The OLabs Roastery and Bakehouse has become somewhat of an institution in Saudi Arabia’s Eastern Province.
With about a dozen locations scattered throughout the area, and one in Abha, OLabs has been crafting drinks and creating bakery goods to fit its target audience — adults who like to sip at cafes.
Known for their minimalistic aesthetic and crimson logo, it is their coffee which is the drawcard.
They roast their own beans at the cafe to maintain freshness and quality control.
Beans are sourced from Ethiopia, Colombia, Guatemala, El Salvador, Brazil, Indonesia and Jamaica’s Blue Mountain.
Of course, there is an emphasis on Saudi Arabia coffee.
They sell small batches of beans in sealed bags, ideal for personal use or perhaps to send as gifts for friends abroad.
They have bottled cold-brew coffee at the ready if you want to grab and go.
To combat the sweltering heat, they have a refreshing and tangy summer drink offering, OLumi. This is an iced slush beverage that gives a modern twist to the traditional dried lime Lumi staple from neighboring Al-Ahsa, for SR18 ($4.80).
OLabs also has a pomegranate and hibiscus hybrid cold drink named Pomobiscus. A Berribiscus, combining berries with hibiscus, is also available.
There are also hot drinks, and non-dairy milk available on request.
They bake their own bread and pastries — including decadent cakes and gooey cookies.
The bakery is popular with local businesses, as they offer curated catering packages as well as large coffee carriers — perfect for staff meetings or office parties.
The sandwiches are delicious — made with their own bread and filled with fresh ingredients. They are small bites, enough to satisfy your hunger without making you feel bloated.
Their popular sandwiches include falafel and hummus, cheese, egg, sliced cold cuts and tuna.
The cafe locations have both indoor and outdoor seating options. There are also drive-thru-only OLabs, so you can get your caffeine fix from the comfort of your car.
For more details, check them out on Instagram @OLabsMe.
