Grounded. Inviting. Unapologetically Local.

Welcome to YAVA Kitchen and Brewery — a neighborhood gathering place in the heart of Cumming, Georgia where food and beer are crafted with purpose. We're not your typical brewery with bar food — we’re a kitchen-first experience, rooted in bold flavors, wood-fired cooking, and small-batch brews designed to complement every bite.

We believe in quality over pretension, warmth over polish, and connection over transactions. Whether you're here for a casual meal, a shared story, or a cold pour by the firepit, you’re part of what makes YAVA special.

JOHN P MACY

John has been a key part of YAVA since the early days, helping shape both the guest experience and day-to-day operations. With a strong presence on the floor and a hands-on approach to service, he focuses on building consistency, supporting the team, and making sure every guest feels taken care of.

As YAVA continues to grow, John is leading the next phase with an emphasis on strong systems, steady execution, and a welcoming, neighborhood-driven experience.

General Manager

ALEX CIABURI

Head Brewer

Alex Ciaburri is a seasoned Atlanta-area brewer with head brewer experience at Six Bridges Brewing, Cultivation Brewery, and most recently From the Earth Brewing Company. Known for his focus on balance, consistency, and quality, Alex has led brewing operations across a wide range of styles while building programs rooted in strong fundamentals. At YAVA, he brings a thoughtful, food-friendly approach to brewing—crafting beers designed to be enjoyed often and paired seamlessly with the kitchen.

KEVIN MAXEY

Kevin Maxey is a seasoned chef and restaurateur with nearly three decades of experience in the culinary world, including leadership roles with Ford Fry’s Rocket Farms Restaurants and renowned kitchens like Gramercy Tavern and Craft in New York. He is the chef-owner of Pendolino in Sandy Springs, an Italian-inspired neighborhood restaurant where his thoughtful approach to rustic, ingredient-driven cooking shines. As a Culinary Consultant with Blue Orbiting, Kevin lent his expertise to YAVA’s opening menu and culinary direction, helping shape a thoughtful and community-focused food experience.

Culinary Consultant

JOE ALESSANDRONi

Cocktail Program Consultant

Joe Alessandroni is a hospitality and beverage professional specializing in craft cocktail development and bar operations. As part of Blue Orbit Hospitality Consulting, he works with restaurants to build cocktail programs covering menu development, spirits strategy, and team execution. He has created award-winning cocktail programs from San Francisco to Singapore, bringing a global, operator-minded approach that balances creativity with consistency. At YAVA, Joe is shaping a cocktail program that complements our food-forward menu and house-brewed beer while remaining approachable and community-driven.