Garbo's reminds me of the Boathouse in Orlando if the food was actually good. The staff was communicative about my group of five's expected wait time, and the waiting area was open with comfortable lounge chairs. I'm certain I would have dozed off in one if we weren't called up. We sat outdoor alongside several other families with kids. The music wasn't super loud and the tables were generously spaced so we weren't close enough for other peoples' conversations to distract from our own. We then ordered the following: Smoked Fish Dip Maine Crab Cakes Brussels Sprouts Fish Sandwich Lobster Grilled Cheese Lobster Pot Pie The smoked fish dip was good but nothing crazy. My sister had suggested the fried calamari instead, but my love of bread overrode my familial devotion. The dip itself was moist with no excess liquid and spread easily onto the provided cuts of sourdough toast. My only critique is that the dip seems like it's missing something, but I'm not food-smart enough to know what. However, because of my bread bias, this is still a 4/5. The crab cakes on the other hand were amazing. There was no excess oil soaking the fried crust and the crab meat inside wasn't over-salted, as I've come to expect from most crab cakes. These were highly enjoyable with bites of avocado and mandarin in between to balance the fried elements. 4.5/5 The Brussels sprouts were well-roasted, with a nice vinaigrette coating their crispy outsides. I expect this level of quality for Brussels sprouts from American restaurants at this point, so no surprises, just good in general. 4/5 Skipping the fish sandwich as unfortunately I didn't get to try them, but it looked and smelled great. I had one bite of the lobster grilled cheese, so take this particular review with a grain of salt. The smokiness of the cheeses sits on top of everything else without overpowering, while the lobster, bacon, and tomatoes provide a great mix of fat and brine. This is a lowbrow surf and turf between bread, and it's perfect. 5/5 Finally, we come to my own order, the lobster pot pie. Unfortunately, I shared this with the aforementioned sister and didn't get the full experience. The dish came piping hot and fresh, and the puff pastry was flaky and not overbaked. Internals-wise, I could see myself eating just the cream sauce like a chowder. It was perfectly flavored with veggies and herbs, with regular chunks of lobster. Not too salty and absolutely decadent, would not share again. 5/5 Overall, this was a highly enjoyable experience with fast, not rushed, service and an amazing spread. This is an easy recommendation for a family-friendly restaurant with lowkey vibes, and I'll forsure visit again when I'm back in town. read more

Looking for Rocky Mountain oysters, this is the place. Horrible fish fillet. Still uncooked batter on it. The lobster is frozen and then thawed. Super chewy. And prices are off the scale expensive read more

Seafood is always outstanding here. The New England vibe is strong and the seafood is the star. The crab roll was perfect. Buttered toast roll stuffed heavily with spicy crab in a light mayo sauce. Delicious. The Mahi Mahi bowl was really good as well. Service was excellent. read more

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THE BIG: Garbos! but in the northside of Austin off of Parmer Lane. Rustic barn exterior and nautical design for the interior. Private parking lot available. THE BLACK AND WHITE: I came here with the wife and newborn to meet up with another couple with a newborn to catch up. Fortunately it wasn't too busy and it's such a nice casual setting with plenty of seating. For food we got the mini roll sampler, connecticut lobster roll, mozz bites, regular fish & chips and small fish & chips. The small fish and chips was surprisingly pretty big. The mini roll sampler gave us a nice tasting of each lobster roll variation. The mozz bites was just alright in my opinion. Then to wrap up everything, we got connors creamery for dessert where you can order inside Garbos. THE FINAL BAMBOO: Overall, damage done here was around $160 for everything. The seafood is great here and I'd definitely come back to try more menu items. read more

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On Tuesday Garbo's has special prices for fish and chips and it is some of the best fish and chips in town. Small for $12 in large for $16. Even the small is very generous in size. It's served with tartar sauce and ketchup and a generous portion of fries. The restaurant is bright and cheerful and has an outdoor patio. It was raining when we arrived so we sat inside. Since the Wednesday, Lunch Bunch has been there several times I tried something different. I ordered a combo plate of fried shrimp and fried fish with a side of grilled asparagus. Both the fish and shrimp were perfectly fried as was the asparagus. Service was prompt and very attentive. If you'd like fish and chips or seafood in general, give Garbo's a try. We like it! read more

