, atmosphere invites locals to make MEILI 沉香 a regular spot, whether stopping by for lunch, meeting a group for dinner, or enjoying a cocktail at the bar onsite. Its location in a thriving, diverse community, including being an LGBTQ+ friendly and transgender safe space, further establishes its role as an open and welcoming hub in the neighborhood.

Services Offered

• Full Dining Service: Available for Brunch, Lunch, Dinner, and Dessert, offering a range of seating options including table service.
• Off-Premise Options: Provides both convenient Delivery and Takeout services, catering to those who wish to enjoy the menu at home.
• Accepts Reservations: Allows for easy planning and securing tables for both intimate and group dining experiences.
• Catering: Offers catering services, making it an excellent choice for local corporate events, private parties, and larger gatherings.
• Flexible Payments: Accepts all major payment methods, including Credit Cards, Debit Cards, and modern NFC mobile payments.
• Group Friendly: The atmosphere and seating are well-suited for groups, making it an ideal venue for social gatherings and celebrations.
• Children and Families: Listed as Family-friendly, ensuring a comfortable environment for younger diners.

Features / Highlights

• Unique Rooftop Seating and Live Music: A standout feature in Williamsburg, offering an elevated and memorable dining experience with entertainment and views.
• Premium Szechuan Entrees: Specialized dishes that elevate the cuisine, such as Ma Po Lobster***, Truffle Beef Tenderloin*, and Ginger and Scallion Lobster, appealing to fine dining tastes.
• Extensive Plant-Based Menu: A wide range of dedicated Vegan and Vegetarian options, including dishes like Kung Pao Vegan Chicken*, Ma Po Tofu**, and Chengdu Mixed Mushroom*, ensuring dietary needs are met with flavorful substitutes.
• Signature Cocktail Program: Features creative, themed cocktails such as the Golden Hour, Red Dragon, and Oolongtini, perfectly complementing the complex Szechuan spices.
• Authentic Dim Sum & Cold Dishes: Offers a variety of traditional smaller plates like Pork Soup Dumpling, Beef Pot Sticker*, and Szechuan Cold Noodles*, alongside cold dishes like Mr. And Mrs. Smith** and Mouthwatering Chicken*.
• Identifies as Women- and Asian-Owned: Supports local community values and adds a layer of cultural significance and authenticity to the business's identity.
• Specialty Chinese Teas and Beers: A curated beverage list featuring traditional teas (Pu'er, Longjing, Jasmine) and specialty beers (Tsingtao, Oolong Kolsch), enhancing the overall authentic experience.

Contact Information

Address: $160$ N $12$th St, Brooklyn, NY $11249$, USA

Phone: ($516$) $960$-$1936$

What is worth choosing

Choosing MEILI 沉香 is about opting for a contemporary, high-energy Chinese dining experience that is difficult to replicate elsewhere in the city. The reasons to choose this Williamsburg institution are manifold, extending beyond the impressive menu and into the atmosphere and unique offerings. For the discerning New York diner, MEILI 沉香 delivers on several key value propositions.

First and foremost is the *elevated culinary focus*. While the restaurant serves the foundational comfort food expected of a quality Chinese spot (like Kung Pao Chicken and Pork Wonton Soup), it truly shines with its signature Szechuan-focused dishes. The boldness and complexity of Szechuan flavors—the heat of the chili, the tingle of the peppercorns—are present in staples like Chungking Spicy Chicken*** and Twice Cooked Pork**. Moreover, the inclusion of premium, unique entrees like Ma Po Lobster*** and Truffle Beef Tenderloin* demonstrates a commitment to a sophisticated, market-leading menu that sets it apart from typical Chinese takeout, making it a destination for culinary adventure.

Secondly, the *atmosphere and amenities* are unparalleled in the local area. The promise of rooftop seating and live music immediately transforms the dining experience from a simple meal into an event. This blend of a trendy, chic dining room with the casual energy of Williamsburg makes it an attractive hub for groups and date nights. The dedicated bar onsite, complemented by an excellent signature cocktail list (the Oolongtini is a must-try), makes MEILI 沉香 a fantastic pre- or post-dinner spot in its own right.

Finally, the restaurant's commitment to *inclusivity and fast service* addresses critical needs for the New York user. The availability of a wide array of clearly labeled Vegan and Vegetarian options ensures that diverse dietary requirements are met with substance, offering flavorful choices like Kung Pao Vegan Chicken*. While one customer review noted an issue with some vegan dishes, the sheer breadth of the plant-based menu (from Ma Po Tofu** to Dry-Pot Cabbage*) suggests a strong, continued commitment to these offerings. Coupled with a 'Fast service' highlight, the restaurant offers an efficient, comfortable, and accommodating experience that appeals to the diverse, fast-paced rhythm of Brooklyn life.

MEILI 沉香

160 N 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249, USA