Ruben Garcia Castilla
Biography
Rubén García always believed that creativity and possibilities is a way of life. This philosophy has guided his journey through celebrated kitchens, travels around the globe and being embraced by Washington DC. It has now led him to the creation of UNFOLD Hospitality with his long-time colleague and best friend, Richie Brandenburg.
As Creative Operating Officer and Founder, he inspires new chefs and lead concept development with restauranteurs to help realize their vision and potential. Rubén continues to draw on various cultures and experiences to develop authentic menus with operational efficiency. He is lending his talents to create the next generation of concepts from full service to fast casual.
Before launching this current venture, he began his career in the United Stated in 2004 with ThinkFoodGroup by José Andrés. Rubén oversaw and provided the creative direction to the twice 2-star Michelin restaurant, minibar and was Andrés’ right hand as the he expanded restaurants nationally, and launched many creative projects including television programming, cookbooks and appearances. He brings to UNFOLD his years of leadership in menu development, quality control, special events and promotions.
Rubén’s roots into the culinary world runs deep into the kitchens of the finest Spanish chefs. He began in then, 1-star Michelin star avant-garde kitchen of Jean Luc Figueras in Barcelona. Martín Berasategui was his next mentor that honed his discipline by working in a 3-star Michelin restaurant. Rubén then enhanced his knowledge on innovative techniques, imaginative presentations, and high-quality products by working alongside world-renowned chef Ferran Adrià at el bulli. During his five years at this 3-star Michelin restaurant, Rubén worked every station, including serving as pastry chef for three years. He would be reunited with his mentors Ferran and Albert Adrià on their first foray into the United States, a partnership with José Andrés to open Mercado Little Spain in New York City.
While not seeking accolades and recognition for his contributions, Rubén has appeared twice on Iron Chef as victor. He suggests that the original kitchen that inspired him was that of his mother, aunt, and grandmother. Rubén’s first culinary exploration began by executing a recipe by Cookie Monster in a children’s magazine. Upon discovering that the recipe was poorly constructed, he was compelled to experiment and retool it until perfect brownies were produced; he was 6 years old.
UNFOLD Hospitality is the brainchild of Rubén and Richie that will launch the creation, partnership, and mentorship he seeks with the restaurant industry. It is the platform by which he will unleash creative dishes, solutions and vision to enhance the culinary world.