Nestled at 907 primary St in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is much more than simply a cafe. It’s a culinary experience that blends the colourful flavors of Vietnam with modern-day creative imagination, all established from the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. when you’re a food lover seeking a singular dining location, this put guarantees to captivate your senses with its inventive dishes, breathtaking sights, and also a vibe that’s equivalent elements stylish and welcoming. Let’s dive into what will make Saigon Babylon essential-stop by spot for locals and visitors alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central Square
Imagine stepping out of the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending to your fifth ground in the Sonder 907 major setting up. That’s where Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was once the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your common dining setup. The open-air terrace delivers sweeping views of town, a exceptional deal with In this particular Element of city. whether or not you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails less than The celebs, the rooftop location elevates every single instant expended listed here.
The Area by itself seems like a thoughtful blend of character and layout. Lush greenery softens the modern lines from the home furniture, even though heat lights casts a cozy glow. Inspired by Vietnam’s prosperous aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a equilibrium concerning magnificence and comfort. It’s the kind of location where you can costume up for a date or keep it informal with friends, and In any case, you’ll really feel suitable at home.
What sets this spot aside is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop venue. in a very neighborhood recognized for its eclectic Vitality, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s each subtle and laid-back again. It’s no wonder persons are buzzing concerning this concealed gem.
The Minds at the rear of the Magic
for the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo with a confirmed track record from the culinary entire world. If their names sound common, it’s mainly because they’ve now received above foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar as well as the Eaves in nearby Somerville. Their abilities shines by in each and every depth here, from your menu to your ambiance.
Vinh and Duong bring a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired that has a knack for innovation. They’re not just serving foodstuff; they’re telling a Tale via flavors and presentation. It’s obvious they’ve poured their hearts into making Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with each visitor who walks from the doorway.
A Menu That Dances on Your Palate
the guts of Saigon Babylon lies in its foods, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and Daring, modern-day twists. This isn’t your ordinary pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area performs with textures, aromas, and preferences, providing dishes that really feel acquainted yet thrillingly new. Permit’s discover a number of the stars of the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
Picture this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed via the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled with a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s concluded that has a crunch of crispy rice paper, introducing just the proper contrast. This dish is often a testomony into the kitchen’s power to acquire a simple concept and turn it into some thing extraordinary. Just about every bite bursts with freshness, making it a perfect starter to awaken your appetite.
Xôi Chim - ease and comfort Meets creative imagination
for those who’re craving a thing hearty, the Xôi Chim won’t disappoint. This dish takes sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with ground squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese Avenue foodstuff, but the presentation looks like fantastic dining. the heat of your rice, the richness in the meat, as well as the umami through the mushrooms come with each other in a means that’s deeply gratifying. It’s convenience food stuff using a twist, and it’s very easy to see why it’s a crowd favourite.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish Done Right
Duck enthusiasts, take Be aware. The Bac Ninh brings tender duck into the table, bathed inside a sauce that’s bold and complex. The flavors lean savory with a hint of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s ability in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers as part of your memory extensive after the food is about, proving that Saigon Babylon is aware of how to deal with meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and bitter Bliss
For seafood enthusiasts, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a must-try out. The shrimp are correctly charred, their purely natural sweetness Increased by a tamarind glaze that’s equivalent areas tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it that has a facet of sticky rice, and you also’ve received a plate that’s difficult to set down.
Cocktails That Steal the Show
No rooftop working experience is full with no stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon provides on that front also. The bar menu is a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which have been as creative as being the food stuff. no matter whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or simply aiming to sip something refreshing, there’s a lot to love below.
Take the Pho Cocktail, for instance. Yes, you read that appropriate. This consume takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - Consider star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with fresh new herbs and also a spirit of your decision. It’s quirky, surprising, and amazingly mouth watering. If you favor a thing a lot more tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, with the option to spike it with rum for your boozy kick.
