Popular Houston Meal-Prep Service Resurfaces Years After Bankruptcy and Sudden Disappearance

MORE THAN FIFTEEN years ago, Houstonian Mario Mendias founded a healthy prepared-meals service called My Fit Foods, which soon became a household name among busy young professionals and fitness gurus on-the-go.

But in 2017, led by then-new CEO David Goronkin — who took over the company for a brief stint following some legal trouble on Mendias’ end — it abruptly shut down its 50 locations across five states. The sudden bankruptcy and closure left few options for affordable premade and nutritious meals — and left Mendias dismayed.

Fast forward to 2019, and Mendias purchased the name trademark from the bankruptcy courts and began working on relaunching his brand, an effort that culminates in the opening of six new brick-and-mortar locations across the country — including one in Houston, where it all started. You may have spotted it driving into town on 59.

“I am dedicated to making sure My Fit Foods runs as well as she can for all of us,” he said in a statement. “Failure is never final. When you have a hard time in life, your fate is in your hands. Take ownership, learn, grow and get on with it.”

Meals and snacks of the gluten-free, low-carb and low-GI variety are available for pickup, delivery or shipping; the vacuum-sealed meals last 14 days in the fridge. Those buying in bulk might be interested in a subscription-based service that earns 20 percent off on all purchases. Additionally, the My Fit Life program offers consultations with registered dietitians and nutritionists.

Mendias says he plans on expanding the brand to “every major city by 2025,” and will also grow his charitable initiative: For every four meals purchased, one is donated to a shelter or nonprofit that provides resources for the underserved.