Ishtar Restaurant is one of the most well-known Iraqi restaurants in Sterling Heights, Michigan. 

 It was established as a result of the popularity of Middle Eastern cuisine brought by the large Arab population in the surrounding area, including students and teachers from WHS who have visited this restaurant. Ishtar welcomes all customers where they can choose between three different service options: takeout, delivery, and dine-in. Guests who visit this restaurant will experience a lively Arab dining culture that could be familiar or a new environment among people.

Woodhaven student Taibah Mozip says, “Ishtar restaurant reminded me of my home, due to the Arab dining table and the cultural atmosphere.” 

Some of the more popular menu orders are the chicken shawarma sandwich, the meat shawarma sandwich, the beef kebab sandwich, and hummus. Ishtar also provides authentic Halal meal versions which are called  “dhabiha,” representing a permissible meat cut in a mannered way to support the Islamic culture. Muhammad Ahsan a student from WHS highly recommends the restaurant, saying, “The chicken and the lamb chops were well seasoned,  I haven’t tasted such incredible halal meals before.”

When customers are seated at their table they will receive eggplant salad, lentil soup, bread, and water before ordering. The waitress also serves customers a free tea kettle to enjoy after finishing their meal along with background musicians and murals, checking in every once in a while with the patrons. WHS English as a Second Language teacher Austin Peters said “The meals were amazingly well served by a very friendly staff.” 

The restaurant is often crowded and full of big families, especially during the Muslim holiday Eid or for large family occasions. 

 Ishtar is next door to the “Palm Sweets Bakery and Cafe” which customers can visit for dessert after eating their meals. 

Many customers often express good reviews that Ishtar is one of the best-tasting restaurants in the area with a 4.3-star rating from several thousand Google reviews.  This restaurant is highly known for its well-seasoned meals, along with its excellent customer service.