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| - Standing in line for one of Uncle Tetsu's famous cheesecakes has become a rite of passage for many Torontonians, but does this fluffy Japanese dessert live up to the hype?
I just want to preface this review by first pointing out that there are two locations of Uncle Tetsu's shops in Japan, while the remaining 70+ locations are scattered around China and Taiwan. This isn't to slander their product, but it's so that people know this is mainly a Chinese franchise making Japanese style cakes using a Japanese-centric marketing strategy.
For a seemingly global franchise, they do not even have any shops in Tokyo (or even on the main island, for crying out loud). Would Uncle Huang's Japanese Style Cheesecake-ateria sound as delectable? Highly doubtful.
But if you think you are getting a spongy Japanese style cheesecake like the kind you would find at Fujiya, Cozy Corner, or Vie de France (staple franchises in the world of Japanese baked goods) don't be fooled. These guys are a Chinese baked goods franchise using the soft cultural power of Japan to sell their cakes.
Now onto the food review.
Uncle Tetsu's Japanese style cheesecakes are delightful, soft treats. They're a perfect gift to bring to your friend's house, or if you hate yourself you can eat an entire cake by yourself. The main selling point for this cheesecake is the freshness. When you get in line for one of their cheesecakes, you'll know that an hour later, when you reach the register, your cheesecake will be fresh from the oven.
The cake itself is OK at best. While it is very spongy and soft, it does not have enough cream cheese. It's more like a sponge cake, with some cream cheese accidentally mixed in. I think this is a big disappointment, as the main ingredients for this style of cheesecake comes down to eggs, butter, cream, sugar, and cream cheese. I'm not saying it's easier and faster to make the cheese cake yourself but... that's actually what I'm saying.
I would recommend their Madeleines over their cheese cake. Crispy and golden on the outside, soft and moist on the inside.
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