Long before anyone ever thought to hang an electric guitar on a wall, the Hard Rock Cafe in Empire was serving callous-handed miners coffee, eggs and burgers. Since 1932, the original Hard Rock has been slinging vittles, despite a significant shift in clientele. The dusty miners are long gone, but the beautifully restored cafe lives on. A fire ravaged the cafe in November 2000, but it bounced back better than ever. The Mexican burger, swimming in homemade green chile and wrapped in a tortilla, can rescue anyone. The breakfast burrito is splendid, and the malted waffles – a house specialty – deliver that cake-for-breakfast deviance your mother told you wasn’t allowed. Check out the cool, belt-driven ceiling fans while you’re there and make sure and nod hello to the locals, many of whom remember the miners.
Get there — 18 E. Park Ave. on the west side of U.S. 40 in Empire, where it’s smart to obey the speed limit.
