Signature Picks
Discover the highlights of the day
Inagi Kabob
Espresso Shot
Pennien
Ayran
Inside the Experience
Ishtar Restaurant
Ishtar Restaurant, nestled in the heart of Calgary at 4338 Macleod Trail SW, is a culinary gem that blends vibrant Middle Eastern flavors with genuine Kurdish hospitality. From the moment you step inside, you’re greeted by a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with lively music and attentive service that makes you feel less like a customer and more like family.
The food at Ishtar is consistently fresh, flavorful, and thoughtfully prepared. Highlights include their mouthwatering chicken shawarma and tender, smoky beef and lamb kebabs—each dish showcasing a perfect balance of spices and quality ingredients. The BBQ platter is another standout, praised for its juicy, expertly cooked chicken. For those who enjoy a sweet finish, the baklava offers a delightful, flaky treat that pairs beautifully with traditional Arabic coffee or tea.
Beyond the food, what truly elevates the experience is the staff’s passion and care. Their friendly and attentive service enhances the meal without overwhelming, creating a relaxed, welcoming environment. Whether it's thoughtful recommendations or vibrant celebrations with dance and music, they go above and beyond to make each visit memorable.
The restaurant also offers shisha, contributing to an authentic ambiance; however, the lively presence of shisha-smokers may prompt some guests to seek a quieter spot within the space. Families find joy here too, with generous portions and free candies that delight children.
Ishtar’s commitment to quality, timely service, and genuine hospitality shines through, making it one of Calgary’s must-visit spots for lovers of Middle Eastern cuisine. Whether you’re out for a casual meal, a festive night with friends, or a special celebration, Ishtar promises an experience packed with flavor, warmth, and vibrant culture that stays with you long after the last bite.
Book a table
Make A Reservation
“ Great staff. Meal was okay, went with staff recommendation. The chicken and beef were great, the lamb - not so much. Good ambiance until the men started to use shisha, had to change tables. ”
“ Yo!!! We had a blast night! They food is awesome and oh my god, Farasha is like our friend. She brought us tasty snacks and shot, adjusted the lights and even picked beautiful music for us. My friend can't stop complimenting the food and the services. She even started dancing and made me cry. Don't get me wrong, it's my tear of joy. 200% recommend and will definitely go there with my badminton friends again. ”
“ I had such a great experience at Ishtar Restaurant. The food was fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked — you can really tell they care about quality. The staff were friendly and attentive without being overbearing, and the atmosphere felt warm and welcoming. Everything came out on time, and the portions were generous. Definitely one of the best spots around — I’ll be coming back for sure. ”
“ We absolutely adore coming here! The food is mouthwateringly delicious, the service is top-notch, and the atmosphere is electric - it's like a vibrant party every time! The chicken shawarma is a standout favorite, and the lamb and beef kebabs are flavorful, tender, and perfectly smoky. My 6-year-old loves this place. She loves the lively music, the generous helpings of free candies, and the warm hospitality from the host and entire staff. Everyone is so kind, friendly, and welcoming, making us feel like part of the family. We can't wait to come back! ”
“ My husband's work had their year-end party at Ishtar Family Restaurant, and we had such a great time there. I highly recommend checking it out and don't be shy about asking questions. The staff were really good about explaining all the different items we tried. My favorite part of our dining experience was the Ishtar salad, the BBQ platter (the chicken is amazing) and the baklava... oh and the Arabic Tea. Honestly, it was an incredible dining experience. I can't wait to go back and share what I've learned with friends. It's a great space. Perfect for small to medium sized gatherings. ”