Kona Hard Rock Cafe to close

Hard Rock Cafe will be closing its doors at the Coconut Grove Marketplace in Kona when its lease expires on July 21.

"Since opening its doors in Kona in 1998, Hard Rock has enjoyed a rich history and appreciated the opportunity to serve the local community," said spokeswoman Kristen Hauser. "We believe that the Hawaiian market is important for Hard Rock International and we encourage guests to visit our other locations in Maui and Honolulu."

"All managers and hourly employees have been offered the opportunity to transfer to other cafes, she said. The Hard Rock Cafe in Kona employed 41 staffers and four managers.

Hauser added that Hard Rock was exploring other opportunities in the Hawaiian market.

Orlando, Fla.-based Hard Rock International announced last year that it was moving its restaurant from Kapiolani Boulevard and Kalakaua Avenue in Honolulu to 280 Beach Walk in 2009.

The original Hard Rock Cafe Honolulu opened on Kapiolani Boulevard in July 1987.