When asking yourself about something to do near me in Chicago with a group of friends or family, consider
Sunda New Asian - River North
Why Sunda New Asian - River North is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Sunda New Asian - River North is a premier dining destination in Chicago's vibrant River North neighborhood, renowned for its modern take on traditional Southeast Asian cuisine. This restaurant offers a unique blend of flavors inspired by Japan, China, the Philippines, Thailand, and other Asian cultures. What makes Sunda an exceptional place to meet up with friends is its lively and sophisticated atmosphere combined with high-quality ingredients and artful presentation. Guests can indulge in a diverse menu ranging from expertly crafted sushi and dim sum to flavorful noodle and rice dishes, all thoughtfully prepared to create a memorable dining experience. Sunda also features an impressive beverage program with signature handcrafted cocktails, a broad selection of sake, wines, Asian whiskies, and beers. The venue hosts weekend brunches offering a relaxed and inviting setting and hosts happy hour Monday through Friday with special prices on bar bites, hand rolls, and drinks, perfect for casual meetups. Additionally, Sunda offers unique experiences such as monthly sushi rolling classes, making it a great spot for both casual gatherings and special occasions. With its accommodating space that supports private events and group dining for 14 to 120 guests, Sunda New Asian appeals to a wide range of social occasions, ensuring a welcoming environment for friends to enjoy quality food and company.
Here's what people think of Sunda New Asian - River North
As of recent, Sunda New Asian - River North holds a 4.5-star rating based on 2838 reviews.
Reviews of Sunda New Asian - River North consistently highlight its high standard of culinary creativity and atmosphere. Many guests praise the restaurant for its fresh, well-executed dishes that skillfully combine traditional Southeast Asian flavors with modern techniques, making each visit an exciting experience. Positive reviews often mention the exceptional quality of sushi, innovative appetizers, and flavorful entrees, alongside the vibrant and attentive service staff who enhance the overall dining experience. The beverage selection, particularly the handcrafted cocktails and sake offerings, is frequently noted for complementing the food perfectly. Reviewers also appreciate the venue's ambiance, describing it as lively yet comfortable, ideal for both casual nights out and special celebrations. On the other hand, some negative feedback centers around occasional inconsistencies in service during peak times and pricing that some diners find on the higher side. A few guests have mentioned waiting times or availability challenges during busy hours, which can impact the overall experience. Nonetheless, the majority consensus is overwhelmingly positive, with guests recommending Sunda for its innovative cuisine, excellent hospitality, and dynamic setting. Overall, the reviews reflect Sunda New Asian - River North as a distinguished and popular dining spot that successfully balances tradition with modern culinary artistry, making it a favored choice in the Chicago dining scene.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Sadą Ñealey
Very excited to try Sunda, but unfortunately our visit didn’t quite live up to the hype. The atmosphere was very beautiful. Gorgeous decor with high vaulted ceilings. We had reservations and still waited for about 10mins for a seat. As they were Jam- packed! Literally, from the sushi bar to the regular bar with plenty of tables & high top seatings occupied! Sunda was clearly the place to be for dinner! There were couples, families, birthday celebrations just a lot going on for Sunda. Our waiter Caden was well mannered and friendly. Knew the menu very well and had a great personality. Told a few jokes and was just a decent guy all around. We ordered the Szechuan Chicken with white rice & the Crazy Rice. The Szechuan Chicken boasted in flavors, a bit more fatty than expected but was still delicious. The Crazy Rice was just a basic rice bowl with added chicken and shrimp and spicy sauce. The portion was a bit dissatisfying and slightly overpriced. The rice definitely had a KICK! The most disappointing part was that Our dishes didn’t arrive together. Awkwardly, waiting for 25mins apart was a bit ridiculous. Kinda ruin the experience and my appetite. Although vibrant and a high-energy space, unfortunately for us, it felt a bit overwhelming with how loud it was. On the bright side, the food itself was a 3/5, and showed somewhat of a promise. But when the basics of timing and ambiance are off, it’s hard to fully enjoy the meal. Hoping it was just an off night.
