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 guts of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is more than just a cafe. It’s a culinary knowledge that blends the colourful flavors of Vietnam with present day creativity, all established versus the backdrop of Central Square’s only rooftop. should you’re a food lover trying to find a unique dining location, this position claims to captivate your senses with its creative dishes, beautiful views, as well as a vibe that’s equivalent pieces chic and welcoming. Permit’s dive into what tends to make Saigon Babylon essential-go to spot for locals and tourists alike.

A Rooftop Haven in Central sq.

envision stepping out on the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending towards the fifth ground from the Sonder 907 Main developing. That’s wherever Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was as soon as the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your typical eating setup. The open up-air terrace presents sweeping sights of town, a exceptional deal with in this Component of town. regardless of whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails beneath The celebs, the rooftop environment elevates every second spent below.

The Place by itself feels like a considerate mixture of mother nature and style and design. Lush greenery softens the fashionable traces from the household furniture, whilst warm lighting casts a cozy glow. influenced by Vietnam’s abundant aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a harmony among elegance and comfort. It’s the sort of area in which you can costume up for your date or maintain it casual with close friends, and either way, you’ll truly feel ideal at your home.

What sets this spot apart is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop venue. inside a community noted for its eclectic Power, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s each advanced and laid-again. It’s no wonder individuals are buzzing about this concealed gem.

The Minds Behind the Magic

with the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo by using a established reputation from the culinary globe. If their names sound familiar, it’s simply because they’ve by now gained above foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar and The Eaves in close by Somerville. Their know-how shines via in every element in this article, from the menu to the ambiance.

Vinh and Duong provide a deep appreciation for Vietnamese cuisine, paired with a knack for innovation. They’re not just serving food; they’re telling a story as a result of flavors and presentation. It’s very clear they’ve poured their hearts into making Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their enthusiasm resonates with each individual visitor who walks through the doorway.

A Menu That Dances in your Palate

the center of Saigon Babylon lies in its meals, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, modern day twists. This isn’t your normal pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen area performs with textures, aromas, and tastes, delivering dishes that feel acquainted yet thrillingly new. Let’s examine several of the stars from the menu.

Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion

photograph this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed because of the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled with a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s concluded by using a crunch of crispy rice paper, incorporating just the best distinction. This dish is usually a testament to your kitchen’s power to acquire a straightforward concept and switch it into something incredible. Each bite bursts with freshness, making it an ideal starter to awaken your hunger.

Xôi Chim - Comfort satisfies Creativity

in case you’re craving anything hearty, the Xôi Chim gained’t disappoint. This dish takes sticky rice, infuses it with golden turmeric, and pairs it with floor squab and shiitake mushrooms. It’s a nod to Vietnamese Avenue foods, nevertheless the presentation looks like fine eating. the heat on the rice, the richness with the meat, as well as umami from your mushrooms occur alongside one another in a means that’s deeply fulfilling. It’s comfort and ease foods which has a twist, and it’s straightforward to see why it’s a group beloved.

Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish carried out appropriate

Duck enthusiasts, just take Notice. The Bac Ninh provides tender duck into the table, bathed inside of a sauce that’s Daring and complicated. The flavors lean savory with a hint of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s talent in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers inside your memory extensive after the food is around, proving that Saigon Babylon is aware how to deal with meat with finesse.

Grilled Shrimp with Tamarind Sauce - Sweet and bitter Bliss

For seafood lovers, the grilled shrimp with tamarind sauce is a must-try. The shrimp are properly charred, their all-natural sweetness enhanced by a tamarind glaze that’s equal components tart and sugary. It’s a playful dance of flavors, one that captures the essence of Vietnamese cooking. Pair it having a facet of sticky rice, and you simply’ve received a plate that’s challenging to put down.

Cocktails That Steal the exhibit

No rooftop expertise is entire without having a stellar drink in hand, and Saigon Babylon delivers on that entrance way too. The bar menu is really a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails that are as ingenious as being the food. no matter if you’re a cocktail aficionado or just wanting to sip anything refreshing, there’s a great deal to like here.

Take the Pho Cocktail, for instance. Certainly, you read through that more info ideal. This consume takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s legendary noodle soup - Believe star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with contemporary herbs plus a spirit of your respective alternative. It’s quirky, sudden, and incredibly delicious. If you prefer a thing additional tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, with the choice to spike it with rum for a boozy kick.

