Hard Rock Cafe Story
On June 14, 1971 a legend was born. The first Hard Rock Cafe opened its doors at 150 Old Park Lane in London. Since then, the Hard Rock Cafe has become a global phenomenon and one of rock 'n roll's most beloved institutions, pioneering such widely copied trends as the collection and display of rock memorabilia; the cult-like demand of logo-embossed merchandise; the support of widespread humanitarian causes and the presentation of great classic food and famed artifacts in an environment that promotes inclusion: everyone is welcome at the Hard Rock Cafe.

The Hard Rock Cafe began as a unique partnership between two very different young Americans living in London, who simply wanted to eat real Yankee food in a place that would appeal to and treat everyone equally. Chicago-native Peter Morton (family owned a Steakhouse) and Memphis-native Isaac Tigrett (a devotee of eastern mysticism) opened the first Hard Rock in the heart of London's fashionable Mayfair district in a former Rolls Royce showroom to create a 'classless' restaurant. Tigrett and Morton, not content with making the best hamburger in London and playing great music, they started to buy and display rock 'n roll memorabilia - still an integral aspect of a visit to a Hard Rock Cafe today. The Hard Rock worked hard to remain true to its motto's: "Love All - Serve All" and "Save the Planet". Long before charity work and environmental issues became fashionable, the Hard Rock was renowned for spearheading events to bring attention to and raise money for a variety of causes.

The Hard Rock's celebrated rock 'n roll decor began with a guitar personally donated by Eric Clapton, which was swifly followed by another from Pete Townsand, with a note asserting that "mine's as good ashis!". The memorabilia collection now numbers more than 40,000 items which are regulary rotated around the world, enabling customers to enjoy their meal while gazing at some of the most priceless rock 'n roll artifacts on display anywhere in the world.

The Music industry has a great affection for the Hard Rock and recognizes that it is one of its greatest supporters. Every year Hard Rock Cafe host some of the most impressive rock 'n roll-related events happening any-where in the world.

The Hard Rock is now almost as famous for its logo. Designed by Alan Aldridge, the Hard Rock Logo is seen from Beijing to Paris to New York on one of the best-selling and most coveted T-Shirt in the world. The Hard Rock merchandising began modesty in 1973, the first merchandise-shop openend in 1988 in London. Today there's a full range of designer items, from sunglasses to teddy bears to leather jackets and guitar-pins, all bearing the distinctive Hard Rock Logo.

Throughout its history, the Hard Rock has worked out tirelessly on behalf of a wide range of charities and causes. The founders' determination to "Love All - Serve All" and "Save the Planet" is the heart of the Hard Rock.

Environmentalists, AIDS organizations, famine victims and the homeless are some of the groups who have benefitted from the Hard Rock's social conscience. To further help charitable efforts, the Hard Rock has re-created its restaurants backstage at famous rock 'n roll events. To date, more than $5 million dollars has been raised for artist' charities.

Today there's a network of 100 restaurants worldwide. Still the original, still the best, still loved, the Hard Rock has helped spread the unifying message of rock 'n roll to the four corners of the world.