Hard Rock Café
With 185 locations all over the world, the Hard Rock Café is an instantly recognizable institution. Known for their American styled cuisine and rock n' roll memorabilia, the café's motto is, "Love All -- Serve All". A perfect sentiment for the City of Love and Light! While the restaurants vary slightly in layout and decor all over the world, Paris' location has a certain 'je ne sais quoi' that makes it extra special. Or perhaps we're biased because we love all things Paris? In this article we'll take a peek at the origins of the Hard Rock Café as well as the restaurant in Paris, and let you be the judge!
Founding of the Brand
It all started when Isaac Tigrett and Peter Morton (two American expats living in London) got the cash together to open a small restaurant. Legend has it that they were pinning for cheeseburgers and cold beer, and opened their own establishment as a result. Subsequently, the first location opened in 1971. It soon became a popular spot for burger enthusiasts and musicians alike!
Initially, famed guitarist and Hard Rock Café regular, Eric Clapton, gifted one of his guitars to the restaurant. Thereby beginning their world renowned collection of rock and roll memorabilia and decoration. While many of the items have been donated by musicians and groups, the Hard Rock Café also purchases rare items at auction. Pieces in the collection include instruments, art, autographed objects, costumes, and tour memorabilia. The restaurant chain boasts the largest rock and roll themed collection in the world!
Eventually, the restaurant turned into a concert venue as well as a burger joint. Notably, legendary Beatle member, Paul McCartney, performed at the Hard Rock Café London in 1973. The venture was so successful that they expanded internationally in 1982. Currently, the company has restaurants in 74 countries, they also own 25 hotels and 12 casinos. Their headquarters are now based in Florida.
Though the company has experienced gargantuan success, they remain committed to philanthropy and environmental activism. For example, the company supports PETA (People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals) and Friends of the Earth. In addition, they have also sponsored and catered benefit concerts such as Live Aid, etc.
Hard Rock Café Paris
The Hard Rock Café Paris opened in 1991, and is located right around the corner from the Opera Garnier. Rock Opera? We can't help but enjoy the juxtaposition! The self proclaimed "undisputed home of American culture in Paris" regularly hosts live musical performances, televised international sporting events, and other rockin' happenings.
The restaurants boasts two floors, an outdoor terrace, a bar, a stage, and a VIP room for private events which can accommodate 25 to 400 guests. Hard Rock Café Paris proudly displays guitars used by the Beatles as well as other memorabilia including a t-shirt worn and signed by pop star Rhianna. Their diverse collection has something to please music fans of all genres! Don't even get us started about the cheeseburgers...
Bar
The Hard Rock Café Paris serves a variety of premium cocktails. For example, one of their signature beverages is called, "The Hurricane". It is a classic refreshment that hails from New Orleans which includes rum, amaretto along with various fresh fruits. If that doesn't entice you, they also serve classic cocktails such as the Mai Tai or Mojito, etc. Always innovative, the Hard Rock Café regularly creates new drinks, we have our eyes set on the "Rythm & Rosé Mule"! They also offer a selection of alcohol free beverages. In addition, you can take home your Hard Rock Café Paris glass for a small fee. Santé!
Hours of Operation:
Sunday - Thursday- 11:30 a.m. - 1:00 a.m.
Friday and Saturday- 11:30 a.m. - 2:00 a.m.
Hot Tip:
The Hard Rock Café Paris hosts their 'Happy Hour' from 4:00 p.m. - 7:00 p.m. daily, except on Saturdays.
Rock Shop
Hard Rock Café fans are die hard! Many will pick up a souvenir from a café every time they travel to a new country. If you are looking for a special souvenir to remember your trip to Paris or have a Hard Rock Café fan in your life, you won't want to miss the boutique!
Hours of Operation:
Monday - Thursday- 9:00 a.m. - 12:00 a.m.
Friday and Saturday- 9:00 a.m. - 1:00 a.m.
Your Visit to the Hard Rock Café Paris
Are you an expat living in Paris and feeling homesick? Or perhaps you're craving the city's best Bloody Mary and Legendary burger? Either way, the Hard Rock Café Paris rocks on!
Address: 14 Boulevard Montmartre, 75009, PARIS
Hours of Operation:
Monday - Sunday- 11:30 a.m. - 11:30 p.m.
Get a Free Starter or a Hot Fudge Sunday with the Paris Pass!
