We recently had the chance to connect with NaTosha Barber and have shared our conversation below.
NaTosha, really appreciate you sharing your stories and insights with us. The world would have so much more understanding and empathy if we all were a bit more open about our stories and how they have helped shaped our journey and worldview. Let’s jump in with a fun one: What is something outside of work that is bringing you joy lately?
I have recently been taking up Houston 2 Step lessons with Jay Owens of Flo-Motion Houston and recently won Newcomer Lead at ISDC, International Swing Dance Competition this past New Year here in Houston. Cooking was always my therapy before I made it my profession, so I needed to find a new hobby to escape any stresses and dance has been my new found love. I look forward to competing in Las Vegas next Memorial day weekend.
Can you briefly introduce yourself and share what makes you or your brand unique?
I am NaTosha “Chef Tae” Barber originally from Lake Charles, LA but reside here in Houston, TX. I am owner and executive chef of 210 Fusion Cuisine where I specialize in Cajun/Creole dishes with a fusion of other cultural influences to create flavorful and fun dishes. Since the last time I touched base with you, my brand has gain recognition like being Houston Outsmart Magazine Gayest and Greatest top local Chef, catering company and cooking experience with my in home cooking classes. I have been featured on Houston Life as well as gaining recognition as Chef of the year for Texas LGBTQ+ Awards 2025 and recently received a nomination for the Girl Boss Suites Chef of the Year for 2025. It is always great to be recognized amongst your community.
Okay, so here’s a deep one: Who saw you clearly before you could see yourself?
I would have to say my circle of friends and associates. I was always praying my food pics on social media even though I was not catering early on. Many would comment that I should do this for a living but because I didn’t have classical training, I never looked at myself as a Chef. Then I was asked what would I answer to? I thought if others viewed me as a Chef, then I should claim it and answer to it. I have always gotten support from my inner circle of friends, but my social media followers have always shown up for events I’ve been featured at our just sending referrals for business. I have been blessed and will always be appreciative of that type of support.
Was there ever a time you almost gave up?
Yes, I can’t lie, I have. When Covid hit, it was scary because you have to find ways to reinvent yourself when he works changes so drastically. Being an entrepreneur is not for the weak. I always laugh, because the fame definitely comes before the fortune. I learned tho, that if you don’t invest in yourself, no one will really believe in investing in you. So when I have those slow weeks or even months, it gets hard but I think about the ones that really believe in me and i don’t want to disappoint them. I don’t want to disappoint myself so you push on.
Sure, so let’s go deeper into your values and how you think. What’s a belief or project you’re committed to, no matter how long it takes?
My passion project is to put a cooking program together that links cooking with mental health awareness and treatment. I strongly believe there is a correlation to food/ cooking and finding safe spaces within the kitchen to create dishes that may be products of trauma as well as healing. I have been talking with others to partner with and this is something I want to see thru to the end.
Okay, we’ve made it essentially to the end. One last question before you go. If you retired tomorrow, what would your customers miss most?
If I retired tomorrow, I think my customers will probably miss the level of service I give with each event. I have always said the greatest compliments I love to receive is that they can feel the love in my food or that it reminds them of mom’s or grandma’s cooking. I always love for my clients to feel my passion in each bite and truly grasp sky I do what I do. I create to feed their appetites, but most importantly, I cook to feed their souls. Feel good Soul food.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/210fusion?igsh=dmVuZzB3bzJxOGk4
- Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/share/16nCzuFAUB/
Image Credits
Natasha Nivian Photography
