Door Knock: Sydney’s original hidden bar has been given a sophisticated new look, unveiling a French-inspired redesign, a bold drinks list, and an elevated dining menu.
Tucked away behind a secret entrance beneath Pitt Street, Door Knock has transformed from a cosy, rope-lined speakeasy into an intimate Parisian-style neighbourhood bar. Think vintage French mirrors, elegant herringbone paneling, marble-topped tables, and plush leather seating – all bathed in warm, low lighting that makes it impossible not to linger.
But the changes aren’t just aesthetic. New head chef Joe Slakey (ex-Flying Fajita Sistas) has introduced a share-style menu that fuses Mediterranean and North African flavours with classic European techniques. The result? Dishes that are just as flavour-packed as they are affordable. Start with house-made stracciatella with grape confit and rosemary lavosh ($16), or dive into grilled calamari ($15) and fried cauliflower with za’atar and spiced labne ($10). Larger plates include a five-hour Moroccan lamb tagine ($23), chermoula chicken ($24), and a 250-gram flank steak dripping in red wine jus and Paris butter ($28). Sweet potato fries with truffle oil ($12)? Consider them essential.
Owner John Grace, who took the reins of Door Knock and sister bar Uncle Ming’s in 2024, says he wants the revamped space to be more than just a cocktail haunt.
“We’re not trying to be a fine-dining restaurant, but we’ve created an accessible, flavour-driven menu that’s perfect for a casual dinner or late-night bite,” he says.
The wine list has also had a glow-up, now focusing on standout French, Italian, and Australian drops, including the legendary Billecart-Salmon champagne. But some things remain unchanged – the beloved pineapple door-knocker is still there to greet guests, and signature cocktails like the Sunny Leone (a tropical tequila delight) and the Tilde End of Time aren’t going anywhere.
Grace is confident that Door Knock’s reinvention stays true to its roots while bringing in a new era.
“This is still the place you come to escape the city and settle in for the night,” he says. “Whether it’s a quick after-work drink, a long dinner with friends, or a special occasion, we want you to feel at home.”
Find Door Knock at Basement Level, 70 Pitt St, Sydney. Open Monday–Thursday, 4pm–midnight; Friday–Saturday, 4pm–1am.