Popular American restaurant chain The Cheesecake Factory has only one Canadian location at Yorkdale Shopping Centre in Toronto.

However, multiple industry sources and a well-placed source inside Square One Shopping Centre have said the eatery, known for its creamy, sweet array of cheesecakes, eclectic menu options and large food portions, wants in on Mississauga’s food scene. Sources say the company is in talks with mall management to open a location either inside or near Square One.

Neither Oxford Properties, which manage Square One and the properties around it, nor The Cheesecake Factory administrators, are denying the speculation.

"Our restaurant development team is always on the lookout for premier sites to further grow The Cheesecake Factory brand presence, and all sites that fit our criteria for success will be seriously considered,” said Alethea Rowe, senior director of public relations for The Cheesecake Factory, when asked to confirm if the restaurant is opening at Square One soon.

Talha Wasti, manager of content and communications for Oxford Properties, was asked the same question.

“We don’t have anything to announce at the current moment, however Oxford continues to bring new retail options and experiences to Square One,” he said, referring to the gigantic Food District opening next month at the mall that will be home to more than two-dozen eateries and shops. “Stay tuned for upcoming exciting announcements in 2019.”

There are two potential locations for The Cheesecake Factory in the Square One area. The former movie theatre on the west side of the mall ceased operating back in 2014 and is now under construction.

There is also the old Chapters location at 189 Rathburn Rd. W. across the street, which is now empty as the popular bookstore moved into the mall and reopened as Indigo.

For information on what’s going on at Square One, call 905-270-7771.

