Saturday 28 May 2011

The 34-year-old virgin

I'm amazed at how many "genuine" Americans have never visited The Cheesecake Factory.  A few weeks ago we were there with Allison (who I volunteer with).  She's a nutritionist, so has an excuse.  For me, every day is a vigilant battle not to eat avocado egg rolls followed by cheesecake for breakfast, lunch, and dinner.  With some boxed up for a late-night snack after.

So imagine my shock to learn that Jack, a true red-blooded American, who has even represented this country at war, had never visited.  That was something we could easily put right, so after being momentarily distracted by a stop at Pyramid Brewery ($1 off growler refills on a Friday) we arrived at C-Fac and skipped the 45 minute queue by grabbing a table at the bar.  Just one of the benefits of being a regular.  Although I was disappointed not to be greeted by name.

We leisurely worked our way through some margaritas and dirty martinis, and Jack enjoyed shepherd's pie (my Dad's favourite) before taking home a triptych of Key Lime, Caramel Pecan Turtle, and Adam's Peanut Butter Cup Fudge Ripple slices.  They disappeared without much delay when we got home, the walk having worked off at least 15 calories each.  Breakfast at Denny's tomorrow?


Picking from a menu this size is a serious business.


This is my Sean Connery impression.  It's better if you're there.


Jack vs Cheesecake, and there's only going to be one winner.


The gannets descend.