Exploring Handshake Persian Digestif
A Tribute to Culture, Flavor, and Connection
In the heart of Portland, Maine, a unique spirit is bringing together flavors and cultures from around the world. Handshake Persian Digestif is more than just a beverage—it’s a story, a tribute, and an invitation to experience the diverse culinary influences that shaped its founder, Shahin Khojastehzad.
A Journey from Tehran to Portland
Shahin Khojastehzad’s journey to creating Handshake Persian Digestif began long before its launch in 2023. Born in Tehran, Iran, Shahin and his family fled their homeland after the 1979 Islamic Revolution, finding a new beginning in Maine. Growing up in Portland, he was immersed in a small yet diverse community, surrounded by a rich blend of cultures and cuisines. His upbringing was a fusion of Persian traditions and the flavors of Latinx, European, African, and AAPI communities, all of which have left their mark on Handshake Digestif Bitters.
A Passion for Food and Beverage
With a deep love for the food and beverage industry, Shahin spent 14 years managing and owning a James Beard-nominated bier café in Portland. His passion led him across the globe, where he encountered a variety of regional herbal elixirs designed to aid digestion after a hearty meal. Inspired by these global flavors and experiences, he set out to craft his own take on a digestif.
A Seven-Year Labor of Love
Shahin began developing the recipe for Handshake over seven years ago, enlisting the expertise of his childhood friend, Samuel Poirier, now the head distiller at Law’s Whiskey. Together, they fine-tuned the process to create a digestif that is both unique and deeply personal. Each ingredient in Handshake tells a story: lemongrass from Cambodia, hibiscus from Latin America, Italian digestivo traditions from Shahin’s wife’s maternal family, and Persian tea from Iran, among others. The result is a carefully crafted bitters blend that is rich in history and flavor.
More Than Just a Digestif
Handshake Persian Digestif is a celebration of cultural diversity and representation in the food and beverage industry. Shahin’s goal is to elevate POC voices in Maine and beyond, demonstrating that the fusion of diverse traditions creates something truly special. Handshake is best enjoyed in good company, as a shared experience with friends and loved ones.
While it is not a traditional beverage, Handshake offers a bold and complex flavor. A 50ml serving can be taken all at once, diluted with soda water for a refreshing digestive aid, or added to cocktails for a burst of aromatic zest. Its spice blend also makes it an excellent addition to cooking, particularly for deglazing pans and building flavorful sauces.
A Toast to Culture and Connection
At its core, Handshake Persian Digestif embodies the idea that we are stronger together. Through his creation, Shahin has woven a tapestry of global influences, honoring his roots while embracing the flavors of the world. Whether sipped after a meal, stirred into a cocktail, or used in the kitchen, Handshake is an invitation to celebrate culture, tradition, and the power of a shared experience.
Cheers!
Melissa