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 …