Throwing a dinner party at Cheesecake factory?

Question

Hey everyone (:

My friend (fabiola) and I are throwing a surprise birthday party at the Cheesecake Factory in Hackensack, NJ. We called them and they said that they dont do reservations or call aheads, but we need a table for 18 people atleast. We were wondering if anyone who knows about the place, owns a branch, or has worked there before could tell us what to do. We dont want to have to pay extra for a special room or anything like that so we dont know what to do in order to get a table and not have to wait. Any planning tips to make this event go smoothly would be appreciated. Thank You (:

Answer 1

You could always get take out from Cheesecake Factory and eat at someone's house instead.   It would be much easier.  They won't seat you unless your entire party is there either so take that into account.  I would recommend going to a restaurant that is willing to reserve a table for you.  You will be spending a lot of money so you should spend it somewhere they will appreciate your business.  Also anyplace you go will add the tip onto your bill (with that many guests) so check that before you give them any extra tip.

Answer 2

A large party probably wouldn't be handled well by a chain place that doesn't have reservations. I doubt they would have a private event room which you seem to want. Call around to some local private restaurants and ask what they could offer for a party of 18. You'd be suprised, you may get a nice private room, your choice of menus and know up front how much its going to cost. With it all planned out ahead you can sit back, relax and enjoy your party!

Answer 3

You know, the best plan is to take over the tables in the bar if it is a lowkey time of the day. THis way, you'll just have to go in an hour ahead, not hours ahead like before.

Answer 4

Make sure you show up in plenty of time to get seating for that many.  If they say no reservations, then they mean no reservations.  Make sure you tip VERY VERY VERY well since you will probably have 2 servers at your table and they may not have other customers while you are there.

Myself, however, with a party that large, I would go with a place that DOES take reservations.  That way I have nothing unexpected hit me.

Answer 5

find a different restaurant. or get there like an hour early and get a table ready.