Uploaded October 2025 | Updated September 2026, 3 weeks ago
Jim Tselikis and Sabin Lomac are more than just cousins—they’re visionary entrepreneurs who transformed a shared childhood love for Maine lobster into a nationally recognized brand and a modern symbol of small business success. As co-founders of Cousins Maine Lobster, Jim and Sabin have redefined what it means to follow your passion, combining deep family roots, bold business instincts, and relentless grit into a story of growth, reinvention, and purpose that continues to inspire.
Raised in Maine, the cousins shared countless summer meals surrounded by family, feasting on fresh lobster rolls that would eventually become the cornerstone of their brand. Years later, while pursuing careers on opposite coasts—Jim in medical device sales and Sabin in real estate and acting—they reunited over a simple yet powerful idea: bring authentic Maine lobster to the rest of the country. With just one food truck, no culinary background, and an unwavering belief in their vision, Cousins Maine Lobster was born in 2012.
Their big break came when they appeared on Shark Tank, where they secured a strategic partnership with Barbara Corcoran. That moment catapulted them into the national spotlight and taught them valuable lessons about alignment, trust, and long-term collaboration. As they scaled the business, Jim and Sabin navigated complex operational challenges and growing pains—evolving their model, staying nimble, and doubling down on the values that made them stand out. Through it all, they remained fiercely committed to authenticity, quality, and the people who helped them get there.
Their dedication paid off. What began with one food truck in Los Angeles has grown into a $1 billion empire with a celebrated franchise model, a best-selling cookbook, a loyal customer base, and a place in the Shark Tank Hall of Fame. Featured on Good Morning America, The Today Show, CNN, Forbes, and more, their story is a masterclass in brand-building, grit, and staying grounded through success.
Jim Tselikis and Sabin Lomac are more than just cousins—they’re visionary entrepreneurs who transformed a shared childhood love for Maine lobster into a nationally recognized brand and a modern symbol of small business success. As co-founders of Cousins Maine Lobster, Jim and Sabin have redefined what it means to follow your passion, combining deep family roots, bold business instincts, and relentless grit into a story of growth, reinvention, and purpose that continues to inspire.
Raised in Maine, the cousins shared countless summer meals surrounded by family, feasting on fresh lobster rolls that would eventually become the cornerstone of their brand. Years later, while pursuing careers on opposite coasts—Jim in medical device sales and Sabin in real estate and acting—they reunited over a simple yet powerful idea: bring authentic Maine lobster to the rest of the country. With just one food truck, no culinary background, and an unwavering belief in their vision, Cousins Maine Lobster was born in 2012.
Their big break came when they appeared on Shark Tank, where they secured a strategic partnership with Barbara Corcoran. That moment catapulted them into the national spotlight and taught them valuable lessons about alignment, trust, and long-term collaboration. As they scaled the business, Jim and Sabin navigated complex operational challenges and growing pains—evolving their model, staying nimble, and doubling down on the values that made them stand out. Through it all, they remained fiercely committed to authenticity, quality, and the people who helped them get there.
Their dedication paid off. What began with one food truck in Los Angeles has grown into a $1 billion empire with a celebrated franchise model, a best-selling cookbook, a loyal customer base, and a place in the Shark Tank Hall of Fame. Featured on Good Morning America, The Today Show, CNN, Forbes, and more, their story is a masterclass in brand-building, grit, and staying grounded through success.
