The Hard Rock Café has long been an international icon in the restaurant and music scene. The 50-year-old brand has rocked the Philippines with its live bands, delectable American dishes, and its overall atmosphere—all of which pay homage to the 90s rock n’ roll era. The brand welcomes all kinds of guests—be it lovers of the classics, or millennials, and all those in between and beyond—with a fresh yet nostalgic ambiance. Two years after its opening in Manila, Hard Rock Café finally returns to Glorietta with a Makati twist to its signature look and a hardcore menu!

The Hard Rock in Makati is back, and they promise to party harder with you and me! There’s the latest global menu, creative drinks plus an upscale band every night.

We kicked off this media invite with the Spinach and Artichoke Dip, a creamy combination of two kinds of cheese, Romano and cheddar, spinach, and artichoke hearts, paired with tortilla chips and pico de gallo. It was too good; it only lasted minutes in our table.

The colorful plate of California-style Cobb Salad was also a hit. It had too many interesting toppings in grilled chicken, avocado, roasted corn, black beans, Monterey Jack cheese, pomegranate seeds, and toasted pepitas, sitting on mixed greens. This combination might just charm the kids who shy away from veggies.

Did you know that the logo of Hard Rock is actually a top shot of a burger? It was only fitting that they served us two of their iconic varieties three nights ago. Both the Original Legendary Burger and the new 24 Karat Gold Leaf Burger packs a punch with premium, well seasoned, grade meat.

While the rest of the food items were fit for rock stars, the pasta dishes didn't fly high for me. Hard Rock served us the unique Truffle Mushroom Pasta and the Spicy Vongole, which had clams, fresh tomatoes, garlic, onion, and celery in a blend of white wine, chili flaked and lemon juice.

I had a couple of beverages, the friendly and refreshing Pineapple Lemonade, to accompany my dining and the iconic drink in Banana Berry Colada while I watched a mini-concert. My only alcoholic drink had a superb concoction of Malibu Coconut Rum, Bacardi Black, fresh banana, Monin strawberry, and kicks of coconut cream. Must have on your visit!

As you enter, there are merchandise items worth having too. There are the usual tees and hoodies with the world-renowned logo, bar pins, drum sticks, guitar picks, stuff toys, and other accessories.

Around the more vibrant restaurant venue are original memorabilia from international rock stars of our generation. There’s the percussion set of John Tempesta, the guitar of Carlo Santana, and even outfits from different historical performers.

I loved the Ice Bucket band who rocked the house on our stay. They showcased mostly Queen at the start then transcended to nee wave songs on their second set.

“We are excited that we are now back in Glorietta 3! We remain true to what Hard Rock stands for all over the world- a party haven for fans of music, good food, authentic memorabilia, live entertainment, and the collectibles available at the Rock shop,” said Brian Peck, Hard Rock Cafe Manila’s Director of Operations. “The friendly ambiance welcomes our loyal guests as well as the younger set. We want them to feel right at home here.”

This second branch is located on the ground floor of Glorietta 3 in Makati, now managed by The Bistro Group.