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By 1978, Evelyn's son, David Overton, opened the first Cheesecake Factory restaurant and found immediate success. The initial establishment was simple, serving just twelve flavors of cheesecake. Today, that selection has expanded to over 30 flavors, with the most popular being fresh strawberry. The cheesecakes are crafted at two primary bakeries and distributed, guaranteeing consistent quality across all locations.
The Driving Force: David Overton
David Overton's role in the growth of The Cheesecake Factory cannot be overstated. Initially pursuing a career in music, he stepped down from his ambitions to support his parents' bakery. When he opened the first restaurant, he had no grand plans for a national chain. Yet, the instant popularity fueled his vision, leading to rapid expansion.