MUMBAI: Music and pop culture magazine Rolling Stone is getting into the food business, announcing plans Friday to launch a themed chain starting with a Hollywood restaurant, bar and lounge.

Some 15 million tourists are estimated to stroll through the center each year.

The bi-monthly magazine, which counts some 13 million readers, has already delved into video games and book publishing.In a bid to bring to life the essence of the iconic music magazine, the new venue will shun typical rock memorabilia already found in places like the Hard Rock Cafe.

"Southern California and the city of Los Angeles are deeply entrenched in the history of both Rolling Stone and rock music, and we're excited to bring to life Rolling Stone magazine in Hollywood through what will be a very special place," publisher and editor Jann S Wenner said on Friday.

"Rolling Stone", which featured John Lennon on its first cover in 1967, is one of several magazines trying to survive a US recession that has crumpled many publications financially amid advertising losses and over-saturation of online content.

Its new venue will include a restaurant, bar, lounge and space for private events and will feature "exposed black brick, tufted leather and vaulted ceilings," said a statement by Wenner and real estate investors, the Lucky Rug Group.

It's not the first time a music publication has tried a restaurant or bar. A nightclub that carried the "Billboard" magazine brand opened in 1996 on the famous Sunset Strip but closed after almost two years.