Rabeea Baloch
Wow!!! The food is delicious 🤌🏼, worth every penny we paid for. The server accommodated for my gluten sensitivity. Most delicious fried rice I have tried. The Basa fillet was out of this world. My family truly enjoyed dining at Sunda
Riley Spieler
Once in a lifetime experience at this restaurant. Our server Carly took amazing care of us and shared many great recommendations and even brought us a special desert. Insane quality, insane menu, and just a great time. Would highly recommend and come back again soon. Wow.
Hayden Brooks
Sunda was a standout this weekend while my husband and I visited Chicago for the first time. We were lucky to walk in and get a two top, despite the restaurant being very busy for a Friday evening. They seated us quickly and even offered us sake shots! Our server, Caden, was so welcoming and gave us great recommendations on food and drinks. He also offered us a complimentary birthday dessert on our way out. The atmosphere was lively, on the louder side, but nothing I wouldn’t expect from a place that has a nice crowd in and out. We had a great time and hope to be back one day!
Kikuko Hanashiro
We went there for Happy hour. Nobody came to our table for the first 10 minutes. After I talked to the reception, finally their service was started. The servers work as a team that we were able to ask other servers to help us. Foods were excellent.
How to reach Sunda New Asian - River North
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Why Sunda New Asian - River North may become Your Favorite Meetup Place for Catching Up, Celebrating or Just Hanging Out
Why rally at Sunda New Asian - River North with your friends?
If you’re looking to gather your friends for an unforgettable meetup, Sunda New Asian in River North is an exceptional choice. This vibrant restaurant has garnered a stellar 4.5-star rating from over 2,800 reviews, a testament to its consistent quality and popularity. The atmosphere here is lively and modern, ideal for groups who want to enjoy both great food and an engaging social setting. Whether you are celebrating a special occasion or just catching up after a long week, Sunda’s mix of polished hospitality, flavorful dishes, and trendy environment makes it a top spot to rally your group. From the moment you walk in, you’ll be drawn into an experience that feels both festive and welcoming, perfect for turning an ordinary outing into a memorable night. The menu offers a diverse selection catering to different tastes, ensuring everyone can find something to savor, making Sunda the perfect backdrop for building shared memories around a communal dining experience.
What activities can groups enjoy at Sunda New Asian - River North?
Sunda New Asian goes beyond just dining—it offers a range of engaging activities designed to enhance group meetups. First and foremost, the food is a highlight, featuring an extensive menu inspired by Southeast Asian flavors reimagined with fresh, refined ingredients. Groups can indulge in dishes from various countries including Japan, China, the Philippines, and Thailand, which makes every meal a culinary adventure. The restaurant is especially known for its vibrant sushi rolls, like the Red Dragon roll with shrimp tempura and spicy tuna, or the unique creamy lobster with truffle foie aioli. These dishes are perfect for sharing, encouraging conversation and communal enjoyment.
For those interested in interactive experiences, Sunda offers a hands-on sushi rolling class on the first Saturday of every month. This is a fun and educational activity where groups can learn the art of crafting sushi from expert chefs. It’s great for bonding and adds an entertaining twist to the typical dining night out.
Sunda also features weekend brunch from 11am to 2pm, providing a relaxed yet refined atmosphere for groups to gather during the day. Moreover, the weekday happy hour includes specials on bar bites, hand rolls, cocktails, and sake, making early evening meetups more affordable and festive.
Why is this venue perfect for a group meetup?
Sunda’s venue is designed thoughtfully to accommodate groups of any size, making it ideal for friends or families gathering to celebrate or just enjoy each other’s company. The seating arrangements can be flexible, allowing for intimate conversations or larger lively parties. The ambiance strikes a balance between upscale and approachable, which allows guests to feel comfortable dressing up for a night out or going casual for a weekend brunch.
Another reason Sunda stands out as a meetup spot is its exceptional service. Reviewers often highlight how friendly and knowledgeable the staff are, which enhances the overall experience by helping guests navigate the menu, suggesting ideal food and drink pairings, and ensuring that timing runs smoothly for larger parties. This attentive hospitality means groups can focus on socializing instead of worrying about details.
