Winning and Cheesecake

Today is Friday, and you know what that means. It’s time to announce the winners from last week’s FLB giveaway. But the readers selected by Random.org aren’t the only winners today. Cheesecake Machismo is getting a visit from the mayor. Did you hear about what this little Hamilton Street cheesecake shop won?

First thing’s first. Congratulations to Burnt My Fingers, Sue Hyland, Buffsoulja, and Bob W. They have each won a voucher from Johnny Rockets for a free burger or single sandwich, fries, and a soda. I’m curious to hear from these folks after they check out the new location in Albany’s Times Union Center.

For the rest of you, thanks for playing. You’ll have to check out the new place on your own dime. But personally, I think you can make a meal for two there just by splitting a strawberry and Oreo milkshake with an order of fries.

You get fruit, vegetables, protein, vitamins C & D, plus plenty of calcium. At the same time, that combo is the epitome of pleasure. Hot, crisp, and salty, contrasted with cold, silky, and sweet. What’s not to love? Well, you know, besides the fat and calories.

Hey, speaking of fat and calories, let’s talk cheesecake for a hot minute.

I don’t know if you happened to see this, but earlier this month, Delish.com posted a story called This Is The Best Cheesecake In Your State. That’s fifty different cheesecake places. And the way that the list was compiled was by looking at the top rated cheesecake on Yelp.

So do you know which cheesecake place has the highest Yelp rating in New York State? It’s Cheesecake Machismo! This place has a Yelp rating so high, it’s staggering. With 196 reviews, it’s been able to maintain a five star average. That’s amazing, and almost impossible to beat.

Now let me tell you, there’s no better way to get national media attention than to suggest a place in Albany has better cheesecake than the ones you might find in the spiritual home of the dish, New York City.

Thus, the visit from the mayor today at 2 o’clock. I’m told she’s coming to present an award, and is bringing the local media with her. The delish.com article has also brought this beloved local institution some long deserved recognition including—but not limited to—a phone call from the Food Network.

I’m going to go with some Yelp stuff later today and witness the press event. And maybe, just maybe, enjoy a slice of winning cheesecake.

If you see me there, do not ask me about the diet. I’ve been thinking about replacing eating better with exercise. That has been an unthinkable notion in the past. But this is a conversation for another day. Have a great long weekend, and congratulations to all the winners out there.