Hard Rock Hollywood Goes All-In as “Guitar Hotel” Opening Imminent

The most anticipated gaming-related news in South Florida revolves around the completion of a massive renovation and expansion of the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino in Hollywood. And it’s something that will set a new bar; not just for the area itself but for the industry in general.

How Does Hard Rock Hollywood Go All-In As A “Guitar Hotel” Opening?

Most people in the area, and many in the country and beyond, are familiar with “The Guitar Hotel,” which, appropriately enough, is in the shape of a guitar. That is something that is going to make the Hard Rock iconic the world over.

The grand opening is set for October 24, and the expectation is that everything will be in place, including a boatload of dining and entertainment options.

There’s a lot of variety to choose from.

One of them extends the Daer Nightclub/Dayclub franchise that, as you might guess, will have thrills night and day for guests, with 44,000 feet of room, famous DJs, elevated bottle service and more. This will be the second location, following the flagship which was at the Hard Rock Atlantic City.

Cipresso will be a gourmet Italian experience, with pasta, pizza and a number of original interpretations of traditional dishes. They also pledge to have the “best Negroni in town.”

Most Comprehensive All-You-Can-Eat Presentation In Florida

Hard Rock will also have perhaps the most comprehensive all-you-can-eat presentation in the state of Florida, as the Fresh Harvest Buffet launches with a full menu that encompasses breakfast, lunch, and dinner. There are five different “genres” in play and there will be chefs at a number of “live” stations.

Maybe the most encouraging news for long-time South Florida residents is the arrival of the Rise Kitchen & Deli, which will be open 24 hours a day and not only carries a selection of “American” dishes but also New York-style deli items. Rise has previously opened its doors at the Hard Rock Tampa.

The Hard Rock Hollywood people will also be moving an old standby, Council Oak Steaks and Seafood, to a new location on the premises. And the Hard Rock Cafe, which has been there from the beginning, has been renovated. The food court has been moved. There will be two options in the poolside area.

Hooters, Martorano’s, And Murphy’s Law Irish Pub

It was the aim of Hard Rock management for the resort to take more of a propriety interest in the hospitality locations that were housed on the property. The Paradise Shops, an outdoor mall of sorts outside the doors of the casino itself, which constituted a collection of bars and restaurants and retail shops, was leveled in spring of 2017. Gone with that demolition were popular outlets like Hooters, Martorano’s, Murphy’s Law Irish Pub, The Improv and Wet Willie’s. Now everything moves indoors, in a menagerie that will more closely resemble the Forum Shops at Caesars Palace in Las Vegas.

There are more things yet to come. Reports are that in the new entertainment theater, they are seeking a resident entertainer; their own “Wayne Newton,” so to speak. Special events like concerts will continue at Hard Rock Live. And they are also looking to take the gaming aspects of things to a new level, as they campaign for craps, and will be well-positioned for any move toward sports betting in the future.