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ISHQ’s Love Affair with Indian Cuisine Arrives in the East Village
October 2, 2024, 6:41.24 pm ET

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Photos: Alex Staniloff

ISHQ, which means “love” in Hindi, is a new Indian restaurant at 202 Avenue A in NYC’s East Village. ISHQ is led by Executive Chef-Owner Vamshi Adi, who brings a modern flair to regional Indian cuisine.

Look for small plates like the Dudhiya Kabab—a street food from Awadh made with marinated paneer, stuffed with beetroot, potato, and carrots, and garnished with caramelized figs; Venison Varuval, a Southern Indian dish traditionally made with goat or lamb, reimagined with tender pulled venison, topped with pickled shallots and dried coconut; and vegetarian offerings like Soya Malai Chaap, a Northern Indian-inspired alternative to chicken, prepared in a creamy curry with nutmeg, house-made Amul cheese, and crispy fenugreek tulie.

Entrées are designed for sharing, with dishes such as Dum Ka Ghost, a slow-cooked baby goat dish from Chef Vamshi’s hometown of Hyderabad, cooked in a dum ka gravy and topped with fried onions. Seafood lovers can indulge in Lobster Malaikari, a lobster tail served in a creamy mustard, onion, and coconut gravy, inspired by the cuisine of Bengal. Vegetable forward dishes include Paneer Laung Latta, a nut-stuffed paneer lasagna served with a rich Lababdar gravy.

The restaurant also boasts an extensive bread selection, featuring classic Naan in variations like butter, garlic, and chili cheese, as well as Rumali Roti and flaky, layered Parotta. The cocktail list is equally inventive, featuring drinks like the Jubilee Affair, a rum and Irani Chai creation, and the Pink City, infused with bourbon and rose water.

The interior features a 30-seat pink quartz bar, illuminated by soft off-white floral lighting while the dining room offers floral wallpaper and soothing peach tones, accented by pops of vibrant red and natural rattan elements.



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