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USA Today
23-05-2025
- Entertainment
- USA Today
12 classic desserts that have stood the test of time
Cheesecake reached classic dessert status in the 1980s thanks to The Cheesecake Factory – Photo courtesy of LauriPatterson / E+ This article was originally published in January 2021 and updated in May 2025. Desserts change, but our sweet tooth doesn't. Our taste for fatty, sweet, creamy, salty, chocolatey treats is a part of our collective DNA. But what desserts we crave aren't just dictated by our hunger, but also by trends. Here are some of the most popular classic desserts broken down by decade since 1900. 1900s | Ice cream cones No classic desserts list can be without ice cream – Photo courtesy of ahirao_photo / iStock Via Getty Images The World's Fair was responsible for many advancements in food technology, and the 1904 World's Fair in St. Louis, Missouri, is the best example. We have the 1904 Louisiana Purchase Expo to thank for introducing puffed rice cereal, French's mustard, and the popularization of cotton candy and hot dogs. Advertisement However, one of the most notable inventions of that show was the ice cream cone — an accidental invention. The story goes that an ice cream vendor ran out of cups to serve ice cream, and a pastry maker in a neighboring booth offered him a thin waffle cone to serve ice cream in. So the next time you grab an ice cream cone, remember you're holding a classic dessert born of ingenuity and innovation. 1910s | Strawberry shortcake The trinity of cake, strawberries and whipped cream come together in this classic dessert – Photo courtesy of ASIFE / iStock Via Getty Images Shortcakes date back to at least the Elizabethan era. But the modern concept of strawberry shortcake, layering slices of strawberries with sponge cake and whipped cream, came about when a French pastry chef replaced the customary sugary frosting topping with heavy whipped cream instead. The classic dessert became so beloved that during the 1910s, you could find it on menus throughout the United States. Advertisement 1920s | S'mores S'mores is short for "some more" which is true because who can ever eat just one of these? – Photo courtesy of bhofack2 / iStock Via Getty Images Thank the Girl Scouts for inventing camping's favorite bonfire treat. The first recipe for s'mores arrived in the 1927 Girl Scout guidebook 'Tramping and Trailing with the Girl Scouts.' The combination of chocolate, marshmallow, and graham crackers was already popular, thanks to Mallomars, which first appeared in 1913, and Moonpies, which launched in 1917. So the world was already hungry for the treat by the time s'mores came around. 1930s | Mock apple pie Frugality was a hallmark of the decade between the two world wars, and the Great Depression meant doing without many things. Clever home cooks, however, always found ways to bring something sweet to the table, and mock apple pie became a staple during these challenging times. Apples were expensive then, so apple pie wasn't the most economical dessert to make. But in the 1930s, someone discovered that the combination of buttery Ritz crackers, lemon, vanilla, sugar, and cinnamon resembles the taste and texture of real apple pie, and it became a popular dessert that grew in popularity during World War II. Although Ritz removed the recipe from the back of its cracker box in 1993, it's still available so you can make the classic dessert today. Advertisement 1940s | Twinkies with vanilla filling Twinkie, the famous cream-filled sponge cake, used to be filled with banana cream – Photo courtesy of bhofack2 / iStock Via Getty Images Did you know that, before the 1940s, Twinkies had banana cream filling? But a banana shortage during World War II forced the company to develop a vanilla filling instead. Twinkies have had vanilla filling ever since. In recent years, Hostess has brought back the banana cream-filled Twinkies, but they are not as popular as the tried-and-true vanilla-filled ones. 1950s | Jell-O salads Jell-O salads, including ambrosia, are quintessential classic desserts – Photo courtesy of bhofack2 / iStock Via Getty Images Though Jell-O salads are mostly known as mid-century dishes, they appeared decades earlier and became wildly popular, especially during the Great Depression. Depression-era home cooks trying to stretch their ingredients relied on Jell-O to make food last longer. Of course, a Jell-O salad isn't the type of salad most think of today. They don't usually have greens — unless you mean lime-green Jell-O — but sometimes include vegetables, like carrots. These jiggly creations start with flavored gelatin mixed with a creamy element, fruits, sometimes marshmallows or nuts, and became popular in the 1950s for their ease and fun taste. Today, Jell-O salads are popular throughout the Midwest and the South, especially at church picnics and on holiday tables, served as dessert or salad. 1960s | Pineapple upside-down cake Pineapple upside-down cake is a perennial favorite – Photo courtesy of manyakotic / iStock Via Getty Images The pineapple upside-down cake had a moment in 1925, when the Hawaiian Pineapple Company held a contest to see who could make the best pineapple recipe, inviting nearly 2,500 pineapple upside-down cake entries. But the delightful dessert made a big comeback in the 1950s and 1960s. Advertisement The gorgeous presentation of caramelized pineapples adorned with cherries atop a vanilla cake made it a popular dessert for parties. You were considered the host with the most when you brought your guests a pineapple upside-down cake. 1970s | Carrot cake Despite not being the healthiest dessert, carrot cakes were part of the "hippie food" health craze – Photo courtesy of bhofack2 / iStock Via Getty Images It's believed that carrot cakes derived from carrot puddings made in Europe during the Middle Ages. Carrot cakes became very popular in the 1970s, during what's referred to as the 'hippie food' era. The rise in alternative lifestyles and the focus on health and wellness led to more vegetarianism and more fruit- and vegetable-based diets. Carrot cakes are not considered healthy, especially by today's standards, but they are still one of the decade's most popular desserts. 