Sunda, Chicago, “New Asian” Cuisine
Everyone’s talking about Sunda (Chicago). So, last week, I had a meeting downtown, and decided that afterward I’d check out this hot, hot, hot restaurant that’s all the rage right now.
Walking in to the restaurant that calls its menu “New Asian” cuisine, I was immediately impressed by the décor, with it’s loft-like, comfortable, yet elegant feel. I went up to the bar and asked the bartender about Pinot Noirs. He came back with two for me to taste and both were excellent. I picked one, and then began talking to Sean, a tall, dark, handsome young trader who gave me a sample of Sunda’s demographic (young, hot professional city people). Ladies, you should be RUNNING to this place if you want to meet single men!!
Okay, I forgot, this is a restaurant review, so back to the review of the new Asian cuisine experience.
My date (my boyfriend) and I sat down to eat. I was drinking wine, but I feel it’s worth mentioning that Sunda has a full bar with tons of really different fun drinks. The one that stood out for me was the Toasted Ginger Snap. Bombay sapphire, red grapefruit and lime juice, ginger syrup, and–get this–can’t even imagine what this tastes like–egg white! Anyhow, it comes with a crusted almond and orange honey rim.
Upon the suggestion of the bartender and our server, we ordered the Crispy Brussel Sprout Salad (which could possibly be the best salad I’ve ever tasted) and the Escolar “Great White Tuna,” which was $9 for two pieces. I took a bite and, as it melted in my mouth (with its truffle shavings and potato chip), I turned to my boyfriend and said, “You know, this costs $4.50 cents a bite.” We both agreed it was totally worth the price!
Other things we ordered were Roasted Duck Hash and The Lobster and Wagyu Roll. Wagyu is a type of beef. There were so many other delicious dishes I wanted to try, like The “Shaking” Beef, wok-seared beef filet with a lime-pepper dipping sauce, “No you didn’t: The ultimate Hand Roll, crab, shrimp tempura, tuna, salmon, cabbage, and onion, and the Sweet Potato Caterpillar roll, sweet potato, Asian pear, avocado, black garlic teriyaki and roasted red pepper sauce. Sunda also offers a full sushi menu and lots of noodle dishes. I guess I’ll just have to go back.
I felt like Sunda was a little bit pricey, but well worth it for a special occasion or if you just really want to treat yourself to a really great atmosphere and really quality food.
Other things: Sunda has several beautiful private dining areas, valet parking and a delicious-looking brunch menu. One thing I will say, this is not a place for kids. I did not see one kid and I would not recommend bringing your children here. This is a date place or a great girls’ night spot! Can’t wait to go back!
Editor’s note: Sunda, Chicago, offers new Asian cuisine and is an award-winning restaurant at the vanguard of America’s New Asian movement showcasing Eastern Asian and Southeast Asian regional cuisine. See our Business Director for more information.
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