California Pizza Kitchen

California Pizza Kitchen, often known as CPK, is a well-regarded American casual dining chain that has carved out a niche with its California-style pizzas, pastas, salads, and other contemporary dishes. The brand was founded in 1985 by attorneys Rick Rosenfield and Larry Flax in Beverly Hills, California. It quickly made a name for itself with its innovative take on pizza, particularly the BBQ Chicken Pizza, which helped it gain national prominence.

In the early 1990s, CPK's rapid expansion caught the eye of PepsiCo, which acquired a majority stake in 1992 to help fuel its growth. This partnership led to a significant increase in the number of locations, though it also brought operational challenges. In response, CPK refocused on using fresh ingredients and adopted a more measured approach to expansion. By 1997, PepsiCo decided to divest its restaurant holdings, and CPK transitioned back to private ownership before eventually going public, continuing to expand its reach.

As of May 2023, California Pizza Kitchen operates 184 restaurants across 32 U.S. states and 10 international markets. These locations include a mix of high-traffic urban centers, airports, and other travel hubs. The brand has also extended its reach through licensed frozen pizzas, making its products available in supermarkets nationwide. CPK's headquarters are based in Costa Mesa, California, and the company employs approximately 14,000 people.

Over the past five years, CPK has focused on selective expansion, targeting major metropolitan areas and travel hubs that align with its California-inspired brand and menu. Recent openings in Asia and Latin America highlight the company's ongoing international growth. Domestically, CPK is concentrating on mixed-use developments and retail centers in key markets such as New York, Chicago, Miami, Dallas, and Los Angeles.

For commercial real estate professionals, CPK's established brand, diverse restaurant formats, and continued growth make it an appealing tenant. The chain's ability to adapt to changing consumer preferences while maintaining its commitment to quality and creativity has solidified its reputation as a leader in the casual dining sector. With its steady expansion and strategic approach, CPK presents ongoing opportunities for collaboration and partnership in various real estate ventures.