Cuisine:

• Others
• Asian
• Pan-Asian
• Sushi bar
• Japanese

Sunda Description:
Earth tones and natural materials soften the impossibly hip scene at this River North eatery from the Rockit Bar & Grill crew. First off, we'll make clear this is not authentic Asian---to expect it would mean missing the point, not to mention a chance to enjoy shockingly good grub. The menu is huge---so huge, in fact, you'd think the kitchen would falter. Turns out Rodelio Aglibot's far-flung creations, inspired by Southeast Asian, Japanese and Chinese cuisines, are every bit as good as the buzz would lead you to believe. Burnt (read: caramelized) watermelon and unagi bacon "nigiri" kicks summer flavors into overdrive. Still, it's two dishes that nearly brought us to tears: wok-tossed, crunchy soft shell crab scattered with toasted garlic and dried chilies and The Food Buddha's crispy, pan-fried sushi rice topped with jalapeño-spiked spicy tuna. Among entrées, the adobo-braised pork belly really shines. A first-rate saké list reveals an impressive number of elegant, aromatic finds. Although fairly to the point, there are plenty of enthusiast-appropriate vinos and craft cocktails. Come during happy hour when a selection of specialty cocktails save cash, and half-priced appetizers (available in the lounge) include sweet, airy corn fritters with onion-ginger sauce.


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