Lunar New Year is more than just the start of a new calendar—it’s a time to reset, reflect, and reconnect with loved ones. Celebrated in many Asian cultures, this holiday is all about sweeping away the bad, holding space for the good (🤏), and welcoming abundance, health, and happiness for the year ahead. From cleaning your house (goodbye, bad vibes) to lighting up the night with fireworks, every tradition is rooted in hope and intention. And, of course, there’s the food—because no celebration is complete without it.
At Sunda New Asian, the holiday comes to life through dishes that honor tradition while embracing modern techniques.
“At Sunda, we are excited to celebrate Lunar New Year, a time to honor the traditions and culture of Southeast Asia,” shares Michael Morales, culinary director. “The holiday marks a time to come together with loved ones and reflect on the past year while looking ahead with hope and joy. It’s also a chance for us to share the vibrant flavors that make this celebration so meaningful.”
From rich, umami-packed sauces to crispy, golden bites, every dish is a nod to prosperity and good fortune. Here’s a taste of what’s on the menu this Lunar New Year at Sunda—and how to bring the celebrations into your own home.
Hong Kong Steak Lo Mein
Long noodles symbolize longevity, making lo mein a staple at any Lunar New Year table. Sunda’s take on this dish features tender slices of steak coated in a luscious Hong Kong Sauce—a savory-sweet blend of oyster sauce, garlic, ginger, and a touch of achiote paste for depth. Tossed with perfectly chewy noodles and crisp vegetables, this dish is a delicious way to ring in the new year with wishes for a long, prosperous life.
Lion’s Head Meatballs
These oversized, flavor-packed meatballs are a showstopper, both in name and taste. Symbolizing strength, family unity, and protection, Lion’s Head Meatballs are made with a mix of lumpia mix (ground pork), glass noodles, and Shaoxing rice wine, then fried to golden perfection. They’re served in a rich, glossy sauce that’s equal parts sweet, salty, and umami, making them an irresistible addition to any festive table.
Off the Hook Snapper
Whole fish is a must for Lunar New Year, representing abundance and a good year ahead. Sunda’s ‘Off the Hook’ Snapper is an eye-catching centerpiece, featuring crispy fried red snapper served with a dynamic duo of sauces: a bright, citrusy ginger vinaigrette and a deeply savory Shaoxing sauce.
Looking for more recipes? Here’s our cookbook.
