This March 8th was no ordinary Friday on our social media feeds. Whether on Tik-Tok or Instagram, the usual indications of weekend fever- from influencers beckoning us to ‘Get Ready’ with them to sultry snaps of cocktails in a low-lit bar- were put on a temporary hold. Instead, we scrolled through affectionate gestures towards sisters, mothers, daughters, and aunts. We liked posts dedicated to female icons all over the world, and saw groups of women coming together to raise a toast for themselves. Why, you ask? This March 8th marked the date of International Women’s Day, and while it is said to have been celebrated for well over a decade at this stage, it is only in recent years that we have truly begun to understand its significance. Plus, it is no longer just the general public celebrating the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women around the world.
Our best-loved brands are joining in too. Introducing the Hard Rock Cafe’s “WE ARE” initiative; a campaign taking place during March and April to champion women through what the restaurant is best-known for – authentic dining and world class entertainment.
Established on June 14th, 1971, the Hard Rock Cafe has since had an ongoing commitment to advocate women’s health and empowerment. This commitment has gone from strength to strength throughout its years of developing into a globally-recognised company. Today, in 2024, they have teamed up with Eva Longoria to celebrate and uplift women around the world whilst raising funds for two organisations working to support women and women’s health – Global Gift Foundation and Magee-Women’s Research Institute.
The iconic restaurants in worldwide locations, including the Hard Rock Cafe London & Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus, are hosting nearly 1,000 women-led performances and an exclusive menu of limited food and cocktails. Bruna Slater-Gallon, General Manager at Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus has said that the team are proud to be part of the celebrations “to empower our guests and the local community to engage with women-led music, menu offerings and other activities…”. Needless to say, the beloved London locations are achieving what they set out to do.
We paid a visit to the brand’s founding cafe, Hard Rock Cafe London, an establishment that has been standing proudly on London’s Old Park Lane since 1971. Upon entering, we were greeted with the typical warm smiles of the Hard Rock team and led to one of the iconic rustic booths, the perfect front row seats to enjoy the live music that would begin shortly after.
After settling in, we spent the next few minutes taking in the one-of-a-kind collectables that embellished the surrounding walls from top to bottom. Expect framed records, costumes from decades of rock history, and of course, Hard Rock’s very first piece of memorabilia– the iconic red guitar gifted by Eric Clapton.
As our limited-time Pink Lace Margherita and Run The World cocktails were brought to the table (a deliciously sweet blend of tequila and coconut and a refreshing concoction of gin, lemons, and cherries) the live music began, a track list of American rock n’ roll classics performed by a solo female artist with a beautiful voice and unmatched guitar skills. Following the aperitifs, it was time to dig in. We opted for the Berry Salad, a delicious, generous bowl of balsamic-drizzled lettuce with bursts of sweet berries, topped with a grilled-to-perfection salmon filet. Next to try on the menu was the Mahi Burger- succulent, blackened fish marinated in a zingy butter, topped with crispy shoestring onions, and sat in between two soft buns. Needless to say, following our hearty portions, we were left with little room for much more. However, if your appetite allows it, we would certainly recommend trying out the coconut almond sundae for dessert!
With zero entry fee for the live music performances, this unique experience that’s live until the end of April is one you won’t want to miss out on. Book your booth today at Picadilly Circus, Old Park Lane or the Back Room Bar, and join the Hard Rock Cafe in celebrating women for International Women’s Day and beyond.
