Company
Overview

About California Pizza Kitchen

http://www.cpk.com
Restaurants
3691 Employees
Type: Company - Privately Held
Costa Mesa, CA
California Pizza Kitchen is a popular restaurant chain known for its fresh, high-quality ingredients and unique pizza options. The company emphasizes a fun, casual dining experience while serving delicious food. It started in 1985 in Pasadena, California, and has since grown to over 100 locations across the United States. California Pizza Kitchen values creativity, community involvement, and sustainability. The menu features a wide range of pizzas, salads, pastas, and desserts, all crafted with a focus on health and flavor. California Pizza Kitchen offers an inclusive work environment where employees can grow and succeed. The company is committed to hiring talented individuals who share its passion for food and customer service. Working here means joining a team that values innovation and teamwork. Whether someone is experienced or just starting out, California Pizza Kitchen provides opportunities to learn and advance in the restaurant industry. The company encourages everyone to bring their best to create memorable dining experiences for guests.

Want to become a part of the Restaurants industry?

What are people saying about working at California Pizza Kitchen?

California Pizza Kitchen offers flexible schedules and a fun work environment, but struggles with management consistency, employee turnover, and varying work experiences across locations. While many employees appreciate the company culture and supportive coworkers, issues such as low pay, disorganized management, and high-pressure environments are also common.

California Pizza Kitchen Reviews

Great place to work, but can be busy

09/04/2026 - Calabasas, CA


Pros

Great cool place food food


Cons

No cons really just busy

Great coworkers and flexible scheduling in a fast-paced job

08/23/2026 - Skokie, IL


Pros

Friendly coworkers, flexible scheduling, employee discount, and a fast-paced work environment.


Cons

I don’t have any I loved it so much

Strong team culture, but pay and management are uncertain

08/16/2026 - Plymouth Meeting, PA


Pros

+ Great team and culture+ Decent upwards mobility+ Good training materials


Cons

- Some uncertainty with new management changing guard- Somehow low pay due to fast casual nature and menu prices, but standards are good for someone trying to get their start in the industry

Great culture but occasional night disturbances

07/24/2026 - Las Vegas, NV


Pros

Great culture and amazing team to work with


Cons

Sometimes those crazy drunk folks would come in at night. Needed security

All around solid experience.

07/23/2026 - Hollywood, CA


Pros

All around solid company uplifting team with an organized teamwork dynamic. There was never a day I dreaded seeing my coworkers or managers here I’ve worked at a couple different Cpk’s always had a good experience. On top of that, you can make great tips as a server. I always felt like everybody had my back. Management is held to high standards. HR is well established creating an even playing field.


Cons

Unfortunately, the Hollywood location shut down:( but luckily, there’s plenty of other CPK locations.

Lack of training and no time off available

07/16/2026 - Phoenix, AZ


Pros

None at all - no time off at all


Cons

Absolutely no training or onboarding. Perpetually understaffed

Great culture but busy and fast-paced environment

07/16/2026 - null


Pros

It was a great place to work when I worked there. The company culture was unmatched.


Cons

Busy and fast-paced environment due to the mall being nearby

Flexible schedule but management issues

06/30/2026 - null


Pros

Flexible schedule, discounts, room for moving up


Cons

Petty managers, forced to upsell take home pizzas

Decent pay and nice coworkers, but tough customers

06/23/2026 - Mission Viejo, CA


Pros

Decent money, coworkers are nice


Cons

Tough customers who are set in their ways

Well managed with effective training, but limited hours

06/12/2026 - San Diego, CA


Pros

Well managed, quick and effective training


Cons

Not always availability for more hours

Many hours available, but it's fast-paced

06/09/2026 - Ann Arbor, MI


Pros

There are many hours to be made


Cons

This is a fast paced position.

Good tips and location, but management struggles

06/03/2026 - Atlanta, GA


Pros

Tips sometimes were good, location is cool


Cons

Management is not the best and work culture is divided

Incredible work environment with great hours

06/03/2026 - Deer Park, IL


Pros

Amazing work enviornment! Very good hours!


Cons

No cons! Genuienly enjoyed every moment!

Flexible schedule and high pay, but chaotic environment

05/24/2026 - Oakbrook Terrace, IL


Pros

Flexible schedule and high hourly pay


Cons

Disorganized and stressful environment at times

Great vibes and food, but high employee turnover

05/21/2026 - null


Pros

Great vibes and yummy food.


