Nestled at 907 primary St in the guts of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is a lot more than just a cafe. It’s a culinary expertise that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with contemporary creative imagination, all set towards the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. in case you’re a food lover seeking a singular eating spot, this position guarantees to captivate your senses with its inventive dishes, spectacular sights, along with a vibe that’s equal parts chic and welcoming. Permit’s dive into what helps make Saigon Babylon a must-go to place for locals and vacationers alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central Square
Imagine stepping out of the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending towards the fifth flooring in the Sonder 907 Main creating. That’s wherever Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was when the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your common dining setup. The open up-air terrace gives sweeping sights of the city, a scarce treat With this Section of town. no matter if you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails below The celebrities, the rooftop setting elevates each minute used here.
The House alone appears like a considerate blend of nature and design and style. Lush greenery softens the fashionable traces of your home furniture, when heat lighting casts a cozy glow. impressed by Vietnam’s abundant aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a balance among elegance and comfort. It’s the kind of area where you can dress up for any day or hold it everyday with pals, and In any case, you’ll experience ideal at your home.
What sets this place apart is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop location. in the community recognized for its eclectic Vitality, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s equally advanced and laid-back. It’s No surprise consumers are buzzing relating to this concealed gem.
The Minds guiding the Magic
At the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo using a verified reputation from the culinary globe. If their names audio familiar, it’s simply because they’ve currently received in excess of foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar and The Eaves in close by Somerville. Their knowledge shines as a result of in each individual detail right here, within the menu on the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong carry a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired having a knack for innovation. They’re not only serving meals; they’re telling a Tale by means of flavors and presentation. It’s apparent they’ve poured their hearts into producing Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their passion resonates with every single guest who walks throughout the doorway.
A Menu That Dances on Your Palate
the guts of Saigon Babylon lies in its food stuff, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, modern-day twists. This isn’t your typical pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen performs with textures, aromas, and tastes, offering dishes that really feel common however thrillingly new. Let’s take a look at several of the stars with the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A Flavor Explosion
photo this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed by the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled that has a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s finished which has a crunch of crispy rice paper, incorporating just the best distinction. This dish is often a testament into the kitchen area’s capability to just take a straightforward idea and switch it into a thing remarkable. Each individual Chunk bursts with freshness, rendering it an ideal starter to awaken your urge for food.
Xôi Chim - Comfort Meets creativeness
when you’re craving something hearty, the Xôi Chim gained’t disappoint. This dish normally takes sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with floor squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese street food stuff, however the presentation seems like good dining. The warmth in the rice, the richness of your meat, as well as umami in the mushrooms occur collectively in a way that’s deeply enjoyable. It’s ease and comfort meals which has a twist, and it’s easy to see why it’s a group beloved.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish carried out appropriate
Duck lovers, choose Notice. The Bac Ninh brings tender duck towards the desk, bathed in the sauce that’s Daring and complicated. The flavors lean savory with a touch of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s skill in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers in your memory lengthy after the meal is about, proving that Saigon Babylon is aware how to handle meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and bitter Bliss
For seafood lovers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a necessity-check out. The shrimp are completely charred, their purely natural sweetness Increased by a tamarind glaze that’s equivalent components tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one which captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it by using a facet of sticky rice, and also you’ve got a plate that’s difficult to set down.
Cocktails That Steal the Show
No rooftop encounter is entire without a stellar drink in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that front too. The bar menu is really a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails that are as creative since the meals. no matter if you’re a cocktail aficionado or simply just looking to sip one thing refreshing, there’s plenty to love listed here.
go ahead and take Pho Cocktail, As an illustration. Certainly, you read that appropriate. This consume will take the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup - Assume star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with clean herbs and also a spirit of your respective choice. It’s quirky, unforeseen, and incredibly scrumptious. If you prefer one thing far more tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, with an choice to spike it with rum for the boozy kick.
The bar workforce Evidently enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each individual drink looks like a mini experience, complementing the meals with no overshadowing it. when you’re not from the mood for Alcoholic beverages, they’ve bought non-alcoholic variations much too, making certain Anyone can join in the enjoyable.
When to Visit
Saigon Babylon welcomes company from Wednesday to Sunday, with several hours functioning from 5 PM to midnight. that offers you a lot of time and energy to get pleasure from a leisurely supper or swing by for late-evening drinks. The place shuts its doors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so approach appropriately. should you’re contemplating dropping in, it’s a smart idea to call in advance at (617) 945-4509. Hours can change, and also you don’t want to miss out on out.
The vibe listed here shifts depending on the day. Weeknights lean quieter, ideal for personal dinners or catching up with a pal. occur Friday or Saturday, however, the energy ramps up. DJ sets generally fill the air, turning the rooftop into a energetic hotspot. It’s the type of versatility which makes Saigon Babylon appeal to all types of diners.
What men and women are expressing
given that opening its doors in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has actually been making waves in Cambridge’s food stuff scene. friends rave concerning the rooftop views, contacting them a uncommon treat On this bustling neighborhood. The foods earns superior marks too, with several praising the creativeness and freshness of every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up frequently in critiques, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s expertise.
That said, it’s not all fantastic. Some diners point out that the costs lean on the higher facet, Particularly supplied the part dimensions. A few have pointed out that provider can experience uneven from time to time, possible a hiccup with the cafe’s newness. nevertheless, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly good. on-line scores hover all over 4.three to 4.four outside of five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a strong start for a location that’s even now finding its footing.
earning a Reservation
wanting to encounter Saigon Babylon for yourself? reserving a desk is often a breeze. you may hop onto their Formal Web site at saigonbabylon.enjoyable or use Resy.com to protected your location. supplied the rooftop’s popularity, Specifically on weekends, it’s clever to plan in advance. stroll-ins are welcome when Area allows, but a reservation makes sure you gained’t be left ready.
that is a location that actually works for all kinds of occasions. organizing a passionate evening? The ambiance and food stuff set the perfect tone. Meeting buddies for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes continue to keep issues lively. It’s even a great decide on for your Exclusive celebration, due to the standout location and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge is no stranger to good foodstuff, but Saigon Babylon brings some thing fresh new to the table. It’s not just about taking in; it’s about immersing oneself in a sensory journey. The rooftop spot on your own makes it a rarity, providing a viewpoint of the city you won’t discover any place else in Central Square. include within the Vietnamese fusion Delicacies, crafted with treatment by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and also you’ve bought a recipe for any unforgettable night time.
The attention to element shines by in every element. within the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef towards the clever twist of a Pho Cocktail, this put doesn’t Slice corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern audience. Whether you’re a local seeking a new haunt or a visitor Discovering the realm, Saigon Babylon feels like a discovery truly worth sharing.
Tips for Your check out
for those who’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a handful of tips can improve your expertise. purpose for an early night slot if you wish to capture the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable as the sky shifts shades. costume in levels, as well. The out of doors placing is usually a attract, but Massachusetts climate could be unpredictable, even in spring or tumble.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even though you’re not a giant drinker. The non-alcoholic options are merely as Innovative and pair beautifully With all the food items. and when you’re torn on what to get, request the team for recommendations. They’re obsessed with the menu and satisfied to guide you toward one thing you’ll appreciate.
A style of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t simply a restaurant; it’s a spot. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine - Daring, well balanced, and packed with lifestyle - and wraps it inside of a placing that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the creative dishes, the welcoming atmosphere - everything will come with each other to produce some thing Distinctive.
following time you’re in Central sq., skip the usual suspects and read more head as much as 907 Main St. irrespective of whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting by using a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up from the allure of Saigon Babylon. It’s a location that lingers in your mind, beckoning you back for an additional taste of its magic.