You know So.Gay will always let you know about the best new hot spots — from Bar Cima to Alessa — and our latest recommendation is our favorite so far of 2025. Meili is jaw-droppingly gorgeous — and delicious — and is a new must-check-out destination for New York locals, as well as visitors.
Chef Peter He, partner Miki Niu, and the team behind Chili, the beloved Midtown New York hotspot celebrated for its authentic Sichuan flavors, have just opened Meili Williamsburg, a new destination for Sichuan cuisine in Brooklyn. Located on the lower level of the Coda Williamsburg and opened to the public in February 2025, Meili showcases time-honored recipes from Chef He, elevated cocktails, and a chic atmosphere for an unforgettable dining experience.
Meili’s dining room blends modern sophistication with rich cultural elements to create an immersive and elegant dining experience. Guests are welcomed into the space by descending a pair of red mahogany staircases into the main dining room, which is cast in a beautiful burgundy limewash. 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.
Born and raised in Chengdu, China, Chef He has spent decades mastering the bold flavors of Sichuan cuisine. He previously led the kitchen of Cafe China, which earned a Michelin star during his tenure, and currently serves as the Executive Chef at Chili, where he continues to elevate Sichuan cuisine for discerning diners.
“Meili is our way of sharing the warmth and depth of Sichuan cooking while embracing the creative spirit that defines Williamsburg,” says Miki Niu, founder and partner of Meili and Chili. “Opening in Brooklyn is a big milestone for us, and we can’t wait for the community to experience everything Meili has to offer.”
The Menu: Meili’s menu is a love letter to the Sichuan province, showcasing signature dishes from Chili as well as new culinary creations designed to appeal to Williamsburg’s adventurous dining scene. Chef He crafted the menu with an emphasis on Sichuan street food classics as well as plant based dishes, offering a separate extensive vegan menu. Signature dishes include:
● Mr. And Mrs. Smith – sliced beef & tripe seasoned with chili peanut sauce
● Chongqing Spicy Chicken – stir fried diced chicken with red chili peppers
● Mung Bean Jelly – mung bean noodles, garlic, peppercorn, sesame and chili (vegan)
● Mapo Lobster – sauteed with garlic, spicy chili sauce, peppercorn and tofu
● Red Style Chungking Braised Fish Stew – fillets of sole, tofu, vermicelli and mushroom with chili oil and peppercorn
● Spicy Cumin Mushrooms – slow cooked with chili peppers, onion and cilantro (vegan)
● Tea Smoked Duck with sticky rice
The Beverage Program: In addition to its food menu, Meili boasts an outstanding beverage program that celebrates global wines, craft beers, and signature cocktails infused with Sichuan-inspired ingredients. Highlights include:
● Pearl Glow – clarified coconut milk punch with gin, pear, elderflower, citrus
● Red Dragon – black tea gin, campari, vermouth, raspberry
● Oolongtini – toasted rice, mr. black, cold brew
● Match Emerald – aged rum, bourbon, sherry, matcha, chocolate
Hours & Location: Meili Williamsburg is located at 160 N 12th St (between Bedford St and Berry St) in Brooklyn, NY. Operating hours are Mondays through Fridays 11:30 am – 10:00pm and Saturdays and Sundays 12 pm – 10:15 pm. Reservations will be available on Resy. Additional information can be found on their website: meiliwilliamsburg.com and on Instagram at @meiliwilliamsburg.
