By: Marissa Ross

Windsor Terrace has a new cultural destination with the opening of ZaGaya Wine Bar, a soulful speakeasy blending global flavors with community spirit. Founded by Brooklyn-based entrepreneur and visionary Lule Demmissie, ZaGaya (pronounced zuh-GUY-uh) is more than a bar, it’s a gathering place where culture, connection, and creativity converge.

Located at 471 16th Street, between Prospect Park West and 10th Avenue, ZaGaya invites guests to slow down, connect, and savor in style. The cozy, culture-rich space brings together North African, Ethiopian, and Mediterranean influences, weaving them into an atmosphere that celebrates both beauty and belonging.

“ZaGaya was born to be more than a wine bar; it’s a gathering place where neighbors, friends, and families can slow down, share a table, and feel at home in a space that celebrates both beauty and belonging,” says founder Lule Demmissie.

From its intimate design to its globally inspired menu, every detail reflects Demmissie’s vision of turning ZaGaya into a soulful “third place,” an extension of the neighborhood’s living room where food, music, and art coexist in harmony.

ZaGaya’s wine list is curated for exploration and expression. Guests can enjoy the elegance of Nebbiolo, carrying notes of rose and spice; the crisp, mineral-driven purity of Chablis; or the bold, textured Krasno Orange, bridging Old World craftsmanship with modern curiosity. At its heart is Saba Tej, a golden, floral honey wine that honors Ethiopia’s ancient tradition and forms the foundation of ZaGaya’s signature cocktail program.

ZaGaya reimagines Tej through modern mixology: the Autumn Lavender Tej blends seasonal spices, citrus, and lavender for a fragrant, warming sip; Apple Cider Tej balances crisp apple with comforting spice; and the Spicy Lioness Tej offers a tangy, spiced profile that is unmistakably East African.

Guests who prefer non-alcoholic options can enjoy house mocktails and zero-proof elixirs, including the Rose Water & Cardamom Elixir, Mint Fizz, and a Non-Alcoholic Negroni, crafted for full flavor without compromise. Small plates of artisanal cheeses, charcuterie, and Ethiopian-influenced bites complete the menu, encouraging shared experiences and conversation.

“Our beautiful space, menu, and vibe are deeply personal, a reflection of my Brooklyn and Ethiopian roots, African warmth, and Mediterranean traditions, brought together to create flavors that shaped me and invites others to discover this alchemy,” says Demmissie.

Beyond its drinks and dishes, ZaGaya thrives as a cultural hub. On select Fridays and Saturdays, the space fills with live music; Wednesday nights highlight spoken word and poetry, transforming ZaGaya into Windsor Terrace’s newest cultural stage. Even between performances, the bar’s soulful playlists create an atmosphere that’s equal parts elegant and inviting.

“At ZaGaya, music, poetry, and art aren’t extras, they are the rhythm of our everyday lives, weaving joy and reflection into each moment we share,” says Demmissie. “I’m grateful to offer a beautiful space where people can slow down, savor, and connect.”

Born in Ethiopia and raised with a deep appreciation for food as culture and community, Lule Demmissie brings her global perspective and hospitality passion to Windsor Terrace with ZaGaya Wine Bar, a project that unites her Ethiopian roots, African warmth, and Mediterranean sensibilities with Brooklyn’s creative energy.

“Our space, menu, and vibe are a reflection of my Brooklyn and Ethiopian roots and my lifelong belief that food, music, and art are powerful forces for unity,” says Demmissie. “ZaGaya is the alchemy of flavors, culture, and connection that shaped me, and it’s meant to be shared.”

Demmissie is widely recognized as a thought leader and community builder, having appeared in Forbes, Bloomberg, and CNBC, where she has been celebrated for her ability to bring people together around ideas and experiences. With ZaGaya, she has created a cultural oasis where global inspiration meets local soul, a reflection of both her heritage and her vision.

ZaGaya is now open and accepting reservations on Resy, offering a seamless and stylish experience for guests eager to explore its globally inspired menu and soulful atmosphere.

“ZaGaya was born to be more than a wine bar, it’s a gathering place where neighbors, friends, and families can slow down, share a table, and feel at home in a space that celebrates both beauty and belonging.”

Disclaimer: Alcoholic beverages should be consumed responsibly. Individuals must be of legal drinking age in their respective location to consume alcohol. Always drink in moderation and never drive under the influence.