A Hard Rock Cafe is set to open in the heart of York following a deal with a property developer.
York based property development company North Star has confirmed that it has signed an agreement with Hard Rock Cafe International, to bring the American diner-inspired brand to the city.
The Yorkshire venue will be based in Coney Street in York, which is currently the site of TK Maxx. A planning application has been put forward, which would see the new restaurant create 75 jobs, while also supporting local suppliers and services.
Hard Rock International already owns, operates and franchises cafes in 75 countries in cities around the world, including New York, San Francisco, Sydney and Dubai.
The very first Hard Rock Cafe opened in Mayfair, London, in 1971, and started adorning its interior with rock’n’roll merchandise eight years later, a trend which continued as the group expanded worldwide in the 1980s.
In the UK, Hard Rock Cafe currently has sites in London, Manchester, Newcastle, Glasgow and Edinburgh, with each one paying homage to local musicians as well as global stars.
The York plans would see the creation of a stage, which would be used by local and international acts. Private event spaces will also be available for meetings, groups and private dinners. There are also plans for an open-kitchen concept.
A spokesman for North Star said: “This is hugely exciting for us and demonstrates our passion, confidence, and commitment to both the city and the region. We know and care passionately about York and have worked hard to create this incredible opportunity to bring a global brand to the heart of Yorkshire.
“We are in positive discussions with York Council and very much hope to bring Hard Rock to York, as part of our commitment to investing in and further enhancing what we believe is the best city in the UK.”
