This Tuesday, December 21, the long-awaited Hard Rock Cafe at the Seminole Hard Rock Hotel and Casino will be open to the public. I have to admit that I was expecting the usual layout and design that I've experienced in the others I've visited in numerous cities — hard woods from floor to ceiling, and TVs everywhere (well, that last part hasn't changed). But this 17,500-sq. ft., 371-seat addition to the worldwide chain of rock n' roll-themed cafes is not only about the food and music memorabilia, it also integrates technology, gaming and live performances, serving as a prototype for future cafe designs.
The sleek, stand-alone Band Shell Bar and lounge booths sit underneath a neon canopy. What's different about this cafe's bar? The 20 tabletop video slot machines built into the bar (it's in a casino — did you expect any less?). Around the bar is seating against the walls and either side has a large touchscreen table resembling a large iPad (don't tell Microsoft I said that, though, because it's their technology) where guests can play games and videos, as well as peruse the Hard Rock memorabilia archive.
