At this Huntsville restaurant, $10 can still get you tasty, satisfying food

This story is part of our Bama on a Budget series, aimed at helping 205focus.com readers find affordable eats and fun across Alabama this summer.

There is nothing worse than leaving a restaurant with a lighter wallet and an empty stomach. We have all been there—paying for an expensive lunch entrée only to walk away still looking for a snack. After one too many disappointing experiences like that in downtown Huntsville, I became a bit more selective about where I spend my time and money.

Over the last 14 years of covering Huntsville dining, one spot has consistently earned my business: Mei Wei Asian Bistro. Even with today's high food costs, this place remains a reliable staple where your money goes further.

Value and Variety

At Mei Wei—the name literally means "delicious" in Mandarin—you can still grab a satisfying meal for under $10. Their menu features about 20 different entrées priced at $9.95 for chicken or tofu options. If you prefer beef or shrimp, those entrées are available for $11.95.

While extras like fried rice cost about a dollar more and lo mein substitutions carry a $2.50 upcharge, the generous portions and quality flavors beat out typical mall-court Asian food every time. The menu offers contemporary takes on Chinese and Thai dishes that are built for accessibility rather than culinary history lessons.

The Huntsville Go-To

Conveniently located at 309 Pelham Avenue Southwest near Huntsville Hospital, the restaurant is easily accessible for those in downtown, Five Points, or the Medical District. My personal favorite is the "Spicy Mei Wei" with chicken and brown rice, but they also serve up solid green or red Thai coconut curries, Mongolian chicken, and a refreshing soy ginger broccoli with tofu.

For those interested in noodles, the menu includes Dan Dan noodles, Pad Thai, and Singapore noodles. Appetizers like egg rolls, crab wontons, gyoza, edamame, and chicken lettuce wraps round out the experience.

Getting There and Ordering

The atmosphere at the downtown location, which has been operating since spring 2015, is welcoming with its high ceilings, varied seating, and an umbrella-covered patio for nice days. You can order in person at the counter, or visit meiweiasianbistro.com for take-out and delivery options.

Huntsville has other great, down-to-earth Asian eateries worth checking out as well. Keep an eye on local favorites like Viet House, Great Panda, and Thai Garden and Viet Huong. Whether you grab a classic dish at Mei Wei or explore these other spots, you definitely won't leave feeling ripped off.