Nestled at 907 major St in the center of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is more than just a cafe. It’s a culinary working experience that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with modern creativity, all established versus the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. should you’re a meals lover attempting to find a novel eating spot, this location claims to captivate your senses with its inventive dishes, stunning views, plus a vibe that’s equivalent areas chic and welcoming. Enable’s dive into what makes Saigon Babylon essential-take a look at spot for locals and vacationers alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central Square
visualize stepping out in the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending to the fifth ground of the Sonder 907 primary creating. That’s where by Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was once the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your usual eating set up. The open up-air terrace gives sweeping views of the town, a uncommon address During this part of city. Whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails under The celebrities, the rooftop location elevates every single minute put in in this article.
The Place itself feels like a thoughtful mixture of character and structure. Lush greenery softens the trendy strains with the home furniture, when heat lighting casts a cozy glow. Inspired by Vietnam’s rich aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a stability concerning magnificence and luxury. It’s the kind of spot where you can dress up for the day or preserve it casual with pals, and In any case, you’ll feel ideal in the home.
What sets this place apart is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop venue. inside a community known for its eclectic Electrical power, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s both equally innovative and laid-again. It’s No surprise consumers are buzzing about this hidden gem.
The Minds at the rear of the Magic
for the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo by using a proven track record inside the culinary globe. If their names sound familiar, it’s since they’ve previously received over foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar plus the Eaves in close by Somerville. Their abilities shines as a result of in just about every detail right here, within the menu to the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong provide a deep appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine, paired using a knack for innovation. They’re not just serving food items; they’re telling a Tale via flavors and presentation. It’s obvious they’ve poured their hearts into creating Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with each and every guest who walks through the doorway.
A Menu That Dances on your own Palate
The heart of Saigon Babylon lies in its foodstuff, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and Daring, modern day twists. This isn’t your ordinary pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen performs with textures, aromas, and preferences, delivering dishes that come to feel familiar nevertheless thrillingly new. Let’s explore some of the stars from the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
Picture this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed from the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled using a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s concluded using a crunch of crispy rice paper, introducing just the correct distinction. This dish is really a testament on the kitchen area’s capacity to just take a straightforward notion and turn it into something amazing. Each individual Chunk bursts with freshness, which makes it a perfect starter to awaken your hunger.
Xôi Chim - ease and comfort fulfills creativeness
when you’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 floor squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese street foodstuff, even so the presentation feels like fantastic dining. the heat of your rice, the richness of the meat, and the umami from your mushrooms appear alongside one another in a method that’s deeply satisfying. It’s comfort food items having a twist, and it’s easy to see why it’s a crowd favourite.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish finished correct
Duck fans, consider Take note. The Bac Ninh delivers tender duck for the table, bathed within a sauce that’s bold and sophisticated. 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 inside your memory prolonged after the food is here around, proving that Saigon Babylon appreciates how to manage meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and Sour Bliss
For seafood supporters, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a necessity-try. The shrimp are flawlessly charred, their all-natural sweetness Improved by a tamarind glaze that’s equal components tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one which captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it using a facet of sticky rice, and you also’ve bought a plate that’s not easy to set down.
Cocktails That Steal the exhibit
No rooftop experience is finish with no stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon provides on that entrance way too. The bar menu is a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails that happen to be as creative since the foodstuff. no matter if you’re a cocktail aficionado or perhaps looking to sip anything refreshing, there’s loads to like listed here.
Take the Pho Cocktail, For example. Yes, you go through that ideal. This consume will take the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup - Feel star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with contemporary herbs in addition to a spirit within your option. It’s quirky, unanticipated, and surprisingly scrumptious. If you prefer something far more tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, using an option to spike it with rum for the boozy kick.
The bar group clearly enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Every consume seems like a mini journey, complementing the food stuff with out overshadowing it. for those who’re not in the mood for Liquor, they’ve acquired non-alcoholic variations way too, making sure everyone can Take part the fun.
When to Visit
Saigon Babylon welcomes attendees from Wednesday to Sunday, with hours operating from five PM to midnight. That gives you a lot of time and energy to enjoy a leisurely supper or swing by for late-night time beverages. The area shuts its doors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan appropriately. should you’re pondering dropping in, it’s a smart idea to get in touch with ahead at (617) 945-4509. hrs can shift, so you don’t choose to miss out on out.
The vibe below shifts depending upon the day. Weeknights lean quieter, perfect for personal dinners or catching up with an acquaintance. occur Friday or Saturday, though, the Vitality ramps up. DJ sets often fill the air, turning the rooftop right into a lively hotspot. It’s the sort of flexibility which makes Saigon Babylon appeal to an array of diners.
What folks are declaring
given that opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has become building waves in Cambridge’s foods scene. company rave with regard to the rooftop sights, calling them a uncommon handle in this bustling neighborhood. The foodstuff earns higher marks too, with several praising the creative imagination and freshness of each dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up normally in assessments, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s expertise.
Having said that, it’s not all ideal. Some diners mention that the prices lean on the higher side, In particular presented the part dimensions. a couple of have mentioned that services can feel uneven from time to time, very likely a hiccup from the restaurant’s newness. even now, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly beneficial. on the net rankings hover all over four.3 to 4.four out of five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a solid get started for a location that’s continue to obtaining its footing.
earning a Reservation
wanting to encounter Saigon Babylon on your own? Booking a table can be a breeze. You can hop on to their Formal Web site at saigonbabylon.enjoyable or use Resy.com to protected your place. Given the rooftop’s acceptance, Specially on weekends, it’s sensible to program in advance. stroll-ins are welcome when space permits, but a reservation ensures you received’t be remaining waiting.
this can be a location that actually works for all sorts of events. Planning a passionate night? The ambiance and foods set the best tone. Meeting pals for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes retain points energetic. It’s even a fantastic decide on for a Exclusive celebration, thanks to the standout location and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge is no stranger to superior food items, but Saigon Babylon delivers a thing fresh new to the table. It’s not just about ingesting; it’s about immersing by yourself in a very sensory journey. The rooftop location by itself causes it to be a rarity, offering a viewpoint of town you received’t come across everywhere else in Central Square. Add during the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and also you’ve received a recipe for your memorable night.
the eye to element shines via in each and every element. with the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef to the clever twist of the Pho Cocktail, this area doesn’t cut corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern audience. irrespective of whether you’re an area hunting for a new haunt or a visitor Discovering the realm, Saigon Babylon appears like a discovery worthy of sharing.
guidelines for Your check out
If you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, several pointers can boost your knowledge. intention for an early evening slot in order to capture the sunset - the rooftop views are unbeatable as being the sky shifts colours. Dress in layers, way too. The outdoor setting is a draw, but Massachusetts weather can be unpredictable, even in spring or drop.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even though you’re not a giant drinker. The non-alcoholic options are just as Resourceful and pair wonderfully Along with the foods. And if you’re torn on what to purchase, talk to the personnel for suggestions. They’re enthusiastic about the menu and joyful to guidebook you towards something you’ll enjoy.
A style of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t only a restaurant; it’s a location. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - bold, balanced, and brimming with life - and wraps it inside of a location that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming environment - all of it will come jointly to produce a little something Distinctive.
subsequent time you’re in Central Square, skip the same old suspects and head approximately 907 key St. irrespective of whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting having a Stormy Saigon, you’ll end up caught up while in the appeal of Saigon Babylon. It’s a location that lingers within your thoughts, beckoning you back for an additional flavor of its magic.