When asking yourself about something to do near me in Cambridge with a group of friends or family, consider
Saigon Babylon
Why Saigon Babylon is a fun option when searching for things to do near me with friends and family
Saigon Babylon stands out as a premier venue for gathering with friends, offering a unique combination of elevated Vietnamese cuisine and craft cocktails atop a stunning rooftop in Cambridge's Central Square. Located on the fifth floor of the Sonder 907 Main hotel, this spacious restaurant provides beautiful outdoor seating with panoramic views of Lafayette Square, creating an inviting ambiance that elevates any social occasion. The menu spotlights modern Vietnamese small plates infused with bold flavors such as lemongrass, chili, and tamarind, encouraging a communal dining experience perfect for sharing. Notable dishes include delectable shrimp appetizers with coconut scallions, rich duck entrees, and creative cocktails like the tamarind Old Fashioned and pandan Long Island, highlighting the inventive approach to classic flavors. Saigon Babylon’s stylish Southeast Asian décor, spacious layout compared to its sister venues The Eaves and Cicada, and prime location make it an exceptional place for friends to connect in a vibrant yet relaxed atmosphere. Its proximity to public transit and Central Square's attractions also adds convenience, making it a favored destination for locals and visitors seeking a memorable meal and social experience.
Here's what people think of Saigon Babylon
As of recent, Saigon Babylon holds a 4.5-star rating based on 158 reviews.
User reviews largely praise Saigon Babylon for its outstanding rooftop ambiance, inventive modern Vietnamese menu, and expertly crafted cocktails. Guests frequently highlight the restaurant’s stunning views and sophisticated yet approachable atmosphere as major draws. Positive feedback emphasizes the flavorful and creative small plates that showcase bold, fresh ingredients and well-balanced spices, alongside attentive, friendly service that enhances the dining experience. Reviewers also appreciate the venue's spaciousness compared to its sister restaurants, allowing larger groups to enjoy the space comfortably. However, some negative critiques focus on the restaurant's higher price point, which may deter those seeking traditional or budget-friendly Vietnamese fare, as Saigon Babylon leans toward innovative, shareable small plates rather than classic dishes. A few patrons noted occasional service slowdowns, likely due to the popularity and busy nature of the rooftop location, especially on weekends. Some express that the experience may not satisfy those looking for deeply authentic, street-style Vietnamese cooking. Overall, the consensus affirms that while Saigon Babylon might not be the go-to for traditionalists or bargain hunters, it excels as a trendy, upscale spot with creative food and impressive views, making it well worth a reservation for a special night out.
Highlights from reviewers (Most Relevant)
Kevin G
Overall I really enjoyed the food and thought that the majority of the dishes were excellent and unique. The menu was small (only 8 total dishes excluding dessert) and I was able to try half the menu (4 dishes). I thought they did a great job at selecting the right dishes for the season, as they were largely light (rather than hearty) and had very refreshing flavors. The price point is a litle higher than id typically spend for a casual dinner, but would be ok with splurging once in a while.
Gloria Ha
I've been meaning to try out Saigon Babylon, so when we were looking for a place to get a late dinner, we jumped on the opportunity. While there is an outdoors area, there's also an indoors section with bar seating, a communal table, and smaller tables. We sat at the bar. The restaurant is dimly lit with lots of unique animal sculptures of all sizes -- I was especially intrigued by a life sized sculpture of a pigeon that was at the bar (a sign of things to come...accidentally ordering and eating squab). Service was good and we enjoyed the appetizers, but weren't as big fans of the mains. Good, might get again: - Beef carpaccio: The beef was tender. The sauce was sweet and slightly tangy. I liked the crunchy rice paper chip. - Squab sticky rice: I'm squeamish about trying new meats and would never have ordered this if I knew what it was, but honestly it was quite good. Very tender meat and mushroom topping with coconut flavored sticky rice. - Steamed manila clams: The clams were juicy and tender, though there may have been a bit of sand left in them. The broth was very strongly flavored. Dipping sauce was sweet. Wouldn't get again: - Oxtail stew: This was quite sweet and you could taste the wine. The oxtail was decently tender, but nothing special. - Monkfish: This didn't have much flavor (you had to use a sweet sauce) and felt quite heavy since both the fish and the vegetables were deep fried. I think a fresh acidic raw salad would be a better vegetable pairing for this dish. Overall we started out decently strong with the appetizers but were quite disappointed by the mains. The portion sizes are decent -- the two of us were struggling to finish, and could have ordered 2-3 dishes and been fine. But Cicada is still my favorite restaurant by this group. I think I liked this place better than The Eaves, but not by much.