1980s | Cheesecake The cheesecake possibilities are virtually endless – Photo courtesy of LauriPatterson / E+ Cheesecakes aren't new, but in the 1980s, there was a cheesecake renaissance in the United States. Several cookbooks were published focusing solely on cheesecake and the many ways it can be made and enjoyed. Advertisement In 1972, the Cheesecake Factory opened, slowly expanding over a decade, opening America's eyes to the numerous cheesecake possibilities. Plus, delis and diners across the nation had cake displays filled with eye-catching cheesecake desserts. It truly was a decadent decade. 1990s | Ice cream cakes The ice cream cake is one of the best classic desserts through history – Photo courtesy of Victor Yee / iStock Via Getty Images For millennials, nearly every childhood birthday party memory involves an ice cream cake. Ice cream cakes were all the rage during the 1980s and 1990s, thanks to companies like Friendly's and Carvel. The height of ice cream cake excellence was the Viennetta, a sophisticated ice cream cake made of layers of fudgy chocolate and vanilla ice cream arranged in an ornate design. While the latter is no longer widely available, ice cream cakes still reign supreme in grocery stores and shops nationwide. Advertisement 2000s and beyond | Gourmet cupcakes Cupcakes have always been a classic dessert, but gourmet cupcakes really took off in the early 2000s – Photo courtesy of YinYang / E+ Cupcakes have been around for over 200 years — the first-known cupcake-like dessert appeared in an 18th century cookbook — and kids and adults have been devouring them at school functions, bake sales, potlucks, team picnics, and holidays for generations. But we can thank Carrie Bradshaw and her "Sex and the City" Magnolia Bakery cupcake for the gourmet cupcake craze that swept the nation at the turn of the (current) century. That vanilla cupcake with pink buttercream started a trend of (sometimes) enormous confections made with top-notch ingredients in new flavors like bourbon-vanilla, red velvet with cream cheese, and tiramisu. Entire cupcake shops and mail-order businesses became the norm. Gourmet cupcakes are still going strong today. Cronut Crossing a donut with a croissant put the Cronut in classic dessert status – Photo courtesy of martiapunts / iStock Via Getty Images In 2013, pastry chef Dominique Ansel dropped his latest creation at his New York City bakery: a croissant-donut hybrid that took the city and the world by storm. The Cronut — made of flaky, buttery croissant dough that's deep-fried like a donut, then filled with flavored cream, rolled in sugar, and glazed — took months of development before Ansel unleashed it. Advertisement
Time Out Dubai
12-05-2025
- Entertainment
- Time Out Dubai
50 free things to do in Dubai in 2025: Your ultimate bucket list
City life can come at a cost, but, believe it or not, there are plenty of free things to do in Dubai. Whether you're after a free touristy day out, getting back to nature gratis or sightseeing for nada, we've rounded up fun and budget-friendly things to do in Dubai (which are super handy to know when you are feeling the pinch). It's not quite summer yet in Dubai, so you can still make the most of outdoor activities (most of which come with no cost), as well as some fun things to do indoors too. You might also like: The best free beaches in Dubai 2025 Not sure where to begin? Keep reading for free places to visit, plus free things and events to do in Dubai. JUMP TO: Free things to do in Dubai: attractions Free things to do in Dubai: cultural Free things to do in Dubai: historic Free things to do in Dubai: nature Free things to do in Dubai: fitness, sport and activities Other awesome free things to do in Dubai Free things to do in Dubai 2025: Attractions Dubai Aquarium & Underwater Zoo We'd forgive you if you were so immersed in dessert at The Cheesecake Factory that you missed the aquatic amazement over your shoulder. But no trip to The Dubai Mall is complete without some gratis gawping at a selection of the marine life on offer at the Aquarium. Undoubtedly one of the top free things to do in Dubai. Selfie with a shark? Rude not to. Although you have to pay to enter the aquarium, you can get a cracking view of it from inside the mall, and it won't cost you a thing. Open Sun-Wed 10am-midnight, Thu-Sat 10am-1am. Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai, (800 382 246 255). Visit Dubai Canal Waterfall One of the city's most spectacular developments in recent years, the Dubai Water Canal is one of the top free things to do in Dubai. It has its fabulous focal point thanks to the colourful cascade where the waterway meets Sheikh Zayed Road. Whether you're blissfully boating, joyfully jogging or simply sauntering along the Canal, stop awhile and bask in this remarkable rainbow's glow. If you want the best view of the colours, be sure to head there after dark. Open 24/7. Dubai Water Canal, Go for a night swim at Umm Suqeim Beach Dubai opened up three of its beaches for night swimming with extra lighting, dedicated electronic screens with safety information and dedicated lifeguards. Our top pick is an 800m-stretch near Sunset Beach, but there are also options in Jumeirah 1 and 2. One of the best free things to do in Dubai. Open daily from sunset-sunrise. Jumeirah 2, Jumeirah 3 and Umm Suqeim 1. IMAGINE at Dubai Festival City Mall Get ready to be awestruck, as you can see this multi-Guinness World Record holder at Festival Bay every night of the week. A fabulous feat of engineering and choreography, the show uses high-powered lasers, more than 70 searchlights, water screens, projections, music, flames and fountains to wow the crowds with a stunning show of light and colour. Open Mon-Wed 7pm-11pm, Thu-Sun 7pm-11pm (every hour). Dubai Festival City Mall, (800 332). Stroll around Chinatown in Dubai Mall CreditL Dubai Mall Located on the first floor opposite the Dubai Ice Rink with direct access to Address Fountain Views, the new destination promises to offer an authentic Asian experience that you can stroll around for free. If you need something new and edgy for the gram, you'll definitely find some spots to take a snap (the neon signs will definitely get the likes in). Open Mon-Thu 10am-midnight, Fri-Sun 10am-1am. The Dubai Mall, Downtown Dubai. Take your photo at The Wings of Mexico statue This place has cult status in the world of Instagram, and for good reason. The now iconic pair of wings, set against a backdrop of the world's tallest tower, make for a stunning photo op, and though it won't cost a thing, a snap here is worth its weight in gold when it comes to its value on the 'gram. If this particular frame isn't on your grid yet, get yourself in gear, now. Open 24/7. Burj Plaza, Downtown Dubai. Take in the sights from The Viewing Point Credit: Supplied Ready to see the city from a different angle, all for free? The Viewing Point is a 70-metre walkway at Dubai Creek. Sat 11 metres above sea level, walking along the deck, which juts out across the Creek, affords you stellar views of the Downtown Dubai skyline. Along with the towering Burj Khalifa, you also get a unique vantage point Mohammed Bin Rashid Library. Open 24/7. Dubai Creek Harbour. Window shop at Mall of The Emirates If you're in the mood for window shopping there's plenty to see, and get your step count up, too, Not only are there plenty of shops to explore – from Hamleys to Harvey Nichols – you can also head along to Ski Dubai to watch the skiers whizz down the slopes. Splash out for hot chocolate for all those après-ski vibes. Open Mon-Thu 10am-11pm, Fri-Sat 10am-midnight. Al Barsha, (800 6636255). Wander around Souk Madinat Jumeirah Credit: ITP images Want to get some prime tourist snaps? You'll get a mega view of Burj Al Arab, by day or night, and it's always hustling and bustling with people ensuring a welcoming atmosphere. The souk is packed with stalls selling traditional goods from bags to jewellery, perfumes and so much more. You might not be able to spend, but there's no harm in looking. (Shops) open daily 10am-11pm. (Restaurants) open daily 8am-2am. Al Sufouh 1, (04 366 8888). Visit Al Wasl Plaza (Credit: supplied) This gigantic steel dome stretches over 67 metres in the air, and you can stroll around inside it for no cost at all. Housing the largest 360-degree projection surface in the world (Dubai doesn't do things by halves), every day after sunset you can head along to watch the incredible light shows at the Expo City venue. One of the best free things to do in the city, the venue has even hosted the likes of Coldplay and Alicia Keys (that's how cool it is). Open 24/7 (projections start from sunset). Al Wasl Plaza, Expo City, (800 39762489). Free things to do in Dubai: Cultural experiences Wander around Al Seef (Credit: Supplied) Located in Bur Dubai right by the Dubai Creek and close to the Al Fahidi district, Al Seef is a super destination that brings together the contemporary elements of Dubai today and marries them with historical nostalgia and influences from the mid-late 1900s. The 1.8km strip is split into two very distinct regions; there's the modern site that has contemporary shipping container buildings – while the other side is modelled after Old Dubai. Expect narrow corridors, market stall traders and buildings that have been created to look as if they've been there since the '60s. It's definitely a spot to check out. Bur Dubai (800 738245). Alserkal Avenue Arguably the hippest and arty-est part of town, Alserkal Avenue in Dubai's Al Quoz is abundant with art galleries, performance spaces and some rather wonderful culinary delights. This former industrial estate has swapped engine oil for oil on canvas and is a permanent hive of artistic activity. There are loads of free things to do in this area of Dubai, from gallery exhibitions to browsing through shops and it's an excellent way to immerse yourself in a bit of culture without spending any money. Plus there are loads of Insta-tastic spots dotted around. Open daily 7am-10pm. Al Quoz, (04 333 3464). Antique Museum Despite being a complete misnomer (it's not a museum, more of a bizarre bazaar), this vast network of narrow passages is filled to the brim with antiques and knick-knacks from Asia and the Middle East. Just browsing through the mind-boggling array of goods is great fun, and it's all free to do – you'll just have to hold back from buying that antique sideboard that would look perfect in your sitting room… Open daily 9am-8.30pm. Al Quoz, (04 347 9935). Browse the books at Mohammed Bin Rashid Library Mohammed bin Rashid Library If you love to read and are