Food and beverage (F&B) retail operator SSP America has opened a new Hard Rock Cafe restaurant in the Main Terminal at Tampa International Airport in Florida. It is the first Hard Rock Café to open in a North American airport.
The restaurant features authentic memorabilia from new and legendary music icons, including pieces from Prince, Lady Gaga and Les Paul. It will also feature a Rock Shop retail store, selling Tampa International Airport Hard Rock Cafe t-shirts, mugs, children’s clothing, pins and other merchandise branded specifically for the new airport location. The cafe celebrated its opening with Hard Rock’s traditional grand opening guitar smash, joined by a DJ and rock ‘n’ roll star impersonators.
Joe Lopano, CEO, Tampa International Airport, said, “The Hard Rock name really brings that ‘wow’ factor to our Main Terminal. Having North America’s first airport Hard Rock Cafe puts us on an international map and will draw visitors from all over the world for many years to come.”
John Clark, vice president, business development, SSP America, said, “Our exclusive partnership with Florida’s own Hard Rock Cafe has made the opportunity to bring the very first iconic rock and roll restaurant to an airport possible. We’re so glad this world-renowned brand has opened at Tampa International Airport because it’s but one indication of our larger commitment to the airport’s vision of remaining a major driver for economic growth in the region.
“At SSP America, we have a passion for the passenger experience, and there is no experience quite like a Hard Rock Cafe. With a vibrant energy, delicious food, custom cocktails and renowned Rock Shop, we’re confident Tampa passengers will love Hard Rock Café.”
Calum MacPherson, area vice president of Cafe Operations (North America – East) for Hard Rock International, said, “Hard Rock has been looking forward to opening another cafe after more than five successful years of operating in Tampa, and we could not have asked for a more dynamic and exciting location than the Tampa International Airport. We look forward to becoming a must-see destination for both travelers and locals alike as we join this energetic community.”
