THE iconic Hard Rock Café-Manila is back with a bang and promises to deliver quality entertainment and food to its guests.
Since the core business of music place is entertainment, Bistro Group Vice President for Operations Rommel Turbanos told reporters in a recent interview that the 223-seater bistro at the S Maison mall in Conrad Hotel is expected to be Manila’s go-to destination for great food, much-sought-after merchandise and live performances, which the brand is known for all over the world.
Furthermore, Hard Rock-Manila wants to expand its audience. “We’re trying to broaden the spectrum for the entertainment by coming up with some initiatives. Of course, it is going to be a hit-and-miss at the onset. But we’re now looking for a good choice of the bands and followings befitting the Hard Rock [stagings],” Turbanos shared.
“The intention is to cater to a wider and broader market so we can attract a [larger] market base belonging to different genres and brand of entertainment,” he added.
On January 10, Hard Rock-Manila gave a sample of their shows to the media. It paid tribute to British rock band Queen. Ice Bucket delivered a great set as it played several hits of the Freddy Mercury-led group. The millennial-dominated audience was impressed by the band’s rendition and joined in the singing when the band prodded them to.
Turbanos said Hard Rock-Manila will also feature the music of the Beatles and other bands, including those from the 80s and 90s, plus rhythm and blues.
“We’ll look at something that can put energy in the songs. From the first week of operations, Hard Rock-Manila saw much energy similar to the level that Ice Bucket delivered when they performed Queen’s classic hits,” said Turbanos.
With its second incarnation in the country, Hard Rock-Manila will carry the DNA of the Bistro Group known for operational excellence in the restaurant business, serving quality food and service, fielding efficient staff members and providing the desired ambiance to make people relaxed and enjoy the Hard Rock atmosphere.
Management has also spruced up the new venue as it put a modern touch and invested heavily on state-of-the-art sound system. It also hired a consultant dedicated to set up the audio as well as the visuals and helped them look for the bands that will fit into the Hard Rock standard.
Meanwhile, Turbanos said its research and development team is conducting a program on developing new products and designs to be approved by the parent company for its loyal clients.
The Rock Shop offers some of the merchandise that have gained quite a cult-like status: from classic tees, hoodies, caps, to commemorative pins and everything else in between, so guests can dress like rock stars.
Hard Rock-Manila also will enable music buffs to appreciate its rock-and-roll memorabilia collection that adorn the café. Symbols of famous music icons such as autographed guitars, world-tour costumes and rare photos were also purchased from auctions all over the world.
Serving good food is one of Hard Rock’s favorite surprises. The awesome lineup includes the original legendary burger, hickory smoked ribs and even an Asian-inspired menu to make everyone “twist and shout” as the Manila branch opens. An extensive drinks selection also awaits guests: from margaritas to signature favorites and “alternative rock” (alcohol-free) beverages—all available in collectible glassware.
Turbanos said Hard Rock-Manila is trying to shortlist the current number of 25 bands in its current roster. The scene is quite different from its counterparts in the region as there are only a limited number of performing bands in places such as Singapore.