In an industry often chasing fleeting trends, visionary restaurateur (and soon to be hotelier) Barış Köroğlu (Baris Koroglu) is building an empire on the bedrock of heritage. Last month, he unveiled his latest venture, DEJAVU, a Mediterranean-American fusion restaurant and cocktail lounge in the heart of the West Village, marking the next step in his mission to redefine hospitality through cultural storytelling and immersive experience.
For Köroğlu, the journey to 394 West Street began far from New York, in the ancient, cave-etched landscape of Cappadocia, Turkey. The region’s deep layers of history, artistry, and community forged a creative sensibility that now informs every project he touches. He translates this heritage not as a relic, but as a living inspiration, blending tradition with modern innovation to create spaces that resonate on a global scale.
“Guests today seek more than a meal; they seek meaning, connection, and a story,” says Köroğlu. “My vision is to build bridges between cultures, reminding people that hospitality is, at its heart, about human connection.”
Köroğlu is no stranger to shaping NYC’s social scene. Over two decades, he has cemented his reputation as a tastemaker through roles as Promotional Director at Paradise Club, a partner in VirgoPresent, and as co-founder of the immersive nightlife concept The Lullaby. His collaboration with NBA star Carmelo Anthony at 9 Jones further showcased his unique ability to fuse food, design, and celebrity into relevant concepts.
DEJAVU represents an evolution of this philosophy—a holistic destination where the line between refined dining and vibrant nightlife intentionally blurs. The 2,800-square-foot space is designed as a series of evolving experiences. The evening begins in the lively Emerald Room bar, transitions into the cream-toned sophistication of the 40-seat Golden Room dining area, and culminates for some in the Red Room, an intimate, 10-seat speakeasy hidden behind velvet curtains that hosts private tastings and burlesque performances on weekends.
“When guests enter DEJAVU, they are stepping into a narrative,” Köroğlu explains. “Every detail, from the lighting to the music, contributes to an immersive experience that we want to linger in the memory.”
This narrative extends to the plate. The culinary program, led by chefs with pedigrees in esteemed European and New York kitchens, merges coastal Turkish and Italian influences through a modern New York lens. The menu is a journey of refined yet approachable dishes designed to balance familiarity with surprise.
Shareable starters include the DEJAVU Burrata ($19) with Mediterranean herbs, and an homage to New York, the Pastrami Croquette ($19). Hand-rolled pastas reflect Mediterranean roots, such as the Manti Dumplings ($32)—Turkish ravioli in a velvety yogurt sauce. For indulgence, the menu offers caviar service ($95) and a luxurious Lemon Spaghetti with Caviar ($42).
The bar program, a fusion of artistry and science, is equally performance-driven. Utilizing techniques like sous-vide infusion and fat-washing, lead mixologist Turgut creations include the signature DEJAVU cocktail (white rum, lychee, yuzu, matcha foam) and the innovative Truffle Coffee Negroni.
Beyond business, Köroğlu’s vision is rooted in endurance and responsibility. A dedicated philanthropist, he supports cultural preservation efforts in his native Cappadocia, believing that success comes with a duty to steward community and legacy.
With two more projects on the horizon, Barış Köroğlu is poised to broaden his influence as one of the industry’s most forward-thinking leaders. From the mystical landscapes of Cappadocia to the vibrant streets of the West Village, he is proving that the most memorable hospitality is built not just on taste, but on a profound and authentic sense of place.
DEJAVU is located at 394 West Street, New York, NY 10014. Reservations for the Golden Room dining area and the Red Room speakeasy are available now.
