ISHAARA’S HARMONIOUS HUMAN SPIRIT & SENSES
At Ishaara, diners are treated to a one-of-a-kind experience that embraces diversity and promotes inclusivity. Here, the talented and passionate staff members, many of whom are differently-abled, communicate through sign language, infusing the atmosphere with warmth and joy. It’s not just a restaurant, it’s a celebration of the human spirit, where every meal is a beautiful and heartening testament to the power of kindness and compassion.
Ishaara is the epitome of culinary excellence and inclusive hospitality, serving as a shining example for restaurants worldwide. A groundbreaking venture, it transcends boundaries by providing an extraordinary dining experience that not only tantalizes the taste buds but also the heart and mind. Prashant Issar – Founder, has truly outdone himself in creating a dining destination that celebrates the beauty and resilience of the human spirit. An unforgettable experience awaits at Ishaara, where every meal is an ode to unity, diversity, and compassion.
Ishaara is more than just a restaurant – it’s a movement. By embracing diversity and inclusivity, it challenges traditional notions of hospitality and creates a dining experience that celebrates the human spirit. Prashant Issar founder of ISHAARA, his pioneering approach to hospitality is not only admirable but also sets a new standard for the industry. From its mouth watering Indian cuisine that pays homage to regional culinary traditions, to its thoughtfully designed menu that accommodates the needs of the deaf-mute staff, Ishaara transcends cultural and physical boundaries to create a welcoming environment for all.
Ishaara’s innovative approach to Indian cuisine is a celebration of diversity and inclusivity, elevating the dining experience beyond mere culinary excellence. By meticulously curating a menu that features a diverse array of regional dishes, the restaurant not only presents a gastronomical journey across India, but also ensures a seamless experience for its deaf-mute staff. This thoughtful integration of inclusive hospitality and exceptional cuisine creates a unique environment that embraces everyone and transcends any cultural or physical boundaries.
At Ishaara, the spirit of inclusivity extends beyond the kitchen and into the bar, where a carefully curated selection of cocktails, mocktails, spirits, wines, and beers awaits. The vibrancy of the music, the lively atmosphere, and the friendly staff create an infectious energy that is irresistible to those seeking a night out with friends and family. In this vibrant setting, every moment becomes a celebration of life’s simple pleasures, ensuring that you can relax, unwind, and revel in the joy of human connection. The restaurant provided inventive, traditional, warm, and tasty Indian cuisine from throughout the regions in a contemporary setting.
In a world where consumerism often drowns out the finer things in life, Ishaara’s elegant decor stands as a beacon of respite, inviting guests into a serene oasis of soothing hues and nature-inspired decor. The play of natural light and earthy tones, complemented by the gentle strains of sufi music, create a sensory symphony that soothes the soul. But it is not just the ambiance that makes Ishaara a stand-out destination; it is the heart of the restaurant, embodied in its inclusive staff who infuse every interaction with warmth and charm.
Prashant Issar (above), after finishing his MBA in London, he worked in the UK hotel industry for 12 years until returning to India in 2012. I came across a film from Toronto that featured the hearing-impaired as restaurant servers—this is where the idea sprouted.
The company statement really reads: we are first and foremost a restaurant that serves Indian food, which is served by persons who are hearing challenged. The service personnel is deaf and mute, but not the cooking staff, because culinary labor is hazardous. I didn’t want to manage our business like a gimmick. The cooks have to have competence and experience. People may come the first time for the concept, but they will only return if the food and service are satisfactory.
The warm and inviting atmosphere of Ishaara is complemented by the enthusiasm of the staff, who radiate a contagious joy in their interactions with guests. As you become acquainted with the restaurant’s unique and thoughtful system of non-verbal communication, a sense of camaraderie builds between you and your assigned waiter, forging a bond that transcends spoken language. Witnessing their child-like exuberance as you learn to communicate using sign language is a beautiful moment that will linger in your heart long after your visit to this truly special restaurant.
Ishaara’s elegant decor stands as a beacon of respite, inviting guests into a serene oasis of soothing hues and nature-inspired decor. The play of natural light and earthy tones, complemented by the gentle strains of sufi music, create a sensory symphony that soothes the soul.
The deliberate fusion of nature-inspired materials in the interior design of Ishaara creates a harmonious union between the restaurant and its green-centric philosophy. Venetian terrazzo, cast concrete blocks, reclaimed wood, Indian marble, and abundant greenery seamlessly blend together to form a sustainable and elegant ambiance that envelops you in a sense of natural tranquility. The décor not only caters to the visual delight, but also to the intellectual appetite, as evidenced by the curated selection of literature on gardening and nature.
