Where We Are Going Today: ‘Salad Lab’ in Qatif

Salad Lab is a great option for those who are keen to maintain a healthy diet, and anyone craving a nutritious yet tasty meal. (Supplied)
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Updated 07 March 2025
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Where We Are Going Today: ‘Salad Lab’ in Qatif

Eating healthily does not have to be boring. Colorful salads and earthy bowls are Salad Lab’s speciality, and this Saudi-owned food outlet offering flavorful healthy meals is sure to leave you satisfied.

From Mexican salad to Lebanese fattoush, Salad Lab’s menu has a variety of trendy and international salads for all tastes. Customers can customize their own salad, with endless options of vegetables and toppings.

Salad Lab also has warm dishes, such as grilled chicken and salmon with a side of vegetables, mashed potatoes or fluffy white rice.

Visitors will love their grilled salmon with a side of vegetables and mash potatoes. This savory and flavorful dish is cooked to perfection with a side of fresh produce.

Another great option for a lighter meal is their avocado chicken salad. This salad has sweet flavors from the honey mustard dressing and savory notes from the seasoned grilled chicken, and an added crunch from the topped nuts.

Salad Lab has only one location in Qatif and the restaurant is fairly small, offering limited seating. Visitors can also order online through the “Locate” food delivery application to avoid standing in line.

During the month of Ramadan, Salad Lab offers their combo boxes, which will include a main dish with a side, salad, sambosa, dates, and a drink of choice.

Salad Lab is a great option for those who are keen to maintain a healthy diet, and anyone craving a nutritious yet tasty meal.


Where We Are Going Today: Granny’s Cuisine

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Updated 28 February 2026
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Where We Are Going Today: Granny’s Cuisine

  • Highlights included a fresh beetroot and rocca salad, well-seasoned foul, and a comforting hab soup that was balanced in spice

Visiting Historic Al-Balad during Ramadan is a cherished ritual for many families in Jeddah.

During the holy month, the area transforms into a vibrant hub of celebration. Strings of lights illuminate the heritage homes, while food stalls serving international cuisines line the courtyards. Families gather outdoors to share iftar in a setting that blends history with festivity.

Yet, the charm comes with a challenge. Securing a table requires arriving early, especially for those hoping to sample a variety of dishes from different stalls while enjoying the lively ambiance.

To avoid the rush, I reserved a table at Granny’s Cuisine, centrally located in Baya’h Square Yard. The restaurant offers a simple open buffet for SR50 ($13) per person, a reasonable price given the setting. 

On arrival, I was relieved to find my table ready, while others were still searching for seating.

Before the call to prayer, traditional Saudi coffee, dates and water were served. The buffet, though modest, offered satisfying homemade flavors. 

Highlights included a fresh beetroot and rocca salad, well-seasoned foul, and a comforting hab soup that was balanced in spice. Classic Ramadan favorites such as sambusa and mutabbaq were also available, along with a red-sauce pasta that was acceptable.

The grape leaves stood out, delicately prepared with tamarind, giving them a pleasant tangy note that fans of the dish will appreciate. 

Juices were not included in the buffet price; a mango juice cost an additional SR10, a minor inconvenience. Dessert options featured basbousa and kunafa, while a self-serve coffee corner offered instant coffee and machine-brewed options.

The buffet was set indoors, where historic photographs of Al-Balad and Jeddah added a vintage touch to the decor. Indoor seating is also available for those seeking comfort away from the crowds.

Overall, the experience was enjoyable and well-organized. Granny’s Cuisine is a suitable choice for diners who wish to experience the spirit of Ramadan in Al-Balad without immersing themselves fully in the hustle and bustle of the busy courtyards.