Seemor
Saigon TigerB+Worth Trying
7 Holland St, Somerville, MA 02144
· Southeast Asian restaurant, Asian restaurant, Cocktail bar
· 4.5/5 Google (186 reviews)
Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating
Modern Vietnamese spot near Davis Square with standout banh mi and quick bowls; good value for the area, but service can bottleneck and portions/bread texture divide opinion.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
Saigon Tiger delivers reliable Vietnamese street food with strong banh mi and lemongrass chicken in a convenient Davis Square location, but inconsistent bread texture and portion sizes prevent it from reaching higher ground. Friendly, cheerful staff shine during calm hours, though service bottlenecks emerge during rushes—a pattern that reflects solid neighborhood execution without the polish of grade A establishments.
Restaurant Summary
Steps from the Red Line, Saigon Tiger feels cozy and modern, a slim room where bowls and banh mi roll out to mellow playlists and friendly staff. One diner summed it up: "The BBQ pork bowl hit five-star bites," though another noted the service can bottleneck when staffing is thin. Expect a casual scene with quick lunches at off-hours and a tighter room during the evening push. The cooking sticks to Vietnamese street-food staples with a light contemporary touch: lemongrass chicken with gentle curry notes, generous herb crunch, and refreshing house drinks that veer into ube and matcha. Banh mi are the headliners, though the bread texture splits opinions—some want more crackle, others like it softer. Bowls are reliable, but a few guests wanted more noodles or rice for the price. Families should find plenty for cautious eaters—wings, fries, rice bowls, and mild proteins—making it easy for kids. The menu clearly flags tofu and gluten-free options, and staff handle simple swaps like skipping pâté or adding cilantro. Portions can feel modest for big appetites, so consider sharing a side if you have hungry teens.
At a Glance
- Standout banh mi with flavorful proteins and fresh herbs
- Excellent location by Davis Square Red Line
- Friendly staff and customizable drinks
- Service slows during understaffed rushes or large parties
- Portion and bread texture inconsistencies
- Online pickup via DoorDash adds $3 surcharge
What Sets It Apart
- strong_banh_mi_program
- transit_steps_away
- vegan_and_gluten_free_coverage
- custom_drinks_and_cocktails
What People Love
- Juicy lemongrass chicken with curry warmth
- Meaty BBQ pork banh mi with balanced heat
- Refreshing lychee and basil lemonades
- Custom drinks like coconut ube smoothies
Points of Concern
- Occasional long waits when one staff member covers the floor
- Variable bread texture on banh mi (too soft or stiff for some)
- Some bowls feel light on noodles or rice
- Review patterns show signs of occasional generic praise; overall authenticity remains solid
- Pricing is moderate, but pickup platform adds a surcharge
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average Cost$28-$38 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Go tofu banh mi or tofu noodle bowl for vegan picks; request extra sauce if you prefer juicier texture
- Choose rice or noodle bowls at $13-$15 for a filling main; add okra or wings to round out the meal
Perfect For
- Quick pre-movie bite near the Red Line
- Casual weeknight dinner with cocktails
- Solo lunch with Wi-Fi and window seats
- Mixed-diet groups needing vegan or gluten-free options
Location Insights
Area: Bustling student-friendly square with cafes, bars, and indie shops; skews casual and social.
Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, with steady foot traffic around the Red Line station.
Nearby: Steps from Davis Red Line, cinemas, music venues, and MIT/Tufts flows; high pedestrian activity.
Union SquareUnion Square in Somerville is a lively and rapidly evolving neighborhood known for its eclectic dining options, arts scene, and community-oriented atmosphere. It attracts a diverse crowd interested in innovative restaurants, craft breweries, and local shops, making it a popular destination for both casual and adventurous diners.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday11:00–21:30
Tuesday11:00–21:30
Wednesday11:00–21:30
Thursday11:00–21:30
Friday11:00–22:00
Saturday11:00–22:00
Sunday11:00–21:30
Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating
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