Bhatt says, “I was inspired by the idea of creating the restaurant like a modern-day plant conservatory and consulted a horticulturist who guided us on what plants would work well in different corners of the space. The indoor facing facade is an abstraction of a tree form and was created using powder-coated stainless steel and bevelled glass pieces.”
But it is not just the ambiance that makes Ishaara a stand-out destination; it is the heart of the restaurant, embodied in its inclusive staff who infuse every interaction with warmth and charm.
The thoughtfully designed monolithic block of stone, carved into three distinct segments, forms a stunning centerpiece within Ishaara’s stunning interiors. The angular geometry and natural stone finish evoke a sense of timelessness, while the contrasting pops of color in the upholstery add a splash of vibrant energy to the space. The Venetian terrazzo flooring, with its rich history and inherent rustic charm, serves as the perfect foundation for the restaurant’s elegant and sustainable ambiance, ensuring that every element within the restaurant’s design complements one another, forming a perfect symphony of beauty and harmony.
Ishaara also has a private portion with its own door, nestled away in the rear. A custom-made wallpaper with enormous floral designs steals the show, and the arrangement of comparable potted plants against this backdrop creates a 3D illusion. Perfect for a kitty party, corporate celebration or a birthday celebration.
Really hungry, had to skip breakfast, started with the Avocado Corn Chaat, a harmonious symphony of flavors, textures, and colors that will transport your taste buds to a world of exquisite flavors. The rich creaminess of the avocado, enhanced by the sweet pop of corn, is elevated by a tangy chutney, which gives this snack an irresistible depth. The pomegranate seeds crown this delight, adding a burst of freshness and vibrancy, making this the perfect pre-lunch appetizer to start your dining experience with a bang.
To move to a stronger coffee, ofcourse with alcohol, called for the espresso martini, which was a perfect symphony of flavors that meld together seamlessly, like the sweet melody of a finely tuned orchestra. The rich and robust flavor of espresso forms the backbone of the cocktail, balanced by the seductive sweetness of coffee liqueur and the smooth creaminess of vodka. This triple threat of flavors is shaken over ice, allowing the blend to combine into a silky, icy, and intensely refreshing concoction. As the cocktail is poured into a chilled glass, you are presented with a velvety, bittersweet libation that awakens the senses and soothes the soul.
As the appetite built up, ordered two delicious starters. the Tandoori Broccoli and the Mushroom Galawat Kebab.
The Mushroom Galawat Kebab is a delectable morsel that perfectly embodies the essence of the famed Awadhi cuisine. Each bite is a symphony of tastes, combining the subtle earthiness of mushrooms with the richness of ghee-fried onions, the silky sweetness of cashew paste, and the depth of spices and galouti masala. The smoky notes from being cooked over an open flame add a layer of smokiness that perfectly complements the other flavors, resulting in a succulent and satisfying vegetarian kebab.
The pairing of an espresso martini with the Mushroom Galawat Kebab is a masterful example of contrasting yet complementary flavors. The intense and smoky notes of the mushroom kebabs provide a robust counterpoint to the sweetness and richness of the espresso, allowing each element to shine in its own right. The earthy and savory flavors of the mushroom kebabs highlight the complexity of the coffee notes in the martini, while the bitterness of the espresso balances the savoriness of the mushrooms, resulting in a perfectly balanced and indulgent culinary experience.
The bitter-sweet and intense notes of the espresso martini pair perfectly with the smoky spiciness of the Tandoori Broccoli, resulting in a bold and satisfying culinary experience that is as unexpected as it is exquisite. The rich and earthy flavors of the broccoli complement the complexity of the espresso, while the spiciness of the dish awakens the palate and balances the sweetness of the cocktail. This remarkable pairing highlights the versatility of both ingredients, showcasing how seemingly disparate flavors can come together to create a culinary symphony that delights all the senses.
Move to Hapusa Himalayan Dry Gin, a unique and enticing spirit that embodies the essence of the majestic Himalayan region. Crafted using local botanicals such as Himalayan juniper, Himalayan rhododendron, and regional herbs, this gin boasts an exceptionally complex and distinctive flavor profile. The juniper, the hallmark botanical in any gin, is given a fresh twist with the addition of locally sourced ingredients that infuse each sip with an intoxicating aroma and a subtle sweetness that lingers on the palate. Very refreshing on a beautiful Sunday.
Hapusa Gin is a captivating spirit that takes a bold step into the world of gin-making, showcasing the vibrant flavors of the Indian subcontinent. Using locally sourced botanicals like juniper, turmeric, mango, ginger, cardamom, coriander seeds, gondhoraj limes, and almonds, Hapusa Gin is a symphony of ingredients that you might find in an Indian kitchen, harmoniously blended to create a unique, complex, and full-bodied spirit.