Gerrod Segear
Cozy place hidden on the 5th floor of the hotel. The staff is very accommodating and if you're looking for something a bit different I'd definitely recommend it. Very unique flavors combined with a chill, yet bustling vibe. I'm making this review so I remember to come back here and try the rest of the menu. *Don't forget to ask for dessert. The honey mousse espresso is very good. A fluffy, sweet mousse on the top with a bitter espresso on the bottom to balance was A1 👍
Tiffany Knight
Beautiful decor and awesome rooftop! The appetizer was delicious. The main course was very underwhelming. Loved the wine, and the bartending service was superb!
Lan Tran
I am of Vietnamese descent so I was very excited when I heard about this place and thought I could enjoy sitting at a cute bar, nicely decorated restaurant while eating authentic Vietnamese food. However, the food is not that authentic!! For dinner, we had the Viet salad, lemongrass clams and oxtail noodle! The lemongrass clams were really good! The Viet salad was decent, but I could have had better salad in Dorchester for half of the price!! The oxtail noodle was a complete disappointment!! It was too salty that we had to ask for extra noodle to eat with it! This would have been a candidate to eat with bread for this type of broth! The noodle itself was ok but it was more like a Chinese hand-pull noodle. I have had similar broth with egg noodle or pho noodle in the past! The service was great! As we walked out, we saw the terrace/rooftop looks pretty nice to enjoy time outside in the summer!
Kevin G
Overall I really enjoyed the food and thought that the majority of the dishes were excellent and unique. The menu was small (only 8 total dishes excluding dessert) and I was able to try half the menu (4 dishes). I thought they did a great job at selecting the right dishes for the season, as they were largely light (rather than hearty) and had very refreshing flavors. The price point is a litle higher than id typically spend for a casual dinner, but would be ok with splurging once in a while.
Gloria Ha
I've been meaning to try out Saigon Babylon, so when we were looking for a place to get a late dinner, we jumped on the opportunity. While there is an outdoors area, there's also an indoors section with bar seating, a communal table, and smaller tables. We sat at the bar. The restaurant is dimly lit with lots of unique animal sculptures of all sizes -- I was especially intrigued by a life sized sculpture of a pigeon that was at the bar (a sign of things to come...accidentally ordering and eating squab). Service was good and we enjoyed the appetizers, but weren't as big fans of the mains. Good, might get again: - Beef carpaccio: The beef was tender. The sauce was sweet and slightly tangy. I liked the crunchy rice paper chip. - Squab sticky rice: I'm squeamish about trying new meats and would never have ordered this if I knew what it was, but honestly it was quite good. Very tender meat and mushroom topping with coconut flavored sticky rice. - Steamed manila clams: The clams were juicy and tender, though there may have been a bit of sand left in them. The broth was very strongly flavored. Dipping sauce was sweet. Wouldn't get again: - Oxtail stew: This was quite sweet and you could taste the wine. The oxtail was decently tender, but nothing special. - Monkfish: This didn't have much flavor (you had to use a sweet sauce) and felt quite heavy since both the fish and the vegetables were deep fried. I think a fresh acidic raw salad would be a better vegetable pairing for this dish. Overall we started out decently strong with the appetizers but were quite disappointed by the mains. The portion sizes are decent -- the two of us were struggling to finish, and could have ordered 2-3 dishes and been fine. But Cicada is still my favorite restaurant by this group. I think I liked this place better than The Eaves, but not by much.
Gerrod Segear
Cozy place hidden on the 5th floor of the hotel. The staff is very accommodating and if you're looking for something a bit different I'd definitely recommend it. Very unique flavors combined with a chill, yet bustling vibe. I'm making this review so I remember to come back here and try the rest of the menu. *Don't forget to ask for dessert. The honey mousse espresso is very good. A fluffy, sweet mousse on the top with a bitter espresso on the bottom to balance was A1 👍
Tiffany Knight
Beautiful decor and awesome rooftop! The appetizer was delicious. The main course was very underwhelming. Loved the wine, and the bartending service was superb!
Lan Tran
I am of Vietnamese descent so I was very excited when I heard about this place and thought I could enjoy sitting at a cute bar, nicely decorated restaurant while eating authentic Vietnamese food. However, the food is not that authentic!! For dinner, we had the Viet salad, lemongrass clams and oxtail noodle! The lemongrass clams were really good! The Viet salad was decent, but I could have had better salad in Dorchester for half of the price!! The oxtail noodle was a complete disappointment!! It was too salty that we had to ask for extra noodle to eat with it! This would have been a candidate to eat with bread for this type of broth! The noodle itself was ok but it was more like a Chinese hand-pull noodle. I have had similar broth with egg noodle or pho noodle in the past! The service was great! As we walked out, we saw the terrace/rooftop looks pretty nice to enjoy time outside in the summer!
