Nestled at 907 key St in the heart of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is much more than simply a restaurant. It’s a culinary expertise that blends the vibrant flavors of Vietnam with modern creative imagination, all set against the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. for those who’re a food lover looking for a novel dining spot, this position guarantees to captivate your senses with its ingenious dishes, beautiful views, and also a vibe that’s equal pieces chic and welcoming. Permit’s dive into what makes Saigon Babylon a must-check out destination for locals and vacationers alike.

A Rooftop Haven in Central Square

envision stepping out with the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending to the fifth ground of the Sonder 907 principal constructing. That’s where by Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was as soon as the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your common dining setup. The open-air terrace presents sweeping views of town, a unusual deal with On this Portion of city. whether or not you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails beneath the stars, the rooftop placing elevates every minute expended below.

The space alone looks like a considerate blend of nature and design. Lush greenery softens the fashionable lines in the home furnishings, when heat lights casts a cozy glow. influenced by Vietnam’s wealthy aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a harmony between elegance and luxury. It’s the sort of put in which you can costume up for a date or continue to keep it relaxed with mates, and either way, you’ll truly feel proper at home.

What sets this spot apart is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop venue. in the community recognized for its eclectic Power, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s equally sophisticated and laid-again. It’s No surprise individuals are buzzing concerning this hidden gem.

The Minds guiding the Magic

on the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo that has a tested reputation from the culinary earth. If their names sound acquainted, it’s since they’ve presently received above foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar plus the Eaves in close by Somerville. Their know-how shines by way of in each depth right here, in the menu to your ambiance.

Vinh and Duong convey a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired having a knack for innovation. They’re not simply serving food stuff; they’re telling a story by means of flavors and presentation. It’s crystal clear they’ve poured their hearts into making Saigon Babylon a standout, and their passion resonates with each visitor who walks throughout the door.

A Menu That Dances on your own Palate

The heart of Saigon Babylon lies in its foodstuff, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, fashionable twists. This isn’t your normal pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area plays with textures, aromas, and preferences, delivering dishes that experience common yet thrillingly new. Enable’s take a look at some of the stars in the menu.

Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion

image this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed through the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled by using a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s finished by using a crunch of crispy rice paper, introducing just the ideal contrast. This dish is a testomony on the kitchen’s capability to choose a simple notion and switch it into a little something remarkable. Each and every bite bursts with freshness, which makes it a wonderful starter to awaken your hunger.

Xôi Chim - convenience Meets creativeness

If you’re craving something hearty, the Xôi Chim gained’t disappoint. This dish usually takes sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with ground squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese Avenue meals, although the presentation looks like high-quality dining. The warmth of the rice, the richness in the meat, and also the umami from your mushrooms appear alongside one another in a way that’s deeply satisfying. It’s convenience food which has a twist, and it’s easy to see why it’s a crowd favored.

Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish carried out correct

Duck enthusiasts, acquire Observe. The Bac Ninh brings tender duck for the table, bathed within a sauce that’s Daring 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 inside your memory extensive 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 Sour Bliss

For seafood followers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a necessity-try out. The shrimp are correctly charred, their all-natural sweetness Improved by a tamarind glaze that’s equal elements tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one which captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it using a facet of sticky rice, and you’ve got a plate that’s difficult to set down.

Cocktails That Steal the display

No rooftop encounter is complete without having a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that entrance too. The bar menu is really a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which are as creative because the food. whether or not you’re a cocktail aficionado or simply just wanting to sip some thing refreshing, there’s a good deal to like in this article.

Take the Pho Cocktail, For example. Indeed, you go through that correct. This drink usually takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - Imagine star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with new herbs along with a spirit of one's choice. It’s quirky, unforeseen, and remarkably delightful. If you favor something more tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, having an choice to spike it with rum for any boozy kick.

