My littlest Boyznberry and I had the opportunity to sample some of the Seasonal Offerings at California Pizza Kitchen aka CPK.
For the last 10 years my favorite memories have been taking my boys every Friday night to the Laguna Hills Mall to eat at CPK. After we put our name down to be called we would walk into the mall and go to KB Toys. This was actually a tradition my Step Father created. Every Friday nights turned into every month as the boys grew older and had sports. However that is one thing that is embedded in my heart and that of my boys. We would go once a week and gather around. Enjoying Fabulous food, great company / conversation and electronic devices at a minimum. My weekly meal at CPK that I would look forward to would be their Mixed green salad I did forget the actual name. I was informed this last trip to CPK, it is one that is now going to be retired from the menu. It was mixed greens with gorgonzola cheese, pears, and I added grilled shrimp. Paired with some white wine and snacking on the boys left over pizza crusts, it was a perfect night out.
So when I was invited with my littlest boyznberry to sample the seasonal offerings I was so happy to oblige. My little one was invited to make his very own pizza, which he was so delighted. Let me just say it’s a lot easier to watch than to replicate. This boy was all smiles ear to ear he couldn’t believe his luck. CPK offers kids birthday parties and tours where kids can make their very own pizza’s with a chef coat along with desserts. Incase your little wanted to do this. Mine had so much fun he wants to do this for his birthday this year, again!
My little guy might want to be a chef after this experience. I was so proud of him for his unique pairing creations, especially for a five year old. The little Chef did eat what he made and it was delicious, I had to sample it to see if it was that great. Who knew loaded with Broccoli, bell peppers, mushrooms, red onion and bacon that it would be delicious?! CPK I think you might want to add this to your seasonal menu items. Ok a mom can dream cant’ she?
Ok lets get ready to get your taste buds ramped up for this seasonal tour? To start off the Mommies enjoyed some alcoholic beverages, don’t worry you can also ask for the non alcoholic alternative as well. The Blood Orange Sangria and the Berry Sparkler were both satisfying and quenched the hustle and bustle of the long winter days, while allowing me to bask in the flavors and zing of it all.
Photo Credit: CPK
I was a little hesitant with some of the seasonal inspired dishes that I was going to sample; The Sunny Side Up Bacon + Potato Pizza, Brussels + Bacon Flatbread & The Harvest Kale Salad. The Waiter reminded me of their Menu Adventure Guarantee;
” We encourage the spirit of adventure, especially when it comes to tasting new flavors. So try something new – if it doesn’t thrill you, we’ll replace it with your regular favorite. “
With that said how could anyone resist trying something new. So that is what I did.
The Sunny Side Up Bacon + Potato Pizza was a bit out there. Shaved fingerling potatoes, Nueske’s applewood smoked bacon, caramelized leeks, Parmesan, Mozzarella, and fresh cracked black pepper. Topped with two sunny side up eggs. I mean you only live once so why not? It wasn’t that bad at all, It was tasty and something that one should try on their foodie adventure.
Photo Credit: CPK
Brussels + Bacon Flatbread was delicious and is a must. I didn’t think this would complement nicely however it did, for me anyway. The crisp brussels with the caramelized onions, Nueske’s applewood smoked bacon, with the creamy goat cheese, romano and cracked black pepper. Does anyone have a rocket ship? My taste buds just went out of this world. I am not a huge fan of goat cheese and to be honest it makes me sick to my stomach. Which is funny because this has goat cheese in it and I couldn’t even tell. It was rich and creamy but it wasn’t too bold or overpowering with the taste.
Photo Credit: CPK
Harvest Kale Salad; Baby Kale, toasted Farro, roasted butternut squash, Napa cabbage, shaved pear, marinated cranberries, spiced pecans and goat cheese tossed with house made citrus vinaigrette. You can add grilled chicken, grilled shrimp or sautéed salmon. Again this was so funny for me because I dislike goat cheese and here I am trying two of the three dishes and it has goat cheese in them.
Which only reiterates what CPK says; with trying new taste adventures. I promise it’s not that bad. I learned that prepared a certain way I can actually like goat cheese again. It was pleasant and favorable upon my palate and digestive track.
Next were the desserts;
The Salted Caramel Pudding. It wasn’t my favorite but those who love a rich caramel pudding with a black cocoa cookie crumbs, with housemade whipped cream, caramel sauce and natural flaked sea salt this is the desert for you.
S’mores ok who doesn’t like kettle cooked Belgian chocolate pudding with dark chocolate chunks, double graham cracker and toasted marshmallows on top. Yeah I thought so!
Next was the Butter Cake, enough said…served warm with homemade whipped cream. Yeah you lost me at butter.
My little guy loved indulging in his generic but not so generic ice cream sundae. Vanilla ice cream adored with chocolate sauce, sprinkles, cherries and whipped cream…whats not to love?
I give the new seasonal items along with my old favorites two forks up! Dig in and enjoy your foodie adventure. Until next time…..