Cons

lots of overturn with employees



Page 1
Pie chart of the distribution of reviews for California Pizza Kitchen. 3.4% of reviews are 'Neutral'. 6.8% of reviews are 'Negative'. 55.9% of reviews are 'Mixed'. 33.9% of reviews are 'Positive'.

What are popular careers at California Pizza Kitchen?

  1. Server
    Servers welcome and seat guests. They take orders and serve food and drinks. Servers often recommend menu items and handle payments.
    Find Server jobs


  2. Host
    Hosts greet guests as they arrive. They manage seating and inform servers of guest arrivals. Hosts help ensure a smooth dining experience for all guests.
    Find Host jobs


  3. Cook
    Cooks prepare food to specific recipes. They chop, cook, and plate food. Cooks work in a fast-paced kitchen environment and follow hygiene standards.
    Find Cook jobs


  4. Dishwasher
    Dishwashers clean dishes, utensils, and kitchen tools. They ensure everything is spotless before it goes back into use. Dishwashers work in a clean and organized kitchen.
    Find Dishwasher jobs


  5. Line Cook
    Line cooks prepare food quickly and efficiently. They cook specific menu items and work in a fast-paced environment. Line cooks often work closely with chefs and other kitchen staff.
    Find Line Cook jobs


  6. Busser
    Bussers clear tables after guests leave. They reset tables and clean up the dining area. Bussers help keep the dining area ready for the next guests.
    Find Busser jobs


  7. Bartender
    Bartenders mix and serve drinks. They interact with guests and take drink orders. Bartenders must have a good knowledge of beverages and mixology.
    Find Bartender jobs


  8. General Manager
    General Managers oversee daily operations. They manage staff, handle customer complaints, and ensure smooth service. General Managers play a key role in running the restaurant.
    Find General Manager jobs


  9. Analyst
    Analysts study data to improve operations. They look at sales, customer feedback, and other metrics. Analysts help make informed decisions to enhance the guest experience.
    Find Analyst jobs


  10. Restaurant Shift Leader
    Shift Leaders manage a team during their shift. They oversee staff, handle guest issues, and ensure everything runs smoothly. Shift Leaders are essential for maintaining a positive environment.
    Find Restaurant Shift Leader jobs

Where is California Pizza Kitchen hiring?

  1. Honolulu, HI
    Working in Honolulu provides a vibrant environment with a mix of modern and traditional culture. Enjoy working in a lively area that attracts many tourists and locals alike. The city's mild climate makes for a pleasant working atmosphere.
    Find jobs in Honolulu, HI


  2. Ann Arbor, MI
    Ann Arbor offers a mix of academic and cultural experiences, creating a unique work environment. The city's dynamic community and events add to the appeal of working here. Enjoy the supportive and progressive atmosphere that Ann Arbor provides.
    Find jobs in Ann Arbor, MI


  3. Kapolei, HI
    Kapolei combines the beauty of Hawaii with modern amenities, making it a great place to work. The area’s growing business scene offers many opportunities. Experience a blend of relaxation and professional growth in this vibrant location.
    Find jobs in Kapolei, HI


  4. Irvine, CA
    Irvine presents a blend of suburban charm and urban opportunities. Working here means being part of a community that values education and innovation. Enjoy a balanced lifestyle with plenty of recreational activities nearby.
    Find jobs in Irvine, CA


  5. Kailua, HI
    Kailua offers a serene work environment with beautiful beaches nearby. The area’s laid-back atmosphere makes for a pleasant daily commute. Experience the best of coastal living while enjoying a fulfilling career.
    Find jobs in Kailua, HI


  6. ‘Aiea, HI
    ‘Aiea combines the best of island life with a tight-knit community feel. Working here provides a relaxed yet productive environment. Enjoy the natural beauty and friendly locals while advancing your career.
    Find jobs in ‘Aiea, HI


  7. Santa Clara, CA
    Santa Clara is known for its tech-savvy environment and innovative spirit. Working here means being part of a fast-paced and dynamic industry. Enjoy the benefits of a thriving tech hub with plenty of networking opportunities.
    Find jobs in Santa Clara, CA


