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 key St in the center of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is much more than just a cafe. It’s a culinary experience that blends the colourful flavors of Vietnam with modern day creativity, all set towards the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. in case you’re a foodstuff lover hunting for a singular dining spot, this place claims to captivate your senses with its inventive dishes, breathtaking views, plus a vibe that’s equal parts chic and welcoming. Allow’s dive into what makes Saigon Babylon essential-pay a visit to vacation spot for locals and travelers alike.

A Rooftop Haven in Central Square

envision stepping out in the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending to the fifth floor of the Sonder 907 Main making. That’s wherever Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was once the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your normal dining setup. The open up-air terrace offers sweeping views of the city, a scarce address Within this Section of city. irrespective of whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails beneath The celebs, the rooftop setting elevates just about every moment put in right here.

The House by itself feels like a considerate mixture of mother nature and layout. Lush greenery softens the modern traces on the household furniture, while heat lighting casts a cozy glow. motivated by Vietnam’s loaded aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a balance among elegance and comfort. It’s the kind of place where you can costume up to get a day or preserve it informal with good friends, and In any event, you’ll come to feel right in the home.

What sets this place aside is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole click here rooftop location. inside of a community known for its eclectic Electricity, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s equally refined and laid-back. It’s No surprise individuals are buzzing relating to this hidden gem.

The Minds at the rear of the Magic

on the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo by using a tested history inside the culinary planet. If their names sound acquainted, it’s mainly because they’ve currently received more than foodies with ventures like Cicada Coffee Bar and The Eaves in close by Somerville. Their skills shines by means of in each detail listed here, with the menu on the ambiance.

Vinh and Duong bring a deep appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine, paired which has a knack for innovation. They’re not just serving food items; they’re telling a story by flavors and presentation. It’s distinct they’ve poured their hearts into generating Saigon Babylon a standout, and their enthusiasm resonates with each individual visitor who walks with the doorway.

A Menu That Dances with your Palate

The heart of Saigon Babylon lies in its food items, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and Daring, fashionable twists. This isn’t your ordinary pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area plays with textures, aromas, and preferences, offering dishes that sense acquainted still thrillingly new. Allow’s take a look at a lot of the stars on the menu.

Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A Flavor Explosion

photograph this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed from the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled by using a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s concluded using a crunch of crispy rice paper, adding just the proper distinction. This dish is usually a testomony to the kitchen area’s capability to take a straightforward strategy and turn it into something remarkable. Every bite bursts with freshness, rendering it an ideal starter to awaken your hunger.

Xôi Chim - comfort and ease fulfills creativeness

in the event you’re craving a little something hearty, the Xôi Chim received’t disappoint. This dish normally takes sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with floor squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese street food items, nevertheless the presentation seems like fine eating. The warmth with the rice, the richness in the meat, and also the umami with the mushrooms arrive collectively in a way that’s deeply enjoyable. It’s convenience food using a twist, and it’s straightforward to see why it’s a crowd favorite.

Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish completed suitable

Duck lovers, choose Observe. The Bac Ninh brings tender duck for the table, bathed in a sauce that’s bold and complex. The flavors lean savory with a hint of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s skill in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers as part of your memory extended once the meal is above, proving that Saigon Babylon appreciates how to take care of meat with finesse.

Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and bitter Bliss

For seafood followers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a necessity-consider. The shrimp are beautifully charred, their natural sweetness Improved by a tamarind glaze that’s equal parts tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it which has a aspect of sticky rice, and you also’ve got a plate that’s not easy to put down.

Cocktails That Steal the demonstrate

No rooftop encounter is comprehensive without a stellar drink in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that front far too. The bar menu is often a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails that happen to be as creative as the food stuff. regardless of whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or maybe seeking to sip a thing refreshing, there’s a great deal to love right here.

go ahead and take Pho Cocktail, As an illustration. Indeed, you read through that right. This consume usually takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup - Consider star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with fresh herbs and a spirit of your respective option. It’s quirky, sudden, and incredibly mouth watering. If you like a little something more tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, with the option to spike it with rum for just a boozy kick.

