Nestled at 907 key St in the guts of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is a lot more than simply a restaurant. It’s a culinary knowledge that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with modern day creative imagination, all set towards the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. should you’re a foods lover attempting to find a unique dining location, this spot claims to captivate your senses with its creative dishes, stunning views, along with a vibe that’s equal pieces stylish and welcoming. Allow’s dive into what can make Saigon Babylon essential-stop by location for locals and tourists alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central sq.
consider stepping out in the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending Saigon Babylon to your fifth ground with the Sonder 907 Main creating. That’s wherever Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was as soon as the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your regular eating setup. The open-air terrace presents sweeping sights of the town, a uncommon handle In this particular Section of city. whether or not you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails under The celebrities, the rooftop location elevates every instant invested in this article.
The House alone feels like a considerate mixture of nature and style. Lush greenery softens the trendy traces in the furnishings, when warm lighting casts a cozy glow. impressed by Vietnam’s loaded aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a stability among elegance and luxury. It’s the type of area in which you can gown up for just a day or continue to keep it informal with pals, and In any case, you’ll come to feel correct in the home.
What sets this place apart is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop location. within a neighborhood noted for its eclectic Vitality, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s each subtle and laid-again. It’s No surprise consumers are buzzing concerning this concealed gem.
The Minds Behind the Magic
for the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo with a established track record during the culinary planet. If their names sound acquainted, it’s simply because they’ve presently gained more than foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar and also the Eaves in close by Somerville. Their abilities shines by in just about every element here, in the menu for the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong convey a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired using a knack for innovation. They’re not only serving foodstuff; they’re telling a Tale by means of flavors and presentation. It’s obvious they’ve poured their hearts into generating Saigon Babylon a standout, and their passion resonates with just about every guest who walks from the door.
A Menu That Dances on your own Palate
the center of Saigon Babylon lies in its foods, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, modern day twists. This isn’t your average pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen performs with textures, aromas, and tastes, delivering dishes that feel common but thrillingly new. Let’s check out some of the stars in the menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
image this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed through the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled that has a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s concluded having a crunch of crispy rice paper, introducing just the appropriate contrast. This dish can be a testomony towards the kitchen’s capability to take an easy thought and turn it into some thing extraordinary. Each and every bite bursts with freshness, rendering it a wonderful starter to awaken your hunger.
Xôi Chim - comfort and ease satisfies Creativity
If you’re craving one thing hearty, the Xôi Chim gained’t disappoint. This dish normally takes 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, nevertheless the presentation appears like wonderful eating. the heat from the rice, the richness with the meat, along with the umami through the mushrooms occur with each other in a method that’s deeply satisfying. It’s convenience food that has a twist, and it’s easy to see why it’s a group favourite.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish accomplished appropriate
Duck fans, consider Take note. The Bac Ninh brings tender duck to your table, bathed inside a sauce that’s Daring and complicated. The flavors lean savory with a hint of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen area’s skill in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers within your memory lengthy once the meal is about, proving that Saigon Babylon knows how to take care of meat with finesse.
Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and Sour Bliss
For seafood lovers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is essential-attempt. The shrimp are beautifully charred, their all-natural sweetness Improved by a tamarind glaze that’s equal areas 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 place down.
Cocktails That Steal the exhibit
No rooftop knowledge is entire with out a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon provides on that front also. The bar menu is often a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which can be as ingenious since the food items. no matter whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just trying to sip a thing refreshing, there’s a great deal to like right here.
go ahead and take Pho Cocktail, For example. Of course, you read through that right. This drink requires the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - Believe star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with clean herbs plus a spirit of your respective alternative. It’s quirky, surprising, and remarkably delectable. If you favor something more tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, using an choice to spike it with rum for the boozy kick.
The bar staff Obviously enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Every single consume seems like a mini adventure, complementing the food items devoid of overshadowing it. If you’re not during the mood for Alcoholic beverages, they’ve obtained non-alcoholic variations way too, making certain Everybody can Take part the exciting.
When to go to
Saigon Babylon welcomes attendees from Wednesday to Sunday, with hours operating from 5 PM to midnight. That gives you lots of time to appreciate a leisurely dinner or swing by for late-evening drinks. The put shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so prepare appropriately. when you’re pondering dropping in, it’s a good idea to get in touch with in advance at (617) 945-4509. Hours can shift, and you simply don’t choose to pass up out.
The vibe right here shifts depending upon the day. Weeknights lean quieter, ideal for personal dinners or catching up with a buddy. Come Friday or Saturday, although, the Vitality ramps up. DJ sets typically fill the air, turning the rooftop into a lively hotspot. It’s the kind of versatility which makes Saigon Babylon attract all kinds of diners.
What individuals are Saying
considering the fact that opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has become producing waves in Cambridge’s food items scene. company rave in regards to the rooftop views, calling them a uncommon take care of In this particular bustling community. The foodstuff earns significant marks as well, with lots of praising the creativity and freshness of each and every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up usually in assessments, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen area’s expertise.
Having said that, it’s not all fantastic. Some diners point out that the costs lean on the higher aspect, In particular given the portion sizes. a handful of have pointed out that assistance can really feel uneven sometimes, most likely a hiccup within the restaurant’s newness. nevertheless, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly favourable. Online scores hover around four.three to 4.four out of five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a solid start for a place that’s however discovering its footing.
generating a Reservation
Ready to expertise Saigon Babylon on your own? scheduling a table is actually a breeze. you are able to hop on to their Formal Web page at saigonbabylon.entertaining or use Resy.com to secure your location. supplied the rooftop’s popularity, Primarily on weekends, it’s smart to prepare ahead. Walk-ins are welcome when House lets, but a reservation assures you gained’t be remaining ready.
this is the location that works for all sorts of instances. setting up a passionate evening? The ambiance and food items established the proper tone. Meeting good friends for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes preserve issues lively. It’s even an excellent select for a Particular celebration, because of the standout environment and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge is no stranger to very good foodstuff, but Saigon Babylon provides one thing fresh towards the desk. It’s not just about consuming; it’s about immersing oneself in a sensory journey. The rooftop place on your own makes it a rarity, featuring a viewpoint of the city you won’t come across anyplace else in Central Square. Add in the Vietnamese fusion Delicacies, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, therefore you’ve acquired a recipe to get a unforgettable evening.
The attention to depth shines by way of in every aspect. within the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef on 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 modern audience. no matter if you’re an area hunting for a new haunt or possibly a visitor Checking out the region, Saigon Babylon seems like a discovery really worth sharing.
guidelines for Your Visit
when you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a few ideas can enhance your expertise. Aim for an early evening slot if you want to catch the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable as the sky shifts hues. costume in layers, too. The out of doors location is actually a draw, but Massachusetts weather could be unpredictable, even in spring or tumble.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even though you’re not a huge drinker. The non-alcoholic selections are merely as Artistic and pair fantastically with the food. And if you’re torn on what to order, question the employees for recommendations. They’re captivated with the menu and satisfied to guideline you towards a thing you’ll adore.
A style of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t merely a cafe; it’s a vacation spot. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - bold, well balanced, and jam packed with existence - and wraps it in a environment that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming atmosphere - it all arrives together to develop some thing Unique.
future time you’re in Central sq., skip the standard suspects and head as many as 907 key St. irrespective of whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting having a Stormy Saigon, you’ll end up caught up inside the appeal of Saigon Babylon. It’s a location that lingers inside your head, beckoning you back for an additional style of its magic.