Nestled at 907 Main St in the guts of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is much more than just a cafe. It’s a culinary knowledge that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with present day creativity, all established against the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. in the event you’re a foodstuff lover attempting to find a novel eating place, this area guarantees to captivate your senses with its inventive dishes, stunning sights, in addition to a vibe that’s equivalent areas stylish and welcoming. Permit’s dive into what helps make Saigon Babylon a must-stop by location for locals and travelers alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central sq.
consider stepping out from the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending to the fifth flooring of the Sonder 907 Main developing. That’s the place Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was when the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your standard dining set up. The open-air terrace delivers sweeping sights of the town, a exceptional take care of in this Component of town. Whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails under The celebrities, the rooftop setting elevates each individual instant expended listed here.
The House itself looks like a considerate mixture of mother nature and style and design. Lush greenery softens the modern traces of the furniture, although heat lights casts a cozy glow. influenced by Vietnam’s rich aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a balance among elegance and comfort. It’s the kind of location in which you can costume up for the day or keep it casual with good friends, and In any event, you’ll feel right in your own home.
What sets this spot apart is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop location. In a community noted for its eclectic Electricity, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s both of those refined and laid-again. It’s no wonder consumers are buzzing relating to this hidden gem.
The Minds Behind the Magic
on the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo which has a confirmed history inside the culinary earth. If their names sound common, it’s mainly because they’ve already received above foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar plus the Eaves in close by Somerville. Their expertise shines by way of in each depth below, in the menu into the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong bring a deep appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine, paired having a knack for innovation. They’re not only serving food items; they’re telling a Tale through flavors and presentation. It’s crystal clear they’ve poured their hearts into creating Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with each individual guest who walks with the doorway.
A Menu That Dances in your Palate
the guts of Saigon Babylon lies in its foods, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, modern twists. This isn’t your ordinary pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen plays with textures, aromas, and preferences, delivering dishes that really feel common but thrillingly new. Permit’s examine some of the stars of your menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A Flavor Explosion
image this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed because of the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled which has a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s finished which has a crunch of crispy rice paper, including just the best contrast. This dish is usually a testament on the kitchen area’s ability to choose a simple notion and switch it into a thing extraordinary. Every bite bursts with freshness, making it a great starter to awaken your hunger.
Xôi Chim - Comfort satisfies Creativity
when you’re craving some thing hearty, the Xôi Chim won’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 foodstuff, even so the presentation appears like good dining. the heat from the rice, the richness from the meat, as well as the umami with the mushrooms come together in a means that’s deeply enjoyable. It’s comfort and ease food by using a twist, and it’s straightforward to see why it’s a group preferred.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish completed proper
Duck enthusiasts, acquire note. The Bac Ninh brings tender duck on the table, bathed inside of 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 as part of your memory prolonged once the food is around, proving that Saigon Babylon is aware of how to handle meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and bitter Bliss
For seafood followers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is essential-attempt. The shrimp are beautifully charred, their natural sweetness Increased by a tamarind glaze that’s equivalent parts 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, and you also’ve bought a plate that’s tough to set down.
Cocktails That Steal the Show
No rooftop expertise is total with no stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon provides on that front too. The bar menu is usually a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which can be as ingenious because the foods. no matter whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or maybe aiming to sip a thing refreshing, there’s lots to love here.
Take the Pho Cocktail, for instance. Of course, you read through that right. This drink can take the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - Assume star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with fresh herbs as well as a spirit of your choice. It’s quirky, surprising, and remarkably scrumptious. If you like anything more tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, with the option to spike it with rum for any boozy kick.
The bar staff Obviously enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each drink seems like a mini experience, complementing the foods with no overshadowing it. If you’re not from the temper for Alcoholic beverages, they’ve bought non-alcoholic variations much too, making sure everyone can join in the enjoyable.
When to Visit
Saigon Babylon welcomes attendees from Wednesday to Sunday, with hrs running from 5 PM to midnight. that provides you a lot of time for you to delight in a leisurely supper or swing by for late-evening drinks. The spot shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. in case you’re thinking about dropping in, it’s a good idea to contact forward at (617) 945-4509. Hours can change, therefore you don’t would like to miss out.
The vibe in this article shifts according to the working day. Weeknights lean quieter, perfect for intimate dinners or catching up with a pal. arrive Friday or Saturday, though, the Electrical power ramps up. DJ sets usually fill the air, turning the rooftop into a energetic hotspot. It’s the sort of flexibility which makes Saigon Babylon appeal to all sorts of diners.
What People Are indicating
given that opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has been producing waves in Cambridge’s food items scene. visitors rave in regards to the rooftop sights, contacting them a here scarce treat in this bustling community. The meals earns high marks far too, with a lot of praising the creativity 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 expertise.
Having said that, it’s not all fantastic. Some diners mention that the prices lean on the higher aspect, Specifically presented the portion dimensions. A few have pointed out that services can sense uneven sometimes, likely a hiccup through the restaurant’s newness. Still, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly optimistic. on the net scores hover about four.3 to 4.4 from five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust begin for an area that’s continue to obtaining its footing.
creating a Reservation
Ready to experience Saigon Babylon yourself? reserving a table is actually a breeze. you are able to hop on to their official Web page at saigonbabylon.fun or use Resy.com to protected your location. offered the rooftop’s level of popularity, especially on weekends, it’s sensible to plan in advance. Walk-ins are welcome when House allows, but a reservation makes certain you gained’t be left ready.
this can be a location that actually works for all sorts of instances. arranging a intimate evening? The ambiance and meals set the perfect tone. Meeting mates for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes preserve items lively. It’s even a great decide for a Unique celebration, due to the standout setting and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge isn't any stranger to great meals, but Saigon Babylon brings one thing fresh new to the table. It’s not almost having; it’s about immersing oneself in the sensory journey. The rooftop spot on your own can make it a rarity, offering a viewpoint of the city you gained’t uncover everywhere else in Central sq.. Add from the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and you simply’ve obtained a recipe for any memorable night time.
The attention to element shines by in every facet. with the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef into the intelligent twist of the Pho Cocktail, this place doesn’t cut corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern audience. regardless of whether you’re a local hunting for a new haunt or possibly a visitor Checking out the realm, Saigon Babylon seems like a discovery well worth sharing.
guidelines for Your Visit
in the event you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a few pointers can boost your expertise. intention for an early evening slot if you need to catch the sunset - the rooftop views are unbeatable since the sky shifts shades. Dress in layers, far too. The outside environment is really a draw, but Massachusetts weather conditions may be unpredictable, even in spring or drop.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even though you’re not an enormous drinker. The non-alcoholic possibilities are only as Inventive and pair superbly with the foods. and when you’re torn on what to buy, request the team for suggestions. They’re keen about the menu and satisfied to manual you toward one thing you’ll enjoy.
A style of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t merely a restaurant; it’s a desired destination. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine - Daring, well balanced, and stuffed with existence - and wraps it in a environment that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the inventive dishes, the welcoming ambiance - it all comes jointly to create something Specific.
up coming time you’re in Central Square, skip the standard suspects and head as many as 907 key St. Whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting that has a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up during the allure of Saigon Babylon. It’s a location that lingers in the brain, beckoning you back for an additional style of its magic.