Finding a reliable spot for authentic Chinese-American cuisine in Greenville, South Carolina, is a priority for many locals and visitors alike. Mei Garden has established itself as a go-to destination for those seeking classic flavors, generous portions, and quick service. Whether you are looking for a fast lunch special or a family dinner to take home, understanding the menu options, operating hours, and location details is the first step toward a satisfying meal. This guide provides all the essential information you need to plan your visit to Mei Garden.
Where is Mei Garden Located?
Mei Garden is conveniently situated in one of Greenville’s most accessible commercial areas. You can find the restaurant at 700 Woodruff Road, Greenville, SC 29607. This location is ideal for shoppers and commuters, as Woodruff Road is a major thoroughfare connected to several shopping centers and residential neighborhoods.
The restaurant is nestled within a shopping plaza, which typically offers ample parking for customers. Its proximity to I-385 and I-85 makes it an easy stop for those traveling through the Upstate region. If you are navigating via GPS, simply entering the address will lead you directly to the storefront, which is clearly marked and easy to spot from the parking lot.
Getting There and Parking
Because Woodruff Road is known for its heavy traffic, especially during peak hours, it is helpful to plan your trip accordingly. If you are visiting for lunch, arriving slightly before the noon rush can save time. For dinner, the early evening hours are generally more relaxed. The parking lot is shared with other retail businesses, providing plenty of space for both dine-in guests and those picking up takeout orders.
Operating Hours for Mei Garden
Knowing when the kitchen is open is crucial for avoiding disappointment. Mei Garden typically follows a standard schedule that caters to both the lunch crowd and dinner patrons. While hours can occasionally shift during holidays or special events, the general operating times are as follows:
- Monday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:00 AM – 9:30 PM
- Friday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Saturday: 11:00 AM – 10:30 PM
- Sunday: 12:00 PM – 9:30 PM
It is important to note that the kitchen usually stops taking orders about 15 to 20 minutes before closing time. If you are planning a late-night meal, calling ahead to confirm they are still accepting orders is a smart move.
Exploring the Mei Garden Menu
The menu at Mei Garden is extensive, featuring a wide variety of poultry, beef, pork, seafood, and vegetarian dishes. The restaurant focuses on Cantonese and Szechuan-style preparations, offering a balance of mild and spicy options to suit different palates.
Popular Appetizers
Every great Chinese meal starts with a selection of appetizers. Mei Garden offers the staples that fans of the cuisine expect. Their Egg Rolls and Spring Rolls are known for being crispy and well-filled. Other popular starters include:
- Crab Rangoon: Fried wontons filled with a creamy crab and cheese mixture.
- Fried or Steamed Dumplings: Served with a savory dipping sauce.
- Fried Chicken Wings: Often available in different seasonings.
- Boneless Spare Ribs: A sweet and savory favorite for meat lovers.
Signature Chef’s Specials
If you are looking for the most flavorful dishes on the menu, the Chef’s Specials are the place to look. These dishes often feature high-quality ingredients and complex sauces. Some of the most frequently ordered items include:
- General Tso’s Chicken: Crispy chunks of chicken tossed in a spicy, slightly sweet dark sauce with broccoli.
- Sesame Chicken: A milder, sweeter alternative to General Tso’s, topped with toasted sesame seeds.
- Happy Family: A robust mix of chicken, beef, shrimp, and pork stir-fried with seasonal vegetables in a brown sauce.
- Orange Beef: Tender slices of beef with a zesty orange flavor and a hint of spice.
Traditional Entrees
For those who prefer the classics, Mei Garden provides a long list of traditional stir-fry dishes. You can choose your protein—chicken, beef, shrimp, or pork—to be paired with various vegetables and sauces. Options like Beef with Broccoli, Kung Pao Chicken, and Shrimp with Lobster Sauce are consistent favorites. Most entrees come with a side of white rice, though you can often upgrade to fried rice for a small additional fee.
Vegetarian and Health-Conscious Options
Mei Garden is accommodating to those with dietary preferences. There is a dedicated vegetable section on the menu featuring dishes like Szechuan Bean Curd (Tofu), Mixed Vegetables with Garlic Sauce, and Broccoli with Garlic Sauce. Additionally, many locations offer a “Diet Menu” where items are steamed rather than fried and served with sauce on the side, allowing for a lighter meal without sacrificing the authentic flavors.
Lunch Specials and Combination Platters
One of the biggest draws for the Greenville community is the value offered through lunch specials and combination platters. These deals make Mei Garden an affordable choice for a midday break or a budget-friendly dinner.
Lunch Special Details
The lunch specials are typically available from opening until around 3:00 PM. These portions are slightly smaller than dinner entrees but come at a significantly lower price point. Most lunch specials include an entree, a side of fried or white rice, and sometimes a choice of soup (Wonton, Egg Drop, or Hot and Sour) or a soda.
Dinner Combination Platters
For dinner, the combination platters are a popular choice. These are served all day and provide a complete meal in one container. A standard combination platter includes a large portion of the main entree, pork fried rice, and an egg roll. This is often the most cost-effective way to sample multiple items from the menu.
How to Order from Mei Garden
Mei Garden provides several ways to enjoy their food, catering to different schedules and preferences. Whether you want to sit down in their dining area or enjoy your meal at home, the process is straightforward.
Dine-In Experience
The restaurant offers a casual dining environment. It is a no-frills, comfortable space suitable for a quick meal. While it is not a formal fine-dining establishment, the service is known for being efficient and friendly. It is a great spot for a casual lunch with colleagues or a simple dinner with family.
Takeout and Delivery
Takeout is the primary way many customers experience Mei Garden. You can place an order over the phone for quick pickup. The kitchen is known for its speed, with most orders being ready within 15 to 20 minutes. For those who prefer to stay home, delivery options are often available through third-party apps or the restaurant’s own delivery service, depending on your distance from the Woodruff Road location.
Tips for a Great Ordering Experience
- Specify Spice Levels: If you are ordering a dish marked with a spicy symbol, feel free to ask for it to be made “extra spicy” or “mild” to suit your taste.
- Check for Daily Specials: Sometimes there are items or deals not listed on the permanent menu board.
- Confirm Your Order: When picking up takeout, it is always a good idea to double-check your bag to ensure all sauces and sides are included.
Why Choose Mei Garden in Greenville?
With so many dining options in Greenville, why do people keep returning to Mei Garden? The answer lies in consistency and value. In a busy area like Woodruff Road, having a reliable spot that serves hot, fresh food quickly is a major advantage. The restaurant has built a reputation for providing large portions that often result in leftovers, making the price per meal very competitive.
Furthermore, the variety on the menu ensures that there is something for everyone. From the picky eater who only wants plain fried rice to the adventurous diner looking for spicy Szechuan flavors, the kitchen is capable of satisfying a wide range of tastes. The long-standing presence of the restaurant in the community also speaks to its reliability and the loyalty of its customer base.
Conclusion
Mei Garden in Greenville, SC, remains a staple for those seeking quality Chinese-American food. By offering a convenient location on Woodruff Road, flexible hours throughout the week, and a massive menu filled with both classic and specialty dishes, they cater to the needs of the modern diner. Whether you are stopping in for a quick lunch special or ordering a large spread for a weekend gathering, you can expect consistent flavors and great value.
If you found this guide helpful, consider exploring our other articles on local dining tips, how to find the best takeout in your area, and guides to navigating popular commercial districts. We are here to help you find the answers to all your everyday questions quickly and easily.