Located in the vibrant Rio Lakefront of Gaithersburg, Yard House is known for its modern American menu and impressive draft beer selection. After a night of good food and conversation with friends, I wrapped up the meal with their Cheesecake Brûlée, a dessert that offered more intrigue than polish.

Visually, the dish arrived with mixed impressions. Plated on a noticeably worn dish and accompanied by a single halved strawberry, the presentation felt more rushed than refined. First impressions matter, and this one lacked the finesse you might hope for — especially from a dessert that leans into elegance by name.

The most unique aspect of this slice is the brûlée-style top — meant to mimic the crackly, caramelized sugar crust of a traditional crème brûlée. However, the execution fell short. Rather than delivering that satisfying crunch, the topping offered only a soft, sweet glaze, missing the very element that sets brûlée apart.

That said, the cheesecake’s filling was its saving grace. Airy, smooth, and exceptionally light, the texture was inviting — the kind you find yourself scooping into for “just one more bite.” Its subtle sweetness paired well with the light glaze, making for an easy, enjoyable dessert overall.

At $10, the Cheesecake Brûlée isn’t a poor choice, but it doesn’t quite rise to the level of something memorable. It’s a cheesecake that fills a craving, not one that starts a conversation. If you’re dining at Yard House and want a sweet bite to finish the night, this slice will get the job done — just don’t expect it to redefine dessert.

Flavor – Cheesecake Brûlée
Price – $9.99
Rating – 6/10

If you would like to try it for yourself, this is a chain restaurant with locations in 28 out of 50 states.