Nestled at 907 major St in the guts of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is much more than simply a restaurant. It’s a culinary experience that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with modern creativeness, all set versus the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. should you’re a foods lover searching for a unique dining spot, this put claims to captivate your senses with its ingenious dishes, amazing views, and a vibe that’s equivalent pieces chic and welcoming. Enable’s dive into what will make Saigon Babylon a must-take a look at vacation spot for locals and holidaymakers alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central sq.
picture stepping out of the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending to the fifth floor on the Sonder 907 key developing. That’s wherever Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was once the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your usual eating setup. The open up-air terrace gives sweeping views of the city, a scarce handle In this particular part of city. Whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails underneath The celebrities, the rooftop location elevates just about every minute expended listed here.
The House itself feels like a thoughtful blend of nature and design and style. Lush greenery softens the trendy traces of the home furniture, while warm lights casts a cozy glow. Inspired by Vietnam’s loaded aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a harmony concerning magnificence and comfort. It’s the type of position where you can costume up for the date or maintain it informal with mates, and In any event, you’ll experience proper in your house.
What sets this spot apart is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop location. in the neighborhood recognized for its eclectic Electricity, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s each subtle and laid-again. It’s no wonder folks are buzzing concerning 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 with a proven history from the culinary earth. If their names audio common, it’s given that they’ve already received around foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar as well as the Eaves in close by Somerville. Their abilities shines by means of in every detail in this article, from the menu to the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong convey a deep appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine, paired which has a knack for innovation. They’re not simply serving foods; they’re telling a story through flavors and presentation. It’s apparent they’ve poured their hearts here into building Saigon Babylon a standout, and their passion resonates with every guest who walks from the doorway.
A Menu That Dances on the Palate
the guts of Saigon Babylon lies in its meals, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, modern-day twists. This isn’t your regular pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen performs with textures, aromas, and tastes, providing dishes that truly feel common but thrillingly new. Enable’s check out many of the stars in the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
photograph this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed from the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled that has a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s concluded which has a crunch of crispy rice paper, adding just the appropriate contrast. This dish is a testament for the kitchen’s ability to choose a straightforward concept and turn it into something amazing. Every Chunk bursts with freshness, which makes it a great starter to awaken your urge for food.
Xôi Chim - Comfort satisfies creativeness
for those who’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 ground squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese Road foods, nevertheless the presentation seems like fantastic eating. The warmth with the rice, the richness of the meat, as well as umami within the mushrooms arrive alongside one another in a means that’s deeply fulfilling. It’s convenience foods using a twist, and it’s very easy to see why it’s a crowd favourite.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish performed Right
Duck enthusiasts, take note. The Bac Ninh brings tender duck on the desk, bathed inside a sauce that’s Daring and complicated. The flavors lean savory with a touch of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s talent in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers inside your memory extensive following the meal is more than, proving that Saigon Babylon is familiar with how to deal with meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and Sour Bliss
For seafood fans, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is essential-try out. The shrimp are perfectly charred, their natural sweetness Increased by a tamarind glaze that’s equal areas tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one which captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it by using a side of sticky rice, therefore you’ve received a plate that’s difficult to place down.
Cocktails That Steal the demonstrate
No rooftop knowledge is complete without a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that front much too. The bar menu is a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which are as ingenious since the foods. regardless of whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or perhaps planning to sip anything refreshing, there’s a lot to like here.
go ahead and take Pho Cocktail, As an example. Certainly, you read that appropriate. This drink takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - Feel star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with fresh new herbs as well as a spirit of the option. It’s quirky, sudden, and amazingly mouth watering. If you favor some thing extra tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, with an choice to spike it with rum for a boozy kick.
The bar group Obviously enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Just about every drink feels like a mini adventure, complementing the food stuff devoid of overshadowing it. when you’re not from the temper for Liquor, they’ve got non-alcoholic versions far too, making sure everyone can Take part the fun.
When to go to
Saigon Babylon welcomes attendees from Wednesday to Sunday, with hrs running from five PM to midnight. that offers you plenty of time and energy to appreciate a leisurely meal or swing by for late-night beverages. The position shuts its doors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so strategy appropriately. for those who’re serious about dropping in, it’s a good idea to simply call ahead at (617) 945-4509. several hours can change, and also you don’t need to skip out.
The vibe below shifts depending upon the day. Weeknights lean quieter, great for personal dinners or catching up with a buddy. arrive Friday or Saturday, even though, the Vitality ramps up. DJ sets frequently fill the air, turning the rooftop right into a lively hotspot. It’s the type of flexibility which makes Saigon Babylon appeal to a myriad of diners.
What persons are expressing
because opening its doors in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has become producing waves in Cambridge’s meals scene. Guests rave regarding the rooftop sights, contacting them a scarce address In this particular bustling community. The food stuff earns substantial marks also, 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 testimonials, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s talent.
That said, it’s not all excellent. Some diners mention that the prices lean on the higher facet, Specifically provided the portion sizes. A few have observed that company can truly feel uneven occasionally, most likely a hiccup from your cafe’s newness. however, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly beneficial. on the web rankings hover all around 4.three to four.four out of 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a strong start out for a place that’s nevertheless discovering its footing.
creating a Reservation
Ready to practical experience Saigon Babylon yourself? reserving a table is actually a breeze. you could hop onto their Formal Web-site at saigonbabylon.enjoyable or use Resy.com to protected your spot. specified the rooftop’s popularity, especially on weekends, it’s good to prepare ahead. wander-ins are welcome when space lets, but a reservation guarantees you received’t be remaining waiting.
This is a place that works for a number of situations. setting up a intimate night? The ambiance and food stuff set the right tone. Conference pals for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes retain factors energetic. It’s even an incredible choose for just a Particular celebration, because of the standout location and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge isn't any stranger to superior foods, but Saigon Babylon brings one thing new towards the desk. It’s not just about eating; it’s about immersing by yourself in a very sensory journey. The rooftop spot on your own causes it to be a rarity, supplying a perspective of the city you gained’t locate anyplace else in Central Square. Add while in the Vietnamese fusion Delicacies, crafted with treatment by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, so you’ve acquired a recipe for your memorable evening.
the eye to detail shines as a result of in each individual facet. through the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef to your clever twist of a Pho Cocktail, this place doesn’t cut corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern viewers. irrespective of whether you’re a neighborhood hunting for a new haunt or possibly a visitor exploring the realm, Saigon Babylon feels like a discovery value sharing.
tricks for Your stop by
when you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, some tips can enhance your working experience. intention for an early night slot if you wish to catch the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable because the sky shifts colors. gown in layers, as well. The outside location is actually a attract, but Massachusetts weather could be unpredictable, even in spring or slide.
Don’t skip the cocktails, even if you’re not a huge drinker. The non-alcoholic choices are just as Innovative and pair wonderfully Along with the food. And if you’re torn on what to order, inquire the personnel for recommendations. They’re captivated with the menu and pleased to guide you toward something you’ll appreciate.
A flavor of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t merely a restaurant; it’s a place. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - Daring, well balanced, and stuffed with lifetime - and wraps it within a placing that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming environment - it all comes with each other to develop one thing Specific.
subsequent time you’re in Central Square, skip the usual suspects and head around 907 primary St. no matter whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting by using a Stormy Saigon, you’ll end up caught up while in the allure of Saigon Babylon. It’s an area that lingers in the intellect, beckoning you back for one more taste of its magic.