counting the dirhams (buying all the latest books can get expensive), it's time to head to Mohammed Bin Rashid Library at Al Jaddaf. The library is home to different genres of books, with more than 1.1 million printed and digital books in Arabic and foreign languages. The building itself is an impressive structure to admire – shaped like a rehl, the traditional wooden book rest used to hold the Quran. It has seven floors with a garden and café, all nestled next to Dubai Creek, making it the perfect place to visit. It's free to enter and is open to everyone over five years old. Open Mon-Thurs, 9am-9pm, Fri, 2pm-9pm, Sat, 9am-9pm, Sun, closed. Al Jaddaf, (800 627523). Burj Khalifa selfie opportunities Burj Khalifa The Burj Khalifa is one of the most impressive feats of human engineering on the planet, and since opening to the public back in 2010 has relentlessly smashed world records at a canter. But if heights aren't your thing, or you'd rather not pay for the viewing platform, there are plenty of opportunities in Dubai to take a selfie in front of the iconic building. Why not give it a go? Open 24/7. Downtown Dubai. Gold Souk One of the biggest marketplaces for that glistening of precious metals, you might want to keep your sunnies on when you set foot inside the Gold Souk. Stall after stall sells shiny new jewellery and other fineries. One for any checklist, even if your haggling skills don't dazzle and you can wander around and enjoy all the sights of Old Dubai for free (even if you can't stretch to the price of actually shopping). Fork out an extra Dhs1 and you can hop on an abra too, for what will be the cheapest scenic boat trip you'll encounter. Open daily 9am-9pm. Deira. Jameel Arts Centre This thoroughly funky building on the Jaddaf Waterfront is original in its programming and forward-thinking in its research. Fiercely independent, it supports artists from the MENA region like few other establishments. And you can too by popping along and immersing yourself in this cracking creative centre, which offers plenty of free things to do in Dubai. Open Sat-Mon 10am-8pm, Wed-Thu 10am-8pm, Fri noon-8pm. Jaddaf Waterfront, (04 873 9800). Museum of the Poet Al Oqaili The vision of a pioneering poet, this structure remains an homage to the great man himself and gives visitors a real taste of what inspired his work. Some of his original, handwritten collections (oh, how we'd love to ditch the keyboard) can be discovered here, along with his writing desk and the pens he so perfectly put to paper. Open Mon-Thu 9am-2pm, Fri 9am-noon. Al Ras, Deira, (800 33222). Spice Souk This Old Dubai souk is brimming with culture, sights, sounds and smells. Easily the most aromatic-free thing to do in Dubai, a trip to the Spice Souk is an absolute must for anyone handy in the kitchen. You'll find the full gamut of Arabic spices for sale here, along with oils, nuts and a tasty selection of sweet treats. Even if you don't buy anything it's fun to wander around and take in a bit of Dubai's history. Open daily 10am-10pm. Al Ras, Deira. Street Art Unless you spend your time walking around the city blindfolded, you'd know there is street art around plenty of corners, all of which you can admire absolutely for free. From JBR to Karama, City Walk to Satwa and La Mer to Jumeirah Beach Road, the city is awash with colourful creations from some truly great artists. Various locations across Dubai. Textile Souk Across the Dubai Creek from its Gold and Spice sisters is the Textile Souk in Bur Dubai, home to myriad traders selling wonderfully colourful fabrics along with all the accessories a fashion designer could want. You might not be Alexander McQueen but don't rule out an afternoon's browsing for free in Dubai here. Open Sat-Thu 9am-2pm and 4pm-9pm. Ali Bin Abi Talib Street, Bur Dubai. Waterfront Market There were a few tears (and scales) shed when the old Deira Fish Market slung its hook but this massive, bargain-laden venue is a fitting substitute. We could spend hours admiring the various catches. As days out go, this is a different kettle of fish entirely. Free to browse around even if you're not shopping (and there's no charge for dinner inspiration). Open 24/7 (except during deep cleaning). Deira Enrichment Project, Al Khaleej Road, (800 627 538). XVA Gallery Specialising in contemporary art from the Arab world, Iran and the Subcontinent, XVA has done more to champion both established and up-and-coming talent from the UAE and beyond than most galleries could even dream of. Exhibitions are on a regular rotation so you're bound to find something new. Open daily 10am-6pm. Al Fahidi Historical Neighbourhood, Bur Dubai, (04 353 5383). Free things to do in Dubai: Historical experiences One of the best free things to do in Dubai, for anyone who appreciates history. Leave the city's skyscrapers behind for a day to discover what Dubai used to look like back before it struck oil. Just meandering through its narrow streets gives you a feel for Al Fahidi's past as both the cultural and commercial hub, the home of the ideas that shaped Dubai's history. Open daily 7am-8pm. Al Fahidi, Bur Dubai, (800 33222). Camel racing in Al Marmoum You can see camels racing for free in Dubai (Image: Emirates News Agency WAM) All this will cost is some precious time in bed as races usually start early in the morning from between 6am and 9am. You don't even need Dhs1 to watch the racing at Al Marmoum as watching on is completely free for this unusual sport. Races run regularly between December and March. Call for timings. Al Marmoum Camel Racetrack, Dubai-Al Ain Road , (04 718 8888). Coins Museum Although we