Hilton Welcomes Chris Melder with Over Two Decades of Culinary Experience across Southern United States Hospitality Industry as the New Executive Chef for it’s Louisiana Property in Shreveport

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Subhankar Chakraborty

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July 22, 2026 3:15 PM

Hilton Shreveport has announced the appointment of Chris Melder as the property’s new Executive Chef, marking a significant addition to its hospitality team through the arrival of a culinary professional with more than 25 years of experience across kitchens throughout the Southern United States. The appointment has been positioned as part of Hilton Shreveport’s continued focus on delivering dining experiences influenced by regional flavours and Louisiana’s rich culinary identity.

With extensive experience in Southern cuisine, Chris Melder has been recognised for his ability to combine traditional Creole and Cajun cooking techniques with modern culinary approaches. His background reflects a deep connection with Louisiana’s food culture, where classic methods and contemporary influences have been brought together while maintaining the bold and comforting flavours associated with the region.

The new leadership role at Hilton Shreveport has been taken up following Melder’s previous position as Executive Chef at The Library on Fern and Chianti in Shreveport. His career journey across Louisiana kitchens has been shaped by years of experience working with established chefs and developing expertise in regional culinary traditions.

Chris Melder Brings Louisiana Culinary Heritage to Hilton Shreveport Dining Operations

The appointment of Chris Melder as Executive Chef has highlighted the importance of regional culinary expertise within the hospitality sector. At Hilton Shreveport, his experience with Louisiana’s distinctive food traditions is expected to support the creation of menus that reflect the character and heritage of the destination.

Throughout his professional journey, Melder has developed a culinary style centred around Creole and Cajun influences while incorporating modern techniques. His approach has been built around preserving the identity of traditional Southern flavours while adapting them through contemporary culinary practices.

Before joining Hilton Shreveport, Melder served as Executive Chef at The Library on Fern and Chianti in Shreveport, where his leadership was focused on culinary operations and guest dining experiences. Earlier stages of his career included working with renowned chefs across Louisiana, including opportunities in both Shreveport and New Orleans.

The experience gained across these locations has provided Melder with a strong understanding of Louisiana’s diverse culinary landscape. Through his new position, this knowledge is being brought into Hilton Shreveport’s hospitality environment, where regional inspiration remains central to the dining concept.

Hilton Shreveport Expands Regional Hospitality Vision Through Culinary Leadership

The hospitality industry continues to place strong emphasis on authentic dining experiences, and the appointment of an experienced regional chef reflects this growing focus. Hilton Shreveport’s decision to welcome Chris Melder into the Executive Chef role has reinforced the property’s connection with Louisiana’s culinary traditions.

In his new capacity, Melder is expected to focus on developing regionally inspired menus that celebrate Louisiana’s culinary heritage. The role has been designed around enhancing the dining experience offered at the property while highlighting the distinctive flavours and techniques that define Southern cuisine.

Hilton Shreveport forms part of Hilton Hotels & Resorts, a brand founded in 1919 as the flagship brand of Hilton Worldwide. The company has continued to build its global hospitality presence by developing services and experiences designed to meet the expectations of travellers across international markets.

Hilton Hotels & Resorts operates more than 550 hotels across six continents and continues to position itself as a global hospitality leader. The brand has stated that its team members remain focused on creating experiences where guests feel cared for, valued and respected.

Culinary Expertise and Southern Flavours Shape Future Dining Experiences

The arrival of Chris Melder at Hilton Shreveport represents a continuation of the property’s commitment to hospitality excellence through experienced culinary leadership. His more than two decades of professional experience across Southern kitchens provides a foundation built on regional knowledge, traditional techniques and contemporary culinary practices.

Through his work with Creole and Cajun flavours, Melder brings a specialised understanding of Louisiana cuisine to Hilton Shreveport. His culinary background reflects the traditions of the region while maintaining a modern approach to menu development and guest experiences.

The Executive Chef appointment places regional cuisine at the centre of Hilton Shreveport’s dining direction. By combining local culinary heritage with professional expertise, the property’s hospitality offering continues to be connected with the distinctive identity of Louisiana’s food culture.

As part of Hilton’s wider hospitality network, Hilton Shreveport continues to focus on creating memorable experiences for travellers. With Chris Melder leading culinary operations, the property’s dining experience is being strengthened through a chef whose career has been shaped by the flavours, traditions and techniques of the Southern United States.