About Deja Vu Eats
Deja Vu Eats is a downtown Dunedin restaurant and event space serving Asian/Oriental-style street food (openmenu.com ). Located at 115 Stuart Street (Lower Stuart Street), it opened in late 2019 under owner Andre Shi of the AND Hospitality Group (www.odt.co.nz ). The décor is a neon-lit “daydream” theme – even the entrance sign reads “you are my favourite daydream” (a line meaningful to the owner) (www.odt.co.nz ). A large mural by local artist Tyler Kennedy Stent (known for the Ed Sheeran mural) depicts an ancient Japanese dragon inside (www.odt.co.nz ). The bar serves local craft beers and creative cocktails alongside shareable plates, and customer reviews praise its varied menu and lively vibe (deja-vu-the-function-room.wheree.com ) (deja-vu-the-function-room.wheree.com ). Housed in the heritage “Security Building” of Dunedin’s CBD (one open-plan floor of roughly 245 m²) (www.bayleys.co.nz ) (www.realestate.co.nz ), Deja Vu Eats has become a notable part of the local dining and nightlife scene. Its unique neon interiors and casual Asian cuisine make it a memorable venue in the city center.
Events and Programming
Aside from dining, Deja Vu Eats also functions as a club-style event space. It is often booked for private parties, birthdays and corporate events (www.thedunedinessential.com ). Outside normal restaurant hours the room transforms into a nightclub-like venue with DJs and music – similar to the approach of its sister venue Vault 21, which “transforms into Dunedin’s leading nightlife venue featuring the city’s top club DJs” (www.vault21.co.nz ). For example, in October 2023 it hosted an all-night “After Party” with local DJs on a special ticketed event (www.ticketfairy.com ). Events run irregularly (not a fixed schedule), but frequently include themed dance nights or small live music gigs. Patrons can check event listings or social media for upcoming gigs, DJ sets or themed nights at the function room. When Deja Vu is set up for events, it may operate 18+ (NZ law) and draw a younger crowd, whereas earlier in the evening it functions as an all-ages restaurant.
Tickets and Booking
For regular dining there is no cover charge and guests can simply walk in or make a table reservation (calling or booking online is advised on busy nights). For special events or club nights, tickets must be purchased in advance through online event platforms (box-office-style). For instance, tickets for the Oct 2023 anniversary “After Party” were offered well before the date (on sale Oct 5 for an Oct 20 event) (www.ticketfairy.com ). Pricing for these events tends to be modest (often under NZ$20–30), though it varies by show and does not have a fixed tier system. Some events may offer door sales if not sold out, but popular nights usually require advance purchase. When booking private parties, it’s best to contact the venue’s events team (managed by Vault21’s function department) to discuss menus, space layout, and any minimum spend. Overall, dinner at Deja Vu Eats is à la carte (no tickets needed), but nightclub-style events use event tickets with general admission or reserved seating as arranged.
Seating and Layout
The venue is essentially one open-plan room (a 245 m² space) (www.bayleys.co.nz ) with a bar along one wall and tables/chairs filling the rest. Seating includes a mix of small tables and bench seating for sharing plates, with stools at the bar. During private events or club nights the furniture can be pushed aside to create a dance floor. There are no fixed theatre-style seats – crowds either stand or sit at tables on the same level. If reserving for a show, tables near the front of the space (by the apparent DJ/stage area) offer the best view of performers. In general dining mode, any table is fine for viewing the decorative neon wall art. Avoid seating far back near the restrooms or kitchen when a performance is on, since those areas can be noisy when busy. Otherwise the acoustics are adequate for spoken/music events (speakers and basic lighting are installed to support DJs or small bands).
Getting There and Parking
Deja Vu Eats is at 115 Stuart Street in central Dunedin (openmenu.com ) (Lower Stuart Street, just off the Octagon). The Octagon itself is a main hub for Dunedin buses, and multiple city bus routes stop within a block (along Moray Place or Princes Street), making bus access easy from anywhere in town. By car there is no dedicated lot, but metered street parking is available on nearby roads. A variety of public parking options lie in walking distance – for example Wilson’s 284 Stuart Street car park, or the council-operated lots around the Octagon and waterfront. Note that night buses and taxis also serve this area – there’s often a taxi rank at the Octagon/Moray or across from the Dunedin Town Hall. Many patrons simply walk if they are staying downtown or coming from nearby (the venue is a 2-minute walk from Cool Line/Main St stops). Rideshare drop-offs can be done on Stuart Street or Moray Place (watch for busy traffic), and bike parking is also available nearby.
