During the month of May, award-winning restaurant group offers guests and virtual audiences the opportunity to absorb Southeast Asian culture through the lens of hospitality.
NASHVILLE / CHICAGO (May 3, 2021)—To celebrate Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month, Chicago and Nashville locations of Sunda New Asian have developed an array of in-venue and virtual experiences to raise awareness for the colorful, unique, and authentic aspects of Southeast Asia countries and beyond.
In the aftermath of the pandemic, and subsequent economic contraction that forced labor cuts, the hospitality industry was one of the hardest hit. Furthermore, cultural attitudes toward minority populations, including Asian Americans, have been put sharply into focus. While AAPI Heritage Month has always been a notable time for Sunda New Asian, the importance of this year’s celebratory and unifying nature has increased significantly.
“Food is the ultimate healer, and its ability to bring people together is unmatched,” says Billy Dec, founder and CEO of Sunda New Asian. “We are extremely grateful to our loyal guests and Sunda community who have continued to support us during a challenging period. This month, we want to offer them a variety of fun, distinctive experiences—both in-person and virtually—so they can understand the story behind Sunda and its deep roots in Southeast Asian cuisine stemming from my personal heritage.”
AAPI Heritage Month lineup includes:
Feature menu created by Executive Chef Mike Morales
Variety of Southeast Asian-inspired cocktails by mixologist Nahm Kim
“DIY food and drink” web series hosted by Billy Dec and Mike Morales
“The Meal of Your Life” podcast interviews with AAPI celebrities and chefs
Sake education series and sushi rolling classes
Sunda Service for Veterans
Live TV appearances including the Today Show
“If there’s anything I’ve learned in my decades as an entrepreneur and restaurant owner, it’s that good people who are willing to work hard can accomplish great things. We hope that Sunda New Asian sets a precedent for future Asian American entrepreneurs, and anyone who isn’t afraid to share their talent and experiences with others. Highlighting AAPI Heritage Month, and elevating the positive aspect of that culture, is an important part of our mission—being pillars in our community and celebrating diversity.”
For more information about Sunda New Asian’s AAPI Heritage Month event lineup, go to SundaNewAsian.com and follow us on social media with hashtag #AAPIHeritageMonth:
Instagram: @SundaNewAsian
Twitter: @Sunda
Facebook: @SundaChicago / @SundaNashvilleTN
About Sunda New Asian
Sunda New Asian is an award-winning restaurant concept featuring elevated Southeast Asian culinary and beverage experiences. Founded by serial entrepreneur, restaurateur, and television personality Billy Dec, whose Filipino roots drive the vision for the Sunda brand, the company currently owns and operates locations in Chicago, Illinois and Nashville, Tennessee. For more information visit SundaNewAsian.com.
Media contact
Stacey Efstathiou
Email: [email protected]
Phone: 312.213.8911