Hard Rock Cafe and Hard Rock International are once again teaming up with global brand ambassador, Lionel Messi, to launch a new namesake menu item – the Messi Chicken Sandwich, “Made For You by Leo Messi”. Inspired by one of the football legend’s favourite Argentinean dishes growing up, the new “Milanese style” Chicken Sandwich is perfectly timed to Messi’s historic entrance into Major League Soccer and more importantly, South Florida, home of the iconic Guitar Hotel at Seminole Hard Rock Hotel & Casino Hollywood. Starting today, foodies, football and sports fans around the world can experience a new level of greatness by ordering the Messi Chicken Sandwich at participating Hard Rock Cafe locations and Hard Rock Hotels & Casinos via in-room dining worldwide, including Hard Rock Cafe London and Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus.
“I’m thrilled to bring the flavours of my home country to the world with the launch of my very own Chicken Sandwich, inspired by one of my favourite dishes, the Milanesa. There has been no better partner than Hard Rock International in bringing this to life. Like any great teammate, Hard Rock has been with me through historic milestones, and I can’t wait for my fans all over the world to get a taste of one of my childhood favourites that still makes me feel at home, wherever in the world I am.”
Lionel Messi, world-renowned football sensation and international icon
The Messi Chicken Sandwich is inspired by Messi’s love of Milanesa, an Argentinean staple. Greatness comes in many forms, proven by this delicious, crispy Milanese-style chicken breast topped with melted provolone cheese and herbed aioli. Paired with fresh tomatoes and arugula for a winning bite every time, the Messi Chicken Sandwich is handheld perfection served on a toasted artisan bun.
“We’re excited to continue our partnership with global icon, Lionel Messi, and bring the Messi Chicken Sandwich, ‘Made for you by Leo Messi’ to fans in the UK,” said James Russell-Jones, General Manager of Hard Rock Cafe London.
“The Messi Burger has been a huge hit since it landed on our menu last year. On behalf of our team members, we can’t wait for guests to get a taste of this iconic new offering, sure to be another fan favourite,” said Bruna Slater-Gallon, General Manager of Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus.
As part of the campaign, Hard Rock International has released a TV commercial directed by Marco Grandia and the Yes, We’re Open agency titled “Something New is Cooking,” starring Lionel Messi and now airing in local markets around the world. In addition, fans can unlock unique 360 digital experiences by scanning a QR code, leading to a special welcome message from Lionel Messi himself, an AR experience with Messi and the Chicken Sandwich, Messi trivia games, online shopping and more.
“Greatness Happens Here” ushers in the next era of Hard Rock International’s partnership with Messi, following the March 2022 launch of the “LIVE GREATNESS” campaign and the Messi Burger. In November 2022, the brand launched a new co-branded retail collection and special-edition version of the fan-favourite Messi Burger – the Champion’s Edition – in honour of Messi’s world championship run and historic win.
To stay tuned for upcoming announcements stemming from the “Greatness Happens Here” campaign and find additional information on Hard Rock Cafe, please visit our website.
Reserve your seat and let your tastebuds score at Hard Rock Cafe London and Hard Rock Cafe Piccadilly Circus.