Who’s the Cheesehead Behind California Pizza?
So, you’re craving a slice of that Californian dream, but you’re wondering who’s the mastermind behind those crispy crusts and mouthwatering toppings? Let’s dive into the world of pizza ownership, shall we?
The Pizza Pioneers
Believe it or not, the folks behind California Pizza Kitchen (CPK) weren’t originally pizza experts. They were actually lawyers! Yup, you heard that right. Rick Rosenfield and Larry Flax, two former federal prosecutors, decided to trade in their suits for aprons and turned their passion for food into a pizza empire. Talk about a career change!
These guys weren’t just any lawyers, though. They had a vision - to create a pizza that was fresh, innovative, and totally Californian. They wanted to ditch the red sauce and greasy stereotypes and introduce us to a whole new world of pizza possibilities. And boy, did they succeed!
From Courtroom to Kitchen
Imagine these two guys, fresh out of the courtroom, standing in a kitchen, experimenting with different toppings and crusts. It’s like something out of a comedy sketch, right? But hey, it worked! They came up with crazy combinations like BBQ chicken pizza and Thai Chicken pizza. Who knew pizza could be so adventurous?
CPK: More Than Just Pizza
While we’re on the topic, let’s appreciate CPK for what it is: a culinary pioneer. They didn’t just stop at pizza. Oh no, they expanded their menu to include salads, pastas, and even desserts. It’s like they wanted to take over your entire meal plan.
And let’s not forget about their commitment to fresh ingredients. While other pizza places were cutting corners, CPK was using high-quality produce and creating dishes that were actually good for you (kinda).
So, Who’s the Boss Now?
While Rick and Larry might have started the whole CPK thing, the restaurant has grown and evolved over the years. It’s now a publicly traded company, which means it’s owned by a bunch of shareholders. So, technically, the owner of California Pizza is...drumroll please...a bunch of people who probably don’t even like pizza that much.
But hey, that doesn’t change the fact that CPK is still serving up delicious slices and making our taste buds happy. And that’s all that really matters, right?
How to... Pizza Fun Facts
- How to impress your pizza-loving friends: Drop some CPK trivia.
- How to order like a pizza pro: Try their Original BBQ Chicken Pizza - it’s a classic for a reason.
- How to satisfy your sweet tooth: Don’t skip dessert! CPK has some amazing options.
- How to feel fancy: Order a glass of wine to go with your pizza. You deserve it.
- How to enjoy pizza guilt-free: Order their cauliflower crust. It’s a healthier option.