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 Main St in the guts of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is much more than simply a restaurant. It’s a culinary experience that blends the colourful flavors of Vietnam with modern-day creative imagination, all established against the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. in case you’re a meals lover seeking a unique dining spot, this position claims to captivate your senses with its inventive dishes, gorgeous sights, in addition to a vibe that’s equal pieces chic and welcoming. Permit’s dive into what would make Saigon Babylon a necessity-check out vacation spot for locals and travellers alike.

A Rooftop Haven in Central sq.

picture stepping out with the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending into the fifth ground on the Sonder 907 key building. That’s in which Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was once the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your usual eating setup. The open up-air terrace gives sweeping sights of town, a rare address During this A part of town. no matter if you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails under The celebs, the rooftop setting elevates each and every moment put in below.

The space alone seems like a thoughtful blend of nature and design and style. Lush greenery softens the fashionable traces from the household furniture, although heat lighting casts a cozy glow. impressed by Vietnam’s loaded aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a harmony between magnificence and comfort. It’s the Saigon Babylon type of location in which you can dress up for just a date or preserve it everyday with pals, and either way, you’ll truly feel appropriate at home.

What sets this location apart is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop venue. within a community recognized for its eclectic Strength, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s each innovative and laid-again. It’s No surprise folks are buzzing concerning this concealed gem.

The Minds guiding the Magic

with the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo with a proven background while in the culinary world. If their names seem acquainted, it’s mainly because they’ve currently won around foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar as well as the Eaves in close by Somerville. Their know-how shines by means of in just about every depth in this article, within the menu on the ambiance.

Vinh and Duong provide a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired using a knack for innovation. They’re not merely serving food items; they’re telling a story via flavors and presentation. It’s very clear they’ve poured their hearts into earning Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with just about every visitor who walks from the door.

A Menu That Dances in your Palate

The heart of Saigon Babylon lies in its food stuff, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, fashionable twists. This isn’t your average pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area plays with textures, aromas, and preferences, offering dishes that truly feel common still thrillingly new. Enable’s take a look at a few of the stars with the menu.

Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A Flavor Explosion

photo this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed with the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled having a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s completed using a crunch of crispy rice paper, including just the ideal contrast. This dish is actually a testament to the kitchen area’s capacity to choose a straightforward idea and turn it into something extraordinary. Each bite bursts with freshness, rendering it a perfect starter to awaken your hunger.

Xôi Chim - consolation fulfills creative imagination

for those who’re craving a little something hearty, the Xôi Chim gained’t disappoint. This dish can take sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with ground squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese Avenue food stuff, even so the presentation looks like good dining. the heat of your rice, the richness of the meat, and the umami through the mushrooms appear together in a means that’s deeply fulfilling. It’s consolation food using a twist, and it’s very easy to see why it’s a group most loved.

Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish completed suitable

Duck enthusiasts, acquire Observe. The Bac Ninh delivers tender duck on the table, bathed within a sauce that’s bold and sophisticated. The flavors lean savory with a hint of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s ability in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers in the memory extensive after the food is about, proving that Saigon Babylon is familiar with how to handle meat with finesse.

Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and Sour Bliss

For seafood supporters, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a necessity-check out. The shrimp are correctly charred, their natural sweetness Improved by a tamarind glaze that’s equal components tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one which captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it which has a aspect of sticky rice, and you’ve got a plate that’s tough to set down.

Cocktails That Steal the demonstrate

No rooftop knowledge is complete with out a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that front also. The bar menu is a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which are as creative as being the food. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or perhaps seeking to sip one thing refreshing, there’s a great deal to like listed here.

go ahead and take Pho Cocktail, As an illustration. Sure, you browse that suitable. This consume usually takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup - Imagine star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with contemporary herbs along with a spirit of your respective decision. It’s quirky, unexpected, and amazingly tasty. If you like a little something far more tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, by having an choice to spike it with rum for the boozy kick.

