Nestled at 907 primary St in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is more than just a cafe. It’s a culinary working experience that blends the colourful flavors of Vietnam with modern day creativity, all established from the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. in the event you’re a meals lover seeking a novel eating spot, this location claims to captivate your senses with its creative dishes, gorgeous sights, and a vibe that’s equivalent components stylish and welcoming. Let’s dive into what would make Saigon Babylon essential-pay a visit to location for locals and travelers alike.

A Rooftop Haven in Central sq.

think about stepping out from the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending to the fifth flooring on the Sonder 907 principal building. That’s where Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was when the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your usual dining set up. The open-air terrace offers sweeping views of the city, a uncommon take care of During this Portion of city. no matter if you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails underneath the stars, the rooftop location elevates each second spent in this article.

The Area alone looks like a thoughtful combination of nature and layout. Lush greenery softens the modern lines of your furniture, although warm lights casts a cozy glow. motivated by Vietnam’s wealthy aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a harmony amongst magnificence and luxury. It’s the type of location where you can costume up for any day or continue to keep it everyday with good friends, and In either case, you’ll sense suitable at home.

What sets this spot apart is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop location. within a community known for its eclectic Power, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s both innovative and laid-again. It’s no wonder individuals are buzzing about this hidden gem.

The Minds at the rear of the Magic

in the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo using a confirmed reputation during the culinary globe. If their names seem common, it’s because they’ve by now received about foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar along with the Eaves in close by Somerville. Their knowledge shines via in every element below, from your menu for the ambiance.

Vinh and Duong bring a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired that has a knack for innovation. They’re not only serving foods; they’re telling a story as a result of flavors and presentation. It’s obvious they’ve poured their hearts into making Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their passion resonates with every single guest who walks with the doorway.

A Menu That Dances on the Palate

the guts of more info Saigon Babylon lies in its food items, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, modern day twists. This isn’t your average pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen plays with textures, aromas, and tastes, delivering dishes that experience acquainted yet thrillingly new. Permit’s take a look at some of the stars from the menu.

Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A Flavor Explosion

photograph this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed from the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled that has a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s completed with a crunch of crispy rice paper, adding just the ideal contrast. This dish is usually a testament towards the kitchen area’s capacity to just take an easy concept and turn it into some thing extraordinary. Just about every Chunk bursts with freshness, rendering it a wonderful starter to awaken your appetite.

Xôi Chim - Comfort satisfies creativeness

for those who’re craving anything hearty, the Xôi Chim received’t disappoint. This dish takes sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with ground squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese Road food items, although the presentation seems like great eating. the heat of your rice, the richness from the meat, as well as umami through the mushrooms arrive alongside one another in a means that’s deeply satisfying. It’s convenience foods by using a twist, and it’s straightforward to see why it’s a group favorite.

Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish Done proper

Duck enthusiasts, take Observe. The Bac Ninh brings tender duck to the desk, bathed in the sauce that’s Daring and sophisticated. The flavors lean savory with a hint of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s skill in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers within your memory very long following the food is around, proving that Saigon Babylon understands how to manage meat with finesse.

Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and Sour Bliss

For seafood admirers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a must-test. The shrimp are flawlessly charred, their purely natural sweetness Increased by a tamarind glaze that’s equal elements tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it using a side of sticky rice, and you’ve received a plate that’s challenging to place down.

Cocktails That Steal the demonstrate

No rooftop encounter is entire and not using a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that front as well. The bar menu can be a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails that are as ingenious since the food. regardless of whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or maybe looking to sip one thing refreshing, there’s lots to love below.

go ahead and take Pho Cocktail, For illustration. Indeed, you study that appropriate. This consume will take the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup - think star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with new herbs plus a spirit within your preference. It’s quirky, unanticipated, and incredibly tasty. If you favor anything much more tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, having an choice to spike it with rum for the boozy kick.