Garbo’s - Fish and shrimp combo - Seafood Near Me - Austin, Texas

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It's been a while since I've been to Garbo's. Was missing home, and decided to stop in for some Maine seafood. They have a nice large parking lot. There are stairs and a ramp, and handicap parking near the ramp. They have a nice patio outside. It's covered, the tables are nice and the patio over looks the parking lot. Off to the side there is a small kids play ground with swings and a fort. My server today was Knox. He was so kind, explaining the different lobster rolls. The Connecticut lobster roll is heated. The Maine lobster roll is cold. I ordered the Maine lobster roll. Also I ordered a side of brussels sprouts. Also I ordered a pina colada. My food arrived rather quickly. The brussells sprouts were perfect. Crispy, soft, and a balsamic flavor. Lobster roll on a slightly toasted, top cut bun. Chunks of lobster meat. Knuckle, and claw. Delicious. Lobster was tender. At the end of my meal, even though I was full. I was kind of craving some ice cream. I placed my order with Knox. I ordered the butter pecan. It's a vanilla soft serve ice cream, with the butter pecan syrup. It was a little bigger than I thought it would be. I like soft serve ice cream. It's creamy, smooth, and loved the pecan buttery flavored drizzle. I was so full from this meal. I went hope and had a food comma nap. read more

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Been craving a lobster roll for weeks and finally found a place that has them. We went for family dinner. We made reservations (I strongly recommend it) and were seated immediately. We sat inside but there is a patio seating option. It is a family friendly restaurant and adults and children will enjoy the ice cream menu. The food was served very fast and was fresh. If you are looking for a seafood fix, this is your place! read more

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Came here initially for restaurant week but ended up ordering the lobster roll and clam chowder. Clam chowder was the star and quite delicious. The lobster roll overall size was great, however the lobster itself was very dry. The description mentioned being in melted butter which only one bit had bitter on it. Needless to say a bit disappointing. Service was simple and easy, did take a minute to be checked back on when finished to get the check. The restaurant wasn't very busy and I really liked they had an outside patio with a play area for the kiddos. Restroom clean as well. read more

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What more can I say about how much I love Garbo's?! Immediate friendly greeting. Barkley welcomed me back like we were old friends. I ordered the fabulous creamy mozzarella and lobster balls. my new friend! Also got the lobster bisque, what a delightful surprise to find chunks of succulent lobster, not little shreds in the creamy bisque. I had a bit of time to relax and ordered a decadent slice of key lime pie. I am a bit of a key lime pie snob ( often don't order to prevent dissppointment). This was the very best I have ever tasted. It semed like the limes had been picked that morning, just for my pie! Both perfectly tart and tasty - I will be back for everything I have ever ordered but now have to keep a bit of room for the key lime treat! Inviting atmosphere - inside and out Plenty of parking Clean spacious restrooms Barkley is the best waitress - even with her foot in a boot, she provided outstanding service I wish I lived closer!!! read more

Garbo’s - The WINNER! best Key Lime pie EVER! - Seafood Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Wa pretty impressed with the seafood here. Located up north, garbos is a restaurant with plenty of parking and seating inside and outside. I had the fish and chips, which was massive and well cooked. I also tried a mini assortment of lobster rolls. Also ver good but small. Overall food is decent for your seafood needs. read more

AUSTIN RESTAURANT WEEK #4 My hubby and I have been enjoying restaurant week. Tonight we decided to have date night at Garbo's, a seafood restaurant. This restaurant, located on MOPAC near Parmer Lane was formerly Opal Divines. While we went because of the Restaurant Week menu, we decided to order from their full menu. My hubby got a cheese burger and garden salad and I got a fish sandwich with Cesar salad. Both salads were cold and crisp with a little crunch...really enjoyed our salads. Both the burger and sandwich were on toasted brioche buns, soft and flavorful. We enjoyed our meals. Allison, was super customer friendly addressing our every need. She gave us time to leisurely look at the menu before deciding on our meal choices. Garbo's physical structure has not changed from Opal Divine's. Its exterior and interior promotes a nautical theme. Also, there is ample free parking, which is a plus compared to downtown parking. We will likely return when we are in the area again. read more

