Nestled at 907 principal St in the center of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is more than simply a cafe. It’s a culinary encounter that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with modern creativity, all established against the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. should you’re a food items lover trying to find a unique dining place, this place guarantees to captivate your senses with its creative dishes, amazing sights, plus a vibe that’s equal sections stylish and welcoming. Enable’s dive into what makes Saigon Babylon a necessity-stop by destination for locals and tourists alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central Square
picture stepping out of the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending towards the fifth ground with the Sonder 907 Main developing. That’s exactly where Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was once the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your normal eating set up. The open up-air terrace offers sweeping sights of the city, a uncommon address In this particular part of town. Whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails less than The celebrities, the rooftop placing elevates just about every second expended here.
The Room itself looks like a considerate blend of character and style. Lush greenery softens the fashionable strains of your furnishings, whilst heat lighting casts a cozy glow. impressed by Vietnam’s wealthy aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a harmony between elegance and comfort. It’s the kind of position where you can gown up for your date or hold it informal with close friends, and In either case, you’ll sense appropriate in your house.
What sets this spot apart is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop venue. within a community noted for its eclectic Strength, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s the two complex and laid-back. It’s no wonder men and women are buzzing about this hidden gem.
The Minds driving the Magic
for the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo having a established history in the culinary planet. If their names seem familiar, it’s as they’ve currently received about foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar and The Eaves in close by Somerville. Their expertise shines by way of in every depth listed here, with the menu towards the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong carry a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired using a knack for innovation. They’re not just serving food stuff; they’re telling a story by means of flavors and presentation. It’s apparent they’ve poured their hearts into making Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with just about every guest who walks throughout the door.
A Menu That Dances on your own Palate
the guts of Saigon Babylon lies in its meals, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and Daring, modern twists. This isn’t your typical pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area performs with textures, aromas, and tastes, providing dishes that experience familiar however thrillingly new. Let’s check out some of the stars on the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
photograph this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed via the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled that has a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s concluded having a crunch of crispy rice paper, adding just the right distinction. This dish is usually a testament for the kitchen area’s power to take a simple concept and turn it into some thing amazing. Just about every Chunk bursts with freshness, rendering it a wonderful starter to awaken your hunger.
Xôi Chim - ease and comfort Meets Creativity
in case you’re craving anything 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 Road food stuff, but the presentation looks like high-quality dining. the heat from the rice, the richness of the meat, and the umami through the mushrooms arrive collectively in a method that’s deeply gratifying. It’s ease and comfort food items by using a twist, and it’s very easy to see why it’s a group beloved.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish carried out ideal
Duck fans, choose Notice. The Bac Ninh delivers tender duck into the table, bathed inside of a sauce that’s bold and complex. The flavors lean savory with a touch of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s talent in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers within your memory prolonged following the meal is in excess of, proving that Saigon Babylon is aware how to handle meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and Sour Bliss
For seafood lovers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is essential-test. The shrimp are perfectly charred, their pure sweetness Improved by a tamarind glaze that’s equal parts tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it with a side of sticky rice, and also you’ve got a plate that’s challenging to put down.
Cocktails That Steal the present
No rooftop expertise is comprehensive without having a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon provides on that entrance way too. The bar menu can be a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which might be as ingenious since the food items. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or merely planning to sip anything refreshing, there’s loads to like listed here.
Take the Pho Cocktail, By way of example. Yes, you examine that correct. This drink usually takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup - Consider star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with clean herbs as well as a spirit of one's decision. It’s quirky, sudden, and remarkably delightful. If you prefer something a lot more tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, with the option to spike it with rum for the boozy kick.
The bar team Evidently enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each individual consume seems like a mini experience, complementing the foodstuff without having overshadowing it. If you’re not in the mood for Alcoholic beverages, they’ve got non-alcoholic versions far too, guaranteeing everyone can Take part the enjoyment.
When to Visit
Saigon Babylon welcomes company from Wednesday to Sunday, with hrs operating from five PM to midnight. That gives you plenty of time and energy to appreciate a leisurely meal or swing by for late-night time beverages. The put shuts its doors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so system accordingly. in the event you’re thinking about dropping in, it’s a good idea to call forward at (617) 945-4509. hrs can change, therefore you don’t want to skip out.
The vibe in this article shifts according to the day. Weeknights lean quieter, ideal for intimate dinners or catching up with a colleague. Come Friday or Saturday, even though, the Electrical power ramps up. DJ sets frequently fill the air, turning the rooftop right into a energetic hotspot. It’s the sort of versatility which makes Saigon Babylon attract an array of diners.
What folks are declaring
given that opening its doors in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has actually been creating waves in Cambridge’s food stuff scene. Guests rave regarding the rooftop sights, calling them a unusual deal with With this bustling community. The food stuff earns higher marks too, with a lot of praising the creativeness and freshness of every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up often in critiques, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s here talent.
Having said that, it’s not all excellent. Some diners point out that the costs lean on the higher aspect, In particular offered the portion measurements. some have observed that services can feel uneven from time to time, most likely a hiccup through the cafe’s newness. nevertheless, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly favourable. on the net scores hover close to four.three to 4.4 out of 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust start for a location that’s continue to getting its footing.
generating a Reservation
Ready to practical experience Saigon Babylon for yourself? reserving a desk is often a breeze. You can hop onto their Formal Web page at saigonbabylon.enjoyable or use Resy.com to secure your spot. offered the rooftop’s attractiveness, Specifically on weekends, it’s smart to prepare in advance. stroll-ins are welcome when House enables, but a reservation assures you received’t be left ready.
that is a spot that works for a variety of instances. arranging a passionate evening? The ambiance and meals set the proper tone. Conference good friends for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes hold things energetic. It’s even an incredible decide for just a Distinctive celebration, because of the standout placing and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge is no stranger to good foodstuff, but Saigon Babylon delivers some thing contemporary for the desk. It’s not pretty much taking in; it’s about immersing yourself inside of a sensory journey. The rooftop site on your own causes it to be a rarity, featuring a standpoint of the city you received’t obtain anywhere else in Central sq.. include inside the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, therefore you’ve got a recipe to get a memorable evening.
The attention to depth shines by in each and every aspect. through the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef into the intelligent twist of the Pho Cocktail, this put doesn’t Slash corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a contemporary audience. whether or not you’re a neighborhood looking for a new haunt or possibly a visitor Checking out the realm, Saigon Babylon feels like a discovery value sharing.
guidelines for Your take a look at
when you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a number of pointers can improve your encounter. Aim for an early night slot if you want to capture the sunset - the rooftop views are unbeatable as the sky shifts colors. costume in layers, as well. The outside setting is a attract, but Massachusetts temperature might be unpredictable, even in spring or fall.
Don’t skip the cocktails, even if you’re not an enormous drinker. The non-alcoholic solutions are only as creative and pair beautifully Together with the foods. And if you’re torn on what to purchase, check with the staff members for recommendations. They’re passionate about the menu and delighted to tutorial you towards a little something you’ll appreciate.
A style of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t just a cafe; it’s a destination. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - bold, well balanced, and full of lifestyle - and wraps it inside of a location that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming ambiance - everything will come alongside one another to generate something Specific.
subsequent time you’re in Central Square, skip the standard suspects and head nearly 907 most important St. whether or not you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting having a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up while in the allure of Saigon Babylon. It’s a location that lingers with your brain, beckoning you back again for one more taste of its magic.