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Inner East › Richmond › ISH
ISHB+Worth Trying
199 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia
· Modern Indian restaurant, Asian restaurant, Fusion restaurant
· 4.6/5 Google (437 reviews)
Reservations · Takeout
Creative Modern Indian with standout service and memorable small plates; excellent set menus but pricing and portion size spark debate—go for inventive flavors, not old-school curry house value.
Why it gets a B+ for overall quality
ISH delivers inventive modern Indian cooking with strong food quality highlighted by standout paneer, chaat, and roti duck tacos, paired with genuinely attentive service that makes diners feel welcomed. However, inconsistent execution—including lukewarm mains and variable spice balance—combined with peak-night pacing delays prevents the restaurant from reaching grade A territory. The pleasant Gertrude Street setting and loyal following suggest a solid neighborhood favorite, but execution reliability needs strengthening for higher distinction.
Restaurant Summary
On Gertrude Street, ISH feels warm and polished without the stuffiness. Servers are genuinely attentive and help steer you through a creative menu. One diner summed it up: "We left feeling looked after, from welcome to cocktails." Delays can happen on peak nights, but most visits hum along comfortably. The cooking leans modern and fusion-forward—think roti duck tacos, bright chaat, and house-made paneer in silky gravies. It suits diners who enjoy inventive spins more than strict tradition. Portions trend refined rather than hearty, so the set menus often deliver the best arc and value for the experience. Families are welcome, but the menu tilts adventurous. Kids who enjoy butter chicken and naan will be fine; picky eaters may struggle with bolder flavors and smaller portions. There is no clear kids menu, so build a meal from simpler curries, rice, and breads.
At a Glance
- Inventive Modern Indian with standout chaat, paneer, and roti duck taco
- Friendly, attentive service with helpful drink recommendations
- Portions run small and rice/breads are extra
- Peak-night pacing can be slow with long gaps between courses
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food
What Sets It Apart
- inventive_roti_taco
- chef_selection_menus
- house_made_paneer
What People Love
- House-made paneer texture and flavor
- Roti duck taco fusion idea
- Balanced, vibrant chaat
- Welcoming staff that guide the menu
Points of Concern
- Pricing is genuinely expensive (A$34-43 mains; breads and rice extra) which may surprise casual diners
- Reports of slow pacing on busy nights, especially set menus and holidays
- Mixed feedback on classic mains like butter chicken and some seafood dishes
- Creative/fusion menu - not traditional comfort food; CONCERN: Limited options for conservative palates or picky eaters
Service & Dining Experience
Service StyleTable Service
Average CostA$70-100 per person
ReservationsRecommended
What to Order
- Opt for chef’s menu on a first visit; add black garlic naan and a citrusy cocktail to balance richer dishes
Perfect For
- Date night with cocktails and small plates
- Celebration dinner via chef’s set menu
- Adventurous eaters exploring Indian fusion
- Locals seeking a polished Gertrude Street spot
Location Insights
Area: Trendy inner-north strip with boutiques, galleries, and bars; draws diners seeking creative, upscale casual experiences.
Safety: Generally safe, lively foot traffic in evenings; well-lit commercial corridor.
Nearby: Gertrude Street dining corridor near Smith and Brunswick Streets; bars, cafes, and galleries nearby.
FitzroyFitzroy is a trendy, bohemian neighborhood famous for its street art, independent boutiques, and a lively food and bar scene. It attracts a diverse crowd looking for innovative dining experiences, casual eateries, and vibrant nightlife.
Gertrude StreetGertrude Street is a well-known strip within Fitzroy featuring a mix of cafes, bars, and restaurants with a creative and relaxed atmosphere, popular for brunch and modern cuisine.
Practical Information
Opening Hours
Monday
Tuesday17:00–22:00
Wednesday17:00–22:00
Thursday17:00–22:00
Friday17:00–23:00
Saturday17:00–23:00
Sunday17:00–22:00
Available: Reservations, Takeout
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