About Us

Garden Spot Deli was founded by Donald Polise in 1982 and opened in its current location at 9415 Burnet Road in Austin, Texas. Originally, Garden Spot was quite different from what it is today, as it offered strictly deli fare and ice cream. Donald built a loyal following for Garden Spot and successfully ran the company for 14 years, until serious health issues forced him to offer the Company for sale.

Mark and Debra Ellsworth had known Donald for several years. Despite their lack of restaurant experience, they purchased the company from Donald shortly thereafter his decision to sell. Debra used her creativity and experience with event planning to add a catering component to the mix and developed a loyal catering following.

In April, 2001, Aster Rouse joined Garden Spot as the “Queen of Sandwich” after a stint at the Dell Computer commissary. Aster also created many of the home baked dessert items still on the menu today.

A month later, Richard Ellis joined Garden Spot as the catering chef. Coincidentally, Richard worked with Aster at Dell after stints with Chili’s and Marriott Corporation. Richard has created many of the delicious dishes that we feature on our catering menu.

Stewart Lane joined Garden Spot in 2010 after working as sous chef at Riverplace Country Club and Dave and Busters. His creativity, broad knowledge, and incredible work ethic have proven invaluable in the continued growth and development of Garden Spot.

Our newest team member, Jackie Yandle, joined GSC&C in 2011 after relocating to Austin from Oklahoma in 2008. Jackie holds an A.A.S. Degree in Foodservice Management-Culinary Arts from Oklahoma State University-Okmulgee and was employed in food service with St. David’s Round Rock Medical Center for 3 years prior to joining Garden Spot. Welcome, Jackie!

Rich Pogrund and Jerry Gatlin purchased Garden Spot Café and Catering from the Ellsworth’s in 2010. We respect Garden Spot’s proud history, and are committed to the further development of the Company. Our mission is to provide great food, utilizing the freshest and finest ingredients available, and to deliver and serve that great food professionally and promptly to you, our valued client.