The bar workforce clearly enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Every consume seems like a mini adventure, complementing the food stuff without having overshadowing it. when you’re not within the temper for Liquor, they’ve obtained non-alcoholic variations much too, guaranteeing Absolutely everyone can join in the fun.
When to Visit
Saigon Babylon welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, with hrs operating from 5 PM to midnight. that provides you lots of time to get pleasure from a leisurely evening meal or swing by for late-evening drinks. The put shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so approach accordingly. when you’re thinking about dropping in, it’s a good idea to get in touch with ahead at (617) 945-4509. Hours can change, so you don’t need to overlook out.
The vibe in this article shifts with regards to the day. Weeknights lean quieter, perfect for intimate dinners or catching up with a pal. arrive Friday or Saturday, nevertheless, the Electricity ramps up. DJ sets usually fill the air, turning the rooftop into a energetic hotspot. It’s the type of versatility that makes read more Saigon Babylon attract all kinds of diners.
What persons are stating
given that opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon continues to be producing waves in Cambridge’s food scene. Guests rave about the rooftop sights, calling them a rare deal with During this bustling community. The foods earns significant marks also, with numerous praising the creativity and freshness of every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up normally in critiques, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s talent.
Having said that, it’s not all excellent. Some diners point out that the prices lean on the higher side, especially supplied the part measurements. some have mentioned that assistance can really feel uneven sometimes, possible a hiccup through the restaurant’s newness. nevertheless, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly favourable. Online rankings hover all-around 4.three to 4.four away from 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust get started for a location that’s nonetheless obtaining its footing.
building a Reservation
Ready to working experience Saigon Babylon for yourself? Booking a desk is actually a breeze. you could hop onto their Formal Internet site at saigonbabylon.pleasurable or use Resy.com to protected your spot. provided the rooftop’s acceptance, Particularly on weekends, it’s intelligent to strategy ahead. wander-ins are welcome when space makes it possible for, but a reservation assures you gained’t be left waiting.
it is a spot that works for a number of events. preparing a passionate night? The ambiance and food items set the right tone. Meeting friends for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes keep items lively. It’s even a terrific decide to get a Distinctive celebration, because of the standout placing and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge isn't any stranger to great food stuff, but Saigon Babylon brings something refreshing on the table. It’s not almost taking in; it’s about immersing yourself in a sensory journey. The rooftop place by itself makes it a rarity, giving a standpoint of town you gained’t discover anywhere else in Central Square. increase inside the Vietnamese fusion Delicacies, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and also you’ve got a recipe for the unforgettable night.
the eye to detail shines as a result of in each individual part. in the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef for the intelligent twist of the Pho Cocktail, this put doesn’t Slash corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a contemporary audience. regardless of whether you’re a neighborhood trying to find a new haunt or possibly a visitor exploring the realm, Saigon Babylon feels like a discovery truly worth sharing.
guidelines for Your go to
in case you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, some tips can improve your working experience. intention for an early evening slot if you want to catch the sunset - the rooftop views are unbeatable as being the sky shifts colors. Dress in layers, as well. The outdoor placing can be a draw, but Massachusetts weather conditions might be unpredictable, even in spring or drop.
Don’t skip the cocktails, even if you’re not a giant drinker. The non-alcoholic possibilities are just as creative and pair beautifully Along with the food items. And if you’re torn on what to buy, check with the staff members for recommendations. They’re captivated with the menu and happy to information you toward some thing you’ll really like.
A Taste of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a spot. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine - bold, well balanced, and stuffed with everyday living - and wraps it inside of a location that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the inventive dishes, the welcoming atmosphere - everything arrives jointly to develop a thing Distinctive.
Next time you’re in Central sq., skip the usual suspects and head up to 907 Main St. regardless of whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting having a Stormy Saigon, you’ll end up caught up inside the attraction of Saigon Babylon. It’s a spot that lingers as part of your brain, beckoning you again for an additional flavor of its magic.