In The Press

Billy Dec has worn many hats. Some may know him as one of three restaurateurs behind Rockit Bar and Grill or as the founder of the restaurant Sunda New Asian. Others may have seen him organizing events for the likes of former Mayor Richard M. Daley and former President Barack Obama. Only a select few have had the opportunity to see Dec wear the hats of brother, son, cousin and grandson.

Food Roots airs on WTTW Monday, May 11 at 9:00 pm and is available to stream via the PBS app. Get more recipes, food news, and stories at wttw.com/food or by signing up for our Deep Dish newsletter.

Restaurateur Billy Dec discusses his award-winning film “Food Roots,” which explores how food preserves cultural identity as Asian American, Native Hawaiian and Pacific Islander Heritage Month begins.

Reporting notes: National Filipino Food Month at Sunda New Asian in April Sunda New Asian will feature Filipino dishes throughout April in recognition of National Filipino Food Month at its River North and Fulton Market locations. The restaurant is led by founder Billy Dec and Executive Chef Mike Morales.

Sunda New Asian is inviting guests behind the sushi bar for a hands-on Sushi Rolling Class led by the restaurant’s award-winning chefs. During this interactive experience, participants will learn the fundamentals of sushi-making while crafting their own rolls from scratch, featuring ingredients such as fresh salmon, crispy shrimp tempura, and spicy tuna, all wrapped in perfectly seasoned sushi rice and nori.

Raw crab can be delicious, but eating raw seafood can be risky. Knowing what to look for when selecting crab you intend to eat raw — and knowing how to prepare it — can help reduce the risk of food poisoning. Michael Morales, culinary director at Sunda New Asian, shared what you need to know to prepare and eat raw crab safely. First, it's important to know what to look for when you're buying raw crabs. "Sourcing is everything," says Morales. It's also key that you buy live crab, and they should be active when you purchase them. "The more movement the better," says Morales (look for crabs that have their claws up). Additionally, give the crab you're considering a whiff before you buy. "The crab should not emit any odor. No smell is a good thing for seafood," says Morales. After you've properly selected your crab, it's time to move on to the preparation process, and Morales has several safety tips for reducing the risk of getting sick from eating raw seafood.

Menu Talk: The advocate for Philippine culture and hospitality is also getting ready for the PBS debut of his documentary.

Ring in the Year of the Horse and commemorate the 16-day Lunar New Year—from Tuesday, Feb. 17 through Tuesday, March 3—with Chicago’s most fabulous offerings and events. From an awe-inspiring parade to a luxe six-course feast, we’ve rounded up the best ways to celebrate the Lunar New Year in Chicago.

Valentine’s Day is almost here and there’s a good chance you’re finalizing your day-of plans here in Chicago. Whether you’re looking for a romantic dinner destination, a low-key cocktail spot, or the perfect date night experience, there’s plenty going on in the Windy City. Here’s your guide to the best things to do this Valentine’s Day in Chicago.

Owner and CEO Billy Dec demos dumplings for Lunar New Year and shares Valentine's Day specials.

The only thing better than a new Beyonce or Taylor album drop is the drop of the Chicago Restaurant Week menus and the 2026 menus are no exception! Whether you’re using this time as an excuse to revisit a neighborhood favorite or finally trying that hot new restaurant on your list, there is truly no better time to enjoy the epicness that is the Chicago culinary scene. Check out our roundup of restaurants that are offering some of the best CRW deals: