Saigon Babylon - A Vietnamese Fusion Gem on Cambridge’s Only Rooftop
Nestled at 907 major St in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is a lot more than simply a cafe. It’s a culinary expertise that blends the colourful flavors of Vietnam with fashionable creativeness, all set towards the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. If you’re a food stuff lover looking for a unique eating spot, this spot guarantees to captivate your senses with its creative dishes, breathtaking sights, and a vibe that’s equal elements stylish and welcoming. Let’s dive into what will make Saigon Babylon a must-pay a visit to location for locals and visitors alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central Square
think about stepping out in the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending into the fifth flooring from the Sonder 907 Main setting up. That’s exactly where Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was when the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your website standard dining set up. The open up-air terrace presents sweeping sights of town, a rare handle During this A part of city. regardless of whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails beneath The celebs, the rooftop placing elevates each and every minute expended below.
The House alone appears like a considerate combination of mother nature and structure. Lush greenery softens the modern traces on the household furniture, whilst heat lights casts a cozy glow. Inspired by Vietnam’s rich aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a equilibrium among class and luxury. It’s the sort of area where you can gown up for any date or keep it informal with good friends, and either way, you’ll experience ideal in your own home.
What sets this spot apart is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop venue. inside of a neighborhood known for its eclectic Power, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s both refined and laid-back again. It’s No surprise consumers are buzzing concerning this hidden gem.
The Minds guiding the Magic
on the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo having a proven background while in the culinary entire world. If their names seem familiar, it’s as they’ve now won over foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar plus the Eaves in nearby Somerville. Their knowledge shines via in every element right here, from your menu into the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong bring a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired with a knack for innovation. They’re not just serving food items; they’re telling a story by way of flavors and presentation. It’s obvious they’ve poured their hearts into building Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with every single visitor who walks from the doorway.
A Menu That Dances in your Palate
The heart of Saigon Babylon lies in its food items, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, modern day twists. This isn’t your normal pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area plays with textures, aromas, and preferences, providing dishes that truly feel common nonetheless thrillingly new. Permit’s investigate a lot of the stars of the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
photo this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed with the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled which has a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s concluded having a crunch of crispy rice paper, adding just the ideal contrast. This dish is actually a testomony towards the kitchen’s ability to get an easy strategy and switch it into something remarkable. Each individual Chunk bursts with freshness, which makes it an ideal starter to awaken your urge for food.
Xôi Chim - ease and comfort satisfies creative imagination
for those who’re craving anything hearty, the Xôi Chim won’t disappoint. This dish usually takes sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with floor squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese Avenue meals, although the presentation seems like fantastic dining. the heat from the rice, the richness on the meat, and the umami in the mushrooms occur collectively in a means that’s deeply satisfying. It’s comfort food stuff that has a twist, and it’s straightforward to see why it’s a crowd favorite.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish performed Right
Duck fans, just take Take note. The Bac Ninh delivers tender duck into the desk, bathed inside a sauce that’s Daring and complicated. The flavors lean savory with a hint of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen area’s ability in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers in your memory prolonged after the meal is in excess of, proving that Saigon Babylon is familiar with how to deal with meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and Sour Bliss
For seafood lovers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a necessity-attempt. The shrimp are properly charred, their normal sweetness enhanced by a tamarind glaze that’s equal elements tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one which captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it with a aspect of sticky rice, and you’ve obtained a plate that’s tough to set down.
Cocktails That Steal the present
No rooftop working experience is full with no stellar drink in hand, and Saigon Babylon provides on that entrance far too. The bar menu is actually a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails that are as inventive since the foods. regardless of whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just wanting to sip a little something refreshing, there’s a lot to love right here.
go ahead and take Pho Cocktail, For example. Of course, you go through that suitable. This drink can take the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup - think star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with new herbs plus a spirit within your alternative. It’s quirky, unexpected, and shockingly mouth watering. If you like a little something extra tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, having an option to spike it with rum for the boozy kick.
