Door Knock

Nestled in the basement under 70 Pitt Street in Sydney’s CBD, Door Knock is a beautifully concealed cocktail and wine bar that channels the allure of a Parisian neighbourhood haunt fused with underground speakeasy charm. The entry ritual itself sets the tone: follow a corridor to a red door adorned with a brass pineapple doorknocker—knock three times, and you’re transported into another world. Once inside, the atmosphere shifts to one of hushed elegance—dim lighting, leather seating, marble-topped tables, vintage mirrors, herringbone panelling, and cozy nooks that feel more like an intimate drawing room than a bar . The décor is tactile and layered, with greenery, corrugated metal, rope accents, and timber creating a warm, textured embrace. The menu strikes a delightful balance between the refined and the approachable. Crafted cocktails like Kiwi As, Caskhopper, and Sunny Leone combine unexpected ingredients with precision—think kiwi‑infused vermouth spritzes, coconut-milk espresso whisky blends, and flamboyant tropical concoctions. Beyond drinks, head chef Joe Slakey introduces shareable Mediterranean and North African–inspired small plates. Offerings such as stracciatella with grape confit, fried cauliflower with zaatar and labneh, flank steak with Paris butter, and Moroccan lamb tagine bring bold yet comforting flavours—many priced under A$28, making elevated dining surprisingly accessible. Natural and minimal-intervention wines, fortifieds, and sherries also feature prominently, rounding out the beverage program thoughtfully. Whether you're sinking into a sultry night after work, toasting in an intimate date setting, or simply seeking to escape into a clandestine enclave, Door Knock delivers a theatrical, refined, and ultimately unforgettable experience.