Seemor

IshtarB?Proceed Cautiously

Name: Ishtar
Address: 10-12 Crawford St, London W1U 6AZ, London, United Kingdom
Rating: 4.5

10-12 Crawford St, London W1U 6AZ · Turkish restaurant, Bar, Halal restaurant · 4.5/5 Google (1874 reviews)

Reservations · Delivery · Takeout · Outdoor seating

Stylish Turkish spot in Marylebone with lively entertainment, attentive service, and flavorful grills; prices run high for portions and downstairs nights can be very loud.

Why it gets a B? for overall quality

⚠️ Review concerns: This assessment reflects moderate uncertainty due to questionable review patterns. See details in Authenticity Assessment. Ishtar delivers solid Turkish dining with strong food quality anchored by charcoal grills and well-executed lamb, paired with warm, attentive service that often feels personal. However, inconsistent execution across visits and comfort challenges downstairs during entertainment prevent grade A territory, while moderate review authenticity concerns introduce uncertainty into the assessment. Premium pricing and mixed portion feedback further temper the overall standing.

Restaurant Summary

Ishtar delivers a Marylebone night out that tilts festive, from glowing charcoal grills to belly dancer sets and a room that hums. Service is often warm and personal—"our server guided us like a friend"—though downstairs show nights can get very loud. However, there are some review authenticity concerns suggesting certain reviews may be solicited or influenced. The cooking skews classic Turkish with an upscale touch—think juicy lamb, neat meze, and well-seasoned seafood—more produce-driven tradition than trend-chasing. Prices reflect the postcode and entertainment; many leave happy, while a few wish portions matched the bill. Expect solid flavor and a celebratory vibe on weekends. Families do visit, but plan carefully. There is no stated kids menu and lively entertainment can overwhelm younger diners. Safer picks for children include grilled chicken, rice, chips, and simple meze; avoid downstairs on show nights if your crew needs calmer energy.

At a Glance

Flavorful lamb and charcoal grills with polished plating
Welcoming service with standout individual staff
Loud downstairs entertainment can overwhelm dinner conversation
Premium pricing with mixed views on portion size
Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food

What Sets It Apart

live_belly_dancer_nights
charcoal_grill_focus
central_marylebone_location

What People Love

Charcoal-kissed lamb that feels special
Thoughtful, personal service touches
Lively show nights with dancing and music
Attractive room that feels celebratory

Points of Concern

Downstairs DJ nights get very loud; conversation may be difficult
Portions can feel small relative to price for some diners
Service slows on busy entertainment nights and large tables
Review patterns show signs of potential manipulation (staff name repetition, marketing language) which may not reflect typical diner experience
Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters

Service & Dining Experience

Service StyleTable Service Average Cost£48-68 per person ReservationsRecommended

What to Order

Build a meze start (Falafel or Sucuk & Hellim) then share a mixed grill to sample widely; add rice and a salad to round out portions.

Perfect For

Birthday dinners with entertainment
Date nights seeking upbeat energy
Group celebrations that want a show
Visitors staying near Marylebone/Baker Street

Location Insights

Area: Upmarket Marylebone side street with boutiques and residential blocks; attracts professionals and celebratory groups.

Safety: Generally safe, well-lit, and well-patrolled central London area with steady evening foot traffic.

Nearby: Near Baker Street/Marylebone High Street; close to hotels, shops, and transport links.

FitzroviaFitzrovia is a trendy and eclectic neighborhood with a strong creative and artistic vibe. It offers a diverse dining scene ranging from casual cafes to upscale restaurants, frequented by professionals during the day and a lively crowd in the evenings. The area is known for its mix of historic pubs, modern eateries, and boutique establishments, making it a popular spot for both workday lunches and social dinners.

Practical Information

Opening Hours

Monday12:00–23:00 Tuesday12:00–23:00 Wednesday12:00–23:00 Thursday12:00–23:00 Friday12:00–00:00 Saturday12:00–00:00 Sunday12:00–23:00

Available: Reservations, Delivery, Takeout, Outdoor seating

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