The bar workforce Evidently enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each and every drink looks like a mini adventure, complementing the food stuff without the need of overshadowing it. in case you’re not from the mood for alcohol, they’ve received non-alcoholic variations far too, making sure Everybody can Take part the pleasurable.
When to go to
Saigon Babylon welcomes company from Wednesday to Sunday, with several hours operating from 5 PM to midnight. that provides you a lot of time for you to appreciate a leisurely supper or swing by for late-night drinks. The place shuts its doors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so strategy accordingly. If you’re considering dropping in, it’s a smart idea to call ahead at (617) 945-4509. Hours can shift, and you also don’t would like to skip out.
The vibe right here shifts depending upon the working day. Weeknights lean quieter, great for intimate dinners or catching up with an acquaintance. appear Friday or Saturday, nevertheless, the Electricity ramps up. DJ sets normally fill the air, turning the rooftop right into a energetic hotspot. It’s the sort of flexibility that makes Saigon Babylon attract a myriad of diners.
What consumers are expressing
because opening its doors in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has become building waves in Cambridge’s foods scene. visitors rave in regards to the rooftop views, calling them a unusual treat On this bustling community. The food items earns high marks far too, with quite a few praising the creativeness and freshness of each and every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up typically in critiques, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s expertise.
Having said that, it’s not all fantastic. Some diners mention that the costs lean on the upper facet, Particularly offered the part measurements. some have mentioned that company can feel uneven from time to time, possible a hiccup through the restaurant’s newness. however, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly favourable. Online ratings hover around 4.three to four.4 away from 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a solid commence for an area that’s still obtaining its footing.
Making a Reservation
prepared to expertise Saigon Babylon yourself? scheduling a desk is really a breeze. it is possible to hop onto their official Web-site at saigonbabylon.exciting or use Resy.com to protected your location. Given the rooftop’s attractiveness, Specially on weekends, it’s intelligent to system in advance. Walk-ins are welcome when Room enables, but a reservation guarantees you received’t be left ready.
This is a spot that actually works for all kinds of events. arranging a intimate evening? The ambiance and foods established the ideal tone. Assembly close friends for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes preserve items energetic. It’s even a fantastic select for just a Exclusive celebration, thanks to the standout location and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge is not any stranger to good food, but Saigon Babylon delivers a little something fresh on the table. It’s not nearly feeding on; it’s about immersing your self in the sensory journey. The rooftop locale by yourself makes it a rarity, giving a perspective of the city you gained’t discover everywhere else in Central Square. insert inside the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with treatment by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, so you’ve acquired a recipe for just a unforgettable evening.
The attention to depth shines by in each individual part. with the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef on the intelligent twist of the Pho Cocktail, this location doesn’t cut corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern audience. no matter if you’re a local seeking a new haunt or a visitor Checking out the region, Saigon Babylon appears like a discovery truly worth sharing.
strategies for Your pay a visit to
should you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a few tips can enhance your practical experience. Aim for an early evening slot if you would like catch the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable as being the sky shifts colors. gown in levels, much too. The outdoor placing is usually a draw, but Massachusetts temperature is usually unpredictable, even in spring or slide.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even when you’re not a huge drinker. The non-alcoholic selections are merely as Inventive and pair beautifully Along with the food. And if you’re torn on what to order, request the staff members for tips. They’re obsessed with the menu and content to guidebook you towards one thing you’ll really like.
A Taste of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t only a restaurant; it’s a destination. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - Daring, balanced, and brimming with lifestyle - and wraps it in the environment that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the creative dishes, the welcoming atmosphere - it all comes jointly to generate something Exclusive.
future time you’re in Central sq., skip the usual suspects and head up to 907 primary St. irrespective of whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting with a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up within the attraction of Saigon Babylon. It’s a place that lingers in the mind, beckoning you back for an additional taste of its magic.