Texas restaurant owners featured on ‘Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives’ found dead after suspected murder-suicide

Houston police are investigating the deaths of Matthew and Thy Mitchell, along with their two young children, as a suspected murder-suicide after their bodies were discovered in their River Oaks home on May 4. Authorities believe Matthew Mitchell shot his family before turning the gun on himself, though the investigation remains ongoing. The Mitchells were prominent figures in Houston’s dining scene, owning Traveler’s Table and Traveler’s Cart, two well-known restaurants in The Montrose District. Their success included an appearance on Food Network’s *Diners, Drive-Ins and Dives* in 2021, and Thy Mitchell had previously worked in the restaurant industry as a first-generation Vietnamese American. A former chef at Traveler’s Table, Stanton Bundy, shared his shock over the tragedy, describing Matthew as a ‘great friend’ and questioning his faith after the incident. Outside the Mitchell residence, neighbors left teddy bears and a note expressing condolences. Despite the tragedy, both restaurants announced they would remain open, with staff continuing to serve patrons. In a statement, the team thanked loyal employees for their support and urged respect for their privacy as they navigate the loss. Matthew Mitchell had previously worked in journalism and the pharmaceutical industry before entering hospitality, while Thy Mitchell had deep roots in Houston’s culinary world. The couple also co-founded a fashion brand together, expanding their business ventures beyond dining.