0 Followers
California Pizza Kitchen
Master Critic Reviews (2 Lists)
California Pizza Kitchen
7.8
The original California creativity in pizza form, with hand-tossed crusts and unexpected toppings open until 11pm on weekends. While it's grown into a chain, this location maintains the innovative spirit that started the California pizza revolution.
Must-Try Dishes:
BBQ Chicken Pizza, Thai Chicken Pizza, Tostada Pizza
Scores:
Value: 8
Service: 8.2
Consistency: 8.5
Food Quality: 7.9
Atmosphere: 7.6
Cultural Relevance: 7.5
What makes it special: Original home of California-style fusion pizza
Who should go: Groups wanting variety and dietary options
When to visit: Happy hour or late dinner service
What to order: BBQ Chicken, spinach artichoke dip, butter cake
Insider tip: Full bar with specialty cocktails after 9pm
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Mall parking garage free for 2 hours with validation, valet $8 during dinner rush
Dress code: Casual - anything from workout clothes to business casual fits in
Noise level: Lively but manageable - booth seating better for conversation
Weekend wait: 20-30 min typical, call-ahead seating available
Weekday lunch: No wait before noon, 10-15 min during 12-1pm rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple pizzas, pastas, and salads clearly marked
Vegan options: Limited - can modify pizzas with vegan cheese on request
Gluten-free options: Yes - cauliflower crust available, separate menu section
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Works for casual first dates - lively enough to avoid awkward silences, affordable, and the varied menu handles different preferences. Request a booth for more intimate seating.
Can I get a table without a reservation? Usually yes, especially on weeknights or if you're flexible on timing. Use the call-ahead seating to minimize wait during peak hours (6-8pm).
Is it kid-friendly? Very - kids menu, crayons provided, high chairs available, and staff used to families. The noise level means kids won't disturb others. Best before 7pm for families.
Best For
Better for: Large groups with varied tastes, late night dining when other spots close, reliable option with full bar and extensive menu
Skip if: You want authentic Italian, intimate romantic ambiance, or cutting-edge culinary innovation - it's solid chain dining, not destination worthy
California Pizza Kitchen
7.9
CPK brings California creativity to family dining with innovative pizzas and an award-winning kids menu. This casual spot near Third Street Promenade offers reliable family favorites with gluten-free and vegan options in a relaxed atmosphere.
Must-Try Dishes:
BBQ Chicken Pizza, Thai Chicken Pizza, Kids Mac & Cheese
Scores:
Value: 8.3
Service: 8.1
Consistency: 8.2
Food Quality: 7.8
Atmosphere: 7.5
Cultural Relevance: 7.4
What makes it special: Award-winning kids menu with California-inspired creativity
Who should go: Families with diverse tastes and dietary needs
When to visit: Early dinner to avoid crowds with kids
What to order: BBQ Chicken pizza, Waldorf salad, kids meals
Insider tip: Happy hour mocktails are great value for families
Logistics & Planning
Parking: Third Street Promenade parking structures $3-5/hr, street parking limited. Walk from Santa Monica Place garage recommended
Dress code: Come as you are - tourists in shorts, locals in athleisure, anything goes
Noise level: Lively family buzz - conversation-friendly but expect kid energy
Weekend wait: 30-45 min typical, up to 60 min summer weekends
Weekday lunch: No wait before noon, 10-15 min during business lunch rush
Dietary Options
Vegetarian options: Yes - multiple pizzas, pastas, salads clearly marked on menu
Vegan options: Yes - cauliflower crust option, vegan cheese available, dedicated section
Gluten-free options: Yes - cauliflower crust pizzas, marked menu items, trained staff
Good to Know
Is this good for a first date? Better for casual third dates - too family-oriented for romance, but perfect for low-pressure getting-to-know-you over shared BBQ chicken pizza
Can I get a table without a reservation? Weekdays yes, weekends risky. Call-ahead seating available 30 min before arrival. Bar seats usually open for quick lunch
Is it kid-friendly? Extremely - crayons, kids menu with prizes, high chairs, changing tables. Staff patient with messes. Best for ages 3-12
Best For
Better for: More creative pizzas than Blaze, better kids experience than trendy spots, reliable gluten-free options unlike most pizza places
Skip if: Want authentic Italian, intimate date atmosphere, or craft cocktail focus. Choose Forma or Elephante instead