Nestled at 907 major St in the guts of Cambridge, Massachusetts, Saigon Babylon is more than just a cafe. It’s a culinary encounter that blends the colourful flavors of Vietnam with fashionable creative imagination, all established versus the backdrop of Central sq.’s only rooftop. If you’re a food lover hunting for a novel eating place, this area claims to captivate your senses with its inventive dishes, spectacular sights, in addition to a vibe that’s equal areas chic and welcoming. Allow’s dive into what helps make Saigon Babylon essential-take a look at location for locals and travellers alike.

A Rooftop Haven in Central sq.

think about stepping out with the bustling streets of Cambridge and ascending on the fifth ground from the Sonder 907 primary building. That’s wherever Saigon Babylon awaits, perched atop what was when the Blue Owl Rooftop Bar. This isn’t your typical dining setup. The open up-air terrace provides sweeping views of the town, a unusual handle Within this A part of city. no matter whether you’re catching a sunset or sipping cocktails beneath the stars, the rooftop setting elevates each instant spent here.

The Place itself feels like a considerate mixture of character and design and style. Lush greenery softens the modern traces of the furnishings, whilst warm lighting casts a cozy glow. impressed by Vietnam’s abundant aesthetic traditions, the decor strikes a equilibrium concerning magnificence and luxury. It’s the type of place where you can dress up for your date or continue to keep it relaxed with mates, and In any case, you’ll truly feel appropriate at your house.

What sets this location apart is its exclusivity as Central Square’s sole rooftop location. inside of a community recognized for its eclectic Strength, Saigon Babylon carves out a niche that’s the two subtle and laid-back again. It’s No surprise persons are buzzing about this hidden gem.

The Minds at the rear of the Magic

for the helm of Saigon Babylon are Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, a dynamic duo having a confirmed track record during the culinary environment. If their names sound acquainted, it’s since they’ve currently gained about foodies with ventures like Cicada espresso Bar as well as Eaves in close by Somerville. Their know-how shines through in every element in this article, through the menu to your ambiance.

Vinh and Duong bring a deep appreciation for Vietnamese Delicacies, paired that has a knack for innovation. They’re not only serving food items; they’re telling a Tale by means of flavors and presentation. It’s distinct they’ve poured their hearts into creating Saigon Babylon a standout, as well as their passion resonates with each guest who walks in the doorway.

A Menu That Dances on Your Palate

The heart of Saigon Babylon lies in its foodstuff, a masterful fusion of Vietnamese classics and bold, modern day twists. This isn’t your typical pho-and-spring-roll joint. The kitchen plays with textures, aromas, and tastes, delivering dishes that sense acquainted nonetheless thrillingly new. Allow’s check out a lot of the stars of your menu.

Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio - A taste Explosion

photograph this. Thinly sliced Wagyu beef, kissed with the earthy scent of lemongrass, drizzled which has a tangy passionfruit dressing. It’s completed that has a crunch of crispy rice paper, introducing just the ideal distinction. This dish is usually a testomony on the kitchen’s power to take an easy concept and switch it into some thing remarkable. Each Chunk bursts with freshness, making it a wonderful starter to awaken your appetite.

Xôi Chim - Comfort Meets creativeness

in the event you’re craving something hearty, the Xôi Chim received’t disappoint. This dish requires 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, but the presentation looks like great eating. the heat from the rice, the richness from the meat, along with the umami from the mushrooms appear collectively in a method that’s deeply fulfilling. It’s comfort and ease food items which has a twist, and it’s simple to see why it’s a crowd beloved.

Bac Ninh - A Duck Dish accomplished suitable

Duck lovers, take Be aware. The Bac Ninh delivers tender duck into the table, bathed in the sauce that’s Daring and complex. The flavors lean savory with a hint of sweetness, showcasing the kitchen’s ability in balancing Vietnamese staples. It’s a dish that lingers with your memory prolonged after the meal is about, proving that Saigon Babylon appreciates how to manage 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 properly charred, their pure sweetness enhanced 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 that has a facet of sticky rice, and you also’ve bought a plate that’s tough to place down.

Cocktails That Steal the Show

No rooftop knowledge is full without a stellar consume in hand, and Saigon Babylon provides on that front far too. The bar menu can be a celebration of Vietnamese inspiration, with cocktails which have been as creative because the meals. no matter if you’re a cocktail aficionado or merely looking to sip some thing refreshing, there’s plenty to like listed here.

go ahead and take Pho Cocktail, As an example. Of course, you go through that suitable. This consume normally takes the aromatic spices of Vietnam’s iconic noodle soup - Consider star anise, cinnamon, and cloves - and blends them with fresh new herbs and a spirit of your respective preference. It’s quirky, surprising, and remarkably mouth watering. If you prefer one thing additional tropical, the Stormy Saigon offers a fruity twist, having an choice to spike it with rum for just a boozy kick.

