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The Cheesecake Factory

Engaged employer

It was what it was - Server The Cheesecake Factory Employee Review

3.0
9 Apr 2012
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

For a middle tier (neither "fancy" nor budget) type restaurant, it was pretty easy to earn decent tips. They use a computer based scheduling program called HotSchedules that makes it very easy to release, swap or pick-up shifts helping to facilitate creating your schedule to be exactly how you would like it.

Cons

They are pretty adamant about their "steps of service" even when it really doesn't facilitate the guests overall experience. Even if a guest stops you from performing one of the steps, you may still be held accountable for missing it to your managers. Secret shops are graded on numbered scales for the most part so you can get a poor score and have to discuss it with the manager even if in the commentary the guests talks about the wonderful service you provided. There is really no room to move up, managers are usually hired from outside of the company and shuffled from states on the other side of the country. To be "promoted" to bartender is generally based on whether or not the managers like you rather than particular aspects of service. Favoritism is rampant and clearly and unapologetically shown, which is great if you are one of the favorites, but otherwise life can prove a bit difficult.

Explore other reviews about The Cheesecake Factory

5.0
25 June 2026
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

Flexible schedule, Steady amount of work throughout the year, Supportive team and management, Understanding for employee situations, Predictable workflow

Cons

Mandatory holiday work, Difficult to get weekends off, Restaurant does not close or slow down unless absolutely necessary

5.0
11 Apr 2026
Anonymous employee
Recommend
CEO approval
Business outlook

Pros

The Cheesecake Factory is easily the best company I've ever worked for...and I've been through a lot. Beginning with the company culture, and extending all the way through operations and into our restaurants, I've been inspired every day by the approach everyone takes to their positions and their daily interactions. Other companies hold certain values, but everyone at The Cheesecake Factory believes in and lives by them every day. The warmth and dedication to their individual roles and responsibilities is only amplified by their commitment to integrity, decency, and doing whatever it takes to support every single person else around them. Everyone is not just accepted but welcomed with open arms for who they are and what they bring to the office every day. I couldn't say enough good about this place, and I hope to never leave.

Cons

Like every company that's been around for almost 50 years, it's a little slow to adapt to current times when it comes to technology or a few other recent best practices. But no one is closed to new ideas—it just takes a while for them to take hold. Salary levels are fine, but growth takes time at the company—mainly because no one ever leaves (in a good way)—and that may not be the best fit for everyone. But the pros about this place make it worth it.

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