  8. Long Beach, CA
    Long Beach offers a coastal city experience with a blend of urban and beach culture. The area’s diverse opportunities make for an exciting work environment. Enjoy the beautiful scenery and vibrant community while pursuing your career.
    Find jobs in Long Beach, CA


  9. Atlanta, GA
    Atlanta provides a bustling work environment with a mix of industries. The city's growth offers many opportunities for career advancement. Enjoy a dynamic atmosphere with plenty of cultural and professional events.
    Find jobs in Atlanta, GA


  10. San Francisco, CA
    San Francisco offers a unique blend of urban living and tech innovation. Working here provides exposure to a diverse and creative environment. Enjoy the vibrant culture and professional growth opportunities in one of America’s most iconic cities.
    Find jobs in San Francisco, CA

What are similar companies to California Pizza Kitchen?

  1. California Tortilla
    California Tortilla specializes in delicious Mexican street food and pizzas. This company offers a unique twist on traditional fare, creating a fresh and fun dining experience. California Tortilla operates in various locations across the United States, with franchises in cities like Los Angeles and San Diego. It provides a vibrant and dynamic environment for those interested in the culinary arts and customer service.


  2. Pizza My Heart
    Pizza My Heart focuses on delivering mouth-watering pizzas with a variety of unique toppings. Known for its fun and family-friendly atmosphere, this company strives to create a warm and welcoming environment for all. Pizza My Heart has multiple locations in the Midwest, including cities like Chicago and Minneapolis, making it an excellent choice for job seekers looking for a cozy and lively workplace.


  3. Blaze Pizza
    Blaze Pizza is a popular fast-casual restaurant known for its wood-fired pizzas and fresh, customizable toppings. The company has a modern and energetic ambiance, offering a fast-paced environment for food enthusiasts. Blaze Pizza has numerous locations across the country, including cities like New York and Austin, providing numerous opportunities for those passionate about the pizza industry.


  4. Papa Murphy's
    Papa Murphy's is a take-and-bake pizza chain that offers a unique and personalized pizza experience. Customers can customize their pizzas to their liking and bake them at home, adding a personal touch to their dining experience. With locations across the United States, including cities like Seattle and Portland, Papa Murphy's provides a flexible and family-friendly work environment for those interested in the pizza business.


  5. Jet's Pizza
    Jet's Pizza is a family-owned and operated restaurant that prides itself on delivering fresh and delicious pizzas quickly. Known for its friendly service and unique flavor, Jet's Pizza has locations in Michigan and several other states. This company offers a welcoming and supportive atmosphere, making it an ideal place for those looking to grow in the pizza industry.


  6. Sbarro
    Sbarro is an international pizza chain that offers a variety of pizzas, calzones, and more. With a legacy dating back to 1956, Sbarro provides a rich history and experience in the pizza industry. Operating in multiple countries, including the United States, Canada, and Europe, Sbarro offers numerous opportunities for career growth and development in the food service industry.


  7. Pizza Ranch
    Pizza Ranch is a well-known pizza chain that offers a fun and casual dining experience. Known for its hearty pizzas and signature Ranch Dressing, Pizza Ranch operates multiple locations in the Midwest, including cities like Denver and Omaha. It provides a vibrant and welcoming environment for job seekers interested in the pizza and restaurant business.


  8. Round Table Pizza
    Round Table Pizza is a family-friendly chain that offers a wide range of pizzas, pastas, and salads. With a strong emphasis on quality and variety, Round Table Pizza provides a supportive and enjoyable workplace. The company operates in several states, including California and Colorado, offering diverse opportunities for career development in the restaurant industry.


  9. MOD Pizza
    MOD Pizza is a fast-casual restaurant that allows customers to customize their pizzas with a wide selection of toppings. Known for its quick service and fresh ingredients, MOD Pizza has numerous locations across the United States, including cities like Seattle and San Francisco. It offers a modern and energetic work environment for those passionate about the pizza industry.


  10. Pieology Pizzeria
    Pieology Pizzeria is a fast-casual restaurant that focuses on customization and quality. Customers can build their own pizzas with various toppings, creating a personalized dining experience. With locations in several countries, including the United States and Canada, Pieology Pizzeria provides a dynamic and innovative environment for those interested in the pizza business.

Want to become a part of the Restaurants industry?