Cheesecake Factory eyes Knoxville

10/12/2012

The Cheesecake Factory, an upscale casual-dining concept whose menu includes more than 40 varieties of cheesecake and other baked desserts, has submitted a plans review application to the city of Knoxville in connection with a proposed location at West Town Mall.

The application described the project as a new one-story commercial building, but it wasn't clear whether the chain envisions a restaurant inside the mall or a free-standing location.

In an email, company spokeswoman Alethea Rowe said, "We are currently in discussions with Simon Malls regarding a location in Knoxville, and look forward to signing our lease soon."

If it happens, the eatery would be only the latest in a string of high-profile retailers and restaurants that have decided to set up shop in Knoxville.

Florida-based Publix recently opened a store in West Knoxville, while Costco is building its first local store near the intersection of Lovell Road and Kingston Pike.

Academy Sports + Outdoors recently opened a store in the Cedar Bluff area, and Trader Joe's recently opened its first local store in the Suburban Plaza shopping center.

Source: Knoxville News Sentinel