Seemor
MEILI 沉香A-Worth Trying
160 N 12th St, Brooklyn, NY 11249
· Chinese restaurant, Restaurant
· 4.7/5 Google (253 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout
Stylish Sichuan spot with strong seafood and classics, creative cocktails, and live jazz; pricing is premium and spice/portion consistency varies.
Why it gets an A- for overall quality
MEILI 沉香 delivers A-grade performance through strong food quality anchored by standout seafood and exceptional setting appeal with elegant design and warm service. However, inconsistent execution—particularly in spice levels and portion sizing across visits—prevents grade A territory, and occasional service knowledge gaps on dietary accommodations create friction for guests with specific needs. The restaurant excels as a polished Sichuan destination for diners seeking refined flavors and ambiance, though reliability concerns keep it from elite standing.
Restaurant Summary
The room feels warm and elegant, all high ceilings and polished wood, with a bar that hums and occasional live jazz. Guests describe staff as attentive and welcoming, with servers guiding first-timers through spice levels. One diner put it simply: "The bass was pristine and the room felt special." However, expect premium pricing for the setting and seafood. The cooking leans elevated Sichuan—refined plating, premium ingredients, and clean flavors more than blowtorch theatrics. The culinary approach feels produce- and seafood-forward with classics like mapo tofu and spicy chicken alongside truffle beef and whole steamed fish. Many love the string beans and bass; a minority find spice muted or portions modest, so it suits diners who want polished Sichuan over fire-breathing heat. Families can do well here if kids gravitate to dumplings and fried rice or milder chicken dishes. Spice can run assertive, so ask for recommendations. There is a sizable vegan section, but strict vegans should verify sauces; a credible report flagged oyster sauce in items listed vegan, so double-check before ordering to keep the experience smooth.
At a Glance
- Elegant room and lively bar with occasional live jazz
- Standout seafood, especially steamed whole bass
- Broad vegan and vegetarian selection
- Spice and portion consistency vary by visit and dish
- Dietary labeling accuracy for strict vegan/GF needs
What Sets It Apart
- live_jazz_nights
- premium_seafood_preparations
- elegant_williamsburg_setting
- broad_vegan_menu
What People Love
- Fresh, delicately cooked whole fish
- Crisp, addictive string beans
- Thoughtful cocktails that pair with spice
- Sleek, design-forward space
Points of Concern
- Some diners report muted spice or bland takeout compared to dine-in
- Premium seafood pricing and refined portions may feel small for the cost
- Isolated service missteps on event/rooftop nights (slow pacing, coordination)
- Review patterns show occasional polished marketing tone, but no clear manipulation indicators
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$45-65 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Seafood focus: Steamed Whole Bass ($38) or Braised Fish Stew ($35) for best value vs lobster
- Value mains: Kung Pao Chicken ($20) and Twice Cooked Pork ($25)
- Dim sum warm-up: Pork Dumpling in Chili Oil ($12) and Dan Dan Noodles ($12)
Perfect For
- Date night with cocktails and jazz
- Seafood lovers craving refined Sichuan
- Small groups sharing plates
- Solo bar dining with dim sum
Location Insights
Area: Trendy Williamsburg block near hotels and waterfront; design-forward venues and nightlife.
Safety: Well-trafficked, well-lit nightlife corridor; typical urban awareness advised.
Nearby: Adjacent to CODA Hotel and Bar Blondeau; near McCarren Park and waterfront.
WilliamsburgWilliamsburg offers a dynamic dining scene ranging from casual eateries and artisanal cafes to upscale restaurants and bars. The social atmosphere is energetic and eclectic, with a strong emphasis on innovation in food and drink, attracting a crowd interested in contemporary culture and nightlife.
North WilliamsburgNorth Williamsburg is characterized by a mix of renovated industrial spaces and residential buildings, with a growing number of boutique restaurants and coffee shops. It maintains a balance between the bustling nightlife of the south and a more laid-back, community-oriented feel.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday12:00–22:00
Tuesday12:00–22:15
Wednesday12:00–22:15
Thursday12:00–22:30
Friday12:00–23:30
Saturday12:00–23:30
Sunday12:00–22:15
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout
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