Sunda New Asian represents a bold reinterpretation of traditional Southeast Asian flavors, blending the culinary heritage of Japan, China, the Philippines, Thailand, and Indonesia into a high-energy, contemporary dining environment. Since its debut in Chicago’s River North, Sunda has established itself as more than just a fusion restaurant; it is a cultural crossroads where traditional recipes are elevated through modern techniques and premium ingredients.

Whether you are looking for a sophisticated date night spot, a vibrant venue for group celebrations, or a deep dive into the communal dining traditions of the Philippines, Sunda delivers a multi-sensory experience that balances trendy aesthetics with genuine culinary substance.

The Concept of New Asian Gastronomy

The "New Asian" moniker is not merely a marketing tag for Sunda. It represents a specific culinary philosophy that respects the roots of Southeast Asian street food and home cooking while applying the rigor of modern fine dining. The menu is designed to take diners on a journey through the "Sunda Shelf," a geographic region in Southeast Asia that encompasses a diverse array of spice profiles, textures, and cooking methods.

In our exploration of their offerings, it becomes clear that the kitchen succeeds by not trying to "Americanize" the flavors, but rather to "elevate" them. You will find the pungent funk of fish sauce, the heat of Thai chilies, and the vinegar-heavy brightness of Filipino adobo, all presented with the precision of a Michelin-starred establishment.

Ambiance and Interior Design: Sophisticated Energy

One of the first things you notice upon entering a Sunda location—whether it is the flagship in Chicago or the bustling Nashville outpost—is the atmosphere. The design team has successfully avoided the clichés of "Zen-like" Asian decor, instead opting for a sophisticated, high-energy aesthetic that mirrors the bustling night markets of Bangkok or Manila, but with a sleek, urban finish.

  • Chicago River North: The original location exudes a "see-and-be-seen" vibe. With its long bar, communal tables, and dim lighting, it feels like the heart of the city's nightlife.
  • Fulton Market: This location offers a slightly more curated and intimate feel, reflecting the industrial-chic transformation of its neighborhood.
  • Nashville: Located in The Gulch, this spot blends Sunda’s signature style with Southern hospitality, making it a favorite for both locals and travelers.

The acoustics are intentionally lively. This is not a place for a quiet, whispered dinner; it is a place where the clinking of cocktail shakers and the buzz of conversation form the soundtrack to your meal.

The Signature Dishes: A Detailed Tasting Review

To truly understand why Sunda has maintained its popularity for over a decade, one must look at the specific dishes that have become legendary among food enthusiasts.

The "Tuna Truffle Pizza"

This is perhaps the most photographed dish on the menu, and for good reason. It features a thin, crispy roti prata base topped with fresh bigeye tuna, black truffle vinaigrette, foie gras aioli, and red onion. In our tasting, the contrast between the buttery, flaky crust and the chilled, high-grade tuna creates an immediate "wow" factor. The truffle is present but not overpowering, allowing the clean taste of the fish to shine through.

Oxtail Potstickers

Traditional Chinese dumplings are given a rich, savory upgrade. The oxtail is braised until it is melt-in-your-mouth tender, then wrapped in a delicate dough and seared. What sets this dish apart is the white wasabi cream and the caramelized onion jus. The cream provides a subtle heat that cuts through the richness of the oxtail, creating a perfectly balanced bite.

Signature Crispy Rice

Sunda offers several variations of crispy rice, but the Wagyu and Spicy Tuna versions are the standouts. The rice is pan-seared with ghee and tamari, giving it a deep umami flavor and a satisfying crunch that doesn't stick to your teeth—a common pitfall in lesser versions of this dish. The Wagyu version, topped with sambal and asian pesto, is an explosion of texture and heat.

The "Gambler" Sushi Roll

For those who enjoy a bit of culinary theatre, the Gambler roll is a must. It is a spicy tuna and kani roll where one single piece—and only one—is loaded with ghost pepper sambal. In a group setting, this turns dinner into a game of "culinary roulette." From a flavor perspective, even the non-spicy pieces are excellent, but the ghost pepper piece provides a genuine, searing heat that requires a quick sip of sake to extinguish.

The Kamayan Feast: A Deep Dive into Filipino Tradition

The absolute highlight of the Sunda experience for groups of four or more is the Kamayan Feast. "Kamayan" is a Filipino word meaning "by hand," and it refers to the traditional communal style of eating where food is served on a table lined with banana leaves, and no utensils are used.

