History and Menu of The Cheesecake Factory Restaurant Chain

The History of The Cheesecake Factory

The Cheesecake Factory is a popular American restaurant chain known for its extensive menu, cheesecake desserts and upscale casual dining atmosphere. The first Cheesecake Factory opened in 1978 in Beverly Hills, California by Evelyn and Oscar Overton.

Evelyn Overton began baking cheesecakes as a side business out of her home in Detroit, Michigan in the 1940s. Her cheesecakes quickly gained popularity throughout the local area. In 1972, Evelyn and Oscar opened a small cheesecake shop in Los Angeles which supplied cheesecakes to local restaurants. The overwhelming popularity of Evelyn's cheesecakes convinced the couple to open a full service restaurant.

The original Beverly Hills location featured 10 varieties of Evelyn's legendary cheesecakes along with creative lunch and dinner menu items. The restaurant was an instant success and became a hot spot for Hollywood celebrities in the 1970s and 80s. Evelyn's delicious recipes drew in crowds and soon The Cheesecake Factory began expanding to new locations around Southern California.

In 1983, The Cheesecake Factory was purchased by entrepreneurs David Overton and David Morton. The new owners set their sights on aggressive national expansion, opening the first Cheesecake Factory restaurant outside of California in Washington, D.C. in 1992. Over the next several decades, The Cheesecake Factory continued its rapid growth throughout the U.S. Today there are over 200 locations across the country and an additional 25 international sites.

The Cheesecake Factory's Famous Menu

The Cheesecake Factory is renowned for its extensive menu which features appetizers, pizzas, pastas, burgers, sandwiches, salads, steaks and classic American entrees. The menu has over 250 total items making it one of the most expansive menus in the entire restaurant industry.

Some of the most popular dishes include the Avocado Eggrolls, Chicken Bellagio Pasta, Cajun Jambalaya Pasta, Farfalle with Chicken and Roasted Garlic, and the Factory Meatloaf. Signature burgers include the Old Fashioned Cheeseburger and the Farmhouse Cheeseburger.

The restaurant offers gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan options for diners with dietary restrictions. New seasonal and limited time menu items are introduced on a regular basis to keep things fresh and exciting.

Legendary Cheesecake Desserts

No trip to The Cheesecake Factory would be complete without sampling one of their world-famous cheesecakes. The bakery produces over 50 varieties of cheesecake as well as specialty cakes, cupcakes and layer cakes using Evelyn Overton's original recipes.

Best selling cheesecake flavors include Classic Plain, Fresh Strawberry, Chocolate Mousse, Caramel Pecan Turtle, White Chocolate Raspberry Truffle, and Celebration Cheesecake made with birthday cake ice cream. Gluten-free and no sugar added cheesecake options are also available to accommodate varying dietary needs.

The cheesecakes are baked fresh in each restaurant location daily. Full cheesecakes and dessert samplers are available to enjoy in the restaurant or take home. The Cheesecake Factory also operates bakery production facilities supplying cheesecakes and baked goods to other restaurants and retailers.

The Cheesecake Factory Dining Experience

The interior of each Cheesecake Factory location features upscale, contemporary decor. Art deco lighting fixtures, custom paintings and murals create a warm, inviting ambiance. The large restaurants average 10,000 square feet with spacious dining rooms that seat 300+ guests.

While wait times can be lengthy on weekends and holidays due to the popularity, the dining experience is lively and entertaining. For guests wishing to avoid a wait, reservations are recommended through the restaurant's website.

Menu prices range from moderate to expensive, though many portions are large enough to share. While The Cheesecake Factory is considered an upscale casual dining chain, the dress code is casual. The restaurant has a full bar and lively late-night atmosphere.

Expansion & Franchising

The Cheesecake Factory continues to expand its national and international footprint through corporate owned restaurant locations as well as international licensing agreements. New locations open regularly in the U.S., Canada, Mexico, the Middle East, Latin America and Asia.

The company is selective about domestic franchising opportunities but does offer area developer agreements. International franchising is currently focused on the Middle East and Latin America. The company's goal is to open as many company-owned locations as possible to maintain quality control.

COVID-19 & The Future

Like most restaurants, The Cheesecake Factory was significantly impacted by the COVID-19 pandemic. Temporary closures, occupancy restrictions and reduced dining demand took a heavy toll. However the chain is well positioned financially to withstand the setback.

New initiatives like online ordering, delivery, takeout and meal kits allowed The Cheesecake Factory to adapt during COVID-19 shutdowns. As restrictions ease, pent up consumer demand for dining out will drive traffic back to its restaurants.

The Cheesecake Factory remains an industry leader and innovative force within the casual dining segment. With its strong brand recognition, loyal customer base and unmatched menu, The Cheesecake Factory will continue thriving for decades to come.

FAQs

When did the first Cheesecake Factory open?

The first Cheesecake Factory restaurant opened in 1978 in Beverly Hills, California.

How many items are on The Cheesecake Factory's menu?

The Cheesecake Factory menu features over 250 total appetizers, entrees, desserts and beverages.

What are the most popular cheesecake flavors?

Top selling cheesecake flavors include Classic Plain, Fresh Strawberry, Chocolate Mousse, Caramel Pecan Turtle and White Chocolate Raspberry Truffle.

Does The Cheesecake Factory offer vegan and gluten-free options?

Yes, the restaurant offers many gluten-free, vegetarian and vegan menu options to accommodate dietary restrictions.

Are Cheesecake Factory restaurants individually franchised?

No, nearly all locations are corporately owned. International franchising opportunities do exist in certain markets.