Ishtar is a contemporary Iraqi chai and food restaurant in San Diego’s South Park neighborhood. Unlike traditional Iraqi restaurants, Ishtar modernizes the dining experience with a fresh take on Iraqi cuisine. Targeting a crowd aged 18-24, it combines authentic flavors with a modern atmosphere, offering a unique space in a vibrant, eclectic neighborhood.
Ishtar provides a modern dining experience that celebrates Iraqi cuisine while appealing to a younger audience. By combining traditional chai and food offerings with a contemporary environment, Ishtar introduces lesser-known tastes fresh, to South Park. The goal is to offer a unique culinary experience that resonates with modern tastes, in a space that feels fresh and inviting for our target audience.
The original design has been modified by extending the lines, creating a more dynamic and fluid form. This subtle adjustment enhances the logo's elegance, symbolizing the fusion of tradition and innovation that the restaurant aims to represent. The final design reflects a sophisticated, yet approachable atmosphere, appealing to a contemporary audience while honoring its rich cultural roots.
The illustrative motifs in Ishtar blend psychedelic influences with Mesopotamian heritage, using vibrant, unconventional colors and hand-drawn elements. Stylized florals, celestial shapes, and ornamental patterns reference ancient Assyrian art while embracing fluid, modern forms. The result is a bold, surreal visual language that honors cultural identity while pushing aesthetic boundaries.
Ishtar’s illustrative identity draws from Mesopotamian motifs and botanical forms, blending cultural heritage with natural beauty. The hand-drawn sketches echo ancient artifacts and wild flora, grounding the brand in both history and earthiness. These visuals help position Ishtar as more than a restaurant—it's a cultural and sensory experience.