Deep Dive
Why is the Cheesecake Factory considered a broad spectrum of socioeconomic interaction according to the hosts?
The Cheesecake Factory has more than 330 locations nationwide and is frequented by a wide range of people, from celebrities to everyday diners, making it a unique place where diverse social groups mix.
Why did Nicole previously hate the Cheesecake Factory?
Nicole used to believe that going to the Cheesecake Factory was a sign of dating someone mediocre and thought that there were better, more unique dining options in Los Angeles.
What is the hosts' favorite thing to order at the Cheesecake Factory?
Josh and Nicole both enjoy the fried shrimp, specifically the bang bang shrimp, and the Korean fried cauliflower. Nicole also loves the avocado egg rolls and the spicy cashew chicken with broccoli.
Why does the Cheesecake Factory deserve every customer it gets according to Josh?
The Cheesecake Factory consistently delivers a lively atmosphere, high-quality food, and a vast menu that caters to many tastes, all while maintaining a chain-wide standard. Despite its size, it has managed to keep quality control and offers a good dining experience.
Why does the Cheesecake Factory's decor get criticized in the podcast?
The decor is described as gaudy and overly ornate, reminiscent of Michael Jackson's house or a Vegas casino, which can be off-putting for some diners. It is seen as an acquired taste.
Why does the hosts' opinion of the Cheesecake Factory's cheesecakes stand out?
The hosts believe that the Cheesecake Factory makes some of the best cheesecakes, especially the classic New York cheesecake. They also appreciate the innovative cheesecake creations, such as the pineapple upside down cheesecake and the cookie dough lover's cheesecake with pecans.
Why does the Cheesecake Factory's menu have a 1990s nostalgia vibe?
The menu includes items that were popular in the 1990s, such as Southwest egg rolls and fried Brussels sprouts, which were trendy in different decades. This blend of nostalgia and current trends makes the menu appealing to a wide range of diners.
Why do Josh and Nicole feel that the Cheesecake Factory is not overrated?
They believe the Cheesecake Factory provides a consistent, high-quality dining experience with a lively atmosphere and a diverse menu. The chain has maintained its quality control despite having over 300 locations and generating $3.5 billion in annual revenue.
Why does Nicole argue that brownies are overrated?
Nicole believes that brownies are a middle ground between fudge and cake, lacking the pure experience of either. She prefers either a dense, fudgy brownie or a light, cakey one, and finds that most brownies fall into a mediocre category.
Why does the caller from Canada think maple syrup is overrated?
The caller argues that maple syrup is an ultra-specific flavor derived from the sap of a single type of tree, which is bizarrely popular compared to other potential tree saps. He prefers alternatives like Aunt Jemima or honey, which he finds more versatile and less acidic.
Shownotes Transcript