Saigon Babylon - A Vietnamese Fusion Gem on Cambridge’s Only Rooftop

Saigon Babylon - A Vietnamese Fusion Gem on Cambridge’s Only Rooftop

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Nestled at 907 principal St in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is more than just a restaurant. It’s a culinary encounter that blends the colourful flavors of Vietnam with modern-day creative imagination, all established in opposition to the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. for those who’re a foods lover attempting to find a unique dining location, this location claims to captivate your senses with its inventive dishes, gorgeous views, as well as a vibe that’s equal components chic and welcoming. Let’s dive into what can make Saigon Babylon essential-stop by spot for locals and tourists alike.

A Rooftop Haven in Central Square

Imagine stepping out on the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending on the fifth flooring of the Sonder 907 principal setting up. That’s wherever Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was once the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your regular eating setup. The open up-air terrace delivers sweeping sights of town, a uncommon deal with in this part of town. no matter if you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails less than the stars, the rooftop setting elevates each and every minute used in this article.

The Place alone looks like a considerate combination of mother nature and design and style. Lush greenery softens the fashionable lines of your home furniture, while warm lights casts a cozy glow. Inspired by Vietnam’s rich aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a balance between magnificence and luxury. It’s the kind of location in which you can dress up for a date or preserve it casual with pals, and either way, you’ll really feel appropriate at home.

What sets this location apart is its exclusivity as Central sq.’s sole rooftop location. inside of a community recognized for its eclectic Electrical power, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s each subtle and laid-again. It’s no wonder people are buzzing concerning this hidden gem.

The Minds powering the Magic

with the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo with a established history in the culinary globe. If their names sound common, it’s given that they’ve currently gained about foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar plus the Eaves in close by Somerville. Their abilities shines by means of in each and every detail here, through the menu into the ambiance.

Vinh and Duong carry a deep appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine, paired which has a knack for innovation. They’re not just serving foodstuff; they’re telling a Tale by flavors and presentation. It’s obvious they’ve poured their hearts into generating Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with every single visitor who walks through the doorway.

A Menu That Dances with your Palate

the center of Saigon Babylon lies in its foods, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and Daring, modern-day twists. This isn’t your regular pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area performs with textures, aromas, and preferences, delivering dishes that sense familiar nevertheless thrillingly new. Permit’s check out a few of the stars with the menu.

Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A Flavor Explosion

photo this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed because of the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled which has a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s finished having a crunch of crispy rice paper, including just the right contrast. This dish is really a testomony on the kitchen area’s power to take an easy strategy and switch it into anything extraordinary. Just about every Chunk bursts with freshness, rendering it an ideal starter to awaken your appetite.

Xôi Chim - convenience Meets creativeness

in case you’re craving something hearty, the Xôi Chim gained’t disappoint. This dish requires sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with floor squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese street food, even so the presentation appears like fine eating. the heat with the rice, the richness in the meat, as well as the umami within the mushrooms occur with each other in a means that’s deeply fulfilling. It’s convenience foodstuff using a twist, and it’s easy to see why it’s a crowd preferred.

Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish carried out proper

Duck enthusiasts, consider Take note. The Bac Ninh brings tender duck on the desk, bathed in the sauce that’s Daring and complicated. The flavors lean savory with a touch of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen area’s ability in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers inside your memory long after the food is above, proving that Saigon Babylon is aware how to take care of meat with finesse.

Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and bitter Bliss

For seafood supporters, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is essential-consider. The shrimp are flawlessly charred, their purely natural sweetness Increased by a tamarind glaze that’s equivalent sections tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one which captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it using a aspect of sticky rice, and also you’ve obtained a plate that’s not easy to put down.

Cocktails That Steal the clearly show

No rooftop practical experience is total without a stellar drink in hand, and Saigon Babylon provides on that entrance also. The bar menu is actually a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails that happen to be as ingenious since the meals. no matter whether you’re a cocktail aficionado or just seeking to sip a little something refreshing, there’s a good deal to like here.

