Garbo’s Fresh Maine Lobster is tucked away deep in the heart of the Wells Branch neighborhood in Austin, proudly serving New England cuisine with an Austin twist. Owned by Heidi Garbo, the restaurant began as a food truck in 2013. A year later, Heidi opened the brick and mortar location at 14735 Bratton Lane and soon after, expanded it to include a wine bar.

One step into Garbo’s and the warm, inviting décor transports you to Coastal Maine. Their signature lobster rolls – Maine or Connecticut style – and a cup of clam chowder complete the experience.

Garbo grew up around the lobster industry where her dad and uncle started Garbo Lobster Enterprise in the New England area. In her early twenties she moved to Key West, FL and started her food trailer, “Garbo’s Grill.” This went on to be a huge success where she received local fame and recognition. It was right around this time that she got married and decided to move to Austin. While eating her way around the food truck mecca, Heidi never forgot her love for a good lobster roll. Taking personal responsibility for this, Garbo’s ATX was born, and just this summer, she brought in a powerhouse duo: Mario Fortuna as Executive Chef and Alexandra Lee as Pastry Chef. This couple – both in and out of the kitchen – helped expand the Garbo’s menu to include a variety of cuisines like French and Asian.

For appetizers, try the Braised Pork Belly with butternut squash and octopus terrine and the Ceviche with avocado mousse, mandarin oranges and radishes. My favorite item was the fish taco with smoked cod, homemade kimchi and avocado mousse. These are hearty little tacos with a great crunch. Alex’s Deconstructed Apple Pie and Homemade Vanilla Bean Ice Cream were amazing – fresh, tart and light enough not to weigh you down.

The Pumpkin Whoopie Pies have been a hit this holiday season. Made with maple butter cream and coated with candied pumpkin seeds, these fluffy pies are a great way to get your pumpkin spice fix!

Garbo’s is now serving brunch, so make a trip as soon as possible! Restaurant hours are Tuesday through Thursday from 11:00 a.m. to 9:00 p.m., Friday and Saturday from 11:00 a.m. to 10:00 p.m. and Sunday brunch from 10:30 a.m. to 3:00 p.m.