How to reach Saigon Babylon
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Website: None
Why rally at Saigon Babylon with your friends? Imagine gathering your favorite people atop a vibrant rooftop in the heart of Cambridge, where the city skyline frames an unforgettable evening of elevated Vietnamese flavors and expertly crafted cocktails. Saigon Babylon is not just another restaurant; it is a modern culinary hideaway that offers an experience designed to spark joy and connection. Its impressive 4.5-star rating from over 150 reviews speaks to its consistent delivery of excellence, making it a trusted venue for memorable group meetups. The rooftop setting provides open-air charm and stunning vistas, creating an inviting ambiance perfect for casual get-togethers, celebrations, or simply unwinding after a long day. As you share plates infused with lemongrass, chili, and other exotic flavors, your conversations flow naturally, enhanced by the skillfully mixed drinks that are both unique and approachable. Whether it's a close-knit group of friends, coworkers looking to bond, or a family gathering, Saigon Babylon offers a setting where people can truly connect — over great food, drinks, and views.
What makes Saigon Babylon ideal for a group meetup? First, the rooftop bar and restaurant is located on the fifth floor of the Sonder 907 Main hotel in Central Square, Cambridge, making it easily accessible yet distinctively elevated above the city streets. The rooftop terrace is Central Square’s only one, providing an exclusive feel and a breezy open environment where groups won’t feel cramped or overwhelmed. The modern Vietnamese menu focuses on made-to-share small plates, promoting the communal dining experience that groups often seek. Sharing dishes like spicy lemongrass wings or tamarind-glazed specialties encourages interaction and variety, giving everyone a chance to taste different flavors. Drinks are equally tailored for sharing, with standout craft cocktails such as pandan Long Islands and tamarind Old Fashioneds that offer refreshing twists on classics and serve as conversation starters. This format of small plates plus imaginative cocktails fosters a lively, festive mood perfect for bonding, storytelling, and laughter.
What activities can you enjoy together at Saigon Babylon? Beyond the joy of eating and drinking, the venue itself enhances the social atmosphere. The rooftop setting invites guests to move freely between their tables and the panoramic views of Cambridge, turning a simple meal into a mini-adventure. Groups can toast under the open sky as the sun sets behind the skyline, or enjoy the twinkling city lights as night falls. The ambiance is enhanced with carefully curated music that energizes without overwhelming, making it easy to talk and connect. The restaurant occasionally hosts special events, contributing to the dynamic environment that keeps meetups lively and interesting. Whether it’s a weekend night out or a special occasion, Saigon Babylon’s mix of elevated cuisine, creative drinks, and incomparable setting allows groups to create new memories easily. The space can accommodate both intimate clusters and larger parties, meaning the venue adapts seamlessly to your group’s size and style.
How does Saigon Babylon’s food and drink selection support a great group experience? The kitchen delivers Vietnamese cuisine that avoids clichés and instead focuses on inventive, elevated dishes meant for sharing. This encourages diners to try multiple items from the menu, enhancing the tasting experience and sparking collective discussions about flavors and preferences. It’s not just a meal but a culinary journey, featuring vibrant, bold ingredients like lemongrass and chili that invite energetic conversations. Complementing the food are the craft cocktails, which are meticulously designed by the award-winning team behind Saigon Babylon. Their creative approach results in unique drinks that blend unexpected ingredients, adding an element of excitement and discovery to each round. Hosting a group here means everyone can indulge in high-quality food and beverages that set Saigon Babylon apart from typical neighborhood bars or restaurants, raising the bar for any social gathering.
Why is the location at 907 Main St., Cambridge, significant for hosting your gatherings? Central Square is a lively area well-known for its cultural diversity, nightlife, and convenient transit options, making Saigon Babylon easy to reach for friends coming from various parts of Boston and Cambridge. The rooftop’s height advantage not only offers spectacular city views but also provides a stylish escape from the bustling streets below. Being part of the Sonder 907 Main hotel adds an element of sophistication and reliability in service, helping ensure smooth logistics for your event. Whether your group prefers an early evening sit-down or a late-night toast, Saigon Babylon’s adaptable hours and vibrant atmosphere accommodate various timing needs. The location within a popular neighborhood enriches the overall experience, giving your meetup additional energy and excitement from the surrounding urban vibe.