Take the Pho Cocktail, for instance. Yes, you examine that suitable. This consume normally takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - Feel star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with fresh herbs plus a spirit of the alternative. It’s quirky, unanticipated, and surprisingly delicious. If you prefer one thing extra tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, by having an option to spike it with rum for just a boozy kick.

The bar team Obviously enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each and every consume looks like a mini experience, complementing the food stuff with no overshadowing it. for those who’re not while in the temper for Liquor, they’ve received non-alcoholic versions much too, making sure Anyone can Take part the exciting.

When to Visit

Saigon Babylon welcomes company from Wednesday to Sunday, with hrs functioning from 5 PM to midnight. that offers you a good amount of time and energy to take pleasure in a leisurely dinner or swing by for late-night time beverages. The position shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan appropriately. should you’re pondering dropping in, it’s a smart idea to simply call forward at (617) 945-4509. Hours can change, and you simply don’t want to miss out.

The vibe right here shifts according to the working day. Weeknights lean quieter, ideal for intimate dinners or catching up with a friend. Come Friday or Saturday, however, the Vitality ramps up. DJ sets typically fill the air, turning the rooftop right into a lively hotspot. It’s the sort of flexibility which makes Saigon Babylon appeal to all sorts of diners.

What persons are stating

because opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has long been earning waves in Cambridge’s food stuff scene. friends rave regarding the rooftop views, calling them a exceptional take care of With this bustling community. The food items earns superior marks as well, with many praising the creative imagination and freshness of every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up often in opinions, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen area’s talent.

That said, check here it’s not all great. Some diners point out that the prices lean on the higher side, Specially specified the part sizes. a handful of have observed that service can feel uneven at times, likely a hiccup from your cafe’s newness. Still, the overall sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. Online rankings hover all-around 4.three to four.4 away from 5 on platforms like Yelp and Google, a solid commence for a place that’s still locating its footing.

generating a Reservation

wanting to expertise Saigon Babylon on your own? Booking a desk is often a breeze. you are able to hop onto their official Site at saigonbabylon.enjoyment or use Resy.com to secure your location. Given the rooftop’s recognition, In particular on weekends, it’s good to system in advance. Walk-ins are welcome when Area lets, but a reservation makes certain you received’t be left waiting.

this can be a place that works for a number of instances. preparing a intimate night? The ambiance and food established the perfect tone. Assembly buddies for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes hold items lively. It’s even an incredible choose for the Distinctive celebration, due to the standout environment and menu.

Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out

Cambridge isn't any stranger to very good foods, but Saigon Babylon delivers a thing fresh on the table. It’s not pretty much eating; it’s about immersing yourself in the sensory journey. The rooftop locale alone causes it to be a rarity, presenting a point of view of town you received’t discover any place else in Central sq.. include while in the Vietnamese fusion Delicacies, crafted with treatment by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and you also’ve bought a recipe to get a unforgettable evening.

The attention to element shines by in every factor. within the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef towards the clever twist of a Pho Cocktail, this position doesn’t Lower corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a contemporary viewers. Whether you’re an area looking for a new haunt or maybe a visitor Checking out the area, Saigon Babylon seems like a discovery truly worth sharing.

guidelines for Your go to

in case you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a couple of tips can boost your working experience. intention for an early night slot if you would like capture the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable since the sky shifts hues. costume in layers, too. The outdoor location can be a draw, but Massachusetts weather conditions may be unpredictable, even in spring or drop.

Don’t skip the cocktails, Even though you’re not an enormous drinker. The non-alcoholic solutions are only as Innovative and pair beautifully While using the food stuff. And if you’re torn on what to get, check with the staff for suggestions. They’re enthusiastic about the menu and content to manual you towards anything you’ll enjoy.

A style of Vietnam in Cambridge

Saigon Babylon isn’t just a cafe; it’s a vacation spot. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine - bold, well balanced, and brimming with daily life - and wraps it in a very location that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the inventive dishes, the welcoming environment - everything comes jointly to make a little something Specific.

following time you’re in Central Square, skip the usual suspects and head approximately 907 Main St. whether or not you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting which has a Stormy Saigon, you’ll end up caught up in the allure of Saigon Babylon. It’s a place that lingers in the thoughts, beckoning you back again for an additional style of its magic.

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