The bar staff Evidently enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each consume looks like a mini experience, complementing the food without overshadowing it. in case you’re not in the temper for alcohol, they’ve obtained non-alcoholic versions as well, making certain Everybody can join in the exciting.

When to Visit

Saigon Babylon welcomes guests from Wednesday to Sunday, with hrs operating from five PM to midnight. That gives you loads of time for you to get pleasure from a leisurely evening meal or swing by for late-night time drinks. The location shuts its doors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so prepare accordingly. in case you’re thinking of dropping in, it’s a smart idea to phone ahead at (617) 945-4509. several hours can change, and you simply don’t would like to skip out.

The vibe listed here shifts based on the day. Weeknights lean quieter, ideal for personal dinners or catching up with a friend. Come Friday or Saturday, nevertheless, the Strength ramps up. DJ sets generally fill the air, turning the rooftop into a energetic hotspot. It’s the kind of versatility that makes Saigon Babylon attract a myriad of diners.

What folks are Saying

considering that opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has long been producing waves in Cambridge’s food items scene. attendees rave with regards to the rooftop sights, contacting them a uncommon handle During this bustling neighborhood. The food stuff earns superior marks as well, with a lot of praising the creative imagination 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 talent.

Having said that, it’s not all excellent. Some diners mention that the prices lean on the upper side, Particularly presented the part measurements. a couple of have observed that provider can feel uneven from time to time, likely a hiccup through the cafe’s newness. even now, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly constructive. on the internet rankings hover close to four.3 to 4.four out of 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust begin for a location that’s nevertheless getting its footing.

building a Reservation

willing to working experience Saigon Babylon on your own? scheduling a table is usually a breeze. it is possible to hop onto their Formal Web-site at saigonbabylon.enjoyment or use Resy.com to secure your location. offered the rooftop’s attractiveness, Particularly on weekends, it’s sensible to approach forward. wander-ins are welcome when Room permits, but a reservation makes sure you gained’t be left waiting.

this can be a place that works for all sorts of situations. arranging a intimate night? The ambiance and foodstuff established the ideal tone. Assembly buddies for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes preserve items lively. It’s even an awesome select for the special celebration, due to the standout environment and menu.

Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out

Cambridge isn't any stranger to great foodstuff, but Saigon Babylon delivers some thing new on the desk. It’s not pretty much taking in; it’s about immersing you in a sensory journey. The rooftop location by yourself causes it to be a rarity, giving a standpoint of the city you won’t come across any place else in Central Square. include from the Vietnamese fusion Delicacies, crafted with treatment by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and also you’ve got a recipe for just a unforgettable night.

The attention to depth shines through in just about every component. with the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef into the intelligent twist of a Pho Cocktail, this put doesn’t Slash corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a contemporary viewers. whether or not you’re an area trying to find a new haunt or possibly a visitor Discovering the area, Saigon Babylon seems like a discovery worthy of sharing.

techniques for Your go to

for those who’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a few ideas can improve your encounter. purpose for an early evening slot if you need to catch the sunset - the rooftop views are unbeatable as the sky shifts colors. gown in levels, far too. The outside setting is a draw, but Massachusetts weather conditions might be unpredictable, even in spring or fall.

Don’t skip the cocktails, even if you’re not a major drinker. The non-alcoholic choices are only as creative and pair fantastically With all the food. and when you’re torn on what to get, inquire the staff members for recommendations. They’re excited about the menu and content to manual you toward something you’ll appreciate.

A Taste of Vietnam in Cambridge

Saigon Babylon isn’t only a restaurant; it’s a destination. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - bold, well balanced, and stuffed with lifetime - and wraps it inside of a location that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the inventive dishes, the welcoming environment - everything arrives together to develop a little something Distinctive.

up coming time you’re in Central sq., skip the standard suspects and head up to 907 Main St. Whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting using a Stormy Saigon, you’ll end up caught up from the allure of Saigon Babylon. It’s a location that lingers within your intellect, beckoning you back again for another flavor of its magic.

Report this page