Nestled at 907 primary St in the center of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is more than simply a restaurant. It’s a culinary working experience that blends the vibrant website flavors of Vietnam with modern creativeness, all established towards the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. for those who’re a foods lover seeking a unique dining location, this position guarantees to captivate your senses with its ingenious dishes, amazing views, and a vibe that’s equivalent areas stylish and welcoming. Permit’s dive into what would make Saigon Babylon a must-check out spot for locals and tourists alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central Square
envision stepping out from the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending to the fifth ground of your Sonder 907 key constructing. That’s where Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was after the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your standard dining set up. The open-air terrace provides sweeping sights of the city, a exceptional deal with With this Element of town. Whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails beneath The celebrities, the rooftop location elevates each individual instant spent below.
The space by itself looks like a considerate combination of mother nature and design. Lush greenery softens the modern strains in the furniture, while heat lighting casts a cozy glow. Inspired by Vietnam’s prosperous aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a stability between magnificence and comfort. It’s the kind of location in which you can dress up for a day or continue to keep it casual with good friends, and In either case, you’ll truly feel ideal in your house.
What sets this place apart is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop location. inside of a neighborhood recognized for its eclectic Power, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s the two sophisticated and laid-again. It’s No surprise men and women are buzzing relating to this hidden gem.
The Minds powering the Magic
in the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo by using a verified reputation during the culinary environment. If their names seem common, it’s simply because they’ve previously won above foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar as well as the Eaves in close by Somerville. Their skills shines by means of in each individual depth below, in the menu to the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong provide a deep appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine, paired with a knack for innovation. They’re not merely serving foodstuff; they’re telling a story by way of flavors and presentation. It’s obvious they’ve poured their hearts into making Saigon Babylon a standout, and their passion resonates with every single guest who walks from 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 common pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen plays with textures, aromas, and tastes, providing dishes that truly feel acquainted still thrillingly new. Let’s discover some of the stars on the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
Picture this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed by the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled which has a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s finished having a crunch of crispy rice paper, incorporating just the ideal contrast. This dish is a testomony to your kitchen’s capability to consider an easy principle and switch it into one thing incredible. Just about every bite bursts with freshness, which makes it a perfect starter to awaken your appetite.
Xôi Chim - convenience satisfies creativeness
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 Avenue food items, even so the presentation looks like fine eating. the heat from the rice, the richness with the meat, plus the umami within the mushrooms arrive collectively in a way that’s deeply fulfilling. It’s ease and comfort foods having a twist, and it’s easy to see why it’s a group most loved.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish carried out Right
Duck lovers, consider Take note. The Bac Ninh delivers tender duck to your table, bathed inside a sauce that’s bold and complicated. The flavors lean savory with a hint of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s ability in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers as part of your memory extensive once the meal is in excess of, proving that Saigon Babylon understands how to deal with meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and Sour Bliss
For seafood supporters, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a necessity-attempt. The shrimp are flawlessly charred, their normal sweetness enhanced by a tamarind glaze that’s equivalent areas tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it with a side of sticky rice, and you also’ve got a plate that’s difficult to put down.
Cocktails That Steal the exhibit
No rooftop knowledge is complete with out a stellar drink in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that entrance also. The bar menu is a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which can be as creative as being the food. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just trying to sip some thing refreshing, there’s a lot to like here.
Take the Pho Cocktail, By way of example. Of course, you read through that suitable. This drink can take the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - Imagine star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with fresh herbs plus a spirit of your respective choice. It’s quirky, surprising, and incredibly tasty. If you like some thing more tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, using an choice to spike it with rum for the boozy kick.
The bar crew Obviously enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each drink appears like a mini journey, complementing the foodstuff with out overshadowing it. in the event you’re not during the temper for Alcoholic beverages, they’ve obtained non-alcoholic variations much too, guaranteeing Anyone can Take part the entertaining.
When to Visit
Saigon Babylon welcomes company from Wednesday to Sunday, with hrs operating from five PM to midnight. That gives you a good amount of the perfect time to take pleasure in a leisurely supper or swing by for late-night time drinks. The spot shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan appropriately. in the event you’re serious about dropping in, it’s a smart idea to call forward at (617) 945-4509. several hours can change, and you don’t need to miss out.
The vibe below shifts depending upon the working day. Weeknights lean quieter, great for intimate dinners or catching up with a pal. arrive Friday or Saturday, nevertheless, the Power ramps up. DJ sets typically fill the air, turning the rooftop into a lively hotspot. It’s the kind of versatility which makes Saigon Babylon attract all sorts of diners.
What persons are stating
considering that opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon is generating waves in Cambridge’s meals scene. attendees rave about the rooftop views, contacting them a exceptional handle in this bustling community. The foodstuff earns significant marks too, with a lot of praising the creativity and freshness of each dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up often in testimonials, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s talent.
That said, it’s not all ideal. Some diners point out that the prices lean on the higher facet, especially specified the portion measurements. a handful of have noted that services can come to feel uneven sometimes, probable a hiccup from the cafe’s newness. nonetheless, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly beneficial. on the internet rankings hover around 4.3 to 4.four out of five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a powerful start for a spot that’s even now acquiring its footing.
generating a Reservation
wanting to expertise Saigon Babylon for yourself? scheduling a desk is actually a breeze. you may hop on to their official Web page at saigonbabylon.enjoyment or use Resy.com to secure your spot. specified the rooftop’s level of popularity, Specifically on weekends, it’s intelligent to approach forward. Walk-ins are welcome when House lets, but a reservation guarantees you received’t be still left ready.
that is a spot that works for all kinds of instances. organizing a passionate evening? The ambiance and food items set an ideal tone. Assembly pals for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes keep points lively. It’s even a great decide for the Particular celebration, because of the standout environment and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge is no stranger to excellent food items, but Saigon Babylon provides one thing refreshing towards the desk. It’s not nearly consuming; it’s about immersing by yourself inside a sensory journey. The rooftop locale alone makes it a rarity, featuring a perspective of the city you received’t locate wherever else in Central sq.. insert while in the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, so you’ve obtained a recipe for a unforgettable evening.
the eye to element shines via in each factor. from your way the lemongrass perfumes the beef into the clever twist of the Pho Cocktail, this area doesn’t Lower corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern viewers. no matter if you’re an area trying to find a new haunt or a customer Checking out the area, Saigon Babylon appears like a discovery truly worth sharing.
techniques for Your check out
when you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a number of pointers can enhance your encounter. intention for an early evening slot if you want to catch the sunset - the rooftop views are unbeatable since the sky shifts colours. Dress in levels, too. The out of doors environment can be a draw, but Massachusetts climate might be unpredictable, even in spring or drop.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even when you’re not a large drinker. The non-alcoholic solutions are merely as Imaginative and pair superbly with the meals. and when you’re torn on what to order, request the workers for recommendations. They’re keen about the menu and satisfied to information you toward some thing you’ll adore.
A flavor of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a location. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - Daring, well balanced, and stuffed with everyday living - and wraps it in a environment that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming environment - it all will come with each other to generate one thing special.
following time you’re in Central sq., skip the usual suspects and head as much as 907 principal St. whether or not you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting by using a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up inside the attraction of Saigon Babylon. It’s a spot that lingers in the intellect, beckoning you back for one more flavor of its magic.