(251) 923 2950

21196 East Beach Blvd.
Gulf Shores, AL 36542

© 2024 FOODCRAFT AT GULF STATE PARK.

ALL RIGHTS RESERVED.

EXECUTIVE CHEF
JAMES BALSTER

The Connecticut native comes to Gulf Shores from Biloxi, Mississippi where he honed his skills at the Beau Rivage Casino, an MGM International Resort. Classically trained at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, Balster also learned the art of cooking as a Chef at the renowned Ritz Carlton, Reynolds Plantation and Circa at DuPont, in Washington D.C.

Our passion for food is apparent in every dish we serve. We’re proud to offer a fun, filling, family-oriented dining experience showcasing coastal favorites utilizing the finest seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

James’ pursuit of his culinary career stems from spending time with family. “The first experience I remember about cooking was on my grandparent’s farm in Iowa,” says Balster. "Cooking was always a family event growing up. All family gatherings seemed to end up in the kitchen or at the table, and always involving a large meal.
Being a part of the creation of these amazing times brought me closer to my family, and I realized that it made unforgettable memories by making people happy.”

Our passion for food is apparent in every dish we serve. We’re proud to offer a fun, filling, family-oriented dining experience showcasing extraordinary cuisine utilizing the finest seasonal and locally sourced ingredients.

EXECUTIVE CHEF
JAMES BALSTER

The Connecticut native comes to Gulf Shores from Biloxi, Mississippi where he honed his skills at the Beau Rivage Casino, an MGM International Resort. Classically trained at the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, Balster also learned the art of cooking as a Chef at the renowned Ritz Carlton, Reynolds Plantation and Circa at DuPont, in Washington D.C.

James’ pursuit of his culinary career stems from spending time with family. “The first experience I remember about cooking was on my grandparent’s farm in Iowa,” says Balster. Cooking was always a family event growing up. All family gatherings seemed to end up in the kitchen or at the table, and always involving a large meal.

Being a part of the creation of these amazing times brought me closer to my family, and I realized that it made unforgettable memories by making people happy.” James is still in pursuit of creating memories for his guests by making them happy.