Nestled at 907 major St in the heart 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 fashionable creativeness, all established versus the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. in case you’re a food lover looking for a singular dining place, this area claims to captivate your senses with its inventive dishes, beautiful views, plus a vibe that’s equal sections chic and welcoming. Permit’s dive into what helps make Saigon Babylon a necessity-go to location for locals and tourists alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central sq.
consider stepping out in the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending for the fifth ground from the Sonder 907 major building. That’s exactly where Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was after the Blue get more info Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your typical dining set up. The open up-air terrace presents sweeping sights of the town, a scarce handle On this Portion of town. no matter if you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails beneath The celebrities, the rooftop setting elevates each moment used in this article.
The Place itself appears like a thoughtful blend of character and design. Lush greenery softens the trendy lines from the furnishings, though heat lighting casts a cozy glow. Inspired by Vietnam’s abundant aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a balance concerning class and comfort. It’s the type of spot where you can gown up for the date or preserve it relaxed with buddies, and In any case, you’ll truly feel right in your own home.
What sets this location apart is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop location. within a neighborhood recognized for its eclectic Electrical power, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s both advanced and laid-back again. It’s no wonder persons are buzzing about this hidden gem.
The Minds at the rear of the Magic
in the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo with a confirmed reputation in the culinary entire world. If their names seem acquainted, it’s mainly because they’ve presently gained about foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar as well as the Eaves in nearby Somerville. Their experience shines by means of in each and every depth here, from the menu to your ambiance.
Vinh and Duong deliver a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired that has a knack for innovation. They’re not just serving foodstuff; they’re telling a Tale by means of flavors and presentation. It’s distinct they’ve poured their hearts into making Saigon Babylon a standout, and their enthusiasm resonates with each individual guest who walks through the door.
A Menu That Dances with your Palate
The heart of Saigon Babylon lies in its foodstuff, 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 sense acquainted still thrillingly new. Allow’s discover a few of the stars of your menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
photo this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed with the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled by using a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s concluded using a crunch of crispy rice paper, adding just the appropriate distinction. This dish is often a testament to the kitchen area’s ability to get a straightforward principle and turn it into something remarkable. Every Chunk bursts with freshness, making it a wonderful starter to awaken your appetite.
Xôi Chim - Comfort fulfills creativeness
when you’re craving a little something hearty, the Xôi Chim won’t disappoint. This dish usually takes 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 seems like wonderful eating. The warmth of the rice, the richness on the meat, plus the umami within the mushrooms appear with each other in a method that’s deeply satisfying. It’s ease and comfort food items which has a twist, and it’s very easy to see why it’s a crowd favourite.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish performed Right
Duck lovers, acquire Notice. The Bac Ninh delivers tender duck towards the table, bathed in the sauce that’s Daring and complicated. The flavors lean savory with a touch of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen area’s talent in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers in your memory prolonged once the food is in excess of, proving that Saigon Babylon is familiar with how to take care of meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and bitter Bliss
For seafood enthusiasts, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a necessity-consider. The shrimp are beautifully charred, their purely natural sweetness Improved by a tamarind glaze that’s equal pieces tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one which captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it having a aspect of sticky rice, and also you’ve obtained a plate that’s tough to place down.
Cocktails That Steal the clearly show
No rooftop experience is comprehensive and not using a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon provides on that front as well. The bar menu is usually a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails that happen to be as ingenious as being the foods. no matter whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just seeking to sip some thing refreshing, there’s a good deal to like below.
Take the Pho Cocktail, As an example. Indeed, you study that right. This consume normally takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - think star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with refreshing herbs as well as a spirit of one's alternative. It’s quirky, unforeseen, and incredibly mouth watering. If you like a thing extra tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, with an option to spike it with rum for your boozy kick.
The bar team clearly enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each and every drink appears like a mini adventure, complementing the food items without overshadowing it. when you’re not while in the mood for alcohol, they’ve got non-alcoholic versions too, making sure everyone can Take part the fun.
When to go to
Saigon Babylon welcomes friends from Wednesday to Sunday, with hours working from 5 PM to midnight. That gives you a lot of time for you to enjoy a leisurely supper or swing by for late-night time drinks. The put shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so prepare appropriately. in the event you’re thinking of dropping in, it’s a good idea to contact in advance at (617) 945-4509. Hours can change, therefore you don’t wish to pass up out.
The vibe below shifts according to the working day. Weeknights lean quieter, perfect for intimate dinners or catching up with a pal. occur Friday or Saturday, however, the Electrical power ramps up. DJ sets generally fill the air, turning the rooftop into a lively hotspot. It’s the sort of flexibility that makes Saigon Babylon attract an array of diners.
What individuals are stating
considering the fact that opening its doors in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has actually been producing waves in Cambridge’s foodstuff scene. friends rave with regard to the rooftop views, contacting them a scarce treat With this bustling neighborhood. The food items earns high marks also, with quite a few praising the creative imagination and freshness of every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up typically in testimonials, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen area’s talent.
That said, it’s not all excellent. Some diners point out that the costs lean on the upper side, Primarily provided the part measurements. some have noted that support can really feel uneven occasionally, probable a hiccup from the restaurant’s newness. nevertheless, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly optimistic. on the net scores hover close to four.3 to 4.4 out of 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust start off for a place that’s nonetheless getting its footing.
earning a Reservation
wanting to expertise Saigon Babylon for yourself? scheduling a desk is often a breeze. You can hop on to their official Internet site at saigonbabylon.enjoyable or use Resy.com to safe your spot. supplied the rooftop’s level of popularity, Particularly on weekends, it’s smart to strategy ahead. stroll-ins are welcome when space will allow, but a reservation assures you received’t be remaining waiting around.
this can be a location that works for a variety of instances. scheduling a passionate night? The ambiance and food established the best tone. Meeting mates for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes continue to keep factors lively. It’s even an excellent choose for a Specific celebration, due to the standout placing and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge is not any stranger to superior foods, but Saigon Babylon brings some thing fresh new on the table. It’s not just about having; it’s about immersing yourself inside a sensory journey. The rooftop place alone causes it to be a rarity, providing a standpoint of the city you gained’t obtain wherever else in Central sq.. increase during the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, therefore you’ve bought a recipe for the memorable night time.
the eye to detail shines via in each factor. with the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef towards the intelligent twist of the Pho Cocktail, this place doesn’t Lower corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a contemporary audience. irrespective of whether you’re a neighborhood seeking a new haunt or possibly a customer exploring the world, Saigon Babylon appears like a discovery value sharing.
strategies for Your check out
for those who’re heading to Saigon Babylon, some ideas can improve your knowledge. Aim for an early evening slot if you'd like to catch the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable since the sky shifts hues. Dress in layers, far too. The outside placing is usually a draw, but Massachusetts weather conditions may be unpredictable, even in spring or drop.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even when you’re not a big drinker. The non-alcoholic choices are just as Artistic and pair superbly With all the meals. And if you’re torn on what to buy, check with the personnel for suggestions. They’re excited about the menu and happy to guide you towards anything you’ll love.
A Taste of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t simply a cafe; it’s a spot. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - bold, well balanced, and stuffed with everyday living - and wraps it inside a placing that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the inventive dishes, the welcoming environment - everything arrives collectively to create anything Exclusive.
subsequent time you’re in Central Square, skip the standard suspects and head nearly 907 key St. irrespective of whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting having a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up while in the charm of Saigon Babylon. It’s a spot that lingers with your thoughts, beckoning you again for another style of its magic.