Hapusa, the Himalayan dry gin from Nao Spirits, recently bagged the Hapusa has received Country Winner & Gold—Contemporary Style Gin at the World Gin Awards 2024 and even the gold medal at the International Wines & Spirits Competition (IWSC) 2021, many more.
Reading the name Dungar chicken tikka, I immediately ordered it. Always willing to taste new preparations, innovative. The Dungar Chicken Tikka is a boldly seasoned and expertly prepared masterpiece, fusing the bold flavors of India with the smoky allure of American barbecue. Succulent chicken thighs are marinated in a robust blend of deghi chilli and yogurt, lending the meat a hint of tangy sweetness. Once grilled to tender perfection over an open flame, the chicken is finished with a layer of hickory smoke, imparting a delectably smoky depth of flavor to the already tantalizing dish.
Hapusa Gin, with its vibrant and aromatic notes of juniper, citrus, and spice, pairs perfectly with the savory and smoky flavors of Dungar Chicken Tikka, creating a match made in heaven for food and beverage connoisseurs.
The lingering heat of the gondhoraj limes in the gin harmonizes with the spicy florals of the kebab, while the earthy sweetness of the gin’s botanicals, such as turmeric and coriander seeds, complements the succulent and robust notes of the chicken tikka.
Moving on to main lunch, loving salmon, a dish called The Tandoori Scottish Salmon, was a perfect harmony of East meets West, showcasing a divine pairing of traditional Indian spices and the rich, velvety texture of Scottish salmon. Marinated in a spiced buttermilk bath, the salmon takes on a beautifully rich and flavorful profile, ready to be charred to perfection in the blistering heat of a tandoor oven. Paired with a hearty and earthy millet khichdi, this dish is a testament to the art of fusion cuisine, offering a medley of textures and flavors that will tantalize even the most discerning palates.
The delicate balance of flavors in the Tandoori Scottish Salmon paired exquisitely with Hapusa Gin, resulting in a gastronomical experience that will tantalize your senses. The robust and smoky notes of the salmon are beautifully offset by the crisp, tangy undertones of the gin’s Himalayan rhododendron and citrus, creating a taste profile that is both sophisticated and refreshing. The creaminess of the salmon’s texture pairs perfectly with the velvety smoothness of the Hapusa Gin, making this combination a true masterpiece of culinary artistry.
The Palak and Paneer Kofta my most favored dish, is a culinary triumph that seamlessly combines the silken texture of creamy spinach with the decadent richness of crumbly paneer. The expertly crafted koftas, shaped into perfectly spherical morsels, are light-fried until their surfaces are light golden but still buttery, while the interior remains pillowy and smooth. The creamy spinach gravy, a symphony of spices and aromatics, envelops each kofta, creating a harmonious blend of flavors and textures that will have you savoring every last bite. The koftas are infused with the subtle heat of Indian spices, and each bite bursts with the richness of the spinach-based sauce and the delicate, earthy flavors of paneer. This delightful vegetarian dish is a testament to the chef at ISHAARA, blending the freshness with locally-sourced ingredients, elevating the humble spinach and cheese to a level of pure culinary bliss.
The smooth and fruity notes of Glenlivet 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky complement the delectable Palak and Paneer Kofta beautifully, resulting in a sensory delight that celebrates the richness of both Indian and Scottish cultures. The palate of the whisky, bursting with flavors of sweet pear, fresh peach, and vanilla hints, forms a wonderful contrast to the creamy, spinach-based sauce of the kofta. The subtle smokiness of the scotch also beautifully pairs with the raw paneer kofta.
The Chocolate Ganache Brownie was a decadent treat that really satisfied my every chocolate craving with vanilla icecream. Made with premium Callebaut 54% dark chocolate, this rich brownie is infused with the deep and intense flavors of chocolate, delivering a heavenly texture that melts in your mouth. The chocolate ganache frosting, made with the same chocolate, adds a silky smoothness that enhances the richness of the brownie, while balancing it with its silky sweetness. The perfect marriage of chocolate and sugar, this brownie is a sinful indulgence that will leave you wanting more!
The end of the lunch has to be memorable and so pairing the Glenlivet 12 Year Old Single Malt Scotch Whisky and an Americano alongside the Chocolate Ganache Brownie created a harmonious blend of bold, robust flavors with a hint of lingering sweetness that made me savor each sip and bite. The bold and complex notes of Glenlivet 12 Year Old complemented the deep and intense flavors of the chocolate brownie, while the lingering sweetness from both the whisky and the brownie is beautifully offset by the bitterness of the Americano.