Our Team
Owner & Chef, Samuel Cots
Born and raised in Barcelona, Spain, Samuel developed a deep-rooted passion for food at an early age, inspired by the region’s rich culinary traditions. In 2014, he formally pursued his calling at the prestigious Hofmann Culinary School of Barcelona, a Michelin-recognized institution known for producing world-class chefs. There, he trained under acclaimed chefs and honed his skills in classical and contemporary Spanish cuisine.
After graduating, Samuel gained invaluable experience working in locally beloved establishments across Barcelona, including Follia and L’Olivera, where he refined his technique and developed a strong foundation in high-volume service. In 2016, he moved with his family to California, bringing his Spanish heritage and culinary training to the West Coast.
For the next eight years, Samuel worked with Evolution Hospitality, one of the nation’s leading hospitality management companies. He served as Executive Chef and later as Chef & Beverage Director where he led culinary teams, orchestrated large-scale catering operations, and oversaw restaurant management. His leadership was marked by innovation, consistency, and a commitment to quality—earning him a reputation for excellence in both fine dining and event-driven service.
In 2023, Samuel launched his own restaurant concept and relocated to Washington State, drawn by the charm and potential of historic downtown Centralia. His goal: to share the warmth, flavor, and authenticity of Spanish cuisine with the Pacific Northwest. As both restaurateur and executive chef, he brings his full vision to life—combining traditional tapas, regional wines, and a vibrant community experience rooted in hospitality.
Join Samuel as he crafts unforgettable dining experiences in the heart of Lewis County, bridging Spanish heritage with Northwest charm along the Seattle-Portland corridor.
Owner, Irene Trevino
Originally from Atascadero, California, Irene brings a global perspective to her work, having spent years traveling and serving as an educator and program director across Europe, Africa, Asia, and North America. She graduated from the University of California, San Diego with a BA in Human Development and a BA in International Studies—an academic foundation that reflects her lifelong commitment to cross-cultural understanding and community empowerment.
Irene currently serves as the Director of Operations at Aztec Foreign Labor, Inc., where she helps scale the company’s growth and oversees case management with a focus on integrity and impact.
While her husband Sam leads the family business on the front lines, Irene is the quiet force behind the scenes—supporting operations, marketing, social media, and financial management. She is an active supporter of the Centralia Downtown Association and is passionate about community engagement and city development.
Irene is deeply committed to the local immigrant and Hispanic communities, continuously advocating for language access, education, and inclusion. Her belief in the power of learning and connection continues to shape both her professional path and her role within the Ox Centralia vision.
If you're a local family or business interested in how Ox Centralia can support you, Irene would love to get in touch!