Robert A. Rhymes, Jr., is a professional chef and educational consultant based in Centralia, Illinois. Originally from Clarksdale, Mississippi, Robert is the son of Josephine Pradia Rhymes and the late Robert A. Rhymes, Sr.
Currently, Robert serves as the Executive Chef and Program Coordinator for the Culinary Arts Department at Kaskaskia College. Beyond academia, he owns and operates Spirals Gourmet Foods: Great Food with A Twist, a traveling personal chef and catering company. He also leads Robert Rhymes Consulting, focusing on enhancing parental involvement, student engagement, and professional development within educational settings. Robert is a proud graduate of Jackson State University and The Cooking & Hospitality Institute of Chicago.
Robert's culinary journey is diverse and culturally rich. He has traveled extensively, studying authentic cooking techniques in over 23 countries, including Indonesia, Thailand, Morocco, France, Portugal, Turkey, South Africa, The Maldives, Fiji, Egypt and Italy. His professional experience includes positions at renowned establishments such as the Ritz Carlton and Café Intermezzo in Atlanta, Georgia. Robert's signature cooking style is best described as a blend of his Southern Creole roots with a myriad of international flavors creating unique, memorable culinary experiences for diners.
We’d love to hear from you! Whether you have questions about the reunion, need more details, or just want to connect, reach out to us today. Let’s keep the tradition alive together!