It is very easy to reach, as it is less just 2 blocks from the Duomo and less than 10 minutes walking distance from the main train station, Santa Maria Novella. Read more about this historical palace here. The cafe took over the space in the historical palazzo that had housed the Gambrinus cinema for decades in the heart of Florence, just a block off Piazza della Repubblica. The Hard Rock opened its cafe in Florence on June 14, 2011, on the 40th anniversary of its very first London diner opening. Our Discover Tuscany readers can take advantage of a special offer: present this coupon with a €35 purchase in either the Cafe or Rock shop and and receive a special free collectible Hard Rock Cafe gift!