In this episode of the Find Dining podcast, Top Chef finalist and fan favorite Sheldon Simeon of MiGrant and Mala Wailea tells us how to eat like a local in Maui. We discuss Hawaiian family celebrations, elevating ramen, and his rise from dishwasher to celebrity chef.
Highlights
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Chef Sheldon is a two-time James Beard Award semi-finalist
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Sample a classic Hawaiian plate lunch at places like Aloha Mixed Plate
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Taste how Star Noodle puts a gourmet twist on Sheldon’s childhood breakfast
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Maui restaurants often grow their own produce
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MiGrant showcases produce from Kumu Farms
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Be sure to try some kahlua pig or loco moco
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While on hiatus from “Top Chef”, Sheldon went underground at Vintage Cave in Honolulu
Food for Thought
- Q: What is the name of the underground oven used to cook kahlua-style?
- A: Imu.
Out of the Frying Pan
- Favorite Farm to visit in Maui: Kumu Farms
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Traditional drink: Enjoy a mai tai by the beach
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Favorite restaurant to visit when not working: Ka’ana Kitchen
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Favorite food truck: Maui Fresh Streatery
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Great foodie events: Hawai’i Food and Wine Festival in Aug-Sept
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Behind the scenes of “Top Chef”: the contestants are whisked around town like ninjas