Report and photos by Arsh Kaur
Labo Coffee – ‘Coffee for the curious’ – is the most recent specialty coffee spot in Edmonton, opened in August 2024. It’s right between Dadeo Diner and Beercade on Whyte Ave, where Sorellina used to be. The name Labo comes from Laboratory, because the owners Aswin Rao and Atty Vohra have a background in computer science. They quit their jobs to create a space where they could join their love for experimentation with their love for coffee and community.
From outside, Labo looks like a small, ordinary coffee shop but their sidewalk sign that reads “Fruit loops in a drink?” suggests that inside is going to be unexpected. And that’s exactly why I went in to check out this weird drink: Brekky Latte.
Atty is a game designer and it definitely influenced the decor. As soon as you walk in, you’re greeted by playful murals of smiling crabs, ducks, and pink ice cubes riding pastel waves, instantly lifting your mood. The lighting is soft and glowy, with orb-like bulbs hanging like little suns above earthy wooden tables. Plants hang gently from the ceiling, adding a touch of nature to the otherwise vibrant, cartoonish aesthetic. The whole vibe is cheerful and makes you feel like you’re in a video game and your mission is to just chill and have fun. The place is built like a rectangle which widens at the back which makes it very cozy and urban at the same time.
When I went for the first time (I am a regular now), I noticed a group of people chatting with each other, including the baristas. It felt like everybody knew everybody and they were happy. These days, it’s rare: mostly you see people quietly just keeping to themselves. Aswin later explained that many regulars have become friends and you can feel that energy when you walk in.
Aswin’s original dream was to open a cafe in a cottage-style area where it felt like home and inviting. But when this Whyte Ave spot opened up for lease, they grabbed the opportunity. There was a gap for specialty coffee in Garneau, and Labo stepped in to fill it. Although winter was a bit hard on business, their dream is slowly coming alive. Labo is the kind of place where you go in for the novelty and cute upbeat vibes but keep going back for the innovative drinks, welcoming people and friendly space.
Labo offers multi-roast espresso – mostly from Roasti and they rotate their specialty beans. They’ve had Rouge Wave, Monogram, Ghost Roaster, Colorfull, September Coffee and more. Their cookies and scones are made in house and the sandwiches are made to order. The Chai and specialty syrups are also house-made, but they outsource the chocolate and regular syrups to maintain consistency.
Labo has solid mix of funky, curious drinks along with the classics. The two most popular signature drinks are Malted Latte ($6.81) made with malted milk powder and Brekky Latte ($6.81) made with house-made cereal milk, topped with lucky charms and fruit loops. The Donut Cortado was once a signature drink that tasted like donut in a cup, but sadly its not making a comeback (RIP) because the cost to make it was bit too high. A brief legend from Labo history. Right now they have in their seasonal section Orange Cardamom Latte ($6.43) and Elderflower oat matcha ($7.14). I was a bit skeptical about Orange and cardamom together in a latte but the flavors blend so smoothly and this one has to be my favorite drink so far, after their classic espresso. For the experimental section, Lavender coconut fog ($6.69) sounds perfect for a cozy day. Banana bread mocha (6.69) is slightly out of my comfort zone but definitely tempting. Labo gets their teas from The Tea Girl – Edmonton’s local tea blender.
If you become a regular, grab a stamp card designed like a treasure map. You’ll get discounts the more coffee you drink – yes, it’s dangerous. Students can get 10% discount on Tues, Wed and Thurs when they show their student id.
Labo’s mission is to be a third space – approachable, playful and social. They’re executing that vision with thoughtful hospitality. The baristas don’t just take your order and move on—they actually listen and care about how your day’s going. That kind of genuine energy makes the whole place less intimidating, which is a big deal for specialty coffee spots that often feel a bit too snobby. If you’re visiting Labo for the first time, don’t be shy but ask about their flavours and new experiments they’re doing. I asked for a roohafza (rose flavor) in my espresso which wasn’t on the menu, and they were happy to make it for me. You can experiment your own and as Aswin says, “Be Curious.”
Labo’s event calendar is worth checking out – either on their Instagram or posted in the cafe. One recent event was “Let me Explain” night, where people gave PowerPoint presentations on niche obsessions: Furbies, Beyblades and everything in between. The next event is Sam’s book club on April 23 at 1pm, where you can bring a book that you’ve read and chat about it. They also cater and host events. You can fill up a form on their website if you’re interested.
When I asked Aswin what kind of personality this place would have if it were a person, he said, “Maybe a quirky friend who’s friendly with everyone and smiles at everyone.” Honestly? That’s exactly what it feels like. You go in for the Fruit Loops in a cup, stay for the vibes, and maybe even make a few new friends along the way.
Labo Coffee
10546 Whyte Ave NW, Edmonton, AB
website
Mon-Th: 8AM – 5PM,
Fri: 8AM – 7PM
Sat: 9AM – 7PM
Sun: 9AM – 5PM