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OVERVIEW: I really wanted to not like this place as much as I did, but it checks all the boxes. Fresh seafood, good vibes, good service, overall decent menu. Seafood is pricy but reasonable portions if you get a few things to share. They have weekday specials as well. Everything is fresh and flavorful. They also have soft-serve onsite (we didn't try) which is a nice dessert option! QUICK FACTS: - Parking? Yes, large, open lot. - Reservations? Not required. - Happy hour? Yes, M-F from 3-6pm. FOOD RATINGS: - Lobster bisque (4/5): Pretty standard. Very flavorful and good chunks of lobster in it! - Seafood tower (5/5): Loved all of the cold bites on this. The shrimp cocktail was giant shrimp which is nice. - Lobster roll (4/5): A pretty great lobster roll. Not sure if you can find better or fresher in Austin. You can get it warm (butter) or cold (mayo). Caesar was decent and fries were good. - Banana pudding (4/5): Pretty decadent as far as banana pudding goes! Loved the caramelized bananas on top. Deliciously whipped and thick. read more

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***HANDS DOWN BEST LOBSTER ROLLS*** What? Lobster rolls in Austin? Absolutely, and you'd think you're gonna walk out and smell the ocean when you're done. F'n amazingly fresh oysters! Twelve briny Massachusetts Spin Drift oysters. How you dress them, to each their own... but the vinaigrette served with these succulent amazing morsels was on the sweet side. No thank you, I'll stick to lemon and some horseradish. PRO TIP! Try one without any condiments, taste the ocean and oyster as is, and close your eyes and feel the ebb and flow of the tides that feed these delicacies. Calamari- a little bit of every part of the animal. Problem is they don't cook evenly. So yes some were a little over cooked but not enough for a thumbs down. The dipping dressing was not your typical average sauce........it was as in-house made and delicious. Overall nothing to write home to mamma about, but such a great feed to the soul. Clam Chowder vs Lobster Bisque - really? Just get a cup of both and decide for yourself. You can expect big lumps of lobster in the bisque. Both creamy and thick and succulent. Absolutely delicious! If you know a better chowder place then DM me please so I can validate your judgement! Non-adventurous fish and chips order by mom and grandpa, absolutely amazing! The portion was HUGE!!!! I had to place a fork next to the fillet for reference. It was also the Tuesday special. If I had a craving for fish and chips, I'd get it here and pretend I'm at a pub... they have plenty of beer to go with. Breading was so crisp, and fish ever so slightly and perfectly cooked, not a second longer than needed. Hats off to the fry cooks timing! Barkley, bringing the friendly smile and menu wisdom! Yes Barkley is her 1st name. She recommended the Crab Grilled Cheese. Seafood lovers, ***Next Level Grilled Cheese!*** stop reading and look at the pictures! Bread was buttery and toasted! Cheese was stringy, and the only way to add more crab would be to get a bigger slice of bread. Literally, huge whole pieces of crab! I expected some shredded crab for flavor, but no. Big succulent pieces of delicious fresh crab! Can't decide? Get the Mini Roll Sampler, Connecticut Roll with dripping delicious butter and lobster, Maine roll with mayo, and the third was seasonal crab. Delicious but not enough to fill a belly. I had the refreshing "suffering bastard" gin based ginger beer drink! Perfectly complimented the meal. You can't have a sip and not be happy! Ok so the downside.... f inflation... rolls have gone from what once was $15 to $36. I guess that's the market price. I could have had surf and turf with premium steaks, my own lobster, and scallops for what we paid. Great food but unfortunately overpriced. Your gonna pay 5 Star prices for a casual setting. If that's what you want then this is your place. I couldn't conscientiously rate it a 5 based on price vs portion. ...but you'd need to but a ticket to the east coast to have an equal lobster roll. I'll be back, but I'll stick to the happy hour and specials next time. read more

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Hard to believe they make lobster rolls this good this far away from the coast! Love Garbo's.

