Cheesecake Factory Beijing, China – Celebrating my First Birthday Abroad

Moving to Beijing, China at the end of July meant one thing for me – a birthday away from family, friends, and all the familiar traditions I’d grown up with in New Zealand. I wasn’t exactly excited about celebrating, but my husband had a different plan – he suggested we get out of the apartment and check out: The Cheesecake Factory Beijing, in Wangfujing.

Who could say no to a free slice of Snickers cheesecake? Certainly not me! So, we hopped on to the Beijing subway, rode all the way to Wangfujing, and set off to find this iconic American restaurant that’s become a little haven for expats craving a taste of home.

If you want the full review, checkout my Youtube video here: First Birthday Abroad, Youtube

Life Abroad Means Creating New Traditions

If you’re an expat in Beijing, or anywhere in the world, you know how strange birthdays can feel when you’re far from home. There’s no “usual spot” where friends gather, no familiar cafes or family celebrations to fall back on. For many of us living overseas, holidays and birthdays can feel like just another day.

But, instead of letting the homesickness win, I decided to embrace the adventure of expat life and that’s how I found myself celebrating my birthday in one of the most unexpected dining destinations in Beijing: the Cheesecake Factory.

A Taste of America at the Cheesecake Factory Beijing

The journey was part of the adventure itself – navigating the bustling Beijing subway, weaving through the crowds in one of the busiest cities in the world, and finally stepping into the gleaming shopping mall where the Cheesecake Factory is located.

Walking through its doors felt like stepping into main road America. With it’s familiar dark decor, and a menu bursting with American comfort food, portion sizes enough to feed a family of 4 – the restaurant was buzzing with expats looking for a taste of home and local curious to try this iconic American chain.

We ordered cheeseburger spring rolls (OMG party-in-the-mouth!), Fettuccine, Spaghetti Bolognaise, Cheeseburger with Fries, Side of Cesar Salad and a Snickers Cheesecake – and it was SO SO SO GOOOOOD.

Why Familiar Comforts Matter When Living Abroad

That slice of cheesecake wasn’t just dessert. It was a reminder of home and the power of small comforts in an unfamiliar world.

As I sat there, surrounded by a mix of Mandarin and English conversations, listening to American pop music, I felt a surprising sense of belonging. It was a reminder that living abroad is as much about finding joy in the unexpected as it is about embracing cultural differences.

Sometimes, expat life in China means enjoying authentic Peking duck or exploring traditional hutongs. And other times? It means indulging in a $10 slice of cheesecake because it feels like home.

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Why You Should Visit The Cheesecake Factory in Beijing (This isn’t paid content lol)

If you’re visiting Beijing or living here as an expat, The Cheesecake Factory in Wangfujing is worth a stop:

• ✅ Central Location: Located in one of Beijing’s most famous shopping districts.
• ✅ Comfort Food Fix: Perfect for when you need a break from traditional cuisine.
• ✅ Huge Menu Selection: From burgers to pasta to over 30 cheesecake flavours.
• ✅ Great for Celebrations: Whether it’s a birthday, anniversary, or just a homesick moment.
• ✅ If you’re from New Zealand – an experience: We don’t have this back home, so make the most of not having to visit America, and hit two birds with one stone!

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Final Thoughts – Birthdays Abroad Are What You Make Them

Living in Beijing for the past month has taught me that home isn’t just a place—it’s a feeling you can find anywhere in the world. Birthdays abroad may not always feel special, but this one was a reminder that celebrations don’t have to look the same to be meaningful. Birthdays should be celebrated, no matter what age you are!

So, if you’re an expat feeling homesick or a traveller exploring Beijing, don’t underestimate the comfort of a familiar slice of cheesecake. It’s a small indulgence that can make a foreign city feel just a little more like home.

Have you ever found comfort in something familiar while living abroad?

Share your story with me at nicola@prettyfarfromhome.com – I’d love to read about how you celebrate your birthday! If you want to read more blog posts about life here in China, check it out here: Living Abroad!

Until next time!

Nic x