Guillermo Rodriguez: World-class Traditional Spanish Rice Chef
Guillermo Rodríguez is a Spanish chef with more than nine years of experience in professional kitchens. Raised in Spain, his connection to food began at an early age.
At just 11 years old, he discovered his love for the kitchen while watching his mother and grandmother cook at home.
Those moments seeing how meals were prepared with patience, care, and love for family left a lasting impression and sparked a passion that would shape his future. From that point on, Guillermo knew he wanted to become a professional chef.
He went on to build his culinary foundation in Spain, working in professional kitchens where he developed the discipline, technique, and deep respect for ingredients that define Spanish cooking.
After moving to the United States to join his wife, who was already living in Birmingham, Alabama, Guillermo began building a new chapter of his life. As they settled into the community, the two of them often talked about the food and traditions Guillermo had grown up with in Spain. That is when the idea began to take shape sharing a small piece of those flavors and traditions with Birmingham.
Around the same time, Guillermo joined the team of a Birmingham restaurant recognized with a Bib Gourmand by the Michelin Guide, an experience that helped him continue growing as a chef while strengthening his dedication to quality and craft.
The inspiration behind Cigala’s comes from Guillermo’s roots and his deep love for Spanish cuisine. One dish that has always been especially meaningful to him is Paella, a dish that in Spain represents more than food it represents tradition, community, and gathering around the pan to share a meal together.
Through Cigala’s, Guillermo hopes to bring that same spirit to Birmingham by sharing authentic flavors, traditional technique, and a small piece of the culture he grew up with.
Cigala's Spanish Rices, is an authentic Spanish Rice Delivery and Catering service created by Chef Guillermo Rodriguez and his wife, Gloria Garcia, in Birmingham, Alabama. Our mission is to showcase the authentic and creative art of making Paella, while always respecting traditional ingredients and a commitment to local, seasonal produce.
Our main focus is cooking Paellas in a "Showcooking" format, allowing guests to experience the process firsthand. We also offer delivery and catering services for events, bringing the flavors of Paella to any occasion.
Our Vision & Mission:
Bringing real Spanish rice to locals who enjoy them.