Nestled at 907 primary St in the center of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is a lot more than just a cafe. It’s a culinary encounter that blends the colourful flavors of Vietnam with modern day creativity, all established versus the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. If you’re a foodstuff lover looking for a novel dining place, this spot claims to captivate your senses with its ingenious dishes, spectacular views, plus a vibe that’s equal areas chic and welcoming. Enable’s dive into what helps make Saigon Babylon essential-pay a visit to desired destination for locals and travelers alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central sq.
consider stepping out of the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending to the fifth ground from the Sonder 907 principal creating. That’s the place Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was as soon as the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your normal eating set up. The open-air terrace presents sweeping sights of town, a scarce take care of During this Element of city. irrespective of whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails under The celebs, the rooftop placing elevates every single moment put in below.
The Place by itself appears like a thoughtful blend of mother nature and style and design. Lush greenery softens the modern lines in the household furniture, even though warm lights casts a cozy glow. impressed by Vietnam’s loaded aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a stability amongst magnificence and luxury. It’s the type of put in which you can costume up for your date or continue to keep it relaxed with buddies, and either way, you’ll experience suitable at home.
What sets this location aside is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop location. In a community noted for its eclectic Power, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s both equally innovative and laid-back. It’s No surprise folks are buzzing relating to this hidden gem.
The Minds driving the Magic
on the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo by using a tested reputation within the culinary globe. If their names audio familiar, it’s since they’ve currently gained over foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar as well as Eaves in close by Somerville. Their skills shines by way of in each and every element below, through the menu to the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong provide a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired having a knack for innovation. They’re not simply serving foodstuff; they’re telling a story by means of flavors and presentation. It’s crystal clear they’ve poured their hearts into building Saigon Babylon a standout, and their passion resonates with each and every visitor who walks from the door.
A Menu That Dances on Your Palate
the guts of Saigon Babylon lies in its food stuff, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and Daring, modern day twists. This isn’t your common pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area plays with textures, aromas, and tastes, delivering dishes that really feel familiar but thrillingly new. Enable’s investigate several of the stars in the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
photograph this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed by the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled by using a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s completed by using a crunch of crispy rice paper, adding just the proper distinction. This dish is actually a testomony into the kitchen’s ability to just take a straightforward principle and switch it into a little something remarkable. Each Chunk bursts with freshness, which makes it an ideal starter to awaken your urge for food.
Xôi Chim - comfort and ease fulfills Creativity
If you’re craving anything hearty, the Xôi Chim won’t disappoint. This dish can take sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with floor squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese Road food stuff, even so the presentation appears like fantastic eating. the heat in the rice, the richness with the meat, as well as the umami from the mushrooms occur alongside one another in a way that’s deeply satisfying. It’s convenience foods having a twist, and it’s straightforward to see why it’s a group most loved.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish carried out ideal
Duck lovers, get Take note. The Bac Ninh brings tender duck into the desk, bathed inside of a sauce that’s bold and sophisticated. The flavors lean savory with a touch of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s talent in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers with your memory extended 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 bitter Bliss
For seafood followers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is essential-test. The shrimp are completely charred, their purely natural sweetness enhanced by a tamarind glaze that’s equivalent pieces tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it having a facet of sticky rice, and you also’ve received a plate that’s hard to place down.
Cocktails That Steal the exhibit
No rooftop expertise is entire and not using a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that entrance way too. The bar menu is usually a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails that are as inventive since the foodstuff. no matter if you’re a cocktail aficionado or just aiming to sip some thing refreshing, there’s loads to love in this article.
go ahead and take Pho Cocktail, As an example. Certainly, you go through that ideal. This consume takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - Imagine star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with refreshing herbs and also a spirit within your preference. It’s quirky, unforeseen, and remarkably delicious. If you like anything far more tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, by having an option to spike it with rum to get a boozy kick.
The bar staff Obviously enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Just about every consume looks like a mini experience, complementing the food without overshadowing it. If you’re not in the temper for Alcoholic beverages, they’ve obtained non-alcoholic versions too, ensuring All people can Take part the entertaining.
When to go to
Saigon Babylon welcomes company from Wednesday to Sunday, with hours functioning from five PM to midnight. that provides you lots of time for you to get pleasure from a leisurely meal or swing by for late-night time beverages. The place shuts its doors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so approach accordingly. in case you’re considering dropping in, it’s a good idea to get in touch with in advance at (617) 945-4509. several hours can change, and you don’t need to pass up out.
The vibe here shifts according to the working day. Weeknights lean quieter, ideal for intimate dinners or catching up with a friend. Come Friday or Saturday, however, the Electrical power ramps up. DJ sets typically fill the air, turning the rooftop into a energetic hotspot. It’s the type of flexibility which makes Saigon Babylon appeal to an array of diners.
What men and women are declaring
given that opening its doors in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has long been creating waves in Cambridge’s food scene. friends rave about the rooftop views, calling them a rare treat During this bustling neighborhood. The foodstuff earns higher marks as well, with a lot of praising the creativeness and freshness of each and every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up normally in testimonials, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen area’s expertise.
That said, it’s not all ideal. Some diners mention that the costs lean on the higher aspect, Specifically provided the part dimensions. A few have famous that support can come to feel uneven sometimes, very likely a hiccup through the restaurant’s newness. even now, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly optimistic. on the internet ratings hover around 4.three to four.4 outside of 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust begin for a place that’s still discovering its footing.
producing a Reservation
prepared to knowledge Saigon Babylon yourself? Booking a table can be a breeze. you are able to hop onto their official Web-site at saigonbabylon.exciting or use Resy.com to protected your spot. presented the rooftop’s level of popularity, Particularly on weekends, it’s wise to system in advance. Walk-ins are welcome when House allows, but a reservation makes sure you won’t be left waiting.
This is a location that works for a variety of occasions. scheduling a intimate night? The ambiance and meals set the right tone. Meeting friends for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes preserve matters lively. It’s even a terrific select for just a special celebration, due to the standout setting and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge isn't any stranger to fantastic food, but Saigon Babylon brings anything contemporary towards the desk. It’s not almost feeding on; it’s about immersing oneself inside a sensory journey. The rooftop locale by yourself causes it to be a rarity, giving a standpoint of the town you received’t come across everywhere else in Central sq.. insert during the Vietnamese fusion Delicacies, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, so you’ve obtained a recipe for any unforgettable night.
The attention to element shines through in every single component. From the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef for the intelligent twist of the Pho Cocktail, this area doesn’t Minimize corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a contemporary viewers. regardless of whether you’re a local seeking a new haunt or possibly a visitor Discovering the area, Saigon Babylon appears like a discovery worth sharing.
methods for Your stop by
If you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a couple of pointers can enhance your expertise. goal for an early night slot if you want to catch the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable because the sky shifts shades. Dress in levels, far too. The out of doors environment is usually a attract, but Massachusetts temperature may be unpredictable, even in spring or tumble.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even when you’re not a huge drinker. The non-alcoholic choices are just as creative and pair wonderfully Along with the food items. and when you’re torn on what to order, question the personnel for recommendations. They’re enthusiastic about the menu and joyful to information you toward a thing you’ll check here like.
A Taste of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t only a restaurant; it’s a desired destination. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine - Daring, balanced, and packed with everyday living - and wraps it within a location that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the inventive dishes, the welcoming ambiance - all of it will come collectively to generate one thing Particular.
up coming time you’re in Central sq., skip the standard suspects and head as much as 907 key St. Whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting which has a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up within the attraction of Saigon Babylon. It’s a location that lingers within your thoughts, beckoning you again for another style of its magic.