Inside the Venue
Expect a lively atmosphere inside. Entry is via a neon-lit front door leading straight into the bar/dining room. On arrival you’ll see neon signs and artwork around; the mood is playful. Security and ID-checks generally only apply for late-night events – at regular dinner times the feel is more relaxed. Dress code is informal (smart-casual to trendy) – many guests come in everyday clothes or night-out attire. The food is ordered at the counter or from servers and is brought to your table. It’s a fully licensed bar: you’ll find local craft beers on tap and a menu of creative cocktails (deja-vu-the-function-room.wheree.com ). Guests have mentioned the friendly, attentive service and full-flavoured food (deja-vu-the-function-room.wheree.com ). Signature dishes (like dan dan noodles and pork bites) are popular (deja-vu-the-function-room.wheree.com ). Restrooms and a small cloak area are inside (typically with unisex or men’s/women’s facilities). By law there is no smoking indoors. The venue likely offers free Wi-Fi (as many city bars do). There’s no formal coat-check beyond coat racks/hooks inside, so keep belongings nearby. Feel free to take photos – the décor (especially the neon sign and wall art) is quite photogenic.
Nearby Amenities
The immediate area has many food and drink options. Deja Vu is right next to the Octagon, so you’ll find dozens of cafés, bars and restaurants within a 2–3 minute walk. For example, Brew Bar on Stuart Street (at the Octagon) is famous for burgers and pizzas and has live music; reviewers call it “a good bar to relax and eat in Dunedin” (www.tripadvisor.co.nz ). On nearby Lower Stuart and Moray Places are bars like The Wine Centre (great cocktails) and restaurants like Flavour Indian Kitchen and Kōrū Canteen for takeaways. Hotel options a short stroll away include the Distinction Hotel at Moray Place and the Quest City Central (formerly Ibis), as well as small hostels (the railway station is 5 minutes on foot). If you arrive early for dinner, cafés on George Street or Bath Street are also handy. Late-night transport options include taxis (rank near Moray Place) and multiple Dunedin buses that run later in the evening.
What Makes This Venue Special
Deja Vu Eats stands out for its unique blend of personal storytelling, art and fun. The neon aesthetic and quirky name aren’t just gimmicks – the owner has explained the sign was inspired by a special moment (“you are my favourite daydream”) and is dedicated to his fiancée (www.odt.co.nz ). This kind of personal touch is rare in Dunedin’s venues. The interior art also adds character: a guest-spot mural by Tyler Stent (famous locally for the Ed Sheeran street mural) depicts a thousand-year-old dragon statue from Japan (www.odt.co.nz ), reinforcing the Asian theme. The result is an “exclusive, neon-lit wonderland” that feels like stepping into an imaginative dream (www.thedunedinessential.com ). Culturally, it has helped enliven Dunedin’s centre by merging dining with nightlife – a fusion not seen in many older NZ cities. Both audiences and musicians appreciate the vibe: locals love the décor and menu, and artists enjoy the intimate stage setup. In short, Deja Vu is special for its atmosphere (trendy décor, neon art) as much as its menu, making it a memorable spot for food or a night out.
Visitor Tips and Information
Accessibility is good – the heritage building has a lift for wheelchair access (www.bayleys.co.nz ), and staff are accustomed to assisting patrons with mobility needs. Bring valid ID if you plan to stay late (18+ for after-hours events). The venue is cashless (card only). For big groups or popular nights it’s wise to book ahead. Children are welcome with adults during regular dining hours, but note the music volume can get high at night. Comfortable shoes are a good idea if you plan to dance. NZ public heating is used, so it’s cozy in winter. The restrooms are unisex, and there’s room for strollers if needed. Parking on Veterans’ Day or other holidays may be free, but check local signs. If unsure about anything (menu details, event rules), staff are friendly – just ask when you arrive. As a final tip, many visitors say it’s worth arriving early (around 6–7pm) on a weekend to avoid a queue and enjoy the full dining and cocktail experience before any event kicks off.
Frequently Asked Questions
What type of food does Deja Vu Eats serve?
Deja Vu Eats specialises in Asian street-food style cuisine. The menu features Oriental-inspired small plates, noodles and snacks – for example, dishes like dan dan noodles and pork bites are highlights (deja-vu-the-function-room.wheree.com ). Overall it’s best described as casual Asian/Oriental fare (openmenu.com ).
Where is Deja Vu Eats located?
The restaurant is at 115 Stuart Street, Dunedin 9016 (Lower Stuart Street, near the Octagon) (openmenu.com ). It’s in the central city, just off Moray Place.