long for the return of a barter system, you can't get far these days without some coin. This gorgeous building in Bur Dubai has eight rooms brimming with information about historical money from the UAE and beyond. You'll certainly see different sides to the same coins here. And it's free to get in. Open Mon-Thu 8am-3pm. Al Shindagha Historical Area, Bur Dubai, (058 935 4529) Hatta Heritage Village Ever wondered what Dubai's first villages looked like? Well, this faithful recreation is as close as you'll get to the real thing. See how the local rulers lived by having a gander at their house (Bait al Wali) before taking out your enemies (or at least dreaming of it) from one of the watchtowers. Open daily 8am-8pm. Hatta (800 33222). Free things to do in Dubai: Nature Birdwatching at Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary For those of you who know twitching doesn't only involve involuntary spasms, Ras Al Khor Wildlife Sanctuary is the place to be. This avian haven is home to many a feathered friend, and while the flamboyant flamingos top the bill you can also spot herons, cormorants and ospreys from the free-to-use hides. Truly unforgettable, it's one of the best free things to do in Dubai. Open daily 7.30am-5.30pm (Oct-Mar), 6am-6pm (Apr-Sep). Ras Al Khor. Camping at Al Qudra Lakes Should you struggle to go wild camping, a night camping at Al Qudra Lakes could be just the ticket. Clean and calm but chilly at night make sure you build a campfire before sundown and bring plenty of marshmallows to keep those energy levels up. For more places to camp in Dubai visit Open daily 24/7. Al Qudra. Go leaping at Big Red You haven't done Dubai if you haven't done the desert. And you haven't done the desert if you haven't had a photo taken of you mid-air, legs and arms flailing atop the Emirate's biggest dune, Big Red. Snap taken, rest awhile and enjoy the view out over the Empty Quarter. True, petrol costs money but it's free to get there if you have a car in Dubai. Open daily 24/7. Rub' al Khali (The Empty Quarter). Have a picnic at Al Barsha Pond Park Home to countless winter picnics, this (unsurprisingly) pond-side spot is a brilliant spot to unfurl your blanky and kick back for the afternoon. There's a huge lawn overlooking the pond – which is more lake-sized than pond-sized, really – and once you're done scoffing your cherry tomatoes and piccalilli you can lie back in the sun or go for a stroll. Open Sun-Thu 8am-10pm, Fri-Sat 8am-11pm. Al Barsha. Watch the sunrise at Al Jaddaf Just south of Dubai Creek, Al Jaddaf is home to more than solely hotels – as its name (meaning 'The Rower') refers to its dhow-building history. But you don't have to set sail at dawn here as you can enjoy unobstructed views of the sun sauntering above the Downtown skyline first thing. What a way to start the day. Open daily 24/7. Al Jaddaf. Surprise your partner at The Love Lakes Looking for the ultimate romantic spot? The 'Love Lakes' – two intertwined heart-shaped lakes set up near Al Qudra Lakes, is one for you. It can even be seen on Google Maps with the shape of the two hearts, right next to The Last Lake of Al Qudra. The best way of getting there is by heading along the D63 route, past the Last Exit and by turning right on the road that also leads to Al Qudra Lakes. Take a picnic when the weather cools and enjoy a quiet stroll at this serene spot. Open 24/7. Al Qudra. Take a desert drive This one requires a 4×4 and some skilled driving but even if you're not neighbours with rallying legend Sébastien Loeb, surely one of your mates has a suitable vehicle that can take you for a spin among the dunes of the Dubai desert. Roam free (you might have to give them an IOU) but make sure your sat-nav is up to scratch or it might cost you something to get back. Open daily 24/7 (best to go during the day). Various locations. Free fitness, sport and activities in Dubai Cheer on the horses at Jebeli Ali Racecourse Everyone's heard of the Dubai World Cup, but the horse racing runs all winter in Dubai. And the best news? You don't need to spend a fortune on tickets to get in. Head along to Jebeli Ali racecourse (which is near The Greens and Emirates Hills) and there's free access. You can get up close to the rails to hear the racehorses thundering past, while the atmosphere is electric with the crowd cheering on the horses (especially if a locally trained horse wins). You don't need to dress up or wear a fancy hat, just head along for a fun afternoon. Jebel Ali Racecourse, (04 347 4914). Cycle at Al Qudra Another sublime spot for sunrise (and sunset), the Al Qudra Cycle Track is a purpose-built circuit spanning some 50 miles. Now we're not suggesting you tackle every inch of this superb facility in one go (unless your name's Chris Froome that is) but head here early doors, or late in the day, and beat the heat – and your personal best. Open daily 24/7. Al Qudra. Hike around Hatta Your hastily-bought-then-hidden-in-the-wardrobe hiking boots were made for walking and there is the only place to really let them do the talking. Hatta has five routes of varying difficulty, all set among the Hajar Mountains that you can do for free. This is Dubai's largest national park so go and explore, all for free. Blisters? What blisters? Open daily 24/7. Hatta, Jog along Kite Beach As much as we adore flying a kite (up to the highest height), when we're in the mood for something less leisurely then we can't resist the stretch of running track that snakes back and forth past this beautiful beach. The run's superb sights will send you soaring, too, on a trip to Dubai's Kite Beach. The best news? You