Episode 402: Hawaiian Family Cooking That Feels Like Home with Chef Sheldon Simeon

Welcome to another episode of the Cookbook Love Podcast. Today on the show I present an interview with Sheldon Simeon about his new cookbook, Ohana Style.

Born and raised in Maui, Sheldon is a chef, restaurateur, husband, father, and former Top Chef competitor. Alongside his wife Tiffany, he owns Tiffany's and Tin Roof Maui. In this conversation, Sheldon shares the deeper meaning of “ohana” and how the spirit of hospitality, family, and community shaped both his life and his cooking.

Listeners will hear:

• The difference between indigenous Hawaiian cuisine and plantation-era immigrant influences

• Why Sheldon wanted the cookbook to feel approachable and welcoming

• Stories about his father, Papa Ray, and the community cookbook influence behind many recipes

• Creative techniques for building smoky flavor and layered texture at home

• Plant-based alternatives inspired by traditional Hawaiian dishes

• The inspiration behind recipes like Papa Ray’s Tuna Patties, Furikake Animal Crackers, Pork Belly Tocino, and Mandarin Microwave Mochi

Sheldon also talks about growing up in a house where people constantly gathered around food and how those experiences shaped his understanding of generosity and connection. This episode is a reminder that cookbooks are about more than recipes. They preserve stories, culture, memory, and belonging.

Things We Mention in This Episode:

Chef Sheldon Simeon