Ishtar is named after the ancient Sumero-Babylonian goddess of fertility, love, and light, drawing inspiration from these timeless qualities in each of the dishes that is crafted. The restaurant first opened its doors in September 2004 with a clear vision - to establish a refined yet contemporary Mediterranean dining experience, both in terms of the menu and the ambiance that they provide. At Ishtar, the team provides attentive service and an atmosphere enriched with inspiring music.
Ishtar likes to put special emphasis on the use of organic and locally sourced ingredients that are thoughtfully chosen. Located in the vibrant heart of Marylebone, this establishment offers a unique culinary journey, highlighting sophisticated and contemporary dishes rooted in the Anatolia-Mediterranean region. This region, stretching from the Mediterranean to the Black Sea, boasts a rich and colourful history, reflected throughout the diverse menu.
To ensure the utmost freshness and flavour in each of the dishes, Ishtar prioritises seasonality by maintaining close partnerships with a select group of British farmers and suppliers.
The main menu begins with a starter of grilled beef and garlic sausage served with halloumi cheese, delicious falafels, and a dish of grilled asparagus salad bedded on rocket leaves with cherry tomatoes, pine nuts and parmesan. The charcoal grill dishes inlcude sheesh options, and a karisik izgara - a mixture of chicken, lamb, kofte and a lamb chop. The signature dishes of the restaurant, though, are meyveli kuzu and kestaneli tavuk, a dish of charcoal grilled chicken breast filled with seasonal vegetables topped with chestnut sauce. From the sea, maybe you'll enjoy a risotto cooked with prawns, mussels and scallops, or a butterflied sea bass served with white wine, lemon and garlic herb sauce.