My sister and I are meeting for a short vacation in Chicago.We're staying at the Raphael. She really wants some great cheesecake. I know Cheesecake Factory is good, but is there a non-chain place either near Michigan Av or easily accessible via the el?
Thanks!

Nothing beats the Cheesecake Factory in my opinion!

Eli's is a Chicago original for cheesecake and liked by all (although many, including me, think it's not quite as good as Cheesecake Factory).

Eileenleft,

Being that there almost as many styles of cheesecake as there are of Mexican food, it's difficult to know what type of cheesecake your sister will deem "great". Personally, I don't like The Cheesecake Factory's product--it isn't even "real" cheesecake to me.

That said, however, I think OnetwoThree's recommendation of Eli's is a great choice. Eli's has a real Chicago "feel" to it, their cheesecake has been voted "Chicago's best" several times and it's right off of Michigan Ave. The exact name is "Eli's: The Place for Steaks (and Cheesecake) and their address is 215 E. Chicago Ave. (near the corner of Michgan and Chicago).

I haven't been there in several years but i think it would be a great choice.

Have fun!

AL

mmmmmmm...thanks!

You can also take a tour of the Eli's Cheescake Factory on the northwest side. Free samples, of course! Can be booked in advance, or they take walk-ins at certain tours.