Ballast Hospitality

Ballast Hospitality is a modern and innovative concept development and hospitality management group specializing in the food and beverage industry. Founded in 2015 by managing partners Clint and Kristen Gaskins in Charleston, South Carolina, the company has rapidly expanded its footprint.

It operates multiple establishments in both the U.S. Virgin Islands and the United States, focusing on unique dining experiences and quality service.

Flagship Concept

The company's flagship concept, The Longboard, opened on May 1, 2015, in Cruz Bay, St. John, USVI. This fast-casual Caribbean-inspired coastal kitchen and bar offers light and healthy fare.

The menu highlights fresh, locally sourced ingredients with a strong emphasis on seafood. Its beverage program features house-crafted cocktails, beers, wines, and specialty drinks, including their renowned Frozen Painkiller.

Expansion and Additional Locations

In January 2020, Ballast Hospitality expanded to St. Thomas, USVI, with the opening of The Easterly in Red Hook. This waterfront dining oasis offers an ocean-focused menu featuring ceviches, crudos, octopus, shellfish, lobster, and whole grilled fish.

The beverage program includes innovative craft cocktails, Caribbean favorites, and an extensive list of craft beers and wines.

The company's first U.S. mainland location, The Longboard - Sullivan's Island, opened in 2021. This location mirrors the original St. John concept with innovative and refined island fare featuring coastal flavors, fresh seafood, and Lowcountry farms and fishermen.

The menu includes a raw bar program with oysters, fresh catch ceviche, aguachile, poke, shareable bar snacks, and refined small plates. The bar serves tropical craft cocktails made from fresh-squeezed juices and house-made syrups, shrubs, and liqueurs, along with local kombucha and an extensive wine list.

Recent Developments

In May 2025, Ballast Hospitality rebranded The Longboard in St. Thomas, USVI, improving its beachfront dining experience. Enhancements included operational, culinary, and beverage program upgrades to align with company standards.

Services Offered

Beyond restaurant operations, Ballast Hospitality provides a comprehensive range of fee-based management and consulting services in food and beverage and hospitality industries, including:

• Inventory and cost management
• Financial reporting and bookkeeping
• Food and beverage management and human resources
• Talent management and payroll
• Product and menu development
• Quality, loss, and cost reviews and management
• Vendor contracts, debt negotiations, and insurance advisement
• Conceptual development and restaurant design
• Systems implementation and service review
• Acquisition and lease negotiations

Core Values

Ballast Hospitality's core values emphasize integrity, creativity, ongoing staff training and development, legendary service, and a fun and professional workplace environment. The company is committed to exceptional customer service and creating memorable experiences for guests.

Locations

The company maintains its headquarters in Charleston, South Carolina. Its establishments are located in:

• Charleston, SC, USA
• Sullivan's Island, SC
• St. John, U.S. Virgin Islands
• St. Thomas, U.S. Virgin Islands