Sunda

Serving up an exquisite fusion of Vietnamese and Indonesian cuisine, newly opened Sunda on Punch Lane is already making its mark on the Melbourne food scene. Situated in a New York loft-esque venue, the walls are exposed, the kitchen is on show, the tables are shared and the seats are limited - all elements giving the place a sense of exclusivity and (border-line half renovated) charm.

With a menu that offers a twist on many of the Asian classics using well known beloved flavours, Sunda's menu is both unique, but familiar enough not to be intimidating.  The roti served with vegemite satay (you heard me, vegemite satay) is not to be missed - tasting more like a freshly cooked croissant, the butteryness of the bread was cut beautifully by the saltiness in the vegemite satay. 

In terms of the mains, cooked to perfection and dancing with flavour, the lamb rump with braised cashew, salt bush and native curry is another dish not to be missed. And with its bold flavours and generous portion, our side of egg noodles with XO sauce and chicken crackling (giving pork crackling a run for its money) was definitely a dish worthy of being considered a main. 

The best part about Sunda - it takes bookings.

Food: 4/5
Service: 4/5
Venue: 3.5/5
Total: 11.5/15
Verdict: love - get around to trying it soon