Nestled at 907 most important St in the guts of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is much more than just a cafe. It’s a culinary experience that blends the colourful flavors of Vietnam with contemporary creativeness, all set versus the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. in the event you’re a foods lover trying to find a singular dining place, this location promises to captivate your senses with its creative dishes, stunning views, and also a vibe that’s equivalent sections chic and welcoming. Let’s dive into what would make Saigon Babylon a necessity-check out desired destination for locals and tourists alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central sq.
envision stepping out on the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending for the fifth floor of your Sonder 907 Main creating. 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-air terrace provides sweeping views of the town, a exceptional take care of In this particular part of town. irrespective of whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails beneath The celebs, the rooftop location elevates each and every moment invested right here.
The House by itself looks like a thoughtful combination of nature and style and design. Lush greenery softens the modern traces from the furniture, while warm lighting casts a cozy glow. encouraged by Vietnam’s rich aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a harmony amongst magnificence and luxury. It’s the kind of place in which you can costume up for just a day or continue to keep it relaxed with close friends, and In any event, you’ll feel appropriate in your own home.
What sets this location aside is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop venue. In a neighborhood noted for its eclectic energy, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s both equally innovative and laid-back again. It’s No surprise people 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 which has a proven background from the culinary world. If their names audio familiar, it’s because they’ve now received more than foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar and The Eaves in close by Somerville. Their knowledge shines by in every element below, through the menu towards the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong convey a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired that has a knack for innovation. They’re not just serving food stuff; they’re telling a story through flavors and presentation. It’s obvious they’ve poured their hearts into producing Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their passion resonates with just about every guest who walks from the door.
A Menu That Dances in your 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 area performs with textures, aromas, and tastes, delivering dishes that experience familiar nonetheless thrillingly new. Enable’s discover a number of the stars of your menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
photo this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed because of the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled by using a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s finished which has a crunch of crispy rice paper, introducing just the ideal contrast. This dish is usually a testomony into the kitchen’s capacity to choose an easy principle and switch it into anything incredible. Just about every Chunk bursts with freshness, which makes it an excellent starter to awaken your appetite.
Xôi Chim - convenience satisfies creative imagination
If you’re craving some thing hearty, the Xôi Chim received’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 food stuff, though the presentation seems like fine eating. The warmth on the rice, the richness of your meat, and also the umami within the mushrooms occur together in a way that’s deeply enjoyable. It’s ease and comfort food items using a twist, and it’s easy to see why it’s a group favorite.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish accomplished ideal
Duck fans, take note. The Bac Ninh provides tender duck towards the table, bathed in a sauce that’s bold 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 prolonged following the food is in excess of, proving that Saigon Babylon is aware of how to handle meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and Sour Bliss
For seafood admirers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a necessity-test. The shrimp are completely charred, their all-natural sweetness enhanced by a tamarind glaze that’s equal elements tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it having a aspect of sticky rice, and you simply’ve got a plate that’s challenging to put down.
Cocktails That Steal the present
No rooftop practical experience is complete with no stellar drink in hand, and Saigon Babylon provides on that front far too. The bar menu can be a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which can be as ingenious given that the meals. no matter whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just trying to sip some thing refreshing, there’s a great deal to love here.
Take the Pho Cocktail, For illustration. Of course, you go through that right. This drink takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - Assume star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with refreshing herbs and a spirit of your respective option. It’s quirky, sudden, and incredibly tasty. If you favor something additional tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, by having an choice to spike it with rum for the boozy kick.
The bar staff Obviously enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Just about every drink feels like a mini experience, complementing the meals with out overshadowing it. If you’re not inside the temper for Liquor, they’ve obtained non-alcoholic versions much too, making certain everyone can join in the pleasurable.
When to go to
Saigon Babylon welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, with several hours operating from five PM to midnight. that provides you a lot of time for you to love a leisurely meal or swing by for late-night drinks. The put shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so strategy appropriately. for those who’re serious about dropping in, it’s a smart idea to simply call in advance at (617) 945-4509. Hours can change, and you simply don’t want to overlook out.
The vibe right here shifts according to the day. Weeknights lean quieter, great for intimate dinners or catching up with a pal. Come Friday or Saturday, although, the Power ramps up. DJ sets usually fill the air, turning the rooftop into a energetic hotspot. It’s the kind of versatility that makes Saigon Babylon attract an array of diners.
What folks are stating
due to the fact opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon is producing waves in Cambridge’s foodstuff scene. friends rave about the rooftop views, contacting them a unusual deal with With this bustling neighborhood. The food earns substantial marks too, with a lot of praising the creativity and freshness of each dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up typically in testimonials, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen area’s talent.
Having said that, it’s not all best. Some diners point out that the costs lean on the higher facet, In particular presented the part measurements. A few have observed that assistance can sense uneven occasionally, probably a hiccup with the restaurant’s newness. nevertheless, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. on the net ratings hover all around 4.3 to 4.four away from 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust commence for a location that’s even now acquiring its footing.
generating a Reservation
Ready to experience Saigon Babylon for yourself? reserving a desk is a breeze. you are able to hop onto their Formal Web page at saigonbabylon.enjoyment or use Resy.com to protected your place. offered the rooftop’s attractiveness, Particularly on weekends, it’s clever to program forward. wander-ins are welcome when Place allows, but a reservation here ensures you won’t be remaining waiting around.
it is a spot that works for all sorts of situations. setting up a romantic evening? The ambiance and foods set an ideal tone. Meeting friends for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes maintain things lively. It’s even a fantastic choose for just a Specific celebration, due to the standout location and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge is not any stranger to great food stuff, but Saigon Babylon provides a thing contemporary to the desk. It’s not nearly eating; it’s about immersing your self in a sensory journey. The rooftop location on your own makes it a rarity, offering a viewpoint of the city you won’t locate anyplace else in Central sq.. incorporate within the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and also you’ve got a recipe for the memorable evening.
the eye to element shines by way of in each individual facet. with the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef for the intelligent twist of a Pho Cocktail, this place doesn’t Slash corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a contemporary viewers. no matter whether you’re a local hunting for a new haunt or maybe a customer Checking out the area, Saigon Babylon appears like a discovery well worth sharing.
tricks for Your check out
should you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a few ideas can improve your experience. intention for an early night slot if you want to capture the sunset - the rooftop views are unbeatable as being the sky shifts colors. gown in layers, as well. The outdoor location can be a attract, but Massachusetts climate could be unpredictable, even in spring or slide.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even though you’re not a big drinker. The non-alcoholic selections are merely as Innovative and pair beautifully Together with the food items. and when you’re torn on what to order, inquire the employees for recommendations. They’re passionate about the menu and pleased to tutorial you toward a little something you’ll love.
A flavor of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t simply a restaurant; it’s a desired destination. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine - Daring, well balanced, and brimming with existence - and wraps it inside of a setting that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the creative dishes, the welcoming atmosphere - it all arrives jointly to create a little something Particular.
Next time you’re in Central Square, skip the usual suspects and head as many as 907 primary St. regardless of whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting by using a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up in the attraction of Saigon Babylon. It’s an area that lingers inside your head, beckoning you back again for an additional taste of its magic.