The bar team Obviously enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Every consume looks like a mini experience, complementing the meals with no overshadowing it. If you’re not within the mood for Alcoholic beverages, they’ve got non-alcoholic versions much too, ensuring Every person can Take part the fun.

When to Visit

Saigon Babylon welcomes attendees from Wednesday to Sunday, with hours working from five PM to midnight. That gives you loads of the perfect time to get pleasure from a leisurely dinner or swing by for late-night beverages. The spot shuts its doors on Mondays and Tuesdays, so plan accordingly. If you’re considering dropping in, it’s a good idea to get in touch with in advance at (617) 945-4509. Hours can shift, so you don’t wish to skip out.

The vibe in this article shifts based on the day. Weeknights lean quieter, great for intimate dinners or catching up with a friend. appear Friday or Saturday, though, the Strength ramps up. DJ sets often fill the air, turning the rooftop into a lively hotspot. It’s the type of flexibility that makes Saigon Babylon appeal to all kinds of diners.

What persons are indicating

considering that opening its doors in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has long been earning waves in Cambridge’s food scene. Guests rave in regards to the rooftop views, contacting them a exceptional treat In this particular bustling community. The food stuff earns high marks far too, with lots of praising the creativeness and freshness of every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up frequently in reviews, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s expertise.

That said, it’s not all excellent. Some diners point out that the prices lean on the higher side, especially presented the portion sizes. a handful of have pointed out that services can come to feel uneven sometimes, most likely a hiccup in the cafe’s newness. continue to, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly constructive. Online rankings hover around four.three to four.four out of five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a powerful begin for a location that’s however locating its footing.

Making a Reservation

all set to practical experience Saigon Babylon for yourself? scheduling a table is usually a breeze. you are able to hop on to their Formal Site at saigonbabylon.enjoyable or use Resy.com to protected your spot. presented the rooftop’s popularity, Specifically on weekends, it’s sensible to system forward. Walk-ins are welcome when Room lets, but a reservation guarantees you received’t be still left waiting around.

this can be a spot that works for all kinds of situations. arranging a romantic night? The ambiance and food established the ideal tone. Conference close friends for an evening out? The cocktails and DJ vibes maintain items energetic. It’s even a fantastic choose to get a Particular celebration, due to the standout environment and menu.

Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out

Cambridge is no stranger to good foods, but Saigon Babylon delivers one thing fresh to your table. It’s not almost feeding on; it’s about immersing yourself within a sensory journey. The rooftop spot by yourself causes it to be a rarity, offering a perspective of the city you won’t come across anyplace else in Central Square. insert in the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with treatment by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, here so you’ve got a recipe for a unforgettable evening.

The attention to detail shines by means of in each and every part. in the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef towards the clever twist of a Pho Cocktail, this position doesn’t Slash corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern audience. no matter whether you’re a local searching for a new haunt or perhaps a customer Discovering the region, Saigon Babylon looks like a discovery truly worth sharing.

tricks for Your check out

should you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, several tips can boost your practical experience. Aim for an early night slot if you'd like to capture the sunset - the rooftop sights are unbeatable because the sky shifts hues. Dress in layers, much too. The outside placing can be a attract, but Massachusetts weather conditions is often unpredictable, even in spring or tumble.

Don’t skip the cocktails, Even though you’re not a giant drinker. The non-alcoholic alternatives are only as Imaginative and pair beautifully Along with the food items. and when you’re torn on what to buy, check with the team for tips. They’re keen about the menu and delighted to information you toward something you’ll love.

A Taste of Vietnam in Cambridge

Saigon Babylon isn’t only a restaurant; it’s a destination. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine - bold, well balanced, and stuffed with lifetime - and wraps it within a setting that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming environment - all of it arrives alongside one another to build something special.

upcoming time you’re in Central sq., skip the usual suspects and head approximately 907 major St. whether or not you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting having a Stormy Saigon, you’ll end up caught up within the allure of Saigon Babylon. It’s a location that lingers in your intellect, beckoning you again for an additional flavor of its magic.