Nestled at 907 principal St in the guts of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is a lot more than just a cafe. It’s a culinary working experience that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with modern day creative imagination, all set towards the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. in case you’re a foods lover trying to find a unique more info dining spot, this location claims to captivate your senses with its ingenious dishes, amazing views, in addition to a vibe that’s equal parts stylish and welcoming. Allow’s dive into what makes Saigon Babylon essential-stop by vacation spot for locals and visitors alike.

A Rooftop Haven in Central Square

picture stepping out on the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending for the fifth flooring with the Sonder 907 primary making. That’s exactly where Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was after the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your standard dining setup. The open-air terrace delivers sweeping sights of the city, a unusual handle During this part of town. irrespective of whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails below The celebrities, the rooftop placing elevates each and every instant put in right here.

The Room by itself seems like a considerate combination of mother nature and design and style. Lush greenery softens the fashionable lines of your household furniture, whilst warm lights casts a cozy glow. encouraged by Vietnam’s prosperous aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a equilibrium between magnificence and luxury. It’s the type of place in which you can dress up for a date or keep it everyday with good friends, and In any case, you’ll truly feel appropriate in the home.

What sets this spot aside is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop location. inside a neighborhood noted for its eclectic Electrical power, Saigon Babylon carves out a distinct segment that’s equally innovative and laid-back. It’s No surprise individuals are buzzing about this hidden gem.

The Minds driving the Magic

within the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo that has a verified background within the culinary planet. If their names audio common, it’s mainly because they’ve currently received over foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar and also the Eaves in nearby Somerville. Their know-how shines by means of in each detail listed here, with the menu into the ambiance.

Vinh and Duong convey a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired that has a knack for innovation. They’re not simply serving foodstuff; they’re telling a story via flavors and presentation. It’s distinct they’ve poured their hearts into generating Saigon Babylon a standout, and their passion resonates with each 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 Daring, contemporary twists. This isn’t your regular pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area plays with textures, aromas, and preferences, offering dishes that experience acquainted nonetheless thrillingly new. Permit’s investigate a lot of the stars on the menu.

Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion

Picture this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed because of the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled that has a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s completed which has a crunch of crispy rice paper, incorporating just the correct contrast. This dish is usually a testomony to your kitchen area’s capability to acquire a simple concept and switch it into a thing amazing. Every Chunk bursts with freshness, which makes it an excellent starter to awaken your appetite.

Xôi Chim - ease and comfort satisfies creativeness

in case you’re craving a 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 street food items, but the presentation appears like great eating. the heat of the rice, the richness from the meat, and also the umami within the mushrooms come alongside one another in a means that’s deeply fulfilling. It’s comfort food items having a twist, and it’s very easy to see why it’s a crowd preferred.

Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish accomplished appropriate

Duck fans, choose note. The Bac Ninh provides tender duck to the desk, bathed inside of a sauce that’s Daring and complex. 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 long following the food is around, proving that Saigon Babylon understands 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 essential-try out. The shrimp are perfectly charred, their normal sweetness Increased 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 which has a facet of sticky rice, and you simply’ve bought a plate that’s challenging to place down.

Cocktails That Steal the exhibit

No rooftop working experience is comprehensive without a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon provides on that entrance too. The bar menu is actually a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which are as ingenious as being the food. Whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just looking to sip some thing refreshing, there’s a good deal to like here.

Take the Pho Cocktail, As an example. Indeed, you read that right. This consume requires the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup - Assume star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with fresh herbs and also a spirit of the alternative. It’s quirky, unexpected, and surprisingly tasty. If you favor a thing much more tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, by having an option to spike it with rum for any boozy kick.

The bar workforce clearly enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Every drink seems like a mini experience, complementing the food stuff devoid of overshadowing it. when you’re not within the mood for Liquor, they’ve acquired non-alcoholic versions much too, making sure Absolutely everyone can join in the enjoyment.

When to Visit

Saigon Babylon welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, with hrs functioning from 5 PM to midnight. That gives you lots of time and energy to appreciate a leisurely dinner or swing by for late-evening drinks. The spot shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so prepare accordingly. when you’re pondering dropping in, it’s a good idea to connect with ahead at (617) 945-4509. Hours can shift, and you don’t would like 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. Come Friday or Saturday, even though, the Electricity ramps up. DJ sets frequently fill the air, turning the rooftop right into a lively hotspot. It’s the kind of flexibility which makes Saigon Babylon attract all sorts of diners.

What People Are declaring

considering the fact that opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon is generating waves in Cambridge’s food stuff scene. visitors rave with regards to the rooftop views, contacting them a uncommon deal with With this bustling community. The food stuff earns large marks as well, with quite a few praising the creative imagination and freshness of each dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up often in reviews, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen area’s talent.

That said, it’s not all perfect. Some diners point out that the costs lean on the higher aspect, especially provided the portion dimensions. a number of have noted that service can sense uneven sometimes, most likely a hiccup through the restaurant’s newness. continue to, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly constructive. on the internet ratings hover all-around 4.3 to 4.four from five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust begin for an area that’s still finding its footing.

earning a Reservation

wanting to experience Saigon Babylon yourself? reserving a table is often a breeze. You can hop onto their official Site at saigonbabylon.entertaining or use Resy.com to safe your location. Given the rooftop’s reputation, Specifically on weekends, it’s smart to prepare forward. Walk-ins are welcome when House lets, but a reservation guarantees you received’t be remaining waiting around.

that is a place that works for all sorts of events. organizing a romantic evening? The ambiance and foodstuff set the proper tone. Conference close friends for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes retain factors energetic. It’s even a fantastic decide for the Unique celebration, thanks to the standout placing and menu.

Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out

Cambridge is no stranger to superior food items, but Saigon Babylon delivers a thing fresh new for the desk. It’s not almost taking in; it’s about immersing you inside of a sensory journey. The rooftop location alone causes it to be a rarity, providing a perspective of the town you won’t uncover any where else in Central sq.. increase within the Vietnamese fusion Delicacies, crafted with treatment by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and you also’ve received a recipe for just a memorable night.

The attention to detail shines through in every single component. From the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef to your intelligent twist of the Pho Cocktail, this place 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 seeking a new haunt or simply a visitor exploring the region, Saigon Babylon appears like a discovery really worth sharing.

strategies for Your stop by

in case you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a couple of ideas can boost your practical experience. Aim for an early evening slot in order to capture the sunset - the rooftop views are unbeatable given that the sky shifts hues. costume in levels, too. The outside setting is really a attract, but Massachusetts temperature is often unpredictable, even in spring or fall.

Don’t skip the cocktails, Even when you’re not a huge drinker. The non-alcoholic selections are just as Innovative and pair beautifully Using the foods. And if you’re torn on what to get, inquire the team for recommendations. They’re enthusiastic about the menu and delighted to information you towards a little something you’ll love.

A flavor of Vietnam in Cambridge

Saigon Babylon isn’t just a restaurant; it’s a spot. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - Daring, balanced, and filled with existence - and wraps it in the location that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming ambiance - it all arrives jointly to build anything Particular.

upcoming time you’re in Central sq., skip the usual suspects and head as many as 907 most important St. irrespective of whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting having a Stormy Saigon, you’ll end up caught up within the charm of Saigon Babylon. It’s an area that lingers in the mind, beckoning you back again for one more flavor of its magic.