Hacker News Reader

I think that's part of the point. They don't focus on mastering a handful of dishes so they don't have the best of anything. At the same time they make an acceptable version of a wide variety of dishes. They are a great option if you're in a group that can't agree on what kind of food to get because almost anyone can find something they'll be okay with on the 20 page menu.

I think their cheesecake is mediocre at best as well. But then, I have no nostalgic or warm feelings about The Cheesecake Factory. It's just a chain restaurant, with everything that comes with that. I don't avoid the place. It's mediocre, not bad, but I'll always look to see if there's a better option around.

It's a _mall_ chain restaurant that's hours away from where I grew up. I have no idea what the nostalgia would be about.

It really depends on the person. Clearly they're doing something right.

My big letdown was the cheesecake. Pretty average but with lots of different flavor options. Definitely nowhere near dedicated cheesecake bakeries. Also it was expensive