As Sunda New Asian celebrated its one-year anniversary in Tampa Bay in June, the city’s burgeoning Midtown development continues to redefine the region’s culinary scene. Sunda’s arrival at the massive $1 billion mixed-use district, at the heart of Tampa’s business hub, is a testament to the visionary leadership of Billy Dec, an accomplished entrepreneur, two-time Emmy Award-winning actor and the force behind the acclaimed documentary “Food Roots.”
With the success of Sunda New Asian River North in Chicago since 2009, and the recent opening of Sunda New Asian Fulton Market, also in Chicago, the Tampa location represents the culmination of years of culinary evolution. In fact, Travel & Leisure recently named Sunda New Asian Tampa as one of the top restaurants to try when in Tampa.
Dec is no stranger to success, having helmed his own podcast, “The Meal of Your Life!” and producing the PBS documentary, “Food Roots,” which saw him journey through his mother’s native Philippines to capture the essence of ancestral recipes. Beyond his Filipino roots, Dec’s connection to Tampa is personal, as they visited his father’s family in the area, seeking refuge from Chicago’s harsh winters in the Sunshine State long before ambitious projects like Midtown and Water Street were on the horizon.
His bond with the Tampa Bay community was further solidified when his documentary, “Food Roots,” was showcased at the prestigious 2024 Tampa Gasparilla International Film Festival and the St. Petersburg Sunscreen Festival. The film’s recognition in the region not only validated Dec’s passion for storytelling but also marked the perfect segue for bringing his vision to life in Tampa. Here, his vision finds its fullest expression — a harmonious blend of ancestral wisdom and contemporary innovation.
Tampa’s Sunda New Asian captivating ambiance is a testament to the talent of designer Karen Herold, from Studio K, whose impressive portfolio includes the Nobu Hotel and Maple Ash, among other esteemed projects. Collaborating with Strada as the Architect of record, Herold brings the chic Polynesian concept to life, capturing the essence of the more than 1,000 islands nestled within the central and southern Pacific Ocean.
Upon entering, guests are greeted by the central bar, which offers a stunning vantage point to take in the bustling energy of Midtown through floor-to-ceiling windows. The venue artfully delineates its space, juxtaposing a refined dining area with a vibrant sushi lounge. For larger gatherings, the communal area is perfect for hosting memorable events, including the Kamayan Fest, which celebrates the rich cultural heritage of the Philippines through a lavish feast of traditional dishes.
The Peared Sake emerges as a pinnacle of mixological artistry. This sophisticated libation begins with Grey Goose La Poire vodka, its delicate pear notes serving as the foundation for a complex flavor symphony. Lemongrass, lime and orange introduce bright, exotic overtones, while fresh mint provides a cool whisper and Zipang Sparkling Sake imparts a unique depth. Presented with theatrical flair, the glass boasts a cinnamon sugar rim and a dried pear garnish, elevating both visual appeal and taste.
As you savor your expertly crafted beverages, prepare yourself for a truly unique creation that elevates the humble sushi rice to new heights. The Signature Crispy Rice Wagyu highlights the innovative fusion of flavors, for which the restaurant has become renowned. The sushi rice is meticulously pressed and dried for two days, before being seared in clarified butter and deglazed with tamari sambal aioli. This process results in an unparalleled texture that delicately melts on your tongue, while the jus of the Wagyu infuses the rice with its rich, complex flavors.
For those with discerning tastes, Sunda’s pièce de résistance in sushi artistry is the Red Dragon. This treasure harmoniously balances unagi and shrimp tempura with spicy tuna, jalapeño and creamy avocado enrobed in a delicate tempura crisp and drizzled with sweet unagi sauce. Each bite delivers a perfect equilibrium of heat and sweetness, complemented by a satisfying crunch that has earned this roll its status as the menu’s most sought-after sushi selection.
The Chicken Insala masterfully blends the bright notes of lemongrass tomatoes, red onion and chili lime vinaigrette with the rich, smoky essence of achiote glaze. The chicken, marinated for 24 to 48 hours, is presented on a searing dish to caramelize the skin to perfection. Often, the sophisticated gourmet aficionado seeks out complex, exotic flavors to excite and tantalize. However, the true beauty of a remarkable dish lies in the balance of simple ingredients that come together to create a melodious fusion of flavor. The Longevity Crab Noodles is a perfect example of this epicurean skill. This deceptively simple, yet luxurious, dish features a perfect blend of lo mein noodles, butter, garlic, salt, pepper and the star ingredient: jumbo lump crab. Often described as an Asian interpretation of Cacio e Pepe, this creation demonstrates how a few carefully chosen ingredients redefines the boundaries of Asian fusion cuisine and pleases the poshest of palates.
As Midtown Tampa evolves into a premier work, live and play development, Sunda New Asian emerges as a shining star among its gastronomic destinations. The city’s continuous growth has fostered an environment where fine dining establishments thrive, and Sunda New Asian perfectly embodies the spirit of culinary artistry and excellence that Tampa Bay has come to represent.
