The Middleby Innovations Kitchens are the one place foodservice industry professionals can go to gain knowledge and insight into how foodservice will look in the future, regardless of the type of operation. Situated just outside of Dallas, the MIK includes more than 150 different foodservice equipment units organized in 15 different "cooking vignettes" spread throughout 40,000 square feet. To say it's an experience to visit the MIK is an understatement.
Recently, our team had the chance to travel to Dallas to visit the MIK, and here were some of our takeaways:
Let's start by talking about what it means to be connected to the Middleby family of brands.
Chef Shelby LeBleu, Chef and Account Manager: Being a part of the Middleby family really makes me feel heard and supported. Knowing that people care so much more about the business and equipment… they actually do care about you, your family. Friendships are made that will last a lifetime when you are a part of the Middleby family.
From all accounts, the MIK is so dynamic, it really makes you feel like you're part of something bigger, that you're part of the Middleby family. What does that mean to you?
Chef Howard Lewis, Chef and Account Manager: From the moment you walk into the MIK you realize this place is unique. Chefs are grilling, roasting, baking, and plating food at every station. Customers are engaged and learning, and eating. So much is happening all at the time. The action is intoxicating!
What about you, Rich? What do Middleby and the MIK represent to you?
Rich O'Brien, President and Managing Partner: That we can enter into rough waters economically, and know we have the Best brands on the planet in the best industry ever!
What was the one surprise you found in the MIK?
Rich: Robotics and what it will mean. The future is mindblowing.
What about you, chefs?
Chef Howard: The beverage equipment section is incredible. From Concordia super-automatic espresso machines to Duetsche craft brewing equipment, and advanced wireless liquor management systems from SkyFlo from L2F (among so many other brands), the MIK has it all.
Chef Shelby: The baking station was one area that I was impressed with. So many items go into a bakery -- mixers, sheeters, ballers, proofers, and ovens. When you get an opportunity to visit the MIK, every part of the MIK is about new cooking methods. Hard fuel cooking is one of the coolest cooking methods. Beech and Josper are the greatest!
How does the MIK compare to your own Chef's Playground at the Elevation test kitchen?
Chef Shelby: These are two completely different beasts. The MIK is like Disneyland for kids and Elevation is like Eliches! LOL Seriously though, we are much smaller with rotating equipment that is designed to help out local restaurateurs and local chains. We are much more catered to planned visits and the MIK is ready for walk-in business that is ready all the time!
Chef Howard: The MIK is the ultimate one-stop destination packed with equipment for every cuisine. Pizza is always popular, and the MIK has you covered with different processes for mixing, portioning, rolling, baking, and holding, everything you need to find the right equipment for your signature pie.
Rich: The MIK has areas of focus with fixed equipment like baking, beverage, speed cooking, pizza, etc. We are a mini version of that with three areas of focus, but switchable and constantly changing.
Can you tell the Elevation customers, or potential customers, what a MIK experience is all about? What if they want to experience something similar? Can they come to the Elevation Chef's Playground?
Rich: The MIK is a total immersion into Middleby and everything we do. The Elevation kitchen is a more focused test lab.
Chef Shelby: The MIK is an experience that is world-class. Elevation is a customized experience that will also create an experience that is unforgettable and addicting.
Chef Howard: The MIK is awe-inspiring the moment you step in the door. The sheer energy and action immediately draw you in. Being there opens-up possibilities and creative solutions that can’t be matched anywhere else. The beauty and mass of the place are unforgettable. Our Chef’s Playground in Denver is a true chef’s kitchen with the ability to plug and play equipment under 20’ of hood space. Schedule some time with us, we love it when our kitchen is busy!
