Hard Rock Cafe Closes Doors! ... And No One Notices.

The Statesman reports that the Hard Rock Cafe on Sixth Street closed its doors this week, having only been in business for four years out of its fifteen-year lease. The international themed restaurant-bar suffered from pitiful sales, despite its ample supply of branded wares and tourist-attracting fare - or, perhaps in Austin, because of? The only time we stepped foot in the rather kitschy establishment was to catch a set by We Are Scientists during SXSW. Quoth the Statesman:

Meredith Miesiski, a spokesperson for Hard Rock International, said the company is exploring other options in Central Texas. The company has locations in Dallas, Houston and San Antonio.
There's no word yet on possible replacements, but Hard Rock would like to bring in another national restaurant, said Todd Wallace, senior vice president at Staubach Co., which is handling negotiations to find a new tenant.

We're just hoping to God it's not replaced by a Planet Hollywood. Although a surprise visit by the Governator would be kinda nice.

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By Allen Y Chen in News on January 6, 2006 4:03 PM 0 Comments

Comments [rss]

Christine

6th in and of itself is actually pretty cool- minus most all of the establishments that are currently there. I second the comment for a badly needed renaissance. Can we use those spaces for some *cool* places like in other cities? Montreal has some streets that serve as a good example of a blend of places targeted to different scenes and for mixed ages. NY lower east side is also a good example.

kemidov

There's a Hard Rock Cafe in Austin? Really? Is there a Margaritaville too? So many questions, and just a parallel universe in which to live.

kirk

I was surprised someone would even think of putting a Hard Rock in Austin in the first place. It will probable turn into a revolving door of theme bar/restaurants that will last an average of a year forever. What 6th Street needs bad is a renaissance and a Flingers or a Tchotchke's isn't the answer.

F.E.F.

Todd, homie, the reason the Hard Rock failed in that location is exactly because it is a "national restaurant" -- bringing in another one isn't the answer. Not to mention, who the hell goes to 6th street to eat (unless it's a burger at Casino or post-bar-closing grub at Ropolos or Best Wurst)?