Nestled at 907 major St in the guts of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is a lot more than just a cafe. It’s a culinary experience that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with present day creative imagination, all established towards the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. in the event you’re a foodstuff lover trying to find a singular dining place, this place claims to captivate your senses with its inventive dishes, amazing sights, as well as a vibe that’s equivalent pieces chic and welcoming. Enable’s dive into what helps make Saigon Babylon a necessity-go to vacation spot for locals and holidaymakers alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central Square
think about stepping out of your bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending to the fifth flooring of your Sonder 907 primary setting up. That’s in which Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was as soon as the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your standard eating setup. The open-air terrace gives sweeping views of town, a uncommon address On this Component of town. irrespective of whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails underneath The celebrities, the rooftop environment elevates just about every minute used in this article.
The Place by itself appears like a considerate mixture of character and style and design. Lush greenery softens the trendy traces on the home furniture, even though heat lights casts a cozy glow. motivated by Vietnam’s loaded aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a balance among class and luxury. It’s the sort of place in which you can gown up for just a day or keep it informal with close friends, and In any event, you’ll sense correct in the home.
What sets this location apart is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop location. In a community known for its eclectic energy, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s both equally complex and laid-back. It’s No surprise individuals are buzzing concerning this concealed gem.
The Minds at the rear of the Magic
for the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo having a demonstrated track record during the culinary globe. If their names audio familiar, it’s simply because they’ve presently received over foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar along with the Eaves in close by Somerville. Their abilities shines by way of in each individual detail below, within the menu into the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong convey a deep appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine, paired using a knack for innovation. They’re not simply serving food; they’re telling a Tale by means of flavors and presentation. It’s obvious they’ve poured their hearts into generating Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with each and every guest who walks through the door.
A Menu That Dances on Your Palate
the center of Saigon Babylon lies in its foodstuff, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and Daring, fashionable twists. This isn’t your ordinary pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area plays with textures, aromas, and preferences, delivering dishes that truly feel familiar yet thrillingly new. Allow’s explore a number of the stars with the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A Flavor Explosion
Picture this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed through the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled by using a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s concluded that has a crunch of crispy rice paper, introducing just the appropriate contrast. This dish is a testament to the kitchen’s power to take a simple notion and switch it into a thing remarkable. Each individual Chunk bursts with freshness, which makes it a perfect starter to awaken your urge for food.
Xôi Chim - convenience Meets creativeness
If you’re craving some thing hearty, the Xôi Chim received’t disappoint. This dish requires sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with floor squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese Avenue food, even so the presentation looks like good dining. the heat of your rice, the richness from the meat, and also the umami with the mushrooms arrive together in a method that’s deeply gratifying. It’s comfort foodstuff that has a twist, and it’s very easy to see why it’s a group most loved.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish performed ideal
Duck fans, consider Take note. The Bac Ninh provides tender duck to the desk, bathed inside of a sauce that’s bold and complicated. The flavors lean savory with a hint of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s talent in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers inside your memory very long once the meal is above, proving that Saigon Babylon is aware how to take care of meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and bitter Bliss
For seafood followers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is essential-check out. The shrimp are correctly charred, their normal sweetness Improved by a tamarind glaze that’s equivalent elements tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it which has a facet of sticky rice, therefore you’ve got a plate that’s tough to put down.
Cocktails That Steal the display
No rooftop knowledge is full with no stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that entrance also. The bar menu is actually a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which might be as creative given that the foodstuff. regardless of whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or perhaps aiming to sip something refreshing, there’s a good deal to like below.
go ahead and take Pho Cocktail, for instance. Of course, you examine that ideal. This drink can take the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - Believe star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with refreshing herbs plus a spirit of your option. It’s quirky, sudden, and shockingly mouth watering. If you prefer one thing more tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, using an option to spike it with rum for the boozy kick.
The bar team Evidently enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each individual consume looks like a mini journey, complementing the food devoid of overshadowing it. should you’re not during the mood for alcohol, they’ve got non-alcoholic versions far too, making certain Anyone can Take part the entertaining.
When to Visit
Saigon Babylon welcomes friends from Wednesday to Sunday, with hours running from 5 PM to midnight. That gives you a good amount of time to enjoy a leisurely meal or swing by for late-night beverages. 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 ahead at (617) 945-4509. Hours can shift, and also you don’t need to miss out.
The vibe in this article shifts with regards to the day. Weeknights lean quieter, great for intimate dinners or catching up read more with a pal. occur Friday or Saturday, while, the Power ramps up. DJ sets frequently fill the air, turning the rooftop right into a lively hotspot. It’s the sort of flexibility that makes Saigon Babylon appeal to all kinds of diners.
What men and women are Saying
given that opening its doors in early 2024, Saigon Babylon is producing waves in Cambridge’s foods scene. visitors rave with regard to the rooftop sights, contacting them a uncommon address Within this bustling neighborhood. The meals earns superior marks also, with numerous praising the creativeness and freshness of each dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up generally in critiques, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen area’s expertise.
That said, it’s not all best. Some diners point out that the costs lean on the higher side, Specially given the part sizes. a couple of have famous that provider can feel uneven occasionally, most likely a hiccup with the restaurant’s newness. however, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly constructive. on-line scores hover all over 4.three to four.four away from five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a powerful start off for a location that’s nonetheless finding its footing.
earning a Reservation
able to practical experience Saigon Babylon on your own? scheduling a table is often a breeze. you may hop onto their Formal Web site at saigonbabylon.enjoyment or use Resy.com to safe your location. offered the rooftop’s reputation, especially on weekends, it’s intelligent to program in advance. stroll-ins are welcome when House permits, but a reservation guarantees you gained’t be still left waiting around.
this is the place that works for all sorts of occasions. setting up a romantic evening? The ambiance and foods set the proper tone. Assembly friends for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes maintain matters lively. It’s even a great decide for a Distinctive celebration, because of the standout environment and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge isn't any stranger to great foodstuff, but Saigon Babylon delivers one thing fresh new for the desk. It’s not almost taking in; it’s about immersing you within a sensory journey. The rooftop location alone causes it to be a rarity, supplying a viewpoint of the city you won’t discover any place else in Central Square. Add while in the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and also you’ve acquired a recipe for your unforgettable evening.
The attention to detail shines via in every element. with the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef to your clever twist of a Pho Cocktail, this location doesn’t Reduce corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a contemporary viewers. no matter whether you’re an area hunting for a new haunt or perhaps a customer Checking out the region, Saigon Babylon seems like a discovery truly worth sharing.
techniques for Your check out
when you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a number of ideas can improve your working experience. purpose for an early night slot if you want to catch the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable because the sky shifts hues. gown in levels, too. The outdoor location is a attract, but Massachusetts weather conditions could be unpredictable, even in spring or fall.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even though you’re not a large drinker. The non-alcoholic selections are only as Imaginative and pair wonderfully While using the foodstuff. And if you’re torn on what to buy, request the workers for suggestions. They’re obsessed with the menu and joyful to guideline you towards a little something you’ll love.
A flavor of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t simply a restaurant; it’s a place. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - Daring, well balanced, and jam packed with existence - and wraps it inside a setting that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the creative dishes, the welcoming environment - it all comes alongside one another to produce one thing Exclusive.
up coming time you’re in Central Square, skip the usual suspects and head around 907 major St. regardless of whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting which has a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up inside the attraction of Saigon Babylon. It’s a spot that lingers inside your mind, beckoning you back for one more taste of its magic.