Not sure what happened here. Slightly disappointed during our Easter weekend visit. Maybe it was a lack of staffing, but even the lobster roll was subpar. Waited 35 minutes for someone to come by on the outside patio after being seated, place was maybe 25 percent full. Another 10 minutes for just water...got the hash browns (greasy) with caviar but no utensils or plates/napkins. Still tasty though. Ordered a bottle of wine and our rolls... Will give it some time before returning. This has been our go-to staple in the past....not anymore. My previous review was 5 stars hands down... noticing a decline lately in some of the reviews as well. read more

Garbo’s - Seafood Near Me - Austin, Texas

We came around lunch time and were seated very quickly. The service was quick. She was very helpful. I'm glad we decided on two things to share. The OG wrap was perfect! I'm torn on the Caesar wrap, but I think it is the way that the lobster is breaded. The kids were able to play outside while we ate. It was busy without feeling overwhelming. Loved the space outside. It was such an easy experience. This is my savings review, so you know I'll return read more

Garbo’s - Lobster Caesar wrap - seasonal - Seafood Near Me - Austin, Texas

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I'm a big lobster roll fan, and I remember visiting the food truck back in the day whenever I came to Austin--so I was excited to finally stop by the brick-and-mortar location for a late Thursday lunch. The moment we walked in, it felt like we were on the coast. From the casual, friendly vibes of the waitstaff to the light and airy interior décor, the whole experience had a laid-back, beachy feel. Our waitress was friendly and offered her honest takes on the menu, which we appreciated. We went with the seasonal truffle butter lobster roll and the bacon cheeseburger--the latter being the $12 special of the day, and it tasted about as expected for that price point. The lobster roll was the highlight for me. It was a classic warm, buttery Connecticut-style roll but with the twist of truffle butter and a drizzle of crème fraîche on top. I really enjoyed it, though I do wish there had been a bit more crème fraîche throughout--once you get past the first few bites, it disappears. Surprisingly, I also really enjoyed the Caesar side salad. I'm not quite sure what made it stand out, but the texture and flavor were spot on! read more

Garbo’s - Thursday - 1/2 Price Burgers and Truffle Butter Lobster Roll - Seafood Near Me - Austin, Texas

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We were there Saturday afternoon and had excellent food and our server, Elaine, was most pleasant and helpful with our order.

I've been meaning to check Garbo's out and finally Austin's restaurant week brought me here. It's located right off mopac. It used to be Opal Devines. The parking was easy and accessible, with a well placed ramp. They have an outdoor patio with a kid's playground area. Inside, we were greeted by the BEST hostess, Jazelle. She was warm, welcoming, and just incredible. Definitely one of the bright spots of the evening. We waited quite a while for our waiter to arrive and take our drink order. He's not the friendliest, but he provided solid service. Good selection of cold beers on tap. The prefixed menu started out with shrimp cocktail. The shrimp were fresh and I liked the cocktail sauce to horseradish ratio. For the main course we had whole lobster's, which tasted excellent. A very nice and helpful lady said that they would help me with the lobster. So the kitchen even broke mine down for me, so awesome! Sorry for not getting a picture of the plated lobster before we devoured them. Dessert was a tiny key lime pie. It seemed like it's made in house, tart and tasty. We also ordered the smoked fish dip appetizer, it's served with grilled bread. All the food was very good and we left fat and happy! Between the accessibility, family friendly atmosphere and the standout hostess, I definitely recommend Garbo's. read more

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If you've been with Garbo's since their food truck days, it's incredible to see how far they've come. My family resides in the east coast, so I am no stranger to a solid lobster roll. Living in Austin, Garbo's is my top choice--though don't expect a completely shell-free experience... as every time I've had one, I've always had a bit of shell residue. There are two lobster roll options: The Maine (cold) or the Connecticut (hot), but The Maine is my favorite: classic & refreshing. Since this is a full restaurant compared to their South Lamar location, the Garbo's on Mopac has a more extensive menu. It was tough sticking to a budget when everything looks incredible! They've nailed the interior and if I ignore the eyesore of the abandoned building in the background and replace it with an image of the harbor, it almost feels like I'm back on the East Coast. They even serve Maine Root Blueberry soda, but unfortunately missed the mark on offering blueberry pie. Note to management: The restrooms could use a little deodorizing read more

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I got the lobster roll sampler and it was amazing! The seasonal one was a hatch chile roll and it was perfect. All the workers were very nice and attentive too! read more