What are the opening hours?
Deja Vu Eats is open for lunch and dinner Tuesday through Saturday only. Lunch service is typically 12–2pm and dinner 5–9pm (localista.co.nz ). (The venue is closed on Sundays and Mondays.) Hours may vary on holidays or special events, so it’s wise to check ahead via social media or call.
Is the venue wheelchair accessible?
Yes. The old “Security Building” has been renovated with modern accessibility features. In particular, a wheelchair-accessible lift serves the restaurant floor (www.bayleys.co.nz ). Tables and restrooms are also accessible, making it easy for wheelchair users to dine or enjoy a show here.
How do I buy tickets for events at Deja Vu Eats?
For regular dining there’s no entry ticket – just make a reservation or walk in. For special events (like DJ nights or parties), tickets are sold in advance online. For example, tickets to an October 2023 after-hours party went on sale about two weeks before the date (www.ticketfairy.com ). Generally you’ll need to purchase through the event organiser’s site; check local event listings or the venue’s social channels for details on upcoming ticketed events.
Are there age restrictions or ID checks?
Yes. Like all Dunedin licensed venues, Deja Vu Eats applies age restrictions for alcohol service. Evening events at the function room are typically 18+ (showing ID is required) – one recent event listing even specifies “Ages 18+” (www.ticketfairy.com ). During normal dinner hours the environment is family-friendly, but children must be supervised. Always carry photo ID if you plan to stay late and drink.
Can I reserve a table or book the venue for a party?
Yes. Deja Vu Eats is designed to host private functions and parties. The venue’s marketing explicitly mentions celebrating birthdays and private events there (www.thedunedinessential.com ). You can book the space or a group table by contacting the Vault21/Deja Vu function team. For bigger parties the entire "Function Room" can be reserved (with tailored menus and beverage packages arranged in advance).
What parking is available nearby?
Deja Vu Eats does not have its own parking lot. Street parking is available on Lower Stuart and adjacent roads (metered during business hours, occasionally free evenings/weekends). Several paid city car parks are within a short walk – for example a Wilson lot at 284 Stuart Street or the council car park by the Town Hall. Overall, the Bayleys leasing notes “a variety of nearby car parking options” in the block (www.bayleys.co.nz ). Rideshare drop-offs or taxis are also convenient at the Octagon.
What should I know before I go (dress code, ID, etc.)?
Dress is casual to smart-casual. There is no formal dress code, but many people dress up a bit for night events. Always carry valid photo ID (a driver’s licence or passport), as it will be checked for drinking age. Outside food/drink is not allowed. It’s NZ policy that smoking is only permitted outside. You can bring a camera or phone to take photos of the décor. Finally, arrive a little early on weekends or event nights – popular nights can start to fill by 8pm.
Does Deja Vu Eats have Wi-Fi and other amenities?
Yes, typical modern amenities are available. There is almost always free Wi-Fi (ask a staff member for the network). Restrooms (with accessible stalls) are located inside the venue. A small area is provided to hang coats (though there is no formal checkroom). The bar stocks a fully licensed selection (blood testing for cosplay?), so you can order drinks at the counter. There is no merchandise or coat-check service, and parking is offsite as noted.
What cuisine style or signature dishes can I expect?
Expect shared Asian-style dishes. Customer reviews highlight items like dan dan noodles and pork bites as standout dishes (deja-vu-the-function-room.wheree.com ). Other menu favourites include spicy vegetable stir-fries, fish cakes, and their Malaysian sweet pancake dessert (deja-vu-the-function-room.wheree.com ). The open menu also features dumplings, satay and wok-fried veggies – essentially a street-food inspired menu meant for sharing. Cocktails often have Asian flavour twists as well.
Who painted the mural and what does it depict?
The large dragon mural inside Deja Vu was painted by Dunedin street artist Tyler Kennedy Stent (known locally from an Ed Sheeran mural). It depicts a 1,000-year-old guardian dragon statue from a Japanese temple (www.odt.co.nz ). The artwork ties into the Asian theme and was commissioned specifically for Deja Vu Eats, adding a unique cultural touch to the decor (www.odt.co.nz ).
Why is the neon sign inside called 'you are my favourite daydream'?
According to owner Andre Shi, the neon phrase “you are my favourite daydream” is a personal touch. He saw the phrase in Beijing and chose it for the restaurant entrance because it reminds him of wonderful memories (even dedicating it to his fiancée) (www.odt.co.nz ). That backstory is part of the venue’s charm, giving the name “Deja Vu” an emotional, nostalgic meaning just as much as a cool look.
