Nestled at 907 major St in the guts of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is a lot more than simply a cafe. It’s a culinary working experience that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with modern day creativeness, all set versus the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. when you’re a food lover hunting for a novel eating place, this location promises to captivate your senses with its ingenious dishes, stunning sights, and also a vibe that’s equal parts chic and welcoming. Enable’s dive into what helps make Saigon Babylon a must-visit destination for locals and visitors alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central Square
think about stepping out of your bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending into the fifth floor in the Sonder 907 key making. That’s where by Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was after the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your usual eating set up. The open up-air terrace presents sweeping views of the town, a exceptional take care of During this Portion of city. no matter whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails under The celebs, the rooftop setting elevates each minute expended in this article.
The Area alone feels like a considerate combination of mother nature and structure. Lush greenery softens the trendy strains from the home furnishings, even though heat lighting casts a cozy glow. Inspired by Vietnam’s abundant aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a harmony between class and luxury. It’s the type of spot where you can dress up for the day or keep it relaxed with pals, and In any event, you’ll sense ideal at home.
What sets this spot apart is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop venue. in a very community known for its eclectic Electrical power, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s both advanced and laid-back. It’s no wonder folks are buzzing about this concealed gem.
The Minds at the rear of the Magic
on the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo using a demonstrated reputation while in the culinary planet. If their names audio common, it’s mainly because they’ve by now gained over foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar and also the Eaves in close by Somerville. Their expertise shines through in every detail right here, through the menu for the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong carry a deep appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine, paired by using a knack for innovation. They’re not only serving food items; they’re telling a story through flavors and presentation. It’s distinct they’ve poured their hearts into building Saigon Babylon a standout, and their passion resonates with just about every visitor who walks throughout the doorway.
A Menu That Dances in your Palate
the guts of Saigon Babylon lies in its foods, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and Daring, present day twists. This isn’t your normal pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area plays with textures, aromas, and preferences, delivering dishes that experience familiar still thrillingly new. Enable’s take a look at several of the stars from the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
photograph this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed with the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled having a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s finished that has a crunch of crispy rice paper, incorporating just the right contrast. This dish is actually a testomony on the kitchen’s capacity to just take a straightforward notion and turn it into a thing extraordinary. Every single bite bursts with freshness, making it an excellent starter to awaken your hunger.
Xôi Chim - convenience Meets Creativity
If you’re craving something hearty, the Xôi Chim gained’t disappoint. This dish will take sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with floor squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese Road meals, but the presentation seems like fine eating. The warmth of your rice, the richness of your meat, and the umami through the mushrooms come jointly in a means that’s deeply enjoyable. It’s comfort food items using a twist, and it’s simple to see why it’s a group beloved.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish accomplished suitable
Duck fans, just take Observe. The Bac Ninh provides tender duck for the table, bathed in a very sauce that’s Daring and complex. The flavors lean savory with a hint of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen area’s ability in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers with your memory lengthy get more info following the meal is over, proving that Saigon Babylon is aware of how to take care of meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and bitter Bliss
For seafood followers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a necessity-try out. The shrimp are perfectly charred, their organic sweetness enhanced by a tamarind glaze that’s equivalent parts 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, therefore you’ve received a plate that’s hard to put down.
Cocktails That Steal the present
No rooftop practical experience is total with out a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that front much too. The bar menu is usually a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which are as ingenious as the food stuff. regardless of whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or simply just trying to sip some thing refreshing, there’s a great deal to like below.
Take the Pho Cocktail, For example. Of course, you go through that right. This consume requires the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - Feel star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with fresh herbs plus a spirit of the choice. It’s quirky, unforeseen, and astonishingly scrumptious. If you like anything more tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, with an choice to spike it with rum for the boozy kick.
The bar staff Evidently enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each individual consume looks like a mini experience, complementing the foodstuff with no overshadowing it. in the event you’re not while in the mood for alcohol, they’ve obtained non-alcoholic variations way too, making certain Absolutely everyone can join in the entertaining.
When to go to
Saigon Babylon welcomes friends from Wednesday to Sunday, with hours jogging from 5 PM to midnight. that provides you loads of time for you to delight in a leisurely evening meal or swing by for late-night drinks. The area shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so approach accordingly. should you’re pondering dropping in, it’s a good idea to get in touch with ahead at (617) 945-4509. hrs can change, so you don’t choose to pass up out.
The vibe right here shifts depending on the working day. Weeknights lean quieter, great for intimate dinners or catching up with a pal. appear Friday or Saturday, however, the Strength ramps up. DJ sets generally fill the air, turning the rooftop right into a energetic hotspot. It’s the sort of versatility that makes Saigon Babylon attract a myriad of diners.
What consumers are indicating
given that opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has been building waves in Cambridge’s food stuff scene. visitors rave concerning the rooftop sights, calling them a rare treat During this bustling community. The food stuff earns substantial marks way too, with quite a few praising the creativeness and freshness of each and every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up usually in evaluations, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen area’s talent.
That said, it’s not all best. Some diners mention that the costs lean on the higher side, Specifically presented the portion sizes. a number of have mentioned that services can truly feel uneven occasionally, very likely a hiccup within the restaurant’s newness. even now, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly good. on the internet rankings hover all around 4.3 to 4.4 out of five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust get started for a spot that’s even now finding its footing.
creating a Reservation
wanting to experience Saigon Babylon yourself? Booking a desk is often a breeze. you could hop onto their Formal Site at saigonbabylon.pleasurable or use Resy.com to safe your spot. offered the rooftop’s acceptance, especially on weekends, it’s smart to prepare ahead. wander-ins are welcome when Area lets, but a reservation assures you won’t be remaining waiting around.
This is a location that actually works for a number of instances. Planning a romantic evening? The ambiance and food items set the perfect tone. Assembly buddies for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes keep points lively. It’s even an awesome decide on for any Exclusive celebration, because of the standout placing and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge isn't any stranger to excellent foodstuff, but Saigon Babylon delivers a little something fresh on the desk. It’s not nearly feeding on; it’s about immersing you in a very sensory journey. The rooftop site by yourself makes it a rarity, offering a point of view of town you received’t uncover everywhere else in Central Square. include in the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with treatment by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and also you’ve bought a recipe for any unforgettable night.
The attention to detail shines by means of in just about every element. from your way the lemongrass perfumes the beef on the intelligent twist of a Pho Cocktail, this place doesn’t Slice 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 perhaps a customer exploring the area, Saigon Babylon feels like a discovery worthy of sharing.
tricks for Your take a look at
when you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, some tips can improve your experience. Aim for an early night slot if you need to capture the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable because the sky shifts colors. Dress in levels, too. The outside placing is usually a attract, but Massachusetts temperature may be unpredictable, even in spring or drop.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even when you’re not a large drinker. The non-alcoholic choices are only as Resourceful and pair wonderfully While using the foodstuff. and when you’re torn on what to buy, check with the team for tips. They’re passionate about the menu and joyful to manual you toward something you’ll really like.
A style of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t merely a cafe; it’s a location. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - Daring, well balanced, and jam packed with everyday living - and wraps it in a location that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming ambiance - everything comes alongside one another to produce a little something special.
upcoming time you’re in Central sq., skip the usual suspects and head around 907 key St. no matter whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting with a Stormy Saigon, you’ll end up caught up from the charm of Saigon Babylon. It’s a location that lingers within your thoughts, beckoning you again for one more style of its magic.