MUMBAI: Hard Rock Cafe has set foot in India with Mumbai as its first destination. The cafe, which officially opened on 18 January, 2006 offers its guests American fare in a rock 'n' roll atmosphere. Additionally, a star-studded party and concert will welcome the cafe on 8 February.

"India has meant so much to rock music over the years that I couldn't be more excited to finally open Hard Rock Cafe in Mumbai. Hard Rock was actually founded on principles from Indian culture. 'Love All, Serve All,' the motto on the wall of each and every Hard Rock, is derived directly from our founder's long love affair with India. So, in a sense, the opening of this new Hard Rock Cafe feels very much like coming home," said Hard Rock International president and CEO Hamish Dodds.

Spread over 6,000-square-foot, the Mumbai cafe has a seating capacity of 169. The cafe features Hard Rock's menu, collectible merchandise and Hard Rock's memorabilia. It will keep fans rockin' with live music year-round, as two stage areas can be used for performances simultaneously. The Mumbai cafe also features bars on two different levels and a private section, which is ideal for corporate events, parties and other opportunities.

Hard Rock's menu consists of burgers, sandwiches and salads, as well as starters, such as spring rolls, chicken wings, calamari and prawns. Dishes have also been given the "Mumbai touch," with local additions like the Calangute Prawn Curry served with rice pilaf and onion relish and char-grilled fish with mustard and yoghurt sauce.

"It is a delight and privilege to bring Hard Rock, one of the most recognised and loved brands, into the country. The city of Mumbai is thrilled to gain membership into the Hard Rock family and proud to be home to the first Hard Rock location in India," said HR Cafe India Pvt. Ltd. director Jay Singh.

"The city thrives on its culture and music and I am certain that Hard Rock will surely become the ultimate music, entertainment and dining destination in the area," added HR Cafe India Pvt. Ltd CEO Manish Tandon.

The Mumbai cafe will include items representing contemporary stars, such as Madonna, U2 and Bruce Springsteen, and items from rock legends, Elvis Presley, Led Zeppelin and the Beatles, as well as pieces from pop divas, such as Spice Girls, Britney Spears and Nelly Furtado.

A Rock Shop will also be housed at the new Hard Rock Cafe Mumbai, where fans can acquire Hard Rock's merchandise.

The 300-square-foot retail store offers Hard Rock's authentic merchandise, including classic tees bearing the brand's logo, an assortment of baseball caps, jackets and other trendy items, key chains and shot glasses, as well as Hard Rock's legendary collectible pins, featuring the limited-edition Mumbai cafe opening pin set.