The bar crew clearly enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each consume appears like a mini journey, complementing the meals with out overshadowing it. in case you’re not from the mood for Alcoholic beverages, they’ve received non-alcoholic variations too, guaranteeing Anyone can join in the enjoyment.

When to Visit

Saigon Babylon welcomes company from Wednesday to Sunday, with several hours jogging from 5 PM to midnight. that offers you an abundance of the perfect time to love a leisurely meal or swing by for late-night time drinks. The place shuts its doors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so system appropriately. in case you’re pondering dropping in, it’s a good idea to contact forward at (617) 945-4509. hrs can shift, and you also don’t choose to pass up out.

The vibe below shifts based on the day. Weeknights lean quieter, perfect for intimate dinners or catching up with a pal. Come Friday or Saturday, nevertheless, the Power ramps up. DJ sets usually fill the air, turning the rooftop into a lively hotspot. It’s the sort of flexibility that makes Saigon Babylon appeal to all types of diners.

What consumers are stating

due to the fact opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon is making waves in Cambridge’s foodstuff scene. friends rave with regard to the rooftop sights, contacting them a uncommon handle With this bustling neighborhood. The foods earns significant marks too, with lots of praising the creativity and freshness of each dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up normally in reviews, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s talent.

Having said that, it’s not all perfect. Some diners point out that the costs lean on the higher side, Primarily presented the part measurements. several have famous that services can really feel uneven at times, probable a hiccup from the restaurant’s newness. continue to, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly optimistic. Online scores hover all-around 4.three to 4.4 outside of 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a powerful begin for a place that’s nevertheless finding its footing.

generating a Reservation

wanting to working experience Saigon Babylon yourself? Booking a table is usually a breeze. you'll be able to hop on to their Formal Web page at saigonbabylon.entertaining or use Resy.com to protected your location. offered the rooftop’s popularity, Specially on weekends, it’s smart to plan ahead. stroll-ins are welcome when Room will allow, but a reservation guarantees you won’t be still left ready.

this can be a location that actually works for a variety of events. preparing a intimate night? The ambiance and food items established the proper tone. Meeting good friends for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes preserve items energetic. It’s even an incredible pick for the Unique celebration, due to the standout location and menu.

Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out

Cambridge is not any stranger to great food, but Saigon Babylon brings some thing clean on the table. It’s not nearly eating; it’s about immersing you within a sensory journey. The rooftop area by itself causes it to be a rarity, offering a perspective of the city you won’t obtain anyplace else in Central Square. insert from the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and you’ve bought a recipe to get a memorable evening.

The attention to element shines by means of in every single element. from your way the lemongrass perfumes the beef to your clever twist of the Pho Cocktail, this area doesn’t cut corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern viewers. no matter if you’re a neighborhood seeking a new haunt or perhaps a visitor Discovering the realm, Saigon Babylon seems like a discovery truly worth sharing.

guidelines for Your take a look at

should you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a couple of tips can boost your expertise. Aim for an early evening slot if you want to catch the sunset - the rooftop views are unbeatable since the sky shifts colors. gown in levels, way too. The outdoor environment is a draw, but Massachusetts weather conditions could be unpredictable, even in spring or fall.

Don’t skip the cocktails, Even though you’re not a big drinker. The non-alcoholic solutions are just as Imaginative and pair fantastically Along with the food items. And if you’re torn on what to get, inquire the workers for recommendations. They’re enthusiastic about the menu and satisfied to guidebook you towards something you’ll like.

A flavor of Vietnam in Cambridge

Saigon Babylon isn’t merely a restaurant; it’s a location. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - Daring, balanced, and jam packed with life - and wraps it in a very setting that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the inventive dishes, the welcoming atmosphere - everything will come alongside one another to produce anything special.

Next time you’re in Central Square, skip the same old suspects and head up to 907 most important St. irrespective of whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting which has a Stormy Saigon, you’ll end up caught up in the attraction of Saigon Babylon. It’s a place that lingers in your head, beckoning you again for another style of its magic.