Hard Rock Cafe, Madhya Marg, Sector 26, Chandigarh

Restaurant Name: Hard Rock Cafe, Sector 26, Chandigarh
Phone: +919988796125, +919871815199
Address: SCO 34, Madhya Marg, Sector 26 D, Near Sector 26, Chandigarh 160019 India
Time: 12 Noon – 11:30 PM
Meals for two: Rs. 1500
Cuisines: American, Fast Food, Desserts, Beverages
Facilities: Home Delivery, Full Bar Available, Wifi, Desserts and Bakes, Indoor Seating, Outdoor Seating

Best known for the rock ‘n’ roll memorabilia adorning their walls–set off by Eric Clapton donating his guitar to the flagship in London – this iconic diner opened for business in Chandigarh a few months shy of its 50th birthday. The place is roomy, has a merchandise shop, central dance floor, and an eye-level stage that hosts regular music and comedy gigs. I found myself a nook beside a jacket sporting Mick Jagger and Keith Richards signatures and sat back to peruse the menu, draught beer at hand.

Hard Rock Cafe, Sector 26, Chandigarh: Food

Hard Rock Cafe specialize in hearty American and Tex-Mex food. Think pork ribs, slow-roasted wings, smokehouse BBQ, Tupelo tenders, fajitas, mac & cheese, and Cobb salad. Mindful of local preferences, they have included a handful of kebab platters and meal combos alongside their legendary burgers, sandwiches, flat breads and pasta. For dessert, expect classics like New York cheesecake, apple cobbler and hot fudge brownie. The bar menu is also extensive and includes a host of signature cocktails. I settled on a California-style Cobb Salad, with the Legendary Chicken Burger (that started it all), and a side of Twisted Mac & Cheese.

Hard Rock Cafe, Sector 26, Chandigarh: Plus & Minus

My food and lunch companion arrived simultaneously. Portions being what they were–large–we didn’t feel the need to order additional dishes. Just another round of the draught. Service was prompt and the staff friendly, reflecting the casual liveliness around us. Our salad was a generous mix of greens, grilled chicken, roasted corn, black beans, avocado, pomegranate, cheddar and pepitas; tasty and satiating. It left us with just enough stomach for half a juicy burger, and a few spoons of the cheesy pasta. Neither of which provided the special experience one expects from a brand of HRC’s standing.