don't have to pay for the pleasure. Open daily 24/7. Sunset Beach-Kite Beach-Jumeirah 1. Take a road trip and climb up Jebel Hafeet Al Ain may be known as the Garden City, but it's the rugged good looks of the nearby Jebel Hafeet mountain range we are interested in. It will take four hours to move from base camp to more suitable vantage points, where hikers can gaze out over the vast open desert, as well as Al Ain below. One for the more advanced hikers, don't forget to wear in those walking shoes before taking the first steps – lest you incur some serious blisters. The best views are at the top, but you'll need serious stamina to reach the summit, so we recommend sticking those headphones in and drifting away with a good podcast. Jebel Hafeet. Rattle around the mountain bike track at Mushrif National Park Love rattling through the wild on two wheels with the wind in your hair? Saddle up, sports fans, because Dubai has a 50km mountain bike track in the Mushrif National Park. Set among a picturesque, lush forest of some 70,000 trees, the epic new track has been designed to weave seamlessly through the emirate's natural beauty, all while providing a wild ride for cyclists. Children under two go free at the park, however anyone over this age will need to pay a Dhs3 walk-in fee (which seems more than reasonable). Open Sun-Wed 8am-10pm, Thu-Sat 8am-11pm. Mushrif Park, (04 288 3624). Sunset strolls around Dubai Marina This 7km walkway around Dubai Marina is the ideal place for a stroll, brisk walk or jog, and during the winter you'll see plenty of fellow fitness fans doing the same thing. It's an easy walk – being flat and looping, although you'll need to head off course, up some stairs and along the path on the main road to cross over the bridge at the far end of the Marina near Bluewaters. There's loads to see en route and the views are pretty special, making for some top snaps too. The yachts gliding in and out of the Marina give it an exclusive feel without having to splash out. Open daily 24/7. Dubai Marina. Stroll along The Boardwalk at Palm Jumeirah Most of us can only dream of being able to afford to live on Dubai's The Palm, but thanks to this seven-mile stretch of purpose-built path you can take a leisurely stroll with the Arabian Gulf by your side without having to take out a massive loan for the pleasure. Save the food trucks for afterwards. Some calories just can't be walked off. Open daily 24/7. Palm Jumeirah. Swim at The Beach (Credit: Supplied) Take a dip at The Beach on Dubai's JBR as entry to this Dubai beach is totally free. There's some great swimming to be had here and there are plenty of restaurants to refuel at afterwards. You can even watch the newly-reopened Ain Dubai spinning round as you bob in the water. Open daily 10am-10pm. Jumeirah Beach Road, (04 590 5090). Try the longest cycling trails in the UAE Credit: Dubai Media Office The longest mountain trails in the UAE have now opened, so why not pack up your wheels and drive up for a morning pedal. Head over early before the heat really kicks in, and try any of the 21 routes that stretch over a total of 86km. If you're not mad for cycling, the green trails are great for walking too. Mon-Fri 6am-6pm. Sat-Sun 6am-6pm. Hatta Mountain Bike Trail Centre, Hatta, Walk around Bluewaters Dubai For a stunning combination of sea and city views head for a walk around Blue Waters Island. Situated just across the water from Dubai Marina, the artificial island is accessible via a pedestrian link bridge from Jumeirah Beach Residence. The views across to JBR and The Beach are stunning and there are a couple of viewing platforms along the bridge if you need to rest weary feet and take a snap or two. Bluewaters Dubai, (04 399 9039). Wander around Ibn Battuta Mall Themed around world-known ancient explorer Ibn Battuta, there are six 'courts' inside this mall for you to explore. Free to stroll around, you'll be stunned at the decorations in each area, from carved ceilings and an Elephant Clock in the Indian court to hieroglyphics and papyrus columns in the Egyptian pavilion. Sun-Thu 10am-10pm, Fri-Sat 10am-noon. Jebel Ali Village, (800 6254335). Other awesome free things to do in Dubai Laugh at a free improv night at The Courtyard Playhouse Laughter makes everything better, so it's time to head along for a free evening of giggles at The Courtyard Playhouse. This cute theatre in Al Quoz has hilarious improv shows every Monday and Wednesday, as well as one-off shows here and there (check the website), which will have you in stitches in no time. And the best news is tickets are free – you just need to register in advance to secure your spot. Open Mon & Wed, 8pm-10pm. Courtyard Playhouse, The Courtyard, Al Quoz, (050 986 1760). Listen to amazing talent at Time Out Market Dubai If you didn't already know, Time Out Market Dubai is the place to go for the best bites and beats. And almost every day of the week (except for Thursday) a raft of incredible live acts take to the stage to serenade you as you gorge on the Market's rockstar plates. Time Out Stage Presents series showcases the hottest new local musicians, DJs and entertainers. What are you waiting for? It's one of the top free things to do in Dubai. Easily. Open Mon-Thurs, noon-midnight; Fri, noon-1am; Sat, 10am-1am; Sun, 10am-midnight (performance times vary). Time Out Market, Downtown (054 375 2421). For more amazing things to do in Dubai click here. Visit Surreal The incredible experience at Expo City will have you stranding at the centre of the water and fire display, created by the towering immersive walls around you. Expect splashes of water, incredible colours and free entry. Open daily 10am-10pm. Expo City, Other free things to do in Dubai 13 free things to do outdoors at night in Dubai Explore Dubai after dark without spending any money 12 things to do for free on a Saturday night in Dubai You won't believe the freebie offering 16 fantastic free things to do indoors in Dubai Your unmissable guide, packed with freebies
