Nestled at 907 most important St in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is a lot more than just a restaurant. It’s a culinary working experience that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with modern day creativeness, all established against the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. in the event you’re a foods lover attempting to find a novel eating location, this area claims to captivate your senses with its creative dishes, spectacular sights, as well as a vibe that’s equivalent elements chic and welcoming. Enable’s dive into what can make Saigon Babylon essential-check out spot for locals and holidaymakers alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central Square
consider stepping out on the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending to the fifth flooring of the Sonder 907 major making. That’s where Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was as soon as the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your typical dining set up. The open up-air terrace gives sweeping views of town, a rare deal with Within this Element of town. regardless of whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails below the stars, the rooftop location elevates just about every instant invested right here.
The Room by itself seems like a considerate combination of nature and design and style. Lush greenery softens the trendy lines of your furniture, even though heat lighting casts a cozy glow. influenced by Vietnam’s rich aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a stability in between magnificence and comfort. It’s the sort of area in which you can costume up for a day or hold it informal with friends, and either way, you’ll truly feel correct at your home.
What sets this spot aside is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop location. inside of a neighborhood recognized for its eclectic Electricity, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s both of those sophisticated and laid-back. It’s no wonder people are buzzing about this hidden gem.
The Minds driving the Magic
on the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo which has a verified background inside the culinary world. If their names audio acquainted, it’s because they’ve now gained around foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar along with the Eaves in close by Somerville. Their knowledge shines by means of in just about every detail here, within the menu to the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong carry a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired having a knack for innovation. They’re not just serving foods; they’re telling a story through flavors and presentation. It’s crystal clear they’ve poured their hearts into producing Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with each guest who walks in the doorway.
A Menu That Dances on the Palate
the guts of Saigon Babylon lies in its foods, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, modern twists. This isn’t your regular pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen performs with textures, aromas, and preferences, offering dishes that sense acquainted but thrillingly new. Allow’s check out many of the stars with the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A Flavor Explosion
image this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed with the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled that has a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s concluded which has a crunch of crispy rice paper, incorporating just the correct distinction. This dish can be a testament to your kitchen area’s ability to just take an easy principle and turn it into one thing extraordinary. Each Chunk bursts with freshness, rendering it a great starter to awaken your appetite.
Xôi Chim - Comfort fulfills creativeness
for those who’re craving a little something hearty, the Xôi Chim gained’t disappoint. This dish requires sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with floor squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese street foods, although the presentation looks like high-quality eating. the heat with the rice, the richness on the meat, and the umami with the mushrooms arrive with each other in a means that’s deeply gratifying. It’s comfort and ease food stuff by using a twist, and it’s very easy to see why it’s a group beloved.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish finished ideal
Duck lovers, acquire Observe. The Bac Ninh provides tender duck towards the desk, bathed inside a sauce that’s bold and complex. The flavors lean savory with a touch of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s talent in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers as part of your memory long after the meal is about, proving that Saigon Babylon is familiar with how to deal with meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and bitter Bliss
For seafood followers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is essential-attempt. The shrimp are properly charred, their organic sweetness Improved by a tamarind glaze that’s equal pieces tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one which captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it with a aspect of sticky rice, and you simply’ve bought a plate that’s difficult to set down.
Cocktails That Steal the clearly show
No rooftop expertise is entire without having a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon provides on that front way too. The bar menu is often a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which have been as inventive because the food items. no matter whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or simply aiming to sip anything refreshing, there’s a good deal to love listed here.
Take the Pho Cocktail, As an illustration. Of course, you browse that correct. This consume can take the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup - think star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with clean herbs in addition to a spirit of the selection. It’s quirky, unexpected, and incredibly tasty. If you like a thing additional tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, with the choice to spike it with rum for the boozy kick.
The bar team clearly enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Just about every consume appears like a mini adventure, complementing the food stuff without overshadowing it. If you’re not from the mood for Liquor, they’ve acquired non-alcoholic versions far too, making certain Absolutely everyone can join in the entertaining.
When to Visit
Saigon Babylon welcomes attendees from Wednesday to Sunday, with several hours operating from 5 PM to midnight. That gives you plenty of time to love a leisurely dinner or swing by for late-evening beverages. The area shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so prepare appropriately. should you’re pondering dropping in, it’s a smart idea to simply call forward at (617) 945-4509. Hours can shift, therefore you don’t choose to miss out.
The vibe right here shifts with regards to the working day. Weeknights lean quieter, perfect get more info for intimate dinners or catching up with a colleague. arrive Friday or Saturday, however, the Power ramps up. DJ sets typically fill the air, turning the rooftop right into a lively hotspot. It’s the sort of versatility that makes Saigon Babylon attract a myriad of diners.
What consumers are expressing
Since opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has become producing waves in Cambridge’s foodstuff scene. attendees rave with regard to the rooftop views, calling them a scarce handle Within this bustling community. The food stuff earns superior marks much too, with a lot of praising the creativeness and freshness of each and every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up generally in testimonials, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s expertise.
That said, it’s not all great. Some diners point out that the costs lean on the upper aspect, In particular supplied the portion measurements. a handful of have pointed out that provider can feel uneven occasionally, probably a hiccup from your cafe’s newness. even now, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly favourable. on line rankings hover all over four.three to 4.four outside of 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust start out for a spot that’s nonetheless discovering its footing.
Making a Reservation
willing to encounter Saigon Babylon on your own? reserving a desk is often a breeze. it is possible to hop on to their official Web page at saigonbabylon.fun or use Resy.com to protected your place. specified the rooftop’s attractiveness, Primarily on weekends, it’s wise to strategy in advance. Walk-ins are welcome when Area allows, but a reservation assures you received’t be left waiting.
this is the place that actually works for all sorts of situations. arranging a intimate evening? The ambiance and foods set the proper tone. Meeting close friends for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes maintain things energetic. It’s even a great decide for your Specific celebration, thanks to the standout environment and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge is not any stranger to excellent foods, but Saigon Babylon delivers a little something clean to your table. It’s not pretty much eating; it’s about immersing oneself inside of a sensory journey. The rooftop site by itself causes it to be a rarity, providing a viewpoint of the city you gained’t discover any where else in Central Square. Add inside the Vietnamese fusion Delicacies, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, therefore you’ve received a recipe for the memorable evening.
the eye to element shines by in every single aspect. with the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef to the intelligent twist of a Pho Cocktail, this position doesn’t cut corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern viewers. no matter whether you’re a local searching for a new haunt or perhaps a visitor exploring the region, Saigon Babylon seems like a discovery worthy of sharing.
strategies for Your check out
in the event you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a few pointers can boost your encounter. intention for an early evening slot in order to catch the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable since the sky shifts colors. Dress in levels, way too. The outdoor environment is a attract, but Massachusetts temperature is often unpredictable, even in spring or drop.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even when you’re not a big drinker. The non-alcoholic options are just as Artistic and pair superbly Together with the food. and when you’re torn on what to purchase, inquire the personnel for recommendations. They’re obsessed with the menu and pleased to manual you towards a little something you’ll really like.
A flavor of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t just a cafe; it’s a location. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine - Daring, balanced, and jam packed with life - and wraps it inside a placing that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming ambiance - everything arrives collectively to develop a little something Specific.
upcoming time you’re in Central sq., skip the same old suspects and head up to 907 primary St. whether or not you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting that has a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up from the appeal of Saigon Babylon. It’s a place that lingers with your head, beckoning you back for one more style of its magic.