The Cheesecake Factory - Winter Park

Called two days before to make a reservation for 10. We were told they don't take reservations for large parties during the month of April. Gentleman on the phone also said that 5pm shouldn't be too busy due to dinner rush starting at 7pm. No mention of prom weekend. Arrive at 445pm and one of the hostess looks at us and rolls her eyes. Then gets a little upset that we still want to put our name on the waiting list, even after she states it could be two hours. We waited. It was my birthday dinner, I was gonna wait since we drove over an hour away. Hostess stand was consistently rude the entire time. They barely called loud enough for people to hear, one would turn away from everybody expecting people to understand her. Then would be rude when guests went up to ask what name she had called for. Not a good start. Service was great. We were a large party and could see our server was busy with table around us. Food was exceptional! Cooks, even being slammed, were on point and it was well worth the hour wait to be seated. Yes, I understand it was a prom night, and we are all human and restaurants have been truly stressed since COVID, but the hostess stand leaves A LOT to be desired for how well the rest of the night was.

The food here is consistently excellent! The service is top-notch as well. The restaurant is very clean and tastefully decorated. I always find myself ordering an extra cheesecake; sometimes I even start with it since I can never fit it in for dessert!

This restaurant is a fantastic choice for special occasions, particularly during the cooler months when we enjoy the winter park atmosphere and outdoor terrace seating. However, it's not ideal for when we're in a hurry, as there is usually a wait to be seated. We've learned that it's best to request a menu while waiting since there are so many options to choose from, which helps us make better use of our time. The portions are generous, and I've never left feeling hungry or disappointed with the quality of the food, whether we're ordering sandwiches, comfort food, salads, or something more unique. The staff is always attentive and makes sure to check on us, so I've never had the experience of feeling forgotten by the waiter.

On a typical Saturday night, we had to wait an hour to be seated. For my main course, I chose the Bacon Bacon Burger, paired with the Fritten (which were amazing) and a strawberry-infused margarita. I wasn't too impressed with the drink, as it seemed watered down. However, my waiter was really accommodating and suggested I try the Ultimate Margarita instead, which was absolutely perfect!

Every time I go to the Cheesecake Factory (namely this place) I am always happy. I'm the Steak Diane. Everything we tasted fresh and delicious. Coffee, dishes, dessert, everything was impeccable. I wish the side vegetables were a little softer.