About Ishq

Tucked away at 202 Avenue A in the East Village, Ishq is a modern Indian restaurant that has quickly become one of the neighborhood's most exciting new spots since opening in late 2024. The name means "love" in Urdu, and chef Vamshi Adi (formerly of Gazab) brings genuine passion to a menu that walks the line between tradition and innovation. The space is warm and moody, anchored by a dramatic slab of pink quartz that serves as both bar and communal table—Instagram-worthy without feeling gimmicky. The food is designed for sharing, with standouts including Kasundi Jheenga (grilled shrimp in a punchy mustard cream sauce), Sharabi Chicken Tikka (flambéed tableside with rum), and a creamy black lentil dal finished with black truffle. The restaurant earned a Michelin Bib Gourmand in 2024, praised for delivering "good quality, good value cooking." Cocktails are creative, service is warm, and the vibe strikes that perfect balance between date-night intimate and group-dinner lively.