Register for your Test Drive today.
Your local manufacturer’s rep is ready to hand you the keys to take the most innovative food and beverage equipment for a spin in their test kitchen. By signing up for a Middleby Test Drive, you will see:
- Personalized solutions for your everyday foodservice challenges
- Equipment designed to reduce labor demands and increase efficiency
- The country’s best rep chefs doing what they love most, educating people like you
The Chefs
GABRIEL SAMANO
Gabriel is a highly skilled, 20-year culinary professional who has honed his craft in a variety of settings throughout California & Texas. He has worked in fine dining establishments, provided high-end catering services to VIP clients, served thousands daily in the B&I sector and most recently served as the Head of Culinary for a global food tech startup based in Silicon Valley where he assisted with creating algorithms for your home kitchen’s smart appliances.
Gabriel’s number one priority and commitment is building strong relationships with his team and customers. Gabriel’s customer-centric approach ensures that each individual receives personalized attention and top-notch service. Gabriel’s extensive culinary background, diverse business skill set, and emphasis on building strong relationships make him a valuable asset to any team in the food industry.
JAMES PATE
James Pate is a highly experienced culinary professional with almost 30 years of experience in food and beverage, including managing food operations in hotels and casinos. Originally from Chicago, he has made Las Vegas his home for the past four decades.
James is a graduate of the University of Nevada, Las Vegas, where he earned an associate degree in Culinary Hospitality. He is a distinguished member of the culinary community, having received several awards and accolades from the American Culinary Federation, including the prestigious Chef of the Year award in 2020. He has also been recognized by the City of Las Vegas for his exceptional contributions to the culinary industry.
In May 2022, James joined the outside sales and culinary team at Preferred Marketing Group, where he provides support to consultants, dealers, and end-users in the food industry. With his extensive experience and expertise, James is a valuable asset to the team, and his commitment to providing top-notch service ensures that his clients receive the very best in culinary support.
ABRAHAM F. VAN BEEK
Abe has over 25+ years of culinary experience, having worked for companies such as Gelson’s Markets, Dine Brands (IHOP, Applebee’s), Real Mex Restaurants (el Torito, Chevy’s, Acapulco), Studio at the Montage Resort in Laguna Beach, and Aqua at the St. Regis Resort in Dana Point, as well as a myriad of different restaurants from small “Mom and Pops” to larger restaurant chains; and several major food manufacturers..
Abe and his wife, of 15 years,Kelly have two boys; Abraham (13), Oliver (11) and their daughter Braelyn (10). His hobbies include soccer, surfing, golf, organic gardening, traveling, and creating awareness with the local co-op and community farmers to increase production and sales.
“Be Honest with your Words, and Honest with your Work”.
