Review of The Cheesecake Factory

Well, I didn’t get sick, so that’s a plus. But I was extremely careful. I researched beforehand, and apparently Cheesecake Factory is kind of notorious for cross contamination with certain things, especially if you order gluten free pasta or things that normally have gluten but can be made gluten free upon request. I was recovering from getting sick a few days earlier, so I was extra careful and tried to order something that was naturally gluten free instead of “gluten free upon request.” Luckily I looked online at their nutrition information beforehand at https://www.thecheesecakefactory.com/assets/pdf/Nutritional_Guide.pdf. The physical menu at the restaurant only said “gluten free upon request” for any item, so I wouldn’t have know which were naturally gluten free. I made it clear to the server that I had celiac, and he said almost dismissively, “Oh, there’s gluten free marks on the menu.” So when I ordered I asked him to please let the chef know to be extra careful because I was very nervous and still recovering. I still can’t handle dairy yet as I heal. Most of the naturally gluten free ones had dairy. I ended up getting the pan seared chicken with corn replacing the mashed potatoes. It was fine tasting, but not filling. I was hungry when I left, and grumpy that I spent $20 for basically a chicken breast with veggies. The family enjoyed their food, but their bread crumbs got all over the table because you rip the bread with your hands. I was so nervous it would get in my food. They do have two gluten free cheesecakes. I had the Godiva one at Valentine’s Day when I wasn’t having issues with dairy, and it was delicious. And I didn’t react. But I don’t know that I really want to come back and spend so much money on rather disappointing food, and being paranoid about getting breadcrumbs all over.

How confident are you that this establishment takes safety precautions against cross-contact?

— Not very

Is there a gluten-free menu?

— Gluten-free items are marked on the main menu

How much of the menu is available gluten-free?

— Not Much

How would you rate the taste and quality of the gluten-free food you tried?

— Average

Other Characteristics

• Good for kids
• Good for lunch
• Good for takeout
• Offers delivery
• Offers online ordering
• Offers outdoor seating