Muscle Maker Grill on the Move
As a sports nutritionist, I’ve spent years traveling, and I have to be honest, back in my days with MET-Rx, trips to New Jersey were something I genuinely looked forward to. The main reason was the chance to eat at Muscle Maker Grill.
It was one of the first places that truly understood the needs of people serious about fitness and nutrition. It was more than food, it was a community hub for people who lived the lifestyle.
The company has gone through some massive changes since then, and while there are fewer locations, its founding mission to provide high-quality, protein-packed meals as an alternative to typical fast food is as important as ever.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not meant to treat or diagnose any condition. It is recommended that you speak with your doctor before starting any exercise program, changing your daily nutrition, or adding any supplements to your regimen.
Table of contents
Key Takeaways
- Muscle Maker Grill was founded in 1995 by Rod Silva in Colonia, New Jersey, to provide healthy, high-protein meals for fitness enthusiasts.
- The parent company, Muscle Maker, Inc., went public in 2020 and later acquired the poke brand Pokemoto in 2021.
- In 2023, the parent company rebranded to Sadot Group Inc. to focus on its successful global agri-food supply business.
- The menu is known for macro-friendly bowls, wraps, and salads, with specific cooking methods like steaming vegetables and using no butter or oils.
The Beginning of Muscle Maker Grill
The story started with a man named Rod Silva. Deeply involved in fitness and bodybuilding, Rod was frustrated by the lack of restaurant options that supported his lifestyle. He grew tired of having to give special instructions for every single meal he ordered out.
He identified a clear gap in the market for a place where health-conscious people could get delicious food prepared the way a bodybuilder or fitness enthusiast would want it.
In 1995, Rod opened the very first Muscle Maker Grill in Colonia, New Jersey. He developed a diverse menu that could appeal to anyone, offering grass-fed beef, vegetarian options, gluten-free dishes, and low-carb meals. For a nutritionist like myself, it was exactly what the market needed.
From my personal experience traveling with MET-Rx, I can tell you I spent hundreds of dollars at their locations over the years. The food was fantastic, but the environment was even better. You were surrounded by people who shared your goals, making it easy to start a conversation. It was a true win-win, as people would see my company apparel and ask questions, often leading them to try a MET-Rx protein shake from the cooler.
A Story of Growth and Change
When Rod Silva began franchising the concept in 2007, the business truly took off. The model was a hit, and new locations started appearing. While some competitors tried to copy the formula, none captured the same magic. In my opinion, there has only ever been one true Muscle Maker Grill.
The company’s structure went through significant evolution. In 2015, the chain was acquired by an affiliate of American Restaurant Holdings Inc., which aimed to expand the brand’s footprint even further. This led to the company, then named Muscle Maker, Inc., completing its Initial Public Offering (IPO) in February 2020 and trading on the Nasdaq under the ticker GRIL.
A major strategic shift occurred in late 2022 when the company launched Sadot LLC, a subsidiary focused on the global agri-food supply chain. This new venture proved incredibly successful, generating over $500 million in revenue by mid-2023.
This success led to a full corporate rebranding. In July 2023, the parent company officially changed its name to Sadot Group Inc. (SDOT) to reflect its new primary focus. As part of this transition, Sadot Group announced its intent in 2025 to sell both Muscle Maker Grill and Pokemoto, a Hawaiian poke brand it had acquired in 2021, to fully concentrate on its agri-food business.
The Delicious Menu
Even with the corporate changes, the food at the remaining Muscle Maker Grill locations holds true to the original vision. The menu is extensive and designed for people who track their macros. You can start with appetizers like edamame or turkey chili before moving on to the main courses.
The menu offers something for every goal, whether you’re bulking, cutting, or maintaining.
| Menu Item | Calories (Approx.) | Protein (g) | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Godfather Bowl | 320 | 42g | A low-carb, high-protein meal perfect for cutting phases or a post-workout recovery. |
| Arizona Bowl | 340 | 31g | A balanced meal with protein and complex carbs from brown rice, ideal for sustained energy. |
| XXL Turkey Burger Wrap | 691 | N/A | A higher-calorie, protein-packed option designed for those in a bulking phase. |
| MMG Signature Wrap | 550 | 32g | A classic, balanced choice for a satisfying and macro-friendly lunch. |
Beyond the main dishes, they offer sides like steamed broccoli, sweet potato fries, and grass-fed steak. You can also grab a freshly made protein shake, like the popular Chocolate Peanut Butter flavor, or choose from a cooler stocked with drinks from brands like Muscle Milk and Isopure.
My personal routine was legendary among my colleagues. I’d start with edamame and their incredible turkey meatballs. For the main course, I’d rotate between the Rocky wrap, the turkey chili bowl, or the Arizona bowl. On my way out, I’d grab a chocolate peanut butter protein shake for the road. It was the perfect setup for a fitness professional on the move.
What’s So Special About MMG?
For me, the magic of Muscle Maker Grill is the combination of great food, a supportive community, and thoughtful preparation. Everyone in the restaurant, from the staff to the customers, speaks your language. They understand the fitness lifestyle.
The meals are made to order with incredible flavor. Here are a few things that set them apart:
- Smart Cooking Techniques: You don’t have to ask them to “hold the butter.” They don’t use butters or oils in their cooking process and steam all their vegetables, which is a huge benefit for anyone tracking their fat intake.
- Customization Is Standard: You can easily substitute items in your meals to fit your specific dietary needs without any hassle.
- Convenient Meal Plans: Their meal plan service is a game-changer for busy people. You can order customized, pre-prepped meals online and pick them up. This makes sticking to a nutrition plan incredibly simple. A 2015 review noted that prices could be as low as $7 per meal depending on the plan. Current pricing for a 15-meal plan is around $120, which breaks down to about $8 per meal.
Even though there are fewer locations today, I still believe in the concept. If you find yourself near a Muscle Maker Grill, I highly recommend stopping in. I guarantee you’ll appreciate a meal prepared with your health and fitness goals in mind.
FAQs About Muscle Maker Grill
Is Muscle Maker Grill still in business?
Yes, Muscle Maker Grill is still in business, but with a smaller footprint. The company has gone through significant corporate changes, and many locations have closed or been rebranded. You can find their current locations on the company website.
Did Muscle Maker Grill rebrand?
The restaurant brand itself did not rebrand, but its parent company did. In July 2023, Muscle Maker, Inc. changed its corporate name to Sadot Group Inc. to better reflect its primary business in the global agri-food supply chain.
Who owns Muscle Maker Grill?
As of late 2025, parent company Sadot Group Inc. announced it had signed a letter of intent to sell the Muscle Maker Grill and Pokemoto restaurant brands for $4.25 million. This move was part of its strategy to fully divest from the restaurant business.
Does Muscle Maker Grill offer meal plans?
Yes, one of the key services offered at participating locations is a meal plan program. Customers can order meals in bulk, such as 5, 10, 15, or 20 meals at a time, for pickup or delivery.
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