Passion is not taught; it comes from within. Chef Justin Hayes has harnessed this gift and applies that attitude to every aspect of his culinary career. With no allegiance to a particular style of cooking, his attention is captivated as long as it is properly sourced, cooked with purpose, balance, finesse, and respect. Justin has honed his culinary skill and passion while garnering a reputation for combining acutely seasonal items with elegantly innovative techniques. This skill set was honed while working with American Academy award winning Chef Heinz Sowinski, after which Justin went to study under the guidance of Master Chef Marcel Biro. Justin continued to grow and was presented with the opportunity to further his education under Chef Biro’s mentor in Germany, Master Chef Robert Rauh. He since has returned to Augusta to share his skills and passion as partner and Executive Chef of Cork & Flame as he remains dedicated to his trade while providing guests with innovative creations.

Originally from Shelbyville, Illinois, wine aficionado Roger Strohl graduated from Millikin University with a degree in Biology-Medical Technology. After graduating, Strohl worked in pharmaceutical sales, but his passion for fine wine continued to grow. As a pharmaceutical representative, traveling across the country was a large part of the job. During his extensive travels, he would make a point to stop in different wine stores to speak with the owners and bring back home the best wines each had to offer. After Strohl relocated to the Augusta, Georgia area in 1999, he decided it was time for a change. In 2004, the Vineyard Wine Market at Evans was born and quickly earned a reputation as the CSRA’s premier wine shop. Strohl and Hayes joined forces in 2018 to open Cork and Flame, and the wine market continues to offer the finest selections in the area as it did as Vineyard Wine Market just under a new name.