New Haven Independent

posted by: WestvilleNativeSon on December 11, 2007  1:37pm

It’s very exciting that Deja Brew is now open (and with free WiFi on the way! just terrific). It’s been a long time coming, and everyone is really happy to see it ready for business. I hope Carol is open to just a little friendly advice: If you want to get the young professionals moving onto West Rock, Central, and elsewhere in Westville, please offer the New York Times in addition to the Register (nothing wrong with the Register, I read it, but it’s so flimsy that we need another paper for when we’re finished), and please PLEASE play better music. There just aren’t that many people who want to hear Perry Como and the Andrews Sisters. Don’t get me wrong—I love Sinatra, I can even handle Johnny Mathis, but in small doses. For a regular musical diet, a coffee shop needs a more youthful and eclectic mix: some Motown, some jazz, some folk. If you’re not sure what I’m talking about, listen to WEHM 92.9 for hints—or put out a suggestion box—people will be happy to share ideas. Again, I don’t mean to be difficult, but the music you’re playing will drive people away, seriously—even if everything else is lovely, which it is. If you want it to be a hangout, you can’t play music that only a tiny percentage of the neighborhood wants to hear. And as a rule, old people will more happily put up with young people’s music (so long as it’s not too loud) than vice versa.

Also, the baristas need a little more training—drinks have been a bit thin and need to be stronger—but that’s the way it is with any new coffee shop, and obviously the kinks will get worked out. But if you’re going to make mistakes, the drinks should be too strong, never too weak.

Finally, to everyone else reading, you should check out Deja Brew! Despite these minor flaws, it’s a cozy place with good hours and good service.

posted by: New Customer on December 12, 2007  8:00am

We’re just as excited about the opening of Deja Brew and have had two great experiences thus far.  Everyone I know has been anxiously awaiting its opening since Westville could really use a neighborhood cafe.  We first stopped in on Saturday to warm up during our afternoon walk.  I didn’t try the coffee, only had hot chocolate, but that was great! 

I came back in on Sunday for a sandwich.  I ordered the caprese on ciabatta.  It was nicely toasted and hit the spot - a treat since I didn’t even realize Deja Brew would be offering sandwiches in addition to your typical coffee shop treats (they have bagels, muffins, scones, etc).

As far as the music goes, I didn’t even notice it because I came in for takeout both times.  If they are playing 40’s music, I would say keep it since it fits so well with the decor.  When you step into the store it’s almost like you go back in time!  I don’t usually go in to a coffee shop for music, but for a chance to relax and sit down.

Overall, I think Deja Brew will be very successful.  The service and food are great.  If anything, go in to check out the hard work they’ve put into the decor.

Good luck Deja Brew!

posted by: Bill on December 12, 2007  8:04am

I am so excite that Deja Brew has finally opened.  This neighborhood has needed a fine establishment like this one and it is in a perfect location.  Mike and Carol Frawley have done such a great job in creating such a beautiful and calming place to go to relax and have a latte.  And the delicious pastries and paninis are a bonus.  I also like the fact that Deja Brew will also have wireless internet soon.  Everyone has been so warm and friendly.  And by the way, I happen to be a teenager, and I think that the music selection is perfect for the atmosphere, and the drink are just fine.

posted by: mckinleygirl on December 12, 2007  12:49pm

We’re really happy about the kid-friendliness of Deja Brew. Congratulations to Carol, Mike and the rest of the crew for putting it together.

Looking forward to more fun times with our family there in the futre.

posted by: westvillecharlie on December 12, 2007  7:42pm

My girlfriend and I have been waiting these last few months for the chance to bypass the evil Walley / fountain dunkin donuts and the dreaded line of wannabees every weekend at bella’s.
Two observations
1.  The place became so clique-y in just one day, the people who came in with the wrong set of children, the wrong kind of coffee or the not-knowing of the sudden superstars will never be as welcome as those who were ordained the first day.
2.  Those of us who actually read the n.y. times (and the register -which sucks, but is necessary for those of us who feel the need to be fully informed) have it delivered to our houses.
people who pay $6 for coffe and a glorified piece of bread are not necessarily the creme de la creme.  It was funny to see the Ina Silverman vs. Tom “Golden Boy” malone (whom i voted for) folks ditching political idealogy for acceptance of caffine cool.
I’m going to stop & shop to buy some “chock full ‘o nuts” and skipping the place.

posted by: Chris Gray on December 13, 2007  12:50am

Westvillenativeson, I know you were just offering constructive critique but…

Don’t like their music? 

Just plug your earbuds into your iPod, cell phone or laptop (using your own music files or those you link to with the Wifi they offer) and enjoy your own diversion or use ear plugs to blot out the carefully crafted nostalgia they provide.  (Deja Brew, is the name.)

Just, don’t play your music so loud that you bleed into others’ conversations or reveries.

Congratulations and much luck to all involved!

I hope I get a chance to visit, soon, though I have to admit that I prefer a strong coffee flavor, as he does.

posted by: Westvillnativedaughter on December 13, 2007  1:48pm

I completely agree with Chris.  I am a “young” person who is overjoyed to find a cafe with older quieter music.  You can go anywhere for a place so hip you can’t hear yourself think.  But it’s hard to find a comfortable place where you can actually have a conversation too.  Thank you!

My only hope too is for a slightly darker richer brew.