Finally… a Cheesecake Factory in San Mateo! The restaurant’s Grand Opening was on Monday, September 19, 2011 at Hillsdale Shopping Center (across from Trader Joe’s and Old Navy) and what an opening it was – you wouldn’t believe the crowds!

We’ve enjoyed many a fine meal at some of their other locations (there are over 150 of ’em), including San Francisco, Palo Alto, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, Florida and New York – let’s see if this new San Mateo location takes off – we’re sure it will!

We arrived for an early dinner and the restaurant was already packed – and buzzing. Luckily, we didn’t have too long a wait; but by the time we left, there were big crowds forming both inside and out. Once seated, we waited for about 15 minutes before anyone came over to our table. We made good use of our time – the menu is extensive and with so many great offerings, it took us a while to decide what we wanted to eat. Be sure to check out the Cheesecake Factory’s “Calorie Counter” nutrition booklet – it lists every item on the menu along with info on calories, saturated fat, sodium, etc. Then again… why spoil your meal 🙂

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