Overview
Fancy a little Parisian charm without leaving Sydney? Pioneering hidden bar Door Knock has just relaunched with a new concept that should pique your interest. Pairing a French-inspired neighbourhood bar with the vibe of an underground speakeasy, both the venue's decor and culinary offering have undergone a major transformation. Dark, sultry and subterranean, this 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 (Flying Fajita Sistas), Mediterranean and North African-inspired dishes are made for sharing with your pals. Starters include made-from-scratch stracciatella, served with grape confit, crisp rosemary and sea salt lavosh ($16), as well as house-made dips ($18), grilled calamari ($15) and fried cauliflower with zaatar and spiced labneh ($10).
There are also three larger plates to consider, including a 250g flank steak with red wine jus and Paris butter ($28), chermoula chicken ($24) and a Moroccan lamb cooked tagine-style for five hours and served with chickpeas, saffron rice and dukkah ($23). Meanwhile, sides like sweet potato fries with truffle oil and crisp sage ($12) are made for snacking on while sipping or feasting on a fully-fledged meal.
Yet with a menu designed for seasonality, don't be surprised if things change between visits. The wine offering has also been rejigged, with an expanded menu highlighting drops from France, Italy and Australia. However, the venue's signature cocktails are staying put, with favourites like the Sunny Leone featuring a concoction of Don Julio Blanco, amaretto, lime juice, tropical citrus and pineapple oleo, passionfruit sparkling wine and absinthe spray. It's as extravagant as it sounds.
"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 is open Monday–Thursday from 4pm–12am and Friday–Saturday from 4pm-1am at B2/70 Pitt St, Sydney. Head to the website for more information.
Images: Trent van der Jagt.