LG/F LKF Tower, 55 D'Aguilar Street Lan Kwai Fong. Tel: 2111 3777
The vibe: rockin', of course. The Hard Rock Cafe's return to Hong Kong after three years will be music to the ears of local rock fans. Versatile Britain-based band The Volume - who perform a mix of rock, pop, soul and jazz six nights a week on the purpose-built stage - are the main attraction. And, of course, the joint is lined with star-studded memorabilia, including a Gibson Les Paul guitar used by Slash of Guns N' Roses, and a sequined outfit worn by Mando-pop princess Sherry 'A-Mei' Chang Hui-mei.
The drinks: mostly cocktails, aptly referred to as the Hard Rock's Greatest Hits. Themed drinks including Rider on the Storm (HK$75), Roadie (HK$85) and the Purple Haze (HK$85) put us in a party mood, as did the mind-blowing Hurricane, the US theme-bar/restaurant's signature drink and a staff suggestion. It contains three ounces of alcohol (Bacardi Superior rum, Captain Morgan dark rum and Disaronno Amaretto) with grenadine, orange, mango and pineapple juice. The beer and wine lists also strike the right note.
The verdict: the Hard Rock chain has been around for 40 years, cashing in on a simple formula - band and bar. Live music devotees will enjoy catching some tunes in an upscale venue, but it won't be on everyone's playlist, especially those seeking a newer thrill.