At this Huntsville restaurant, $10 can still get you tasty, satisfying food
Dependable, fast and tasty Asian fare can still be had for less than the price of a pack of American Spirit cigs, kids.
Chloe Mitchell 
This story is part of our Bama on a Budget series, aimed at helping readers find food and fun in Alabama on the cheap this summer.
There is nothing worse than walking out of a restaurant with a lighter wallet and an empty stomach. We have all been there—paying for an overpriced lunch entrée only to leave feeling like you need a second meal just to function for the rest of the day.
Over 14 years of covering Huntsville dining for 205focus.com, I have found one reliable constant: Mei Wei Asian Bistro. It remains the spot I visit most often on my own time because the value, quality, and flavor profiles consistently deliver.
Delicious food that fits your budget
Even as food prices continue to climb, Mei Wei—which translates to "delicious" in Mandarin—keeps things affordable. The menu features roughly 20 different entrees priced at $9.95 for chicken or tofu options. If you prefer beef or shrimp, those entrees come in at $11.95. For a small upcharge, you can swap your white or brown rice for fried rice, or opt for lo mein.
These dishes offer accessible, modern takes on Chinese and Thai cuisine. While you won't find avant-garde culinary experiments here, the portions are generous, the service is fast, and the quality is a cut above your typical mall food court fare.
Local favorites and menu highlights
Located at 309 Pelham Avenue Southwest near Huntsville Hospital, the bistro is a convenient stop for those living in the Medical District, Five Points, or the downtown area. My personal go-to is the “Spicy Mei Wei” with chicken and brown rice, featuring a mix of carrots and snow peas in a savory, balanced sauce.
Other standouts include the Thai coconut curry (available in red or green), the protein-packed Mongolian chicken, or the soy ginger broccoli with tofu for a solid vegan option. If you are craving noodles, the menu covers the bases with Pad Thai, Dan Dan noodles, and Singapore noodles. For starters, you can grab chicken lettuce wraps, edamame, gyoza, crab wontons, or egg rolls.
Comfort and convenience
The atmosphere at the downtown location is laid-back, offering booths, communal tables, and window seating. When the weather cooperates, their railed-in patio provides an excellent outdoor dining space. The restaurant, which opened in spring 2015, operates daily from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m. and offers both takeout and delivery via their website at meiweiasianbistro.com.
If you are looking for more budget-friendly Asian dining in the Huntsville area, other reliable local spots include Viet House, Great Panda, and Thai Garden and Viet Huong. These local favorites ensure you can grab a satisfying meal without breaking the bank.
