With 191 Hard Rock locations around the globe (157 of which are cafés) it’s often the branding above all else that draws punters through its doors. People may visit to dine on pricey American-style food (burgers, nachos, shakes), but it’s more likely they’ll be after the rock ‘n’ roll glamour that the name guarantees. In this case, that includes Eric Clapton’s red Fender guitar, a red coat with a fur cape that once warmed Elvis Presley and Madonna’s expired bankcard from the ’80s. Over the road in the shop are yet more rock relics, alongside t-shirts and other take-home ephemera.
Tucked behind the main floor, The Back Room offers a more subdued, bar-focused alternative to the brand’s usual high-volume energy. Designed with a low-lit, speakeasy-inspired aesthetic, the space trades the sprawling memorabilia displays for a more intimate setting, though it remains firmly rooted in its rock 'n' roll heritage.
The menu shifts away from standard burgers toward "curated bites" and technically driven craft cocktails. A notable addition is the "Back Room Cocktail Experience," an immersive weekend tasting journey that pairs specifically designed drinks with live DJ sets from the Pete Tong DJ Academy.
While it still attracts those visiting the landmark site, the atmosphere is considerably more relaxed. It’s a sensible choice for those who want a piece of the history without the hustle of the main dining room