About Us

Our Story:

What began as small pop-ups throughout New Orleans in 2016 evolved into something far greater than a restaurant. I-tal Garden became a beloved brick-and-mortar destination , a gathering place, a safe space, and a community hub rooted in conscious living and vibrant plant-based cuisine. For nearly a decade, we served over 500,000 meals in total grounded in culture, care and intention. And we are forever grateful for that! Today, that journey continues in a new and focused chapter:

Welcome to I-tal Meal Prep

I-tal Meal Prep was created to meet the evolving needs of our community , busy professionals, families, wellness seekers, and anyone desiring clean, nourishing food without compromise. We provide chef-crafted, 100% plant-based meals prepared with:

• Organic, responsibly sourced ingredients

• No fried foods

• No added sugars

• No artificial additives

• 100% compostable packaging

• Cultural integrity and culinary excellence

Our meals are designed to support vibrant energy, mental clarity, digestive health and sustainable living. This is not fast food. This is food with purpose.

What Makes Us Different:

We are not a faceless meal prep company. We are a New Orleans rooted, family-owned business with nearly a decade of culinary service in our city. Every recipe is crafted in-house. Every menu item is thoughtfully curated. Every ingredient is selected with care.

We believe:

• Food is medicine.
• Food is culture.
• Food is daily self-respect.
• Our approach blends Creole heritage, plant-based innovation and clean nutrition, creating meals that are soulful, satisfying, and aligned with long-term wellness.

Who We Serve:

I-tal Meal Prep is for:

• Busy professionals who want clean meals without sacrificing flavor

• Families transitioning toward plant-based living

• Wellness-focused individuals seeking structure and consistency

• Athletes and active individuals needing balanced nutrition

• Anyone ready to simplify their week with intentional nourishment

If you value health, sustainability, culture ; you belong here!

Our Commitment to Sustainability

Our mission extends beyond the plate.

We prioritize:

• Compostable and eco-friendly packaging

• Reduced food waste systems

• Responsible sourcing

• Community economic support

We believe that how food is prepared and packaged matters just as much as how it tastes.

Meet the Founders:

Chef Ra (Joseph Robinson)

Founder & Executive Chef

Chef Ra began serving food at community events in 2016 with a vision to redefine how New Orleans experiences plant-based cuisine. His culinary style blends ancestral inspiration with modern wellness principles — delivering bold flavors without compromising nutritional integrity. For him, cooking is not simply technique — it is legacy work.

Regina Robinson

Co-Founder & Operations Director

Regina brings structure, strategy, and vision to the brand’s growth. From systems and sustainability to community engagement and brand direction, she ensures that I-tal continues to evolve while remaining rooted in its mission.

Together, their work is guided by faith, family, and long-term vision.

Why We Pivoted

After nearly ten years operating as a full-service restaurant, we chose to transition toward a focused meal prep model.

Why?

Because this format allows us to:

• Serve more people consistently

• Maintain the highest quality standards

• Reduce overhead waste

• Deepen our impact

• Prioritize sustainability

• Align with our long-term vision

This evolution allows us to go deeper — not just wider.

Our Promise

When you order from I-tal Meal Prep, you can expect:

• Freshly prepared weekly meals

• Balanced portions

• Transparent ingredients

• Clean cooking methods

• Cultural authenticity

• Integrity in every detail

We are committed to nourishing the body, sharpening the mind, and honoring the culture that raised us.

Join the Movement:

I-tal Meal Prep is more than convenience.

It is a commitment to living intentionally.

It is a declaration that your health matters.

That your time matters.

That your culture matters.

This is not just business.

This is legacy.

And this next chapter is only the beginning.