What makes Saigon Babylon a recommended destination for different types of group events? The restaurant’s flexible layout means it serves both casual meetups and more structured celebrations with equal charm. For friends reuniting after a long hiatus, the warm environment fosters intimate conversation and shared experiences around small plates and cocktails. For families, the approachable menu and inviting rooftop atmosphere allow multiple generations to enjoy a unique dining experience together. Corporate groups can also find Saigon Babylon ideal for informal networking or team building, where good food and drinks break down barriers and encourage camaraderie. The consistent 4.5-star rating reflects not only outstanding food and drinks but also attentive service and a commitment to guest satisfaction — critical factors for anyone planning group outings. This balance of casual elegance and culinary excitement positions Saigon Babylon as a go-to venue where groups of various sizes and backgrounds can feel welcomed and engaged.
How does the award-winning background of Saigon Babylon’s team enhance your meetup experience? Saigon Babylon is the brainchild of the acclaimed team behind Cicada and The Eaves — both notable Boston establishments with strong reputations. This lineage ensures that the quality of food, drink, and service is not left to chance but is carefully crafted through years of culinary expertise and innovation. The restaurant has received the Best Vietnamese Restaurant award from Boston Magazine for consecutive years (2024 and 2025), underscoring its excellence and consistent standards. Such recognition guarantees that your group will be dining at a reputable venue celebrated locally for its creative Vietnamese cuisine and cocktails. Trusting an award-winning team means your group can focus fully on enjoying the moment, confident that the kitchen and staff will deliver an outstanding experience every time.
How does the vibe and aesthetic of Saigon Babylon contribute to making group meetups special? The rooftop’s stylish design blends contemporary urban chic with inviting warmth, balancing sleek modernity and approachable comfort. Natural light floods the space during the day, while carefully designed lighting creates an intimate glow as the evening progresses. The open-air environment fosters a relaxed yet vibrant mood, encouraging groups to linger over conversations and rounds of food and drinks. This distinctive atmosphere is a key reason why many patrons rate Saigon Babylon highly for social occasions, as it transcends typical restaurant settings to become a memorable destination in its own right. Whether it’s the dynamic buzz of casual laughter or the gentle background hum of music and city lights, the rooftop vibe makes every gathering feel special and refreshing.
What practical amenities support group gatherings at Saigon Babylon? In addition to the prime rooftop location and thoughtfully designed interior, Saigon Babylon offers reservations that ease planning for larger parties. The pay-as-you-go system ensures everyone can order at their leisure without complicated billing issues, a benefit for groups concerned about splitting checks fairly. The attentive staff provides attentive service without being intrusive, helping ensure that needs are promptly met while preserving the casual, social atmosphere. Accessibility to public transportation and nearby parking options also makes it easy for guests to arrive and depart comfortably. These practical considerations make Saigon Babylon not only a beautiful and exciting venue but also an efficient and hassle-free choice for anything from casual happy hours to milestone celebrations.
Why do the craft cocktails at Saigon Babylon elevate your social experience? The cocktail program here is more than just a drink list; it’s a showcase of creativity and local artistry. Signature cocktails like the tamarind Old Fashioned and pandan Long Island blend Vietnamese-inspired ingredients with classic formats, introducing your group to fresh, exciting flavors while maintaining approachable profiles. Expert bartenders craft each cocktail with precision, making drinks that are as visually appealing as they are delicious. Sharing these inventive cocktails adds an element of surprise and delight, enhancing the group’s bonding experience. This attention to mixology detail ensures that whether your meetup involves casual sipping or spirited toasts, every drink contributes to the overall enjoyment and memorability of your time together.
How does Saigon Babylon support ongoing events and special occasions? Beyond regular dining, Saigon Babylon hosts a range of ongoing and special events that can add another layer of fun to your group’s meetup. These events might include live music, themed parties, or collaborations with local breweries, all designed to enhance the rooftop bar’s lively atmosphere. Participating in these curated experiences can turn an ordinary gathering into something more festive and interactive. The venue’s active social media presence keeps patrons informed about upcoming events, helping you plan group visits around special happenings. This dynamic approach means your group can repeatedly find new reasons to return, building traditions and shared memories over time within this vibrant space.
Why does Saigon Babylon stand out as a top-rated venue? The combination of stunning rooftop views, elevated Vietnamese cuisine, creative craft cocktails, and attentive service all contribute to its strong 4.5-star rating based on 158 reviews. This consistent positive feedback reveals that guests appreciate the quality, atmosphere, and overall experience offered here. Being recognized as Boston’s Best Vietnamese Restaurant for multiple years reinforces Saigon Babylon’s reputation as a destination that delivers. Whether a newcomer or a regular, visitors often praise the venue for its unique take on Vietnamese food and the joyful social environment. This blend of culinary innovation, remarkable ambiance, and group-friendly design makes Saigon Babylon an outstanding choice when looking for a place to host meetups that will impress and delight all involved.