Pawan Mahendro

Badmaash - Los Angeles, CA

Pawan Mahendro’s culinary journey traces back to his roots in the food-rich city of Amritsar, Punjab, India, where food was not just sustenance but a way of life. Fueled by this upbringing, Pawan pursued his passion for the culinary arts.

After graduating from Bombay Catering College, Mahendro honed his skills at prestigious establishments like the Taj Mahal Hotel and The Centaur in Mumbai before venturing abroad. In the early 80s, he made his mark in Toronto, Canada, overseeing the food and beverage operations of renowned establishments like West Side Grill, Daily Planet, and Dunkleman’s Fine Dining. His entrepreneurial spirit led him to acquire La Capanina, a fine dining French restaurant in Rockland County, NY, where he further showcased his culinary prowess.

Returning to Toronto in 2002, Mahendro opened Jaipur Grill, redefining Indian cuisine with European finesse. Jaipur Grill quickly gained acclaim as Toronto’s premier Indian dining destination, breaking stereotypes with its traditional Indian dishes prepared using classic French techniques.

In 2013, inspired by his sons Nakul and Arjun’s vision for a unique dining experience, Mahendro ventured to sunny Los Angeles, where they opened Badmaash. This modern, vibrant eatery quickly became a hotspot, offering a fusion of traditional and modern Indian cuisine. With a second location in WeHo on Fairfax Avenue, Badmaash continued to captivate diners and critics alike, earning praise from publications like The LA Times, The New York Times, and Bon Appétit. Recognized in the Michelin Guidebook since 2018, Badmaash has not only garnered awards but also spearheaded the ‘modern Indian’ movement in America, giving the South Asian diaspora a voice in modern-American and global pop culture.

Pawan Mahendro’s culinary legacy continues to evolve, driven by his unwavering passion for innovation and excellence, leaving an indelible mark on the culinary landscape of both Toronto and Los Angeles.