Couldn’t get your East Coast beach cottage vibes going this summer? Don’t worry, because East Hampton Sandwich Co. has brought Yankee summer time to Houston year-round.

The Dallas-based sandwich shop made its Houston debut with two locations, one in Montrose and another in the River Oaks District. With eight Dallas area restaurants, this is the first major expansion for the upscale sandwich shop. “Our Houston launch is thrilling, as the city plays a key role in our regional expansion,” says founder of East Hampton Sandwich Co., Hunter Pond.

The fast-casual restaurant is roomy and definitely has a beach cottage feel to it. There are white oak interiors, with black and gold accents. Everything from the lighting to the artwork evokes a casual elegant aesthetic.

The menu has the same casual yet premium theme. The signature sandwich is the Lobster Roll, which comes with a quarter-pound of Atlantic lobster with lemon, butter and Old Bay mayo. Other signatures include the Turkey, Bacon + Avocado sandwich, the Hickory Bacon Burger and the Fried Chicken + Jack. (You choose whether it comes as a sandwich, wrap or salad.) There are several seasonal options, as well as salads and a variety of sides.

During my visit, I had the Lobster Grilled Cheese and I have to admit that I might never try anything else on the menu, because it was that good. Thick bread with a generous amount of Sriracha Dijionaise, shaved Havarti and American cheese along with a quarter-pound of Atlantic lobster. I paired it with ranch fries – shoestring fries covered in ranch seasoning and Old Bay. I also tried the house-made chips, which were perfectly crispy and well seasoned.

“There are many options on the menu, so people who live nearby will sometimes come for breakfast, lunch and dinner,” said General Manager Crystal Mitchell. “We have one guest who visits every afternoon and only orders a side of chips. It is great to see return customers who have fallen in love with our menu.”

For my part, I would be remiss if I left off the drink menu, which is also a delight. East Hampton Sandwich Co. offers Frosé, spiked lemonade, sangria, wine and beer. There are also three varieties of house-made lemonade—and all are delicious. My favorite flavor was the watermelon – it was light and not overly sweet.

I know Houston will welcome East Hampton Sandwich Co., not only because of its good food, but also because of the great atmosphere. You might find yourself stopping in one afternoon just for the chips!

Cover: East Hampton Sandwich Co.’s signature Lobster Roll. Photo Julie Soefer

Gabi De la Rosa lives in Houston with her husband and three children. You can usually find her at a great local restaurant or out exploring HTX with her family.