Sunda’s version of the Kamayan is an extravagant display of Filipino culinary pride. It typically includes:

  • Adobo Pork Belly: Braised to perfection with vinegar and soy.
  • Crispy Pata: Deep-fried pork leg that is crunchy on the outside and succulent on the inside.
  • Chicken Inasal: Lemongrass-marinated grilled chicken.
  • Garlic Shrimp and Lumpia: Classic Filipino spring rolls.
  • Jasmine Rice and Seasonal Vegetables: All laid out in a stunning, colorful arrangement.

Eating with your hands changes the sensory experience of the meal. You become more connected to the textures and aromas. It is a celebratory, messy, and deeply satisfying way to dine that honors the heritage of Sunda's founding vision.

The Beverage Program: Craft Cocktails and Premium Sake

A restaurant with this much energy requires a beverage program that can keep up. Sunda’s cocktail list is heavily influenced by Asian botanicals.

  • Signature Cocktails: Look for drinks featuring lychee, lemongrass, ginger, and Japanese whiskey. The balance of sweet and tart is a consistent theme, designed to complement the spicy and salty notes of the food.
  • Sake Selection: The sake menu is approachable but deep. For beginners, the staff is well-trained to recommend a "Tozai" or something crisp. For the connoisseur, there are premium Junmai Daiginjo options that rival the best sushi dens in the country.
  • Asian Whiskies: With the rising global popularity of Japanese whiskey, Sunda maintains a robust collection, including rare pours from Suntory and Nikka.

Weekend Brunch: East Meets West

Sunda’s brunch is not your typical eggs-and-toast affair. The "East Meets West" menu reimagines American brunch staples through an Asian lens.

The Tocino Grilled Cheese is a fan favorite, featuring sweet Filipino cured pork and a kimchi pimento cheese that provides a spicy, fermented funk to the classic comfort sandwich. Another standout is the Ube Waffles, which bring the vibrant purple hue and nutty vanilla flavor of the Filipino yam to the breakfast table.

Locations and Practical Information

If you are planning a visit, it is important to note the slight differences in the locations to ensure you get the experience you are looking for.

Chicago - River North

  • Address: 110 W. Illinois St, Chicago, IL.
  • The Vibe: High-octane, great for birthdays and large groups.
  • Parking: Valet is highly recommended as street parking in River North is notoriously difficult.

Chicago - Fulton Market

  • Address: 333 N. Green St, Chicago, IL.
  • The Vibe: Modern, sleek, slightly more focused on the dining experience than the "scene."

Nashville - The Gulch

  • Address: 592 12th Ave S, Nashville, TN.
  • The Vibe: Trendy and popular for bachelorette parties and weekend travelers.

General Tips

  • Reservations: Almost essential for weekend dinners. Use platforms like OpenTable well in advance.
  • Dress Code: Smart Casual. You will see people in designer streetwear and others in business suits. Avoid overly casual gym wear.
  • Dietary Restrictions: Sunda is exceptionally good at handling gluten-free and vegan requests. Much of the menu can be adapted using tamari instead of soy sauce.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What does "Sunda" mean?

Sunda refers to the Sunda Shelf, a continental shelf in Southeast Asia that was once a land bridge connecting many of the islands in the region. The name reflects the restaurant's mission to bridge the diverse culinary traditions of these countries.

Is Sunda New Asian family-friendly?

While the atmosphere is energetic and loud, Sunda is welcoming to families, especially during earlier dinner hours and weekend brunch. However, there is no specific "kids' menu," so children should be comfortable eating rice, noodles, or mild sushi.

How expensive is a meal at Sunda?

Most diners can expect to spend between $50 and $100 per person, depending on cocktail consumption and whether you opt for premium items like A5 Wagyu or the Kamayan Feast.

Do they offer sushi classes?

Yes, Sunda frequently hosts sushi-rolling classes, typically on the first Saturday of the month. These are interactive, hands-on experiences led by their lead chefs and are excellent for team-building or unique date ideas.

Summary

Sunda New Asian has mastered the art of "vibe dining" without sacrificing the quality of the food. By rooting their menu in the authentic flavors of Southeast Asia and presenting them with modern flair, they have created a dining destination that appeals to both traditionalists and trend-seekers. From the theatrical "Gambler" roll to the culturally significant Kamayan Feast, every element of the experience is designed to be memorable. Whether you are in Chicago, Nashville, or Tampa, Sunda remains a premier destination for anyone looking to explore the vibrant and evolving world of modern Asian cuisine.