Hard Rock Cafe launches in Piccadilly Circus with an exclusive performance from Keane

Last night, Hard Rock International marked the landing of its flagship European venue in London’s Piccadilly circus with a night to remember. Kicking off the celebrations in style was an all-star line-up of celebrities including Keane, the guitarist from The Amazons, Gavin and Stacey‘s Joanna Page, TOWIE‘s James Lock, brothers AJ Prichard (Strictly Come Dancing) and Curtis Prichard (Love Island), and names from across UK TV.

The lucky VIPs – Hard Rock executives, fans and partners – were driven to the cafe in true British fashion in none other than an open-top bus, escorted by a convoy of old school Harley Davidson riders. The official opening was marked with a Fender “Guitar Smash” – which is the brand’s own rock’n’roll version of the classic ribbon cutting – led by presenter and music blogger Matt Spracklen. Rest assured, the instruments used were already broken – it might have been a crazy night but it wasn’t that crazy. Members of the Hard Rock Executive smashed guitars alongside Slipknot’s Sid Wilson and Rita Gilligan, who was honoured as a record-breaking employee of an impressive 48 years.

After such an exciting start to the night, it was time for guests to get a taste of the new menus and legendary cocktails, including House-Infused Gin & Tonic and Fresh Pineapple Martini. This latest venture offers the lastest of Hard Rock’s culinary innovations, with more than 20 new items, all of which were available to sample, from smoked meat and fish to vegan burgers and shareables including spicy shrimp and spinach dip.

On top of all this, the launch did not disappoint when it came to the rock element itself, providing world-class musical entertainment. Headlining the night was Keane, who gave an exclusive performance ahead of their sold-out UK tour. The band performed 13 songs including classics Somewhere Only We Know and Everybody’s Changing as well as new songs The Way I Feel, Love Too Much and Stupid Things. Guests were also treated to sets courtesy of unique buskers from central London who took to the Flavours of Piccadilly stage, along with a fashion show flash mob by Laura B, which showed off some of the brand’s own merch. On the turntable was DJ Katie Owen, the UK’s hottest up-and-coming female DJ, who span tunes all night.

The editorial unit
Photos: Arianna Cavalensi (except featured image by Adrian Brooks)