The bar workforce Obviously enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Every single drink seems like a mini adventure, complementing the food without the need of overshadowing it. in case you’re not inside the mood for Liquor, they’ve obtained non-alcoholic versions far too, making sure Anyone can join in the exciting.

When to Visit

Saigon Babylon welcomes visitors from Wednesday to Sunday, with several hours operating from five PM to midnight. that provides you plenty of time for you to appreciate a leisurely supper or swing by for late-evening beverages. The put shuts its doors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so prepare appropriately. should you’re considering dropping in, it’s a good idea to get in touch with in advance at (617) 945-4509. Hours can shift, therefore you don’t wish to pass up out.

The vibe right here shifts dependant upon the working day. Weeknights lean quieter, ideal for personal dinners or catching up with a pal. occur Friday or Saturday, though, the Electricity ramps up. DJ sets typically fill the air, turning the rooftop into a energetic hotspot. It’s the sort of flexibility which makes Saigon Babylon attract all sorts of diners.

What consumers are expressing

because opening its doors in early 2024, Saigon Babylon continues to be earning waves in Cambridge’s food items scene. Guests rave with regard to the rooftop views, calling them a uncommon treat in this bustling community. The food stuff earns significant marks far too, with a lot of praising the creative imagination 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.

That said, it’s not all perfect. Some diners point out that the costs lean on the upper aspect, In particular offered the part dimensions. a number of have observed that assistance can experience uneven occasionally, likely a hiccup from your cafe’s newness. however, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly good. on-line ratings hover all-around four.three to four.four away from five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a solid start out for an area that’s still getting its footing.

Making a Reservation

all set to experience Saigon Babylon for yourself? reserving a desk is usually a breeze. You can hop on to their Formal website at saigonbabylon.fun or use Resy.com to safe your location. Given the rooftop’s attractiveness, Primarily on weekends, it’s clever to prepare in advance. stroll-ins are welcome when House enables, but a reservation assures you gained’t be remaining waiting.

this is the spot that works for all kinds of situations. preparing a romantic night? The ambiance and food items established the perfect tone. Assembly mates for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes hold matters lively. It’s even a fantastic decide for any Specific celebration, because of the standout environment and menu.

Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out

Cambridge is not any stranger to superior food, but Saigon Babylon brings something clean into the desk. It’s not almost taking in; it’s about immersing you in a very sensory journey. The rooftop spot by yourself causes it to be a rarity, featuring a viewpoint of the city you gained’t uncover everywhere else in Central Square. Add while in the Vietnamese fusion Delicacies, crafted with treatment by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and also you’ve received a recipe for your memorable night.

the eye to depth shines by in each and every facet. with the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef for the intelligent twist of the Pho Cocktail, this position doesn’t cut corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern audience. whether or not you’re an area hunting for a new haunt or maybe a visitor Discovering the region, Saigon Babylon appears like a discovery value sharing.

techniques for Your stop by

should you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a few ideas can enhance your knowledge. goal for an early evening slot if you wish to catch the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable since the sky shifts shades. costume in levels, way too. The outdoor environment can be a attract, but Massachusetts weather conditions can be unpredictable, even in spring or drop.

Don’t skip the cocktails, Even when you’re not a huge drinker. The non-alcoholic solutions are just as Resourceful and pair superbly with the meals. and when you’re torn on what to buy, request the employees for recommendations. They’re excited about the menu and content to tutorial you towards one thing you’ll really like.

A style of Vietnam in Cambridge

Saigon Babylon isn’t simply a cafe; it’s a vacation spot. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - Daring, balanced, and jam packed with life - and wraps it inside a environment that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the creative dishes, the welcoming environment - all of it comes jointly to produce one thing Specific.

Next time you’re in Central Square, skip the usual suspects and head as many as 907 major St. regardless of whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting that has a Stormy Saigon, you’ll end up caught up while in the appeal of Saigon Babylon. It’s an area that lingers inside your intellect, beckoning you again for one more taste of its magic.

Report this page