The bar workforce Plainly enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each individual drink seems like a mini adventure, complementing the food without the need of overshadowing it. in case you’re not while in the mood for Liquor, they’ve got non-alcoholic versions way too, making certain Anyone can Take part the fun.

When to Visit

Saigon Babylon welcomes friends from Wednesday to Sunday, with hours running from 5 PM to midnight. that offers you a good amount of the perfect time to take pleasure in a leisurely meal or swing by for late-night beverages. The place shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so strategy accordingly. in case you’re contemplating dropping in, it’s a good idea to connect with forward at (617) 945-4509. hrs can change, therefore you don’t need to miss out.

The vibe in this article shifts according to the day. Weeknights lean quieter, ideal for intimate dinners or catching up with a friend. occur Friday or Saturday, nevertheless, the Vitality ramps up. DJ sets usually fill the air, turning the rooftop into a lively hotspot. It’s the kind of versatility which makes Saigon Babylon attract a myriad of diners.

What folks are stating

considering the fact that opening its doorways in early 2024, Saigon Babylon is building waves in Cambridge’s food stuff scene. company rave with regard to the rooftop sights, calling them a rare deal with With this bustling community. The foodstuff earns high marks much too, with numerous praising the creative imagination and freshness of each and every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up generally in reviews, hailed as highlights that showcase the kitchen area’s talent.

Having said that, it’s not all excellent. Some diners mention that the prices lean on the higher side, Primarily specified the part measurements. a couple of have mentioned that provider can truly feel uneven from time to time, likely a hiccup from the cafe’s newness. nevertheless, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly constructive. on line scores hover all over four.3 to 4.4 out of five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a robust start out for an area that’s continue to discovering its footing.

Making a Reservation

Ready to knowledge Saigon Babylon yourself? Booking a table is actually a breeze. you may hop on to their Formal Web-site at saigonbabylon.enjoyment or use Resy.com to safe your location. offered the rooftop’s reputation, Specially on weekends, it’s good to strategy ahead. Walk-ins are welcome when Place permits, but a reservation makes sure you received’t be still left waiting.

that is a spot that actually works for a variety of events. Planning a romantic night? The ambiance and food items set the best tone. Assembly mates for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes continue to keep points lively. It’s even an incredible choose to get a Particular celebration, due to the standout setting and menu.

Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out

Cambridge is not any stranger to great foodstuff, but Saigon Babylon delivers anything fresh new to your desk. It’s not nearly taking in; it’s about immersing on your own inside a sensory journey. The rooftop location by itself causes it to be a rarity, giving a viewpoint of the city you won’t obtain anywhere else in Central Square. increase while in the Vietnamese fusion Delicacies, crafted with treatment by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, and you’ve acquired a recipe for any memorable night time.

the eye to element shines via in each individual facet. in the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef on the clever twist of a Pho Cocktail, this position doesn’t Slice corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a contemporary viewers. regardless of whether you’re a local looking for a new haunt or even a customer Discovering the world, Saigon Babylon feels like a discovery worthy of sharing.

tricks for Your go to

in the event you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a couple of tips can boost your working experience. intention for an early evening slot if you want to catch the sunset - the rooftop views are unbeatable given that the sky shifts hues. gown in levels, way too. The outside placing is usually a draw, but Massachusetts weather is usually unpredictable, even in spring or slide.

Don’t skip the cocktails, even if you’re not a big drinker. The non-alcoholic selections are only as Artistic and pair wonderfully With all the foods. and when you’re torn on what to get, ask the staff members for recommendations. They’re excited about the menu and joyful to manual you towards something you’ll really like.

A style of Vietnam in Cambridge

Saigon Babylon isn’t simply a cafe; it’s a spot. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese cuisine - Daring, balanced, and full of daily life - and wraps it inside of a placing that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming atmosphere - it all comes with each other to produce a little something Distinctive.

following time you’re in Central sq., skip the usual suspects and head around 907 major St. no matter whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting by using a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up within the appeal of Saigon Babylon. It’s a place that lingers in the brain, beckoning you back for an additional taste of its magic.

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