Additionally, Sunda offers a robust beverage program featuring signature handcrafted cocktails, a curated sake selection, Asian whiskies, and beers. This diverse drink menu appeals to all tastes and adds to the celebratory atmosphere. For those wanting a more personalized gathering, the restaurant also hosts private events and caters to corporate outings, bridal showers, or rehearsal dinners, providing a memorable event tailored to the group’s needs.
What is the food and drink experience like at Sunda New Asian - River North?
The culinary experience at Sunda New Asian is a journey through Southeast Asia’s most beloved flavors, elevated through modern culinary techniques and high-quality ingredients. The menu features fresh sushi, dim sum, noodles, steamed buns, and innovative new Asian dishes crafted for a sophisticated palate. Whether your group craves the indulgence of a rich, creamy lobster roll with foie aioli or the comforting warmth of Japanese chicken or pork belly buns, Sunda offers a variety to suit every preference.
Drinks at Sunda are equally impressive, with handcrafted cocktails that often showcase Asian-inspired flavors and ingredients. Their sake selection is robust, making it an excellent complement to the sushi and other dishes. For beer lovers and whisky aficionados, the Asian beer and whisky options offer unique tastes that elevate the dining experience.
The balance of traditional and contemporary in both food and beverage makes Sunda a dynamic place where groups can experiment, share plates, and enjoy top-tier flavors in a chic setting.
How does the atmosphere and location enhance group meetups at Sunda?
Located in Chicago’s bustling River North neighborhood, Sunda is perfectly situated in one of the city's trendiest dining districts. This location means your group gets the added benefit of pre- or post-dinner options—whether it’s exploring nearby art galleries, hitting a local bar, or taking a stroll along the riverwalk. River North’s vibrant energy seeps into the restaurant’s atmosphere, making it an exciting and lively place to gather.
Inside, the space has a modern, sleek design with subtle Asian influences, creating a warm yet stylish environment. It’s both intimate enough for personal conversations and energetic enough for larger groups looking to celebrate. The layout is accommodating for groups, with options ranging from cozy booths to larger tables, and the ambiance is enhanced by music that complements the dining experience without overpowering conversation.
Such an inviting atmosphere encourages guests to relax and linger, making Sunda a perfect destination for extended social gatherings rather than just a quick meal.
What special services or events make Sunda stand out for group gatherings?
Sunda distinguishes itself from many other restaurants in the area through its commitment to group experiences beyond just dining. They host private events for occasions like corporate outings, rehearsal dinners, or celebratory parties, offering tailored menus and dedicated service to ensure every detail is handled. For groups wanting to make a more unique memory, their monthly sushi rolling class offers a creative, hands-on way to enjoy time together while learning new skills.
Catering services are also available, expanding the possibility of hosting Sunda’s elevated Asian cuisine at homes or offices, which is especially convenient for larger celebrations or meetings. Meanwhile, happy hour specials on food and drink provide a budget-friendly option for groups that want to enjoy Sunda’s offerings in a more casual, social setting without compromising quality.
This blend of high-quality service, dynamic offerings, and attention to group needs positions Sunda New Asian as an outstanding venue for any meetup with friends or family.
Why do customers consistently rate Sunda New Asian so highly?
With a strong following reflected in over 2,800 reviews and a solid 4.5-star rating, Sunda is clearly a crowd-pleaser. Guests frequently praise the combination of delicious, innovative food and warm, knowledgeable service. Many reviews highlight specific menu favorites such as the pork belly buns and ube waffles, as well as the diverse sushi roll selections, which demonstrate the kitchen’s creativity and dedication to excellence.
The restaurant’s ability to cater to different occasions — from casual brunches to elegant dinners — also contributes to its favorable reputation. Consistency in quality and experience is key for repeat visits and strong word-of-mouth recommendations, and Sunda manages to maintain these high standards over time.
This sustained excellence in food, drink, ambiance, and service explains why groups consistently choose Sunda New Asian in River North as a go-to spot for social gatherings.
Overall, Sunda New Asian - River North combines an inviting atmosphere, exceptional dining, and interactive experiences that make it an unbeatable location for any group looking to connect over memorable meals and good times. Whether it’s an energetic happy hour or an intimate dinner party, Sunda is a place where friends and family can come together to enjoy the best of modern Southeast Asian cuisine in Chicago’s lively River North neighborhood.