The bar group Plainly enjoys pushing boundaries, and it pays off. Each drink seems like a mini journey, complementing the food without the need of overshadowing it. should you’re not inside the temper for Liquor, they’ve bought non-alcoholic variations far too, making sure Anyone can join in the fun.

When to go to

Saigon Babylon welcomes friends from Wednesday to Sunday, with several hours operating from 5 PM to midnight. that offers you lots of time and energy to appreciate a leisurely supper or swing by for late-night time beverages. The put shuts its doorways on Mondays and Tuesdays, so prepare appropriately. in case you’re thinking of dropping in, it’s a smart idea to simply call forward at (617) 945-4509. Hours can change, and you simply don’t would like to miss out.

The vibe right here shifts with regards to the day. Weeknights lean quieter, great for intimate dinners or catching up with a buddy. arrive Friday or Saturday, however, the Power ramps up. DJ sets usually fill the air, turning the rooftop right into a lively hotspot. It’s the sort of versatility that makes Saigon Babylon appeal to all kinds of diners.

What People Are expressing

given that opening its doors in early 2024, Saigon Babylon has long been building waves in Cambridge’s foodstuff scene. visitors rave with regard to the rooftop views, contacting them a uncommon treat Within this bustling community. The foods earns superior marks too, with lots of praising the creativeness and freshness of each and every dish. The Lemongrass Beef Carpaccio and Xôi Chim pop up typically in opinions, hailed Saigon Babylon as highlights that showcase the kitchen’s expertise.

Having said that, it’s not all fantastic. Some diners point out that the costs lean on the upper side, Primarily offered the portion dimensions. some have famous that assistance can really feel uneven at times, probable a hiccup from the restaurant’s newness. however, the general sentiment is overwhelmingly positive. on the internet ratings hover about four.3 to 4.four from five on platforms like Yelp and Google, a strong begin for a place that’s still finding its footing.

Making a Reservation

able to knowledge Saigon Babylon on your own? reserving a desk is usually a breeze. you could hop on to their official website at saigonbabylon.pleasurable or use Resy.com to protected your spot. Given the rooftop’s reputation, In particular on weekends, it’s sensible to approach in advance. wander-ins are welcome when Area allows, but a reservation makes sure you gained’t be remaining waiting around.

it is a place that works for a variety of occasions. preparing a romantic evening? The ambiance and food items established the right tone. Meeting pals for a night out? The cocktails and DJ vibes continue to keep issues energetic. It’s even a terrific decide for the Distinctive celebration, due to the standout setting and menu.

Why Saigon Babylon Stands Out

Cambridge isn't any stranger to excellent food items, but Saigon Babylon provides a thing fresh for the table. It’s not pretty much taking in; it’s about immersing yourself in the sensory journey. The rooftop location on your own makes it a rarity, presenting a perspective of the town you gained’t come across any where else in Central Square. insert from the Vietnamese fusion cuisine, crafted with care by Vinh Le and Duong Huynh, therefore you’ve obtained a recipe for the memorable night.

The attention to detail shines by way of in every aspect. within the way the lemongrass perfumes the beef on the clever twist of a Pho Cocktail, this area doesn’t Reduce corners. It’s a celebration of Vietnam’s culinary heritage, reimagined for a modern viewers. whether or not you’re a neighborhood looking for a new haunt or simply a visitor Checking out the area, Saigon Babylon appears like a discovery truly worth sharing.

tricks for Your pay a visit to

should you’re heading to Saigon Babylon, a couple of tips can boost your working experience. purpose for an early evening slot in order to capture the sunset - the rooftop views are unbeatable as being the sky shifts shades. costume in levels, far too. The out of doors setting is usually a attract, but Massachusetts climate might be unpredictable, even in spring or tumble.

Don’t skip the cocktails, even if you’re not an enormous drinker. The non-alcoholic possibilities are only as Imaginative and pair wonderfully with the food. And if you’re torn on what to get, check with the staff members for recommendations. They’re passionate about the menu and satisfied to manual you toward anything you’ll adore.

A style of Vietnam in Cambridge

Saigon Babylon isn’t merely a cafe; it’s a destination. It captures the spirit of Vietnamese Delicacies - bold, balanced, and jam packed with lifetime - and wraps it in a very environment that’s uniquely Cambridge. The rooftop perch, the ingenious dishes, the welcoming ambiance - it all arrives together to produce a little something Unique.

subsequent time you’re in Central sq., skip the usual suspects and head as many as 907 Main St. Whether you’re savoring the Bac Ninh or toasting that has a Stormy Saigon, you’ll find yourself caught up in the allure of Saigon Babylon. It’s a place that lingers with your intellect, beckoning you back again for one more taste of its magic.