North Park beverage blogger blends Indian ingredients with American culinary culture

A conversation with Natasha Mahapatro, who publishes cocktail and zero proof drink recipes on her blog, The Tash Mashup

North Park resident Natasha Mahapatro poses for a
photo on the patio of Pure Project on July 15,
2024. On her beverage blog The Tash Mashup,
Mahapatro combines traditional Indian
ingredients with classic cocktail recipes. 
Photo by Lauren J. Mapp

North Park resident Natasha Mahapatro’s love for her traditional Indian culture is evident in the selection of recipes she publishes on her beverage blog, The Tash Mashup.

From her Avocado Chaat Masala Margarita and Pomegranate Rooh Afza Punch, to the Gulab Jamun Old Fashioned and Achaar Bloody Marys, each cocktail melds Indian flavors with classic cocktail concepts.

But navigating between American and Indian culture wasn’t always easy for Mahapatro.

“Growing up I always lived on this identity of not being Indian enough, or not being American enough,” the 31-year-old said.

Years of self-exploration and cooking meals for guests at a supper club she hosts helped Mahapatro find a new sense of connection to her cultural roots. 

“Food was really helpful in getting me there because it was something that I'd always grown up loving,” Mahapatro said. “(Food) is what connects me back most — outside of my family — to my roots and to my culture.”

Born and raised in Seattle, Mahapatro said she was fortunate to spend every summer visiting family in Odisha, a state in Eastern India from which her parents emigrated to the United States. 

Reflecting on those summers, she said what stands out most from the foods in Odisha is how spice plays with other ingredients in the dishes.

“It's all about balance,” Mahapatro said. “My grandma has always been so good about doing that. Everything is layered.”

This is an excerpt from my newest food writing project, San Diego Tides & Tacos. Visit this article on Substack to learn more about Natasha Mahapatro.