Door Knock
Find the pineapple to locate this hidden bar — just remember to knock three times.
Overview
Fancy a little Parisian charm without leaving Sydney? Pioneering hidden bar Door Knock launched their new concept earlier this year, pairing a French-inspired neighbourhood bar with the vibe of an underground speakeasy. Both the venue's decor and culinary offerings underwent a significant transformation — dark, sultry and subterranean, the glow-up certainly lives up to its European inspiration.
Still hidden behind an unassuming entrance with nothing but a polished brass pineapple doorknocker to let you know you're in the right place, don't expect the Nordic decor that came before once you get inside. Now, the space has been adorned with vintage French mirrors, herringbone panelling, marble tables, leather seating and dimly lit lampshades. For those who've wandered Paris' streets, there's a good chance you've stumbled in somewhere similar.
The menu is also rejuvenated to suit Door Knock's new mood. Led by Head Chef Joe Slakey, dishes are designed for sharing and are likely to change with the seasons. The wine offering has also been rejigged, with an expanded menu highlighting drops from France, Italy and Australia. Signature cocktails evolve based on the bartenders' "current obsessions" but may include the likes of the Bullfighter with tequila, mezcal, apricot, lime and coconut cream.
"We're not trying to be a high-end restaurant, we've created an accessible and affordable menu, while not sacrificing on big, bold flavours," says owner John Grace. "It was important for us to pay homage to Door Knock's history, while also ushering in a new era, one which allows you to step off from Pitt St and into another world."
Door Knock has introduced a new, invitingly affordable lunch special, commencing on Thursday, October 9. Once you've found the hidden bar, you'll be rewarded with one of Slakey's mains and a glass of wine for just $25. Rotating weekly, choose between scotch fillet, crispy pork belly, crab cakes and beef sliders. The lunch special is available from noon to 3pm on Thursday and Friday.
Images: Trent van der Jagt.
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