Upscale Indian w/ unique fusion dishes & standout desserts. NYC's East Village.
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.
This East Village Indian gem, recognized by the Michelin Bib Gourmand, offers a unique fusion of traditional and innovative flavors. From standout dishes like the tender flaming Chicken Tikka and the rich Lamb Boti Karahi to a potentially city-best Garlic Naan, the culinary experience is memorable. While some dishes may lean sweet or have subtle truffle notes, the overall presentation and unique desserts like the Gulab Jamun Chocolate Tart make it a must-visit.
Ishq offers a distinctive take on Indian cuisine, with many reviewers highlighting the tender flaming Chicken Tikka and the rich Lamb Boti Karahi. The Garlic Naan is noted as potentially the best in the city, and unique desserts like the Gulab Jamun Chocolate Tart are a hit. Some dishes, like the Ishq Dal-Khaas, may have subtle truffle flavors, and there are mixed reviews on dishes like the Lahsooni Oyster and Paneer Laung Latta.
"Standout dishes include the tender Flaming Chicken Tikka, rich Lamb Boti Karahi, and the potentially city-best Garlic Naan. Unique desserts like the Gulab Jamun Chocolate Tart are also highly recommended."
Customers generally have a positive experience, praising the unique and flavorful dishes, particularly the tender chicken tikka and lamb preparations, and the innovative desserts. However, some service can be slow, and certain dishes may not meet all expectations.
Important Note
One reviewer experienced extremely slow service leading to dishes arriving cold, and another found the Lahsooni Oyster's cheese flavor overpowering and the Paneer Laung Latta underwhelming.
"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
