Hard Rock Cafe New York
1501 Broadway, Manhattan, New York City, NY, 10036
Part of a global restaurant chain, the Hard Rock Cafe New York occupies the lobby of Broadway’s former Paramount Theatre, framed by the towers and billboards of Times Square. With its tables surrounded by music memorabilia, the eatery combines American-style dining with a rock ‘n’ roll theme.
The Basics
With a 700-plus capacity, music videos showing on big screens, and authentic rock ‘n’ roll artifacts, the Hard Rock Cafe is one of Midtown Manhattan’s buzziest dining spots. Open morning till late, the restaurant serves classic American fare: think burgers, ribs, desserts, and a cocktail-heavy bar list. After your meal, admire the exhibits, and browse the Hard Rock merchandise on sale in the on-site store.
Some day trips from cities such as Boston include lunch at the Hard Rock Cafe; other options team dinner with a ticket to a Broadway show or another attraction. Select tours of New York City stop by the restaurant to check out the art deco architecture.
Things to Know Before You Go
The Hard Rock Cafe appeals to American-food lovers as well as pop and rock music fans of all ages.
Visitors can shop at the Hard Rock without eating at the restaurant.
The Hard Rock Cafe is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers.
Amenities include restrooms and free Wi-Fi.
How to Get There
Situated near Times Square at 1501 Broadway in Midtown Manhattan, the Hard Rock Cafe is easy to reach by subway. Get off at 42nd Street–Times Square station, then walk north along Broadway to West 43rd Street. Driving isn’t advised, but you’ll find paid parking garages on West 44th and West 46th streets.
When to Get There
The Hard Rock Cafe is open every day from 8am to 12:30am. Reservations are recommended for dinner. For fewer crowds, aim for a morning, lunchtime, or afternoon visit.
Must-See Memorabilia
Take time out from your meal or drinks to marvel at the Hard Rock Cafe’s many pop-and-rock displays and artifacts. Highlights include a bass guitar played by Paul McCartney during the Beatles’ heyday, John Lennon’s handwritten original lyrics to “Help,” Freddie Mercury’s kimono, and a suit worn by Elvis Presley.
Ways to explore
With 700-plus capacity, music videos showing on big screens, and authentic rock ‘n’ roll artifacts, the Hard Rock Cafe is one of Midtown Manhattan’s buzziest dining spots; if you can even call it that—it’s almost as much a museum. Open morning till late, the restaurant serves classic American fare: think burgers, ribs, desserts, and a cocktail-heavy bar list.
Some day trips from cities such as Boston include lunch here; other options offer dinner with a ticket to a Broadway show or another attraction. Select NYC tours stop by the restaurant to check out the art deco architecture, too.
Accessibility
The Hard Rock Cafe is accessible to wheelchairs and strollers, and has accessible restrooms.
Age limits
None; a kids’ menu is available.
What to pack
Camera, ID for ordering alcoholic beverages, your appetite
What to wear
Casual clothing, pants with an elastic waistband
Not allowed
Underage drinking, unauthorized recording devices
Amenities
Restrooms, free Wi-Fi, huge merch shop, wildly extensive menu
Address
Seeing as Hard Rock Cafe is right in Times Square, you couldn’t get more in the thick of things. Driving is technically possible, but public transport is the most popular way to get your burger on.
Driving
While driving in Times Square isn’t recommended due to heavy traffic, several parking garages are available nearby on West 44th and West 46th Streets. Rates are usually around US$30 for two hours.
Public transportation
There’s no place in America that’s better served by public transport than Times Square. A dozen subway lines will get you there; alternatively, take buses M7, M42, Q32, or BXM4, all of which stop within a short walk of the restaurant.
Best times to visit
Hard Rock Cafe New York opens at 10am, making mornings an excellent time for a more relaxed experience and easier access to memorabilia viewing.
Best days to visit
Monday through Thursday tend to be less crowded than weekends. Consider early lunches or late dinners on weekdays for a more relaxed dining experience.
Best months to visit
January and February offer the lowest prices and fewer crowds in Times Square, but be prepared for cold weather.
Special events
The Hard Rock Cafe hosts occasional free concerts throughout the year—check their schedule for upcoming events.
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