Garbo’s - Seafood Near Me - Austin, Texas

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The food reminded me of home in Connecticut but even better. The ingredients are clearly high quality. The staff was friendly and knowledgeable, and it was nicely wheelchair accessible. If you're wanting New England seafood, I highly recommend it. One thing to note - I got the mini lobster roll, thinking it would just be a mini version of the regular, with all the ingredients, but it was just a buttered roll with lobster and a spread of sauce. Still tasty, but very different from the full sized version. read more

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Always an amazing experience at Garbo's. My wife and I came by for date night and we decided to order the Mozarella and Lobster Bites to start: fried mozzarella, lobster, shrimp, and Caribbean aioli. They melted in our mouths!!!! Sooooo goooood and flavorful. My go-to entree is always a medium-cooked "Garbo's Cheeseburger" with an added Butter Poached Maine Lobster and a Sunny-Side up egg. Biting into it is always my favorite part. The freshness and plumpness of the lobster, the ooziness of the yolk, and flavor of the beef patty--it makes for an amazing burger. Highly recommend it. Service is always great when we're here as well, always have nothing but great things to say! read more

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The lobster rolls were delicious! I had the Connecticut roll with warm lobster and butter! Do Good! The wife had the small truffle lobster roll with a cup of clam chowder! She was not that crazy about Lobster but she changed her tune after eating it and loved it! The Clam Chowder is some of the best I have tried! So Rich and thick. We had the smoked fish dip as an appetizer and it was so good! I would go again! read more

First we were happy that there is a nice play area for the kids. They had a blast out there, climbing and swinging. Our server was nice and made sure the water glasses were full. The lobster roll was just OK--- the lobster itself was overcooked. The fish & chips were delicious--- the beer batter they use for the fried fish creates a thicker crust than I like, but admittedly I'm more of a katsu fan. The shrimp basket is decent, nothing to write home about .....but the shrimp (6 with the order) were nicely crisp and fairly small. The french fries were hot and crisp when delivered to the table. There is an adjacent ice cream store ("Connor's Creamery") and many people were ordering ice cream treats......their sundaes looked good. And it is nice that you can order from the store and your server will deliver it to your table. I'm giving them a 4 because of the children's play area, but if it wasn't for that, I'd be at a solid 3. read more

This was bizarrely good. Authentic fish and chips I'm sure has its fans but Garbos departs from the norm by adding delicious seasoning to their fish and it is fantastic. I've had a lot of fish chips even from "Chip Shops" in my life, and Garbos has made that rare departure from the standard that really improved a well known dish. They've got a fun craft beer selection and ice cream too. read more

Everything we had here was absolutely delicious, and I can't wait to come back. We ordered the lobster pot pie (a special), and it was incredible--rich, flavorful, and packed with lobster. If it's still on the menu, everyone should rush in and try it before it's gone. We also shared the lobster grilled cheese, crab cakes, fish dip, and brussels sprouts, and every single dish was fantastic. The flavors were spot on, and you can tell a lot of care goes into the food here. It's not often that every item at the table is a hit, but this place nailed it. Highly recommend! read more

It's been ten years since I've written a review of this place and the same since I've had it. It's so much better! Now they have a physical store but I ordered through UberEats. I had the Connecticut lobster roll and the clam chowder. The chowder was the best I've ever had! Very thick and flavorful and worth every penny! The fries are still awesome. Next time I'll ask for a side of butter with the lobster roll bc u can't have enough... can u?!? read more

Garbo’s - Clam chowder - Seafood Near Me - Austin, Texas

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The portions of the lobster rolls have gotten smaller it seems but that can just be me. It's still a decent value, but I think that the fish and chip special was a better value. However, my husband did not care for the fish. He said the breading was too heavy and doughy. I did enjoy the Caesar salad and then they had for women's History month when we went a lovely lavender cocktail. That was just absolutely delightful. The interior and the service was always great but I guess it's worth it to go when they have specials or happy hours going on either which way the food is really good and fresh. read more

Garbo’s - Caesar side salad and very mini lobster roll of the moment with honey truffle sauce - Seafood Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Just get the frozen lemonade. Full stop. It's the perfect amalgamation of a drink and a dessert. Think of sweet Italian ice, shaved so finely that you can either sip it through a straw or scoop it with a spoon. Bright, bold, refreshing; they even top it with fresh lemon zest. Super nice people, easy stop off the highway. Grab a drink and stay hydrated out there. read more

