Cousins Maine Lobster Announces Indiana Expansion
HOSPITALITY
Authentic Maine Lobster brand debuting two new food Trucks in Indiana.
The taste of authentic, wild-caught Maine lobster is crossing state lines and heading deep into the Midwest. Cousins Maine Lobster (CML), the fast-casual brand famous for its food truck model and Shark Tank success, has announced a multi-unit deal to bring its renowned lobster rolls to Indiana.
This significant expansion meets the growing demand for high-quality seafood across the Midwest region and positions CML to open its 100th unit in the first half of 2026. The deal includes the debut of two new food trucks, which will bring the brand's world-famous Maine Lobster rolls, mouthwatering lobster tacos, and savory lobster grilled cheese to seafood lovers across the Hoosier State.
A Family Legacy in Indiana
Leading the Indiana expansion are local entrepreneurs Hussein Kourani and Al Obaid. The two brother-in-laws and deputy sheriffs are eager to introduce the brand’s authentic Maine hospitality to their home communities. Their brother, Hadi Kourani, will also be supporting the trucks, making this a genuine family affair.
The launch will unfold in phases:
The first food truck is slated to launch in the Gary and South Bend markets in March 2026.
A second truck will follow shortly after in the Fort Wayne market, slated to open in 2027.
“Joining the Cousins Maine Lobster team allows us to build something lasting for our families,” said Al Obaid. “It's a brand built on trust and passion, and we're proud to carry that forward here in Indiana. We're looking forward to introducing the Indiana communities to the lively spirit and delicious food that CML has to offer its customers.”
The Power of the Flexible Food Truck Model
Cousins Maine Lobster, which was co-founded by real-life cousins Sabin Lomac and Jim Tselikis in 2012, is now one of the fastest-growing fast-casual seafood concepts in the U.S. This rapid expansion, which has included nearly 20 new units this year alone in markets like Milwaukee, Grand Rapids, and Albany is powered by the brand’s highly efficient food truck and restaurant model.
This flexible model allows operators like Kourani and Obaid an efficient and cost-effective entry into new markets, with food trucks launching in as little as three to six months.
Lindsay Herberger, Director of Franchise Development at Cousins Maine Lobster, celebrated the new partnership: “Hussein and Al’s strong sense of community and dedication to quality perfectly align with our brand’s values, and we're confident they'll make a lasting impact as they bring our Maine traditions and beloved menu to seafood fans across Indiana.”
Cousins Maine Lobster is currently targeting other high-demand markets across the Midwest and South, continuing its mission to deliver high-quality, wild-caught Maine lobster to communities nationwide. For Indiana residents, the arrival of those famous lobster rolls means the wait for authentic Maine flavors is almost over.