Hotel Bourré Bonne, Curio Collection by Hilton, a place-making new hotel that redefines contemporary luxury in downtown Louisville, has appointed Jason McCollum Executive Chef. A respected chef and restaurateur who has helmed renowned kitchens on both coasts and the former chef and co-owner of Louisville’s beloved Chik’n & Mi for 9 years, McCollum will lead the hotel’s culinary program with a fresh vision rooted in exceptional food, thoughtful hospitality and creating a dynamic gathering place that welcomes both travelers and the local community.
In his new role, McCollum will oversee Hotel Bourré Bonne’s culinary program, including Steakhouse Bourré Bonne, the hotel’s Wine Spectator Award-winning restaurant, and Rooftop Bourré Bonne, the indoor-outdoor lounge, pool and social space. Drawing on his experience at chef-driven restaurants and his own establishment, he will introduce a new culinary perspective that unifies the hotel’s dining venues with a shared sense of purpose, creativity and exceptional hospitality.
“We are thrilled to welcome Chef Jason to Hotel Bourré Bonne,” said Tony Shaw, General Manager at Hotel Bourré Bonne. “His passion for hospitality, extensive culinary experience, and strong connection to Louisville make him the ideal person to lead our food and beverage program. His creative approach and commitment to quality will elevate every dining experience across the hotel while helping establish Hotel Bourré Bonne as one of the city’s premier culinary destinations.”
Guests can look forward to new menu offerings such as Chicken Fried Sweetbreads, Lamb Tartare, and Clams Kentucky, alongside a world-class steak program featuring dry-aged cuts, Wagyu, American Angus, fresh seafood and other selections. Debuting under Chef McCollum’s direction, the refreshed culinary program reflects his commitment to thoughtful sourcing, elevated technique, and memorable dining experiences. Upstairs, McCollum has also introduced a new inviting new menu of bar bites to complement the expertly crafted cocktails and music at Rooftop Bourre Bonne, creating a must-visit venue for pre-dinner cocktails, post-dinner drinks and sun-drenched poolside gatherings.
“I’m excited to join Hotel Bourré Bonne following its exciting debut,” said Jason McCollum. “I’m looking forward to building a culinary program that reflects Louisville’s vibrant food culture while delivering experiences guests can’t find anywhere else. My goal is to create reasons for people to return, whether they’re celebrating a special occasion, stopping by for drinks on the rooftop, or enjoying an unforgettable meal.”
Originally from West Texas, McCollum discovered his passion for food and hospitality early in his culinary journey. After graduating from the Culinary Institute of America in Hyde Park, New York, he completed his externship in New York City before returning after graduation to launch his career. While living in Queens and Brooklyn, he honed his craft in Manhattan under acclaimed chefs David Chang and Paul Carmichael at Momofuku Má Pêche. He later expanded his culinary perspective through roles in California’s luxury hospitality scene before serving as Executive Chef at Seattle’s Eve Fremont.
In 2017, McCollum returned to Louisville with his wife, Aenith McCollum, to open Chik’n & Mi, the chef-driven restaurant that became one of the city’s most beloved dining destinations. Known for its scratch-made ramen and Asian-inspired fried chicken, the restaurant earned national recognition from Eater and Thrillist, which named it among the best fried chicken restaurants in America, while also receiving numerous local accolades throughout its nine-year run.
McCollum combines his bi-coastal experience with deep relationships throughout Louisville’s restaurant community to create a dynamic dining destination rooted in creativity, hospitality, and a strong sense of place.