Yahoo
02-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
Cheesecake Factory reports rise in revenue to $927.2m for Q1 2025
US-based casual dining chain The Cheesecake Factory has announced an increase in total revenue to $927.2m for the fiscal first quarter (Q1) of 2025, up from $891.2m in the previous year's first quarter. The company's net income reached $32.9m and diluted net income per share stood at $0.67. The brand had pre-tax net expense sof $17.3m due to costs including those related to the extinguishment of debt and the Fox Restaurant Concepts acquisition. Excluding certain expenses, adjusted net income and adjusted diluted net income per share for the first quarter stood at $45.7m and $0.93 respectively. The Cheesecake Factory also reported a modest year-on-year increase of 1% in comparable restaurant sales. Chairman and CEO David Overton stated: 'Our first quarter results reflect a strong start to the year as we delivered solid topline revenue, margins and earnings, reflecting continued positive momentum across our business. 'Sales finished towards the higher end of our expectations, led by The Cheesecake Factory restaurants, underscoring the consistent consumer demand for the high-quality, differentiated dining experiences we provide. 'And once again, execution within our restaurants was exceptional, as our operators delivered year-on-year improvements in labour productivity, food efficiency, wage management and retention across both hourly staff and managers, driving strong profit flow-through and margin expansion.' The first quarter saw the addition of eight new restaurants to the company's portfolio, including three Flower Child locations, three North Italia locations and two FRC restaurants. The company plans to launch up to 25 new eateries in 2025, with the portfolio including three to four The Cheesecake Factory outlets, six to seven North Italia and Flower Child locations each, and eight to nine FRC dining spots. In March 2025, The Cheesecake Factory executed a menu overhaul eliminating 13 items and introducing 22 new options, which encompass a variety of appetisers and mocktails. "Cheesecake Factory reports rise in revenue to $927.2m for Q1 2025" was originally created and published by Verdict Food Service, a GlobalData owned brand. The information on this site has been included in good faith for general informational purposes only. It is not intended to amount to advice on which you should rely, and we give no representation, warranty or guarantee, whether express or implied as to its accuracy or completeness. You must obtain professional or specialist advice before taking, or refraining from, any action on the basis of the content on our site. Sign in to access your portfolio
Yahoo
01-05-2025
- Business
- Yahoo
The Cheesecake Factory (NASDAQ:CAKE) Reports Q1 In Line With Expectations
Restaurant company Cheesecake Factory (NASDAQ:CAKE) met Wall Street's revenue expectations in Q1 CY2025, with sales up 4% year on year to $927.2 million. Its non-GAAP profit of $0.93 per share was 13.9% above analysts' consensus estimates. Is now the time to buy The Cheesecake Factory? Find out in our full research report. Revenue: $927.2 million vs analyst estimates of $925.8 million (4% year-on-year growth, in line) Adjusted EPS: $0.93 vs analyst estimates of $0.82 (13.9% beat) Adjusted EBITDA: $79.42 million vs analyst estimates of $72.87 million (8.6% margin, 9% beat) Operating Margin: 5.6%, up from 4.4% in the same quarter last year Locations: 388 at quarter end, up from 369 in the same quarter last year Same-Store Sales rose 1% year on year (-0.3% in the same quarter last year) Market Capitalization: $2.49 billion 'Our first quarter results reflect a strong start to the year as we delivered solid topline revenue, margins and earnings, reflecting continued positive momentum across our business,' said David Overton, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer. Celebrated for its delicious (and free) brown bread, gigantic portions, and delectable desserts, Cheesecake Factory (NASDAQ:CAKE) is an iconic American restaurant chain that also owns and operates a portfolio of separate restaurant brands. Sit-down restaurants offer a complete dining experience with table service. These establishments span various cuisines and are renowned for their warm hospitality and welcoming ambiance, making them perfect for family gatherings, special occasions, or simply unwinding. Their extensive menus range from appetizers to indulgent desserts and wines and cocktails. This space is extremely fragmented and competition includes everything from publicly-traded companies owning multiple chains to single-location mom-and-pop restaurants. Reviewing a company's long-term sales performance reveals insights into its quality. Any business can put up a good quarter or two, but the best consistently grow over the long haul. With $3.62 billion in revenue over the past 12 months, The Cheesecake Factory is one of the larger restaurant chains in the industry and benefits from a well-known brand that influences consumer purchasing decisions. As you can see below, The Cheesecake Factory's sales grew at a decent 7.5% compounded annual growth rate over the last six years (we compare to 2019 to