ABOUT ALY's CHEESECAKE
Welcome to Aly's Cheesecake, right here in the heart of historic York. If you’ve ever wondered how a genuinely exceptional dessert comes to life, you're in the right place. We are an independent, chef-founded business with a story that spans decades and reaches around the world.
Founded by Chef Ali Açıkgül, whose culinary journey began in 1986, Aly's Cheesecake is built upon nearly four decades of passion, craftsmanship, and innovation. Throughout his career, Chef Ali has authored two acclaimed culinary books. His foundational masterclass, Peynirli Lezzetler (Cheesy Delights), has become a respected guide to baking with dairy, while his second book, Unutulmuş Tatlar (Forgotten Flavours), earned 3rd Place at the prestigious 2022 Gourmand World Cookbook Awards.
But you may know his work best through one iconic cheesecake.
Inspired by a traditional baking technique he discovered in Spain's Basque region, Chef Ali created his own unique interpretation of the dessert. While embracing the signature caramelised top that defines the Basque style, he chose a different approach to the texture. Rather than the intentionally underbaked, flowing centre often associated with Basque cheesecakes, he developed a recipe that is perfectly baked throughout, with a delicate, creamy texture and a subtly caramelised finish. To honour the city where he first encountered this distinctive technique, he named his creation the San Sebastian Cheesecake.
That creation would go on to become one of the world's most recognised cheesecake styles. Today, as the official trademark holder of the original San Sebastian Cheesecake, Chef Ali continues to preserve the authenticity and craftsmanship behind the recipe that introduced this iconic dessert to generations of cheesecake lovers.
"We truly believe that absolutely everyone deserves a perfect slice of happiness."
