• Arnold Schwarzenegger and other original celebrity investors’ children are involved in Planet Hollywood’s NYC reopening.
• The restaurant offers a ‘90s throwback menu at original, affordable prices until its 34th anniversary.
• Public reaction is mixed, with excitement for nostalgia but skepticism about long-term appeal and value.

Arnold Schwarzenegger didn’t just say “I’ll be back” — he meant it, quite literally. The iconic “Terminator” star has made a notable reappearance at the newly reopened Planet Hollywood in Midtown Manhattan. It is a place he helped launch back in the early 1990s. More than three decades later, the restaurant is making waves again, blending nostalgic ‘90s charm with a fresh vibe. As you might expect, some surprising twists are included.

From Hollywood’s Elite to a New Generation

Planet Hollywood originally opened its doors in 1991 on West 57th Street. Heavyweights like Schwarzenegger, Sylvester Stallone, Bruce Willis, and Demi Moore were celebrity investors. These stars weren’t just faces on the walls; they helped shape the brand into a cultural phenomenon. Now, the restaurant has shifted its spotlight toward the next generation — the children of those legendary stars.

Robert Earl, the British founder and CEO of Planet Hollywood, shared some heartfelt moments with The Post. He reconnected with these second-generation celebrities. “Arnold the Governator was filming a Santa Claus movie in New York earlier this year,” Earl recalled. “So he came by for our opening. Then he even held his wrap party here and started hanging out again.”

What truly caught Earl’s attention was Schwarzenegger’s son, Patrick. Once a kid tagging along with his famous family, Patrick now stands on his own as a rising star in Hollywood. Known recently for his role in Season 3 of The White Lotus, Patrick has impressed Earl not only with his talent but with his grounded nature. “I tried to send him back to his hotel in a car, but he insisted on taking the subway by himself,” Earl said. Clearly, he admires the young man’s humility.

Earl isn’t stopping with the Schwarzeneggers. He’s also connected with Tallulah Willis, daughter of Bruce Willis and Demi Moore. Tallulah, an artist with several exhibits under her belt, might soon collaborate on creative projects inside the New York restaurant. And Stallone’s daughters — Sophia, Sistine, and Scarlet — are on his radar too. Though they’ve been busy filming their reality show, Earl hopes to bring them into the fold soon.

Retro Menu with Throwback Prices — A Bold Move in Manhattan

In a city where dining out can quickly become a costly affair, Planet Hollywood is turning heads with a clever strategy. It features a retro menu with the exact dishes that made the restaurant a ‘90s sensation — at the original prices. This move is more than a gimmick; it’s a statement.

Earl explained the reasoning behind this “Back to the Future” approach. “There’s a real trend now for nostalgia. It pulls people in.” It’s hard not to be intrigued when you spot a turkey burger with fries priced at just $7.95. Or margherita pasta for $9.95 — unheard of in Manhattan’s upscale dining scene, especially in a restaurant that cost $20 million to build.

The vintage pricing runs through October 22nd, marking the 34th anniversary of Planet Hollywood. To complement the throwback feel, the bar offers a cheeky cocktail named “Hasta La Vista Baby.” It is a vodka, rum, and gin concoction priced at $9.91 — a nod to Schwarzenegger’s iconic line from Terminator 2: Judgment Day.

The Public’s Mixed Reactions: Excitement Meets Skepticism

Not everyone has been quick to jump on the nostalgia train. While many appreciate the nod to the past, some diners have expressed skepticism. They question if this approach can sustain the brand long-term. On social media, comments range from enthusiastic support — praising the affordable prices and celebrity connections — to wary critiques about whether the quality matches the buzz.

“I love the idea of revisiting the ‘90s, but I’m curious if the food lives up to the memories,” wrote one reviewer on a popular dining site. Others praised the experience, saying it felt like stepping into a time capsule. However, they admitted they’d be watching to see if this was a fleeting trend or a lasting revival.

Planet Hollywood’s Challenge: Balancing Nostalgia and Relevance

The relaunch of Planet Hollywood is a fascinating case of a brand wrestling with its identity. It’s not just a restaurant; it’s a cultural landmark trying to adapt to today’s fast-changing entertainment landscape. On one hand, it leans heavily on the past, evoking fond memories for those who grew up in the ‘90s. On the other, it’s actively courting younger generations through celebrity offspring and fresh collaborations.

The challenge lies in appealing to both without alienating either. Longtime fans expect a certain charm and affordability. New visitors seek an immersive experience that feels fresh and exciting. By bringing back original menu items at retro prices, Planet Hollywood aims to bridge that gap. Yet, the question remains: Can it keep the momentum going once the novelty fades?

A New Chapter for a Hollywood Classic

With the support of the “next-gen” stars and a clever blend of nostalgia and novelty, Planet Hollywood has positioned itself as more than just a restaurant reopening. It’s a cultural revival. It is a tribute to Hollywood’s golden moments and an ambitious bet on blending past and present.

Robert Earl’s efforts to involve the children of his original celebrity partners — and to collaborate with artists like Tallulah Willis — hint at a strategy that goes beyond food and drink. It’s about storytelling, community, and experiences that connect generations.

As the 34th anniversary celebration approaches, all eyes will be on Planet Hollywood. People want to see if it can truly recapture its former glory — or at least carve out a new space in the city’s competitive dining and entertainment scene. One thing’s for sure: Arnold Schwarzenegger isn’t just back on screen. He’s back where it all started, and this time, he’s bringing a whole new cast with him.