Restaurant

ISH

199 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

Recommended by 74 people

Updated

Find ISH

199 Gertrude St, Fitzroy VIC 3065, Australia

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HoursMonday: Closed Tuesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Wednesday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Thursday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM Friday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM Saturday: 5:00 – 11:00 PM Sunday: 5:00 – 10:00 PM

*Opening hours may differ during holidays.

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About ISH

Forget standard curry house formulas—this Gertrude Street outpost delivers an upscale take on modern Indian dining with genuine culinary grit. The kitchen reimagines desi flavors through sharp global formats, pairing savory pulled confit duck roti tacos with crisp Malabari paratha alongside fresh kingfish ceviche. Regulars know to order the fluffy black garlic naan—available in a dedicated gluten-free preparation—to dredge through rich Kerala chicken or aromatic house-made palak paneer. Pours from curated wine dinners balance the kitchen's layered chili heat, while celebratory tables linger over multi-course set menus in the moody, dimly lit dining room.

  • Inventive Modern Fusion: Pairs bold Indian flavors with global formats like pulled confit duck tacos on Malabari paratha and kingfish ceviche.
  • Dietary-Inclusive Dining: Offers inclusive menus featuring house-made palak paneer, dedicated vegan choices, and gluten-free naan.
  • Curated Pairings: Thoughtfully matched wine dinners and spiced cocktails cut cleanly through complex marinades and chili oils.
  • Gertrude Street Atmosphere: Warm hospitality and a moody, refined setting suited for intimate dates or multi-course celebration menus.

What's On at ISH

Upcoming events, special menus and other reasons to plan a visit.

No events or specials listed right now.

Reasons to Choose ISH

Why diners choose ISH for contemporary Indian fusion and celebrations on Gertrude Street

  • Inventive Roti Duck Tacos

    The kitchen reimagines traditional Indian flavors with inventive formats, like confit duck wrapped in flaky Malabari paratha with crispy chicken skin.

    This dish was an impressive fusion of South Indian and Mexican flavors.

    Kate Tueli
  • Signature Black Garlic Naan

    Tandoor breads are elevated into aromatic centerpieces, infusing soft, fluffy dough with rich, earthy black garlic.

    The black garlic naan was aromatic and delicious.

    QZ
  • Celebration Multi-Course Feasts

    Multi-course set menus showcase culinary twists across several courses, making milestone group celebrations and gatherings effortless.

    We got the Celebration Menu with 7 different courses! everything was super tasty and well-seasoned.

    Yum
  • Attentive Function Hospitality

    Friendly, attentive front-of-house staff make events and group functions run seamlessly, keeping drinks flowing all evening.

    We had a wonderful night at our function on Thursday. The food was delicious & the service was outstanding.

    Anna Dijak
  • Dedicated Gluten-Free Accommodations

    Guests with dietary restrictions are effortlessly catered to, featuring dedicated gluten-free options including freshly prepared GF naan.

    Gluten free options including GF naan which was lovely!

    Martina De Pascalis
  • Mellow Atmosphere for Dates

    With dim lighting and a cosy, relaxed feel, the space provides a comfortable backdrop for romantic evenings and catch-ups.

    Really mellow and romantic ambience.

    Spoorthy Reddy

Other favorites

Complementary starters, sides, and signature spice-infused cocktails

  • Dahi Puri

    A delightful beginning, these yogurt poppers were a burst of flavor and texture.

    Kate Tueli
  • Cauliflower Curried Hummus

    Cauliflower Curried Hummus (excellent veggie choice)

    Julia D.
  • Samosa Chaat

    The samosa chaat is a deconstructed samosa and it was just divine!

    Angel Rusli
  • Masala Margarita

    This cocktail was a refreshing take on the classic margarita, infused with Indian spices. The balance of the tequila, lime, and masala spices created a unique and enjoyable drink that complemented the meal perfectly.

    Kate Tueli

Beyond the menu

Thoughtful gestures and hospitable touches that elevate your dining experience at ISH.

  • Complimentary Birthday Treats

    For birthday celebrations, the restaurant treats guests to a complimentary rasmalai to mark the occasion.

  • Dedicated Dietary Care & Gluten-Free Naan

    The kitchen and service team actively accommodate dietary requirements with specialized preparations, including freshly baked gluten-free naan.

  • Thoughtful Portion Customization

    Staff thoughtfully adapt set portions, such as adding an extra lamb seekh kebab so every guest at the table gets a taste.

  • Direct Culinary Interaction with Owners

    Guests regularly get to connect directly with the owners and team to chat about their food ethos and culinary passion.

Before you head over

Helpful advice on menus, dietary requests, and parking for your visit to ISH.

  • Plan Ahead for the Celebration Menu

    If you are visiting for a special occasion or milestone celebration, consider reserving the multi-course Celebration Menu, but review portion expectations across mains and breads beforehand.

  • Request Dietary Accommodations

    Diners with gluten sensitivities or specific dietary restrictions can request tailored options, including the dedicated gluten-free naan and vegetarian dishes.

  • Factor In Street Parking

    Gertrude Street features street parking directly outside, though spaces can fill up quickly during peak evening dining hours.

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