Nestled at 907 principal St in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is much more than simply a cafe. It’s a culinary knowledge that blends the colourful flavors of Vietnam with present day creativeness, all established towards the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. If you’re a foods lover seeking a novel eating place, this area guarantees to captivate your senses with its creative dishes, stunning sights, as well as a vibe that’s equal elements stylish and welcoming. Enable’s dive into what will make Saigon Babylon a must-check out location for locals and tourists alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central Square
Imagine stepping out from the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending towards the fifth flooring from the Sonder 907 key developing. That’s wherever Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was as soon as the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your usual eating set up. The open-air terrace gives sweeping sights of the city, a unusual handle In this particular A part of town. no matter if you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails less than The celebrities, the rooftop placing elevates every second spent below.
The Room itself appears like a considerate blend of nature and design and style. Lush greenery softens the trendy lines from the furniture, even though heat lights casts a cozy glow. encouraged by Vietnam’s rich aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a equilibrium involving class and luxury. It’s the kind of spot in which you can costume up for your day or keep it everyday with good friends, and In any case, you’ll experience suitable in your house.
What sets this place aside is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop venue. within a neighborhood known for its eclectic Vitality, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s each refined and laid-again. It’s No surprise men and women are buzzing concerning this hidden gem.
The Minds driving the Magic
At the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo which has a demonstrated history from the culinary environment. If their names seem familiar, it’s given that they’ve presently received more than foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar as well as Eaves in close by Somerville. Their abilities shines as a result of in every single detail below, through the menu for the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong carry a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired that has a knack for innovation. They’re not just serving foodstuff; they’re telling a story by way of flavors and presentation. It’s distinct they’ve poured their hearts into generating Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with every visitor who walks through the doorway.
A Menu That Dances with your Palate
the center of Saigon Babylon lies in its foods, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and Daring, fashionable twists. This isn’t your normal pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen performs with textures, aromas, and tastes, offering dishes that sense familiar nevertheless thrillingly new. Enable’s check out a lot of the stars of your menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
image this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed through the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled using a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s completed which has a crunch of crispy rice paper, adding just the appropriate contrast. This dish can be a testomony to the kitchen area’s capacity to just take a simple concept and turn it into anything extraordinary. Each individual bite bursts with freshness, making it an ideal starter to awaken your urge for food.
Xôi Chim - convenience fulfills creativeness
in case you’re craving a little something hearty, the Xôi Chim received’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 stuff, but the presentation appears like great eating. the heat in the rice, the richness in the meat, as well as the umami with the mushrooms occur with each other in a way that’s deeply enjoyable. It’s ease and comfort foods having a twist, and it’s easy to see why it’s a group favored.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish Done proper
Duck enthusiasts, consider Be aware. The Bac Ninh delivers tender duck on the table, bathed within a sauce that’s Daring and sophisticated. The flavors lean savory with a touch of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s skill in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers inside your memory prolonged once the food is about, proving that Saigon Babylon is familiar with how to handle meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and Sour Bliss
For seafood supporters, 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 equal components tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it using a facet of sticky rice, and you also’ve obtained a plate that’s hard to place down.
Cocktails That Steal the display
No rooftop experience is entire and not using a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that entrance as well. The bar menu is really a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which might be as inventive as the meals. no matter whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just aiming to sip anything refreshing, there’s loads to like right here.
Take the Pho Cocktail, As an illustration. Yes, you examine that ideal. This consume will take the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - think star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with clean herbs and a spirit of one's option. It’s quirky, unanticipated, and amazingly delicious. If you prefer one thing far more tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, by having an choice to spike it with rum for the boozy kick.
The bar team clearly enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each drink appears like a mini experience, complementing the foods without having overshadowing it. If you’re not during the mood for Liquor, they’ve obtained non-alcoholic variations much too, making sure Every person can join in the entertaining.
When to Visit
Saigon Babylon welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, with hrs running from five PM to midnight. That gives you a lot of time for you to love a leisurely evening meal or swing by for late-evening beverages. The place shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so system accordingly. for those who’re considering dropping in, it’s a smart idea to get in touch with in advance at (617) 945-4509. several hours can change, and you don’t wish to overlook out.
The vibe here shifts depending on the day. Weeknights lean quieter, ideal for personal dinners or catching up with a friend. appear Friday or Saturday, however, the Vitality ramps up. DJ sets usually fill the air, turning the rooftop into here a lively hotspot. It’s the type of versatility which makes Saigon Babylon appeal to all types of diners.
What consumers are indicating
given that opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has been creating waves in Cambridge’s foodstuff scene. company rave with regard to the rooftop views, contacting them a uncommon take care of With this bustling community. The food items earns superior marks far too, with several praising the creativity and freshness of each and every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up typically in reviews, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s talent.
That said, it’s not all perfect. Some diners mention that the costs lean on the upper facet, In particular given the portion measurements. A few have famous that service can come to feel uneven sometimes, probable a hiccup in the cafe’s newness. nevertheless, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. on the net rankings hover close to 4.3 to four.four from 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust begin for a spot that’s nonetheless obtaining its footing.
creating a Reservation
prepared to practical experience Saigon Babylon yourself? scheduling a desk is actually a breeze. it is possible to hop onto their official Web page at saigonbabylon.exciting or use Resy.com to safe your place. provided the rooftop’s recognition, In particular on weekends, it’s wise to prepare in advance. Walk-ins are welcome when Place permits, but a reservation makes sure you received’t be remaining waiting.
this is the place that actually works for all kinds of events. scheduling a romantic night? The ambiance and foodstuff set the best tone. Meeting close friends for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes retain things energetic. It’s even a great select for the Unique celebration, because of the standout setting and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge isn't any stranger to very good foodstuff, but Saigon Babylon provides a little something refreshing on the desk. It’s not almost ingesting; it’s about immersing you inside of a sensory journey. The rooftop site by itself causes it to be a rarity, providing a perspective of the city you received’t come across everywhere else in Central Square. incorporate while in the Vietnamese fusion Delicacies, crafted with treatment by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and also you’ve obtained a recipe to get a unforgettable night time.
The attention to element shines as a result of in every single aspect. From the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef on the clever twist of a Pho Cocktail, this position doesn’t Minimize corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a contemporary audience. no matter whether you’re a local hunting for a new haunt or possibly a customer Checking out the region, Saigon Babylon feels like a discovery value sharing.
methods for Your go to
If you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a handful of pointers can enhance your knowledge. goal for an early night slot if you'd like to capture the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable as the sky shifts colours. gown in levels, way too. The outside placing is often a attract, but Massachusetts climate may be unpredictable, even in spring or slide.
Don’t skip the cocktails, even if you’re not a large drinker. The non-alcoholic selections are only as Resourceful and pair superbly With all the foods. And if you’re torn on what to purchase, inquire the employees for recommendations. They’re keen about the menu and happy to guidebook you toward a little something you’ll appreciate.
A Taste of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t simply a cafe; it’s a spot. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - Daring, well balanced, and packed with lifetime - and wraps it inside of a setting that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming ambiance - all of it comes together to develop some thing Specific.
upcoming time you’re in Central Square, skip the standard suspects and head up to 907 most important St. irrespective of whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting having a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up within the appeal of Saigon Babylon. It’s an area that lingers within your thoughts, beckoning you back for another taste of its magic.