Looking for a dining experience that brings bold flavors and modern flair to Southeast Asian cuisine? Sunda New Asian has opened its doors in Detroit’s District entertainment area, offering Grosse Pointe residents a destination for elevated Asian dining just minutes away. This award-winning restaurant brings 15 years of culinary success from Chicago to Motor City, and the results speak for themselves.
The Story Behind the Flavors
Billy Dec, a Filipino-American restaurateur and Emmy award-winning personality, founded Sunda in 2009 with a mission to honor his heritage through food. What started as one location in Chicago has grown into a celebrated mini-chain with locations in Nashville, Tampa, and now Detroit’s Columbia Street. Dec and his team at Rockit Ranch Productions saw something special happening in Detroit and wanted to be part of the city’s explosive growth.
The restaurant showcases modern New Asian cuisine that honors traditional dishes from Japan, China, the Philippines, Indonesia, and Thailand while reimagining them with premium ingredients and expert techniques.
What Makes This Spot Special
The 6,000-square-foot space features over 200 seats and a generous 1,400-square-foot patio, designed with Tokyo street style meets modern Southeast Asian craftsmanship. Located at 33 W Columbia St, the restaurant sits steps from the Fox Theatre and Little Caesars Arena, making it perfect for pre-game dinners or post-show celebrations. Executive Chef Michael Morales leads the kitchen, crafting dishes that balance authenticity with innovation.
Menu Highlights Worth the Drive
When you visit Sunda Detroit, prepare your taste buds for an adventure. The menu offers something for everyone, from sushi enthusiasts to noodle lovers:
Crowd Favorites Include:
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Oxtail Potstickers with braised oxtail, caramelized onion jus, and white wasabi cream
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Lumpia featuring crispy pork and shrimp Shanghai-style egg rolls with Boston lettuce
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The Great White roll with escolar, truffle vinaigrette, potato chip, and black truffle shaving
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Adobo Fried Rice topped with a crispy egg, bok choy, and toasted garlic
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Longevity Crab Noodles loaded with lump crab and garlic butter
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Chicken Inasal with lemongrass, tomatoes, and achiote glaze
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Lobster Wagyu sushi roll combining creamy lobster with wagyu tataki
The restaurant also caters to various dietary preferences with gluten-free and vegan options throughout the menu. Price range sits between $31 to $50 per person, offering an upscale dining experience without breaking the bank.
Perfect for Any Occasion
Whether you’re planning a date night, celebrating with family, or gathering friends for happy hour, Sunda offers the atmosphere to match. The casual elegant vibe welcomes both business casual attire and dressy outfits. Full bar service includes craft cocktails, wine, and beer selections that complement the Asian flavors perfectly.
For those seeking more local favorites and community gems, check out more articles on the Grosse Pointes area.
Hours and Location Details
Sunda New Asian opens its doors Monday through Thursday and Sunday from 5:00 PM to 10:00 PM, with extended hours on Friday and Saturday until 11:00 PM. The restaurant offers various seating options including bar/lounge seating, counter spots, and patio dining when weather permits. Public parking lots are available nearby, and the location is wheelchair accessible with gender-neutral restrooms.
Why Grosse Pointes Locals Should Visit
The Detroit restaurant scene has grown exponentially, and Sunda represents the caliber of dining options now available close to home. For Grosse Pointes residents seeking Asian fusion restaurants near me or best sushi in Detroit area, this spot delivers on quality, creativity, and value. The restaurant’s commitment to storytelling through food creates memorable experiences that go beyond a typical meal.
Ready to taste what makes Sunda New Asian a standout addition to the metro Detroit dining scene? Make your reservation through OpenTable or call (312) 644-0500. Whether you’re craving dim sum delights, signature sushi rolls, or Filipino-inspired entrees, this Local Business Wednesday spotlight promises flavors worth the short drive from Grosse Pointes.
Sources: sundanewasian.com, discoverthegrossepointes.townsites.org, Sunda New Asian Instagram Page
Header Image Source: sundanewasian.com
