ZipPicks Awards
Best Dim Sum in River North
Best Brunch in River North
Best Gluten-Free Restaurants in River North
Best Date Night Sushi in River North
Master Critic Review
Sunda New Asian - River North
8.8
A long-running River North pan-Asian restaurant where a dedicated dim sum section runs alongside sushi, noodles, and Filipino-leaning plates. Locals use it for shared small plates like oxtail pot stickers and char siu ribs in a lively, see-and-be-seen room.
Must-Try Dishes:
Oxtail Pot Stickers, Char Siu Ribs, Lumpia
Scores:
Value: 7.1
Service: 8.7
Consistency: 9.2
Food Quality: 9.1
Atmosphere: 9.2
Cultural Relevance: 8.8
What makes it special: Modern Southeast Asian spot with a true dim sum section and long-running River North buzz.
Who should go: Groups and couples sharing modern dim sum and sushi.
When to visit: Prime weekend dinners or brunch for full energy and buzz.
What to order: Oxtail Pot Stickers, Char Siu Ribs, Lumpia.
Insider tip: Build a dim sum-focused meal by doubling up on oxtail pot stickers and pairing with one noodle or rice dish instead of over-ordering mains.
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Valet service typically offered during dinner hours; nearby paid garages along Illinois St and State St; street parking is limited and competitive on weekends.
Dress code: Smart casual — jeans are fine, but most guests lean polished or dressy for evenings.
Noise level: Lively and loud during peak hours — conversation is possible but raised voices may be needed at larger tables.
Weekend wait: 45–75 minutes without a reservation during peak hours; bar and lounge seating may open sooner.
Weekday lunch: Usually no wait or short waits, except during convention or event weeks.
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Good coverage — several dim sum, noodle, and vegetable-focused options; some dishes can be made vegetarian on request.
Vegan options: Limited — a few modifiable dishes, but many sauces contain egg or fish components; confirm with server.
Gluten-free options: Several clearly identified options; some items rely on soy sauce or breading, so ask for guidance and substitutions.
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Yes — the room is buzzy and stylish, which works well for a fun, energy-forward first date. It’s better for couples who enjoy a lively scene rather than a quiet, intimate setting.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Often yes, but waits can be long on weekends. Your best bet is to arrive early, join the wait list, or take bar/lounge seating if you’re flexible.
Is it kid-friendly? Suitable for older kids and teens who enjoy shared plates and louder dining rooms; not ideal for strollers or very young children during peak dinner hours.
Best For
Better for: Trendy group dinners, celebratory nights, and modern dim sum plates served in a high-energy, see-and-be-seen setting.
Skip if: You prefer traditional cart-style dim sum, very quiet dining rooms, or strictly vegan/gluten-free menus with extensive options.
Hours
Monday4pm - 10pm
Tuesday4pm - 10pm
Wednesday4pm - 10pm
Thursday4pm - 10pm
Friday4pm - 11pm
Saturday4pm - 11pm
Sunday4pm - 10pm