The Cheesecake Factory
Nearly 100 locations in 28 states
(818)871-3000, TheCheeseCakeFactory.com

NOTE: Nutritional information was not available for this establishment. However, we have provided some Best Choices that fit in with the South Beach Diet nutritional principles. Because we do not have specific data for these dishes, talk to your server if you have questions about the ingredients in a dish, and be especially vigilant if you are on Phase 1.

Evelyn Overton started baking and selling her famous cheesecakes in the 1940s in California, but it wasn't until 1978 that the first Cheesecake Factory restaurant opened in Beverly Hills. It featured an eclectic menu, large portions, and, of course, Evelyn's cheesecake. The success of the restaurant made Evelyn's cheesecake even more famous, and more restaurants and more fame followed over the years. Today this chain of casual dining restaurants offers a menu with more than 200 items, to say nothing of over 50 varieties of cheesecake.

Best Choices
Even though the menu at The Cheesecake Factory is appealing, it's not that easy to find good South Beach Diet options. Among the appetizers, check out the French Country Salad, made with mixed greens, grilled asparagus, fresh beets (hold them for Phases 1 and 2), and goat cheese ‑- just ask them to hold the candied pecans. The extensive specialties section of the menu offers a large handful of South Beach Diet-friendly entrees. Several of the chicken dishes, such as Crusted Chicken Romano, Chicken Brochettes, and Lemon-Herb Roasted Chicken, are good choices. In the fish section, look for Herb-Crusted Filet of Salmon, Miso Salmon, and Shrimp Scampi. When ordering chicken or fish entrees, substitute extra veggies for the mashed potatoes, rice, or pasta that accompany the dish. Among the main-course salads, Chicken Caesar without the croutons is a dependable choice. The Herb-Crusted Salmon Salad is another good option, and the Cobb Salad is acceptable if you hold the bacon.