Saigon Babylon - A Vietnamese Fusion Gem on Cambridge’s Only Rooftop

Saigon Babylon - A Vietnamese Fusion Gem on Cambridge’s Only Rooftop

Blog Article

Nestled at 907 primary St in the guts of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is much more than simply a cafe. It’s a culinary working experience that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with present day creative imagination, all set versus the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. for those who’re a foodstuff lover trying to find a novel dining location, this location guarantees to captivate your senses with its inventive dishes, amazing views, along with a vibe that’s equivalent pieces chic and welcoming. Let’s dive into what would make Saigon Babylon a must-visit spot for locals and holidaymakers alike.

A Rooftop Haven in Central sq.

consider stepping out of the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending on the fifth flooring from the Sonder 907 most important creating. That’s wherever Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was when the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your common eating setup. The open-air terrace gives sweeping views of the town, a exceptional take care of On this Portion of city. whether or not you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails below The celebs, the rooftop location elevates every single moment invested below.

The Area itself seems like a considerate blend of nature and layout. Lush greenery softens the fashionable traces on the home furnishings, even though heat lights casts a cozy glow. encouraged by Vietnam’s loaded aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a stability between elegance and luxury. It’s the sort of spot in which you can gown up for a day or maintain it relaxed with pals, and In either case, you’ll truly feel right at your home.

What sets this spot apart is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop location. inside a neighborhood known for its eclectic Electricity, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s equally advanced and laid-back again. It’s No surprise individuals are buzzing relating to this concealed gem.

The Minds powering the Magic

on the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo that has a verified track record while in the culinary environment. If their names seem acquainted, it’s mainly because they’ve already gained more than foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar plus the Eaves in nearby Somerville. Their abilities shines by means of in each element in this article, from the menu towards the ambiance.

Vinh and Duong deliver a deep appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine, paired which has a knack for innovation. They’re not only serving foods; they’re telling a story via flavors and presentation. It’s very clear they’ve poured their hearts into generating Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with every visitor who walks in the door.

A Menu That Dances on Your Palate

the center of Saigon Babylon lies in its food stuff, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, fashionable twists. This isn’t your ordinary pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area performs with textures, aromas, and tastes, providing dishes that sense familiar nonetheless thrillingly new. Let’s check out a lot of the stars on the menu.

Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion

Picture this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed via the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled using a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s finished using a crunch of crispy rice paper, introducing just the correct distinction. This dish can be a testomony towards the kitchen area’s capability to take a simple strategy and switch it into some thing remarkable. Each and every bite bursts with freshness, which makes it an ideal starter to awaken your appetite.

Xôi Chim - ease and comfort fulfills creativeness

should you’re craving anything hearty, the Xôi Chim won’t disappoint. This dish can 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, though the presentation seems like fine eating. The warmth of your rice, the richness from the meat, as well as the umami through the mushrooms arrive together in a means that’s deeply satisfying. It’s comfort food stuff using a twist, and it’s very easy to see why it’s a group favored.

Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish finished ideal

Duck enthusiasts, just take Notice. The Bac Ninh delivers tender duck to the desk, bathed within a sauce that’s bold and complex. The flavors lean savory with a touch of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s skill in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers within your memory extended following the meal is around, proving that Saigon Babylon understands how to deal with meat with finesse.

Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and bitter Bliss

For seafood fans, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a necessity-test. The shrimp are completely charred, their natural sweetness enhanced by a tamarind glaze that’s equivalent pieces 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’ve bought a plate that’s hard to set down.

Cocktails That Steal the demonstrate

No rooftop expertise is total without having a stellar drink in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that entrance much too. The bar menu is a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which can be click here as inventive since the food. regardless of whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or simply just planning to sip a thing refreshing, there’s lots to love listed here.

Take the Pho Cocktail, for instance. Certainly, you study that appropriate. This consume normally takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup - Consider star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with contemporary herbs and also a spirit of one's decision. It’s quirky, unexpected, and amazingly delicious. If you prefer anything a lot more tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, with the option to spike it with rum for a boozy kick.

