Upscale Indian dining w/ unique fusion desserts & stand-out dishes like flaming chicken tikka & truffle dal. Michelin Bib Gourmand recognized.
Will Hartman reviews Ishq, an East Village Indian spot featuring a stunning quartz bar and standout dishes like Bangla Kodi and Kasundi Jheenga, perfect for a group gathering.
Ishq offers a unique take on Indian cuisine, earning a spot on the Michelin Bib Gourmand guide. The restaurant boasts a stylish interior with a striking quartz bar. Diners can expect a range of flavorful and well-spiced dishes, with some creative fusion elements, particularly in their desserts. While many dishes are praised, such as the tender Flaming Chicken Tikka and the rich Ishq Dal-Khaas, some reviews suggest certain items may not live up to expectations.
The cuisine is primarily Indian with some fusion elements, particularly in desserts. Standout dishes include the exceptionally tender Flaming Chicken Tikka, the flavorful Ishq Dal-Khaas with truffle, and the highly praised Garlic Naan. Desserts like the Gulab Jamun Chocolate Tart are noted as unique and delicious, though on the sweeter side. Some dishes like the Lahsooni Oyster have received negative feedback for being masked by other flavors, and the Paneer Laung Latta was found underwhelming by one reviewer.
"The Garlic Naan, Flaming Chicken Tikka, and Ishq Dal-Khaas are frequently praised. Lamb chops are also specifically recommended."
Customers generally have a positive view of the food, often praising its unique flavors and presentation, though some have noted slow service and occasional disappointment with specific dishes.
Important Note
One user reported extremely slow service leading to dishes arriving cold, even on a slow night. Another user had a negative experience with subpar food and weird service, questioning if a return visit is worthwhile.
"Ishq was recommended as a restaurant to consider in Manhattan."
Neutral"This restaurant is listed as one of several recommendations for halal dining in NYC, with the commenter noting that higher-end restaurants often serve alcohol."
Neutral"The author advises against going to Ishq, suggesting other options like Dhamaka or Adda."
Negative"Responding to a negative review, the user states they are a regular at Ishq and find it great, and asks what the other user ordered."
Positive"The user did not have a good experience at Ishq, citing weird service and subpar food, and questions if it's worth retrying."
Negative"The user recommends Ishq in the East Village as a very good Indian restaurant."
Positive"Ishq is listed among several Manhattan restaurants that the commenter has enjoyed."
Positive"The lamb chops from Ishq are described as unmatched, and the commenter notes that it's not overly hyped, making it easier to get a table."
Positive"This commenter mentions ISHQ is a restaurant by the same chef who owns KEBABISHQ nearby and recommends checking out both spots."
Neutral"The user tried Ishq recently and loved it."
Positive"This user simply recommends Ishq."
Positive"Ishq is mentioned as a halal Indian restaurant that could be a good option for a fancy meal."
Positive"Ishq is mentioned as a recommended restaurant for paneer."
Positive"Ishq is mentioned as one of the many upscale Indian spots that offer vegetarian options."
Positive"This user found the food at Ishq to be pretty good, but the service was extremely slow, even on a not-at-all-full night, leading to dishes arriving cold."
Negative"This user recommends Ishq as a good alternative South Indian restaurant to Semma."
Positive"The user included Ishq in a list of recommended restaurants."
Positive