normalize for COVID-19 impacts) as it opened new restaurants and increased sales at existing, established dining locations. This quarter, The Cheesecake Factory grew its revenue by 4% year on year, and its $927.2 million of revenue was in line with Wall Street's estimates. Looking ahead, sell-side analysts expect revenue to grow 6.1% over the next 12 months, similar to its six-year rate. This projection doesn't excite us and suggests its menu offerings will face some demand challenges. Software is eating the world and there is virtually no industry left that has been untouched by it. That drives increasing demand for tools helping software developers do their jobs, whether it be monitoring critical cloud infrastructure, integrating audio and video functionality, or ensuring smooth content streaming. Click here to access a free report on our 3 favorite stocks to play this generational megatrend. The Cheesecake Factory operated 388 locations in the latest quarter. It has opened new restaurants at a rapid clip over the last two years, averaging 5.2% annual growth, much faster than the broader restaurant sector. When a chain opens new restaurants, it usually means it's investing for growth because there's healthy demand for its meals and there are markets where its concepts have few or no locations. The change in a company's restaurant base only tells one side of the story. The other is the performance of its existing locations, which informs management teams whether they should expand or downsize their physical footprints. Same-store sales gives us insight into this topic because it measures organic growth at restaurants open for at least a year. The Cheesecake Factory's demand within its existing dining locations has been relatively stable over the last two years but was below most restaurant chains. On average, the company's same-store sales have grown by 1.6% per year. This performance suggests it should consider improving its foot traffic and efficiency before expanding its restaurant base. In the latest quarter, The Cheesecake Factory's same-store sales rose 1% year on year. This performance was more or less in line with its historical levels. We were impressed by how significantly The Cheesecake Factory blew past analysts' EPS and EBITDA expectations this quarter. Overall, we think this was a decent quarter with some key metrics above expectations. The market seemed to be hoping for more, and the stock traded down 1.9% to $49.49 immediately following the results. So do we think The Cheesecake Factory is an attractive buy at the current price? When making that decision, it's important to consider its valuation, business qualities, as well as what has happened in the latest quarter. We cover that in our actionable full research report which you can read here, it's free.
Business Wire
28-04-2025
- Business
- Business Wire
The Cheesecake Factory Celebrates Mom With Special Online Gift Card Offer
CALABASAS HILLS, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)-- The Cheesecake Factory® (NASDAQ: CAKE), known for its extensive menu, generous portions and legendary desserts, is making Mother's Day shopping sweeter and easier with a special online gift card offer: For every $50 in Gift Cards purchased online in a single transaction from Monday, April 28, 2025 through Mother's Day, Sunday, May 11, 2025, guests will receive a complimentary $10 Bonus Card redeemable May 12, 2025 through June 4, 2025*. With an extensive menu of more than 250 dishes – including more than 20 new items – freshly prepared and from scratch – and more than 30 legendary cheesecakes, The Cheesecake Factory Gift Cards and Bonus Cards are the perfect gifts for mom and anyone on your gift list (including self-gifting.) Use them when dining in or ordering pickup or curbside to-go online from *Terms and Conditions: Subject to availability, purchaser will receive one $10.00 Bonus Card for every $50.00 worth of The Cheesecake Factory gift cards purchased online in a single transaction from 04/28/2025 through 05/11/2025 at Bonus Cards may be used beginning 05/12/2025 and expire 06/04/2025 (end of business day). Promotion may be terminated at any time. Bonus Cards may not be used in conjunction with any other discount or offer. Full terms and conditions, including additional restrictions on the use of Bonus Cards, are available at About The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated The Cheesecake Factory is a leader in experiential dining. We are culinary forward and relentlessly focused on hospitality. Delicious, memorable experiences created by passionate people – this defines who we are and where we are going. We currently own and operate 357 restaurants throughout the United States and Canada under brands including The Cheesecake Factory®, North Italia®, Flower Child® and a collection of other FRC brands. Internationally, 33 The Cheesecake Factory® restaurants operate under licensing agreements. Our bakery division operates two facilities that produce quality cheesecakes and other baked products for our restaurants, international licensees and third-party bakery customers. In 2025, we were named to the FORTUNE Magazine "100 Best Companies to Work For®" list for the twelfth consecutive year. To learn more, visit and From Fortune. ©2025 Fortune Media IP Limited. All rights reserved. Used under license. Fortune® and Fortune 100 Best Companies to Work For® are registered trademarks of Fortune Media IP Limited and are used under license. Fortune and Fortune Media IP Limited are not affiliated with, and do not endorse products or services of, The Cheesecake Factory Incorporated.
