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 more than just a restaurant. It’s a culinary practical experience that blends the colourful flavors of Vietnam with present day creativity, all set from the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. in case you’re a food lover searching for a unique eating place, this area promises to captivate your senses with its creative dishes, stunning views, plus a vibe that’s equivalent parts chic and welcoming. Let’s dive into what would make Saigon Babylon a necessity-go to location for locals and holidaymakers alike.

A Rooftop Haven in Central Square

think about stepping out with the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending to the fifth ground of the Sonder 907 major making. That’s in which Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was once the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your common eating setup. The open-air terrace provides sweeping views of the city, a exceptional handle Within this Section of city. irrespective of whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails beneath the stars, the rooftop setting elevates each instant spent in this article.

The Place itself seems like a thoughtful combination of nature and structure. Lush greenery softens the fashionable strains of your furnishings, while heat lights casts a cozy glow. encouraged by Vietnam’s wealthy aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a balance in between elegance and comfort. It’s the kind of area where you can gown up for the date or maintain it casual with close friends, and In any case, you’ll truly feel right at your house.

What sets this location apart is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop venue. In a neighborhood known for its eclectic Strength, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s both equally sophisticated and laid-back. It’s no wonder persons are buzzing about this hidden gem.

The Minds guiding the Magic

At the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo which has a established background from the culinary entire world. If their names audio acquainted, it’s as they’ve currently gained in excess of foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar and The Eaves in nearby Somerville. Their experience shines as a result of in every detail here, in the menu to the ambiance.

Vinh and Duong carry a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired with a knack for innovation. They’re not just serving food items; they’re telling a Tale by flavors and presentation. It’s crystal clear they’ve poured their hearts into making Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with every guest who walks throughout the doorway.

A Menu That Dances on your own Palate

The heart of Saigon Babylon lies in its meals, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, fashionable twists. This isn’t your ordinary pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen performs with textures, aromas, and preferences, offering dishes that feel acquainted nonetheless thrillingly new. Let’s investigate many of the stars on the menu.

Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A Flavor Explosion

photo this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed through the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled using a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s completed with a crunch of crispy rice paper, introducing just the right contrast. This dish is really a testament to the kitchen area’s capacity to just take a straightforward concept and turn it into something amazing. Every Chunk bursts with freshness, rendering it a wonderful starter to awaken your appetite.

Xôi Chim - convenience fulfills creativeness

for those who’re craving some thing hearty, the Xôi Chim received’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 Road foodstuff, even so the presentation feels like wonderful dining. the heat of your rice, the richness on the meat, along with the umami through the mushrooms come collectively in a means that’s deeply gratifying. It’s convenience food items that has a twist, and it’s straightforward to see why it’s a group favourite.

Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish Done Right

Duck fans, consider Take note. The Bac Ninh delivers tender duck to your desk, bathed in the sauce that’s bold and complex. The flavors lean savory with Saigon Babylon a touch of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s ability in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers as part of your memory long following the meal is about, proving that Saigon Babylon is aware of 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-check out. The shrimp are correctly charred, their normal sweetness Improved by a tamarind glaze that’s equivalent sections 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 simply’ve bought a plate that’s challenging to place down.

Cocktails That Steal the display

No rooftop encounter is total with out a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon provides on that front much too. The bar menu can be a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which have been as ingenious given that the food items. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or merely trying to sip anything refreshing, there’s a great deal to like in this article.

go ahead and take Pho Cocktail, As an example. Certainly, you read that right. This drink takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup - Consider star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with fresh new herbs plus a spirit of your respective choice. It’s quirky, sudden, and amazingly tasty. If you favor one thing far more tropical, the Stormy Saigon provides a fruity twist, with the option to spike it with rum for just a boozy kick.

The bar group Plainly enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each consume feels like a mini journey, complementing the food devoid of overshadowing it. in case you’re not during the mood for alcohol, they’ve got non-alcoholic versions too, making sure Every person can Take part the pleasurable.

When to go to

Saigon Babylon welcomes company from Wednesday to Sunday, with hours functioning from five PM to midnight. That gives you a lot of the perfect time to get pleasure from a leisurely meal or swing by for late-night beverages. The put shuts its doors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so strategy accordingly. when you’re serious about dropping in, it’s a good idea to call in advance at (617) 945-4509. hrs can shift, and you don’t need to pass up out.

The vibe right here shifts according to the working day. Weeknights lean quieter, great for personal dinners or catching up with a friend. appear Friday or Saturday, although, the Electricity ramps up. DJ sets generally fill the air, turning the rooftop right into a lively hotspot. It’s the kind of flexibility that makes Saigon Babylon attract an array of diners.

What consumers are expressing

considering that opening its doors in early 2024, Saigon Babylon is building waves in Cambridge’s foods scene. company rave in regards to the rooftop sights, calling them a rare address In this particular bustling community. The food earns substantial marks also, with quite a few praising the creativeness and freshness of each and every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up usually in reviews, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen area’s expertise.

That said, it’s not all excellent. Some diners mention that the costs lean on the upper side, Specially specified the part measurements. a handful of have observed that provider can really feel uneven at times, most likely a hiccup through the restaurant’s newness. even now, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. on line scores hover about 4.3 to four.four out of five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust start off for a place that’s however obtaining its footing.

Making a Reservation

all set to encounter Saigon Babylon for yourself? Booking a table is actually a breeze. you could hop on to their official website at saigonbabylon.fun or use Resy.com to safe your place. supplied the rooftop’s recognition, Particularly on weekends, it’s smart to system in advance. Walk-ins are welcome when Area enables, but a reservation assures you received’t be left waiting around.

this can be a place that actually works for all sorts of situations. Planning a passionate night? The ambiance and food stuff established the right tone. Assembly buddies for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes continue to keep factors energetic. It’s even a terrific select for a Exclusive celebration, thanks to the standout placing and menu.

Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out

Cambridge is no stranger to excellent foodstuff, but Saigon Babylon delivers some thing contemporary to the table. It’s not pretty much taking in; it’s about immersing by yourself inside of a sensory journey. The rooftop locale by yourself causes it to be a rarity, providing a point of view of town you received’t find any place else in Central Square. insert during the Vietnamese fusion Delicacies, crafted with treatment by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and also you’ve got a recipe for a unforgettable night.

the eye to element shines by way of in just about every factor. through the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef to your intelligent twist of a Pho Cocktail, this spot doesn’t Reduce corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern audience. whether or not you’re a local looking for a new haunt or possibly a customer exploring the realm, Saigon Babylon looks like a discovery well worth sharing.

strategies for Your Visit

when you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a couple of tips can boost your encounter. Aim for an early evening slot if you need to catch the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable because the sky shifts colors. costume in layers, too. The outdoor setting is a draw, but Massachusetts weather can be unpredictable, even in spring or fall.

Don’t skip the cocktails, Even when you’re not a giant drinker. The non-alcoholic solutions are only as Imaginative and pair superbly With all the foodstuff. And if you’re torn on what to get, ask the staff members for suggestions. They’re obsessed with the menu and joyful to guideline you towards one thing you’ll really like.

A style of Vietnam in Cambridge

Saigon Babylon isn’t simply a cafe; it’s a place. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine - Daring, well balanced, and jam packed with daily life - and wraps it within a location that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the inventive dishes, the welcoming ambiance - it all comes jointly to build some thing special.

future time you’re in Central Square, skip the usual suspects and head as much as 907 principal St. no matter if you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting using a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up within the appeal of Saigon Babylon. It’s a place that lingers within your mind, beckoning you again for another taste of its magic.

Report this page