Ishtar

Angella

Yummy food 13th November 2008

0 found this helpful

This place did catering for the Turkish stand at the World Travel Market. The serving staff were delightful.

I only tasted three items but they were all good. The meat balls (without the usual tomato sauce because they were on a bar as a free-for-all with cocktail sticks) were satisfying.

The lentil balls were great - lovely new experience - a cross between couscous and sesame seeds. Excellent for vegetarians. And I liked them.

The teeny baklavas were just right. So often these turn out to be disappointing, made with cheap peanuts instead of good quality nuts - but these were great. Not over-sweet. Satisfyingly nutty. Pastry not too dry and flaky. Yummy.

Finally, Turkish coffee. What can I say - a small cup of strong coffee and after you drain it you want more.

Amel

understated, good value and entertainment 16th December 2007

4 found this helpful

This is said to be a Turkish restaurant but it's more like Modern European Cuisine with a hint of Turkey. I've only had the set menus which are prepared to a consistently high standard. I particularly like the chicken and sea bass. The home made bread is delicious as is the yoghurt and spinach dip - a nice variation of the traditional tzaziki with cucumber, mint and yoghurt. Good selection of wines. In the evenings Ishtar has a resident singer who gently eases you in the evening with her "blues like" voice and guitar, followed by an upbeat mix of Turkish, Arabic and Spanish music as well as some of the latest hits. The belly dancer will get you in the mood for some hip shaking later. There are a few caves with seating for a more secluded dining experience with a few friends. Generally the crowd is sophisticated, young professionals. Good service, well priced, key location on Crawford St off Baker St. A good choice for a PR event.