In celebration of Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Heritage Month, come to the Smithsonian’s National Museum of the American Indian to meet chef and author Sheldon Simeon to celebrate the release of his second cookbook, Ohana Style (Clarkson Potter, 2026), which honors the spirit of family and hospitality through a collection of deeply personal recipes and stories. Born and raised in Hilo on the Big Island of Hawai‘i, Simeon draws inspiration from his Filipino heritage, local upbringing, and the multi-ethnic flavors that define Hawaiian cuisine. Thursday, May 7, 11 AM–2 PM.
In the spirit of ohana, Executive Chef Alex Strong of the Mitsitam Native Foods Cafe will showcase a vibrant menu inspired by the cookbook. Enjoy Huli Huli chicken, lemon caper mahi-mahi, sweet and sour beet mui, crispy chili-garlic cauliflower, teriyaki potatoes, mac salad, and a refreshing mango-ade cooler.
Copies of Ohana Style will be available for purchase and signing. Come meet the chef, get your book signed, and experience island-inspired flavors.
Photographs by Kevin Miyazaki.