Garbo’s - Frozen lemonade - Seafood Near Me - Austin, Texas

Upsides: The service was good! Very attentive and food came out pretty fast. Downsides: the food was bland. We ordered the - mozzarella and lobster bites (5/10) - Fried shrimp basket (6/10) - lobster grilled cheese (3/10) Little to no seasoning involved and not worth the prices. I would consider it overpriced, based on the quality and the portion of the food. read more

I'm not one to leave a review but I had the best experience with our server Michelle. He was attentive and suggested we get the crab cakes and they did not disappoint! Will come back again. read more

I'm surprised I haven't been here before because this place is an establishment! It's so cute and really makes you feel like you're in New England with the vibes of the restaurant. I ordered a Connecticut lobster roll with a side of jalapeño coleslaw. For appetizer, we got the lobster mozzarella bites! The appetizer (devoured and sadly not pictured) and the slaw were both AMAZING. I could have a whole meal of just those. However, when it came to the lobster roll, it was mid. It wasn't as flavorful as I would have hoped and the lobster was a little chewy. The bread itself was really good though. As the main course, I do expect this to be something they have nailed down. Still it's a spot worth trying out when you're craving some New England seafood and especially great for large groups and a fun coastal ambiance. I would come back for my favorites on the menu and to try some other items! read more

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I love the lobster rolls, but today the fish n chips were a bit flavorless. I feel like the fish should be seasoned beforehand OR the batter might need more seasoning. Kind of bland. Cooked perfectly though, and I always love bellying up to the bar for a Tuesday happy hour with a half priced bottle of a good Sauvignon... read more

Garbo’s - Fish n chips Tuesday - Seafood Near Me - Austin, Texas

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Lobster role was perfect minus the quiet racial slur. I ordered the caviar but they ended up sprinkling a little on my roll ( costed me 15$) which I did not requested. then told me that the can was 70$ like I couldn't offered it. This place changed a lot. Will not be coming back. read more

Place is so tasty! You need to go! My faves are the lobster Mac and cheese and the lobster grilled cheese! So good!

Love sitting on the patio with a cocktail and a giant plate of fish and chips. My favorite fish and chips! And the decor is beach inspired and the afternoon vibe is chill. read more

It's so hard to find fresh seafood in Austin considering we are pretty far out from an ocean. I had heard a lot of good things about this place on Tik Tok so my friend and I went ahead and gave it a shot. For starters: the service was pretty good. We were well taken care of, never having to hunt down our waiter and even got two plates of appetizers to try for free because the kitchen made an excess of one and they wanted us to taste the other. The food came out pretty quickly too, which was great because we were super hungry! Hands down, this is the best lobster roll I've ever had that wasn't by the seashore. You could taste the freshness of the lobster and the buttery rolls made combo made this meal a home run. The fish and chips were also super fresh and delicious (which is harder to come by in my opinion) and didn't feel excessively breaded or fried. I highly recommend visiting in the spring and sitting on the outdoor patio. It creates such a unique ambiance, you'll hardly remember you're in Austin! read more

Garbo’s - Fish and chips + both the Maine and Connecticut lobster rolls - Seafood Near Me - Austin, Texas

Great meal on Garbos patio. The lobster grilled cheese was the showstopper. It was so decadent and rich and brimming with lobster. The lobster mac and cheese was loved by our kids and they also loved the fish and chips. I ordered the fish burrito as a bowl but didn't like it. It was too sweet for my taste but I give them props for their creativity. It was cabbage, herbs, fish, sauces, jalapeños, pineapple, etc. It was an explosion of flavor but the sweet threw me off. I wish they had few more fish options that weren't fried. Simple grilled or blackened would be amazing. The service was wonderful as well. We will be back! read more

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I'll start by saying that the service was great. However, I was very underwhelmed by the food. I remember eating at one of their food trucks years ago and thought it was fantastic. I ordered the warm lobster roll and it was just ok....not what I remembered at all. It was very expensive as well. For 3 people to eat it was over $150 for 3 entrees and 1 appetizer...just too much for what we got. I'm not sure what has changed, but it was not for the better. We left underwhelmed and disappointed. read more