Nestled at 907 principal St in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is more than just a restaurant. It’s a culinary encounter that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with contemporary creativeness, all set towards the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. in case you’re a meals lover hunting for a unique eating place, this area claims to captivate your senses with its ingenious dishes, gorgeous views, and also a vibe that’s equal elements stylish and welcoming. Enable’s dive into what tends to make Saigon Babylon essential-pay a visit to location for locals and visitors alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central sq.
Imagine stepping out with the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending into the fifth ground with the Sonder 907 most important building. That’s in which Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was when the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your typical eating set up. The open up-air terrace gives sweeping views of the town, a uncommon address in this A part of town. no matter whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails less than the stars, the rooftop placing elevates each individual instant used in this article.
The space itself looks like a considerate blend of character and design and style. Lush greenery softens the modern strains in the furniture, although heat lighting casts a cozy glow. encouraged by Vietnam’s wealthy aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a stability amongst elegance and luxury. It’s the kind of put where you can dress up for a date or continue to keep it casual with close friends, and In any event, you’ll truly feel correct in your house.
What sets this place apart is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop location. inside a neighborhood noted for its eclectic Vitality, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s both of those sophisticated and laid-back. It’s No surprise people are buzzing about this concealed gem.
The Minds powering the Magic
At the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo that has a verified track record during the culinary earth. If their names seem common, it’s because they’ve currently gained in excess of foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar as well as Eaves in close by Somerville. Their know-how shines through in every single element here, from the menu for the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong carry a deep appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine, paired having a knack for innovation. They’re not merely serving meals; they’re telling a story as a result of flavors and presentation. It’s crystal clear they’ve poured their hearts into creating Saigon Babylon a standout, and their passion resonates with each individual visitor who walks from the door.
A Menu That Dances on your own Palate
the center of Saigon Babylon lies in its food stuff, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and Daring, modern twists. This isn’t your ordinary pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area plays with textures, aromas, and tastes, offering dishes that really feel acquainted yet thrillingly new. Let’s investigate some of the stars in the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
photo this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed because of the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled using a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s concluded with a crunch of crispy rice paper, introducing just the appropriate contrast. This dish is usually a testomony towards the kitchen’s ability to get a simple principle and turn it into some thing extraordinary. Each and every Chunk bursts with freshness, which makes it an excellent starter to awaken your appetite.
Xôi Chim - comfort and ease satisfies Creativity
in case you’re craving a thing hearty, the Xôi Chim won’t disappoint. This dish usually takes sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with floor squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese Road food items, even so the presentation seems like great dining. The warmth of the rice, the richness with the meat, as well as the umami in the mushrooms arrive alongside one another in a way that’s deeply fulfilling. It’s comfort and ease food using a twist, and it’s simple to see why it’s a group favorite.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish Done Right
Duck lovers, just take Observe. The Bac Ninh brings tender duck to your desk, bathed inside a sauce that’s bold and complicated. The flavors lean savory with a hint of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s ability in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers inside your memory extended following the meal is in excess of, proving that Saigon Babylon knows how to manage meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and Sour Bliss
For seafood followers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a necessity-test. The shrimp are properly charred, their purely natural sweetness enhanced by a tamarind glaze that’s equal sections tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it by using a aspect of sticky rice, and you simply’ve received a plate that’s not easy to place down.
Cocktails That Steal the clearly show
No rooftop expertise is full without having a stellar drink in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that entrance also. The bar menu is usually a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails that are as creative as being the food stuff. regardless of whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or simply just trying to sip anything refreshing, there’s lots to love below.
go ahead and take Pho Cocktail, for instance. Yes, you go through that appropriate. This consume requires the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup - Believe star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with contemporary herbs plus a spirit of your option. It’s quirky, surprising, and amazingly delectable. If you like something a lot more tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, by having an option to spike it with rum for just a boozy kick.
The bar crew Plainly enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Just about every drink appears like a mini experience, complementing the meals with out overshadowing it. If you’re not in the mood for alcohol, they’ve received non-alcoholic variations way too, guaranteeing Everybody can join in the fun.
When to Visit
Saigon Babylon welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, with several hours operating from 5 PM to midnight. that offers you loads of time and energy to get pleasure from a leisurely supper or swing by for late-night time beverages. The put shuts its doors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so approach appropriately. in the event you’re considering dropping in, it’s a good idea to call ahead at (617) 945-4509. Hours can change, and you also don’t need to skip out.
The vibe right here shifts based on the working day. get more info Weeknights lean quieter, ideal for personal dinners or catching up with a colleague. occur Friday or Saturday, however, the Electrical power ramps up. DJ sets frequently fill the air, turning the rooftop into a lively hotspot. It’s the kind of versatility that makes Saigon Babylon attract all kinds of diners.
What men and women are declaring
considering the fact that opening its doors in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has long been generating waves in Cambridge’s meals scene. Guests rave regarding the rooftop sights, contacting them a rare treat On this bustling neighborhood. The foodstuff earns substantial marks also, with a lot of praising the creative imagination and freshness of each dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up frequently in reviews, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s talent.
That said, it’s not all perfect. Some diners mention that the prices lean on the higher side, In particular supplied the portion dimensions. a handful of have mentioned that assistance can come to feel uneven from time to time, likely a hiccup from the cafe’s newness. even now, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly favourable. on the internet ratings hover close to four.three to four.4 away from 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust begin for a location that’s still getting its footing.
creating a Reservation
wanting to working experience Saigon Babylon on your own? reserving a table is actually a breeze. You can hop on to their Formal Web site at saigonbabylon.pleasurable or use Resy.com to protected your place. provided the rooftop’s recognition, Specially on weekends, it’s good to plan in advance. stroll-ins are welcome when Area enables, but a reservation makes sure you won’t be still left ready.
that is a place that actually works for a number of events. arranging a passionate night? The ambiance and food items set the perfect tone. Conference friends for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes keep points energetic. It’s even a terrific decide for just a Particular celebration, because of the standout setting and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge is not any stranger to fantastic foodstuff, but Saigon Babylon delivers something fresh to the desk. It’s not just about ingesting; it’s about immersing you inside of a sensory journey. The rooftop spot by yourself causes it to be a rarity, giving a perspective of the city you gained’t come across any place else in Central Square. include inside the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and you simply’ve got a recipe for a unforgettable night time.
The attention to detail shines via in each and every component. within the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef to the clever twist of a Pho Cocktail, this spot doesn’t Slash corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern audience. Whether you’re a neighborhood trying to find a new haunt or maybe a visitor Discovering the region, Saigon Babylon looks like a discovery really worth sharing.
Tips for Your stop by
in case you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a number of ideas can enhance your experience. goal for an early evening slot if you wish to catch the sunset - the rooftop views are unbeatable because the sky shifts hues. gown in levels, too. The outdoor environment is often a draw, but Massachusetts temperature is usually unpredictable, even in spring or fall.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even though you’re not a big drinker. The non-alcoholic selections are merely as Inventive and pair fantastically Using the food stuff. and when you’re torn on what to get, ask the staff for recommendations. They’re excited about the menu and joyful to manual you towards a thing you’ll really like.
A Taste of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t only a restaurant; it’s a destination. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine - bold, balanced, and packed with everyday living - and wraps it in a location that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming atmosphere - it all will come alongside one another to create a thing special.
subsequent time you’re in Central Square, skip the usual suspects and head approximately 907 key St. no matter if you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting by using a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up while in the allure of Saigon Babylon. It’s a location that lingers in your mind, beckoning you again for one more flavor of its magic.