Saigon Babylon - A Vietnamese Fusion Gem on Cambridge’s Only Rooftop
Nestled at 907 primary St in the guts of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is more than simply a cafe. It’s a culinary encounter that blends the colourful flavors of Vietnam with modern creativeness, all set against the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. in case you’re a foodstuff lover trying to find a novel dining place, this area promises to captivate your senses with its ingenious dishes, stunning sights, as well as a vibe that’s equal components chic and welcoming. Allow’s dive into what will make Saigon Babylon a necessity-go to spot for locals and travellers alike.
A Rooftop Haven in Central Square
visualize stepping out on the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending to your fifth flooring of your Sonder 907 major creating. That’s where by Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was as soon as the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your normal eating set up. The open-air terrace features sweeping sights of the city, a exceptional address During this Component of town. regardless of whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails below the stars, the rooftop location elevates each individual second invested right here.
The House itself feels like a considerate blend of character and style. Lush greenery softens the fashionable lines on the home furniture, when heat lights casts a cozy glow. Inspired by Vietnam’s abundant aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a equilibrium involving elegance and comfort. It’s the sort of position where you can dress up for your date or retain it casual with pals, and In any case, you’ll sense appropriate in the home.
What sets this place aside is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop venue. inside a neighborhood known for its eclectic Strength, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s both of those sophisticated and laid-again. It’s No surprise folks are buzzing about this concealed gem.
The Minds at the rear of the Magic
At the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo by using a proven track record inside the culinary environment. If their names seem familiar, it’s since they’ve previously won around foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar as well as the Eaves in nearby Somerville. Their expertise shines by means of in every detail here, within the menu towards the ambiance.
Vinh and Duong bring a deep appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine, paired with a knack for innovation. They’re not only serving meals; they’re telling a story through flavors and presentation. It’s read more apparent they’ve poured their hearts into making Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with each individual visitor who walks from the door.
A Menu That Dances on Your Palate
the guts of Saigon Babylon lies in its food items, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and Daring, present day twists. This isn’t your average pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area performs with textures, aromas, and tastes, offering dishes that experience familiar nonetheless thrillingly new. Let’s check out a number of the stars of your menu.
Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion
photo this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed via the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled that has a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s finished having a crunch of crispy rice paper, adding just the appropriate distinction. This dish can be a testament for the kitchen’s ability to acquire an easy strategy and turn it into some thing amazing. Each and every bite bursts with freshness, making it a perfect starter to awaken your urge for food.
Xôi Chim - consolation satisfies creative imagination
when you’re craving something 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 Road foodstuff, nevertheless the presentation appears like high-quality eating. the heat of the rice, the richness with the meat, and also the umami from your mushrooms come collectively in a way that’s deeply gratifying. It’s comfort and ease food stuff which has a twist, and it’s simple to see why it’s a group preferred.
Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish carried out suitable
Duck fans, just take Observe. The Bac Ninh provides tender duck on the desk, bathed in the 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 in the memory extensive once the meal is above, proving that Saigon Babylon is aware of 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 must-test. The shrimp are completely charred, their organic sweetness Increased by a tamarind glaze that’s equal components tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it that has a aspect of sticky rice, and you’ve obtained a plate that’s difficult to put down.
Cocktails That Steal the present
No rooftop experience is full without having a stellar drink in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that entrance much too. The bar menu is really a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which can be as inventive as the foods. regardless of whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just seeking to sip one thing refreshing, there’s lots to love in this article.
go ahead and take Pho Cocktail, By way of example. Of course, you study that correct. This drink will take the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - think star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with refreshing herbs along with a spirit of your preference. It’s quirky, sudden, and surprisingly scrumptious. If you like a thing extra tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, with an option to spike it with rum for any boozy kick.
The bar workforce Evidently enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each and every drink feels like a mini journey, complementing the foods with out overshadowing it. in the event you’re not within the mood for alcohol, they’ve received non-alcoholic versions also, making sure All people can Take part the fun.
When to go to
Saigon Babylon welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, with hrs managing from 5 PM to midnight. that offers you lots of time for you to take pleasure in a leisurely supper or swing by for late-evening drinks. The place shuts its doors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so approach appropriately. If you’re pondering dropping in, it’s a good idea to get in touch with in advance at (617) 945-4509. hrs can change, therefore you don’t choose to overlook out.
The vibe listed here shifts with regards to the day. Weeknights lean quieter, ideal for personal dinners or catching up with a friend. appear Friday or Saturday, while, the energy ramps up. DJ sets normally fill the air, turning the rooftop right into a energetic hotspot. It’s the sort of versatility which makes Saigon Babylon attract all types of diners.
What individuals are declaring
because opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has become generating waves in Cambridge’s food items scene. company rave regarding the rooftop views, contacting them a exceptional address Within this bustling community. The food earns large marks far too, with lots of praising the creativity and freshness of each dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up often in testimonials, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s talent.
That said, it’s not all perfect. Some diners point out that the prices lean on the higher facet, Specially given the portion measurements. a couple of have famous that service can sense uneven from time to time, most likely a hiccup in the restaurant’s newness. continue to, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. on the net scores hover about 4.3 to four.four outside of five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a strong commence for a place that’s still locating its footing.
earning a Reservation
Ready to working experience Saigon Babylon on your own? scheduling a desk can be a breeze. you could hop on to their Formal website at saigonbabylon.enjoyable or use Resy.com to protected your place. provided the rooftop’s acceptance, Specially on weekends, it’s smart to plan forward. wander-ins are welcome when House lets, but a reservation makes certain you gained’t be still left ready.
this can be a place that works for a number of events. Planning a passionate night? The ambiance and food stuff established an ideal tone. Conference close friends for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes continue to keep factors lively. It’s even a fantastic select for any Unique celebration, because of the standout placing and menu.
Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out
Cambridge isn't any stranger to great food items, but Saigon Babylon delivers something contemporary towards the desk. It’s not just about consuming; it’s about immersing your self inside of a sensory journey. The rooftop locale on your own can make it a rarity, featuring a perspective of the town you won’t uncover any where else in Central Square. insert during the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, so you’ve bought a recipe for any unforgettable night.
the eye to element shines via in every part. From the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef on the intelligent twist of the Pho Cocktail, this area doesn’t Slice corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern audience. Whether you’re a neighborhood seeking a new haunt or maybe a visitor Discovering the area, Saigon Babylon seems like a discovery really worth sharing.
tricks for Your check out
If you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a number of tips can boost your expertise. purpose for an early night slot in order to capture the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable as being the sky shifts shades. costume in levels, as well. The outdoor placing is really a draw, but Massachusetts temperature is usually unpredictable, even in spring or slide.
Don’t skip the cocktails, Even when you’re not a big drinker. The non-alcoholic solutions are just as Inventive and pair wonderfully While using the foodstuff. And if you’re torn on what to buy, ask the staff for suggestions. They’re excited about the menu and delighted to guide you toward something you’ll adore.
A flavor of Vietnam in Cambridge
Saigon Babylon isn’t just a cafe; it’s a destination. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - bold, balanced, and stuffed with lifetime - and wraps it in the environment that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the creative dishes, the welcoming ambiance - it all comes jointly to generate anything Unique.
following time you’re in Central sq., skip the usual suspects and head approximately 907 major St. whether or not you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting by using a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up inside the attraction of Saigon Babylon. It’s a location that lingers within your mind, beckoning you back for another taste of its magic.