Many people, including myself, enjoy a good cheesecake. I still reminisce about the delicious NY-style cheesecake my aunt used to make. July 30 is National Cheesecake Day, and here’s a list of where to find some of the best in LA.
New York vs. Philly is the question when you select your cheesecake. NY-style cheesecake is heavy and rich and features cream cheese, heavy cream, and many other fattening ingredients. Philadelphia style is the other well-known cheesecake and is generally creamier and lighter than New York style, but certainly does not skimp on the ingredients that make it tasty.
Cheesecake flavors vary widely. Chocolate or strawberry remain the popular national favorites, followed by (surprise!) pumpkin cheesecake.
Republique
The Basque Cheesecake is extremely popular at Republique. It is burnt on top with a creamy inside made with eggs, cream cheese, heavy cream, sugar, and vanilla. You can purchase it by the slice or order a whole cheesecake for $60.
Republique, 624 South La Brea Ave, Los Angeles, CA 90036; 310.362.6115; republiquela.com
Cheesecake Factory
The Cheesecake Factory brings back their Cookie Dough Lover’s Cheesecake with Pecans on National Cheesecake Day this year. This favorite is loaded with delectable chocolate chip pecan cookie dough and topped with sweet cookie dough frosting. It’s love at first bite!
Cheesecake Factory, 605 N Harbor Dr, Redondo Beach, 90277; thecheesecakefactory.com
Other locations are available across LA and Orange Counties.
Harriet’s Cheesecakes
Harriet’s Cheesecakes boasts over 60 options, each handmade daily and containing reduced sugar content to remain accessible for diabetic diners. They are known for its infamous Sweet Potato Cheesecake and the Apple N Spice (inspired by apple pie a la mode). Call to place orders. Call 24 hours in advance for whole cake orders. #BlackOwnedBusiness
Harriet’s Cheesecakes, 1515 Centinela Ave. Inglewood; 310.419.2259; harrietscheesecakesunlimited.com
Magnolia Bakery
Magnolia Bakery is known for its round mini cheesecakes. At first glance, you might mistake it for a cupcake. Their prize-winning red velvet cake is rich, chocolatey, and subtly tart cheese rests on a chocolate cookie crumb crust, with a dollop of whipped cream and chocolate shavings on top. Everyday flavors include Caramel Pecan, Key Lime, Vanilla Bean, Blueberry and Red Velvet. Prices begin at $8.25.
Magnolia Bakery, 8389 W 3rd St, Los Angeles, CA 90048; 323.951.0636; magnoliabakery.com
Sweet Lady Jane
Triple Berry Cheesecake includes fresh raspberries, blueberries, and strawberries in a vanilla cheesecake with whipped cream icing and graham cracker crust 9″ round serves 12-16 guests. Available whole or by the slice. They also feature a classic NY cheesecake.
Sweet Lady Jane, 1631 Montana Ave., Santa Monica, CA 90403; 310.254.9499
Other locations in Encino, West Hollywood, Beverly Hills, and Manhattan Beach; sweetladyjane.com
Uncle Tetsu
Uncle Tetsu features Japanese cheesecake, also known as soufflé-style or cotton cheesecake, and is usually lighter in texture and less sweet. In addition to their signature OG, they feature strawberry, chocolate, matcha, oreo, and ube.
Uncle Tetsu at Del Amo Mall, 3525 W Carson St. Space 514B Torrance, CA 90503; Uncletetsu-us.com