The bar group Evidently enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Every consume feels like a mini adventure, complementing the food devoid of overshadowing it. in the event you’re not during the temper for Liquor, they’ve bought non-alcoholic variations much too, ensuring everyone can Take part the pleasurable.

When to go to

Saigon Babylon welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, with several hours operating from five PM to midnight. That gives you a lot of the perfect time to get pleasure from a leisurely evening meal or swing by for late-night drinks. The position shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so program appropriately. for those who’re pondering dropping in, it’s a good idea to phone ahead at (617) 945-4509. Hours can shift, and also you don’t desire to miss out on out.

The vibe right here shifts dependant upon the working day. Weeknights lean quieter, great for personal dinners or catching up with a colleague. arrive Friday or Saturday, nevertheless, the Strength ramps up. DJ sets often fill the air, turning the rooftop into a lively hotspot. It’s the type of flexibility which makes Saigon Babylon appeal to all types of diners.

What persons are Saying

considering the fact that opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has actually been making waves in Cambridge’s food items scene. Guests rave in regards to the rooftop sights, calling them a scarce handle With this bustling neighborhood. The foodstuff earns large marks also, with lots of praising the creativeness and freshness of every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up generally in testimonials, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen area’s expertise.

That said, it’s not all great. Some diners mention that the prices lean on the higher side, In particular supplied the portion sizes. some have pointed out that company can sense uneven sometimes, probably a hiccup within the restaurant’s newness. nonetheless, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly favourable. on the net rankings hover close to four.three to four.4 away from five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a strong get started for a location that’s nonetheless discovering its footing.

generating a Reservation

Ready to expertise Saigon Babylon on your own? Booking a desk is usually a breeze. it is possible to hop on to their Formal Web-site at saigonbabylon.entertaining or use Resy.com to safe your spot. supplied the rooftop’s recognition, Specifically on weekends, it’s wise to program ahead. stroll-ins are welcome when Area allows, but a reservation ensures you gained’t be still left waiting.

this can be a place that works for all kinds of situations. Planning a intimate evening? The ambiance and meals set the perfect tone. Assembly pals for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes hold factors energetic. It’s even an awesome select for just a Particular celebration, thanks to the standout location and menu.

Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out

Cambridge is no stranger to good foodstuff, but Saigon Babylon delivers one thing clean to the table. It’s not just about feeding on; it’s about immersing yourself in a sensory journey. The rooftop locale on your own can make it a rarity, offering a point of view of town you gained’t locate anywhere else in Central Square. insert from the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, therefore you’ve acquired a recipe for your memorable evening.

The attention to depth shines by in every aspect. from your way the lemongrass perfumes the beef for the clever twist of the 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 simply a visitor Discovering the realm, Saigon Babylon seems like a discovery value sharing.

Tips for Your Visit

when you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a couple of ideas can boost your encounter. goal for an early night slot if you'd like to capture the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable because the sky shifts colors. Dress in levels, too. The out of doors placing is usually a draw, but Massachusetts weather could be unpredictable, even in spring or slide.

Don’t skip the cocktails, even if you’re not an enormous drinker. The non-alcoholic alternatives are just as Imaginative and pair beautifully Along with the foods. And if you’re torn on what to get, request the workers for suggestions. They’re captivated with the menu and happy to guideline you toward some thing you’ll like.

A Taste of Vietnam in Cambridge

Saigon Babylon isn’t only a restaurant; it’s a desired destination. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine - Daring, balanced, and brimming with existence - and wraps it within a environment that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming environment - everything comes alongside one another to develop some thing Unique.

upcoming time you’re in Central Square, skip the standard suspects and head approximately 907 major St. no matter if you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting which has a Stormy Saigon, you’ll end up caught up within the charm of Saigon Babylon. It’s a place that lingers as part of your brain, beckoning you back again for another style of its magic.

Report this page