Tuesday, September 20, 2011

California Pizza Kitchen (Kahala Mall)





This one is a classic. Who doesn't love CPK?!

Last night, I treated Mom and Dad to a nice dinner at CPK with an old gift card that I've had for awhile. Dinner was only an extra $10 for tip! That's what I call a DEAL.

For once, CPK Kahala was not bustling with crowds, and "buzzers" were not being handed out to families waiting for a table. It was a Monday night, and we walked up to the hostess, and was immediately sat down at a table. Don't get me wrong- CPK was still crowded for a Monday night, though it was really nice to have to wait 30-40 minutes. Come on a Friday or Saturday, and you're going to be sitting on the benches outside for a good while, staring at your buzzer.

I'm really impressed. CPK has really expanded and diversified their menu over the years to keep it up to date with trends and new foodie items. Keeps things exciting, don't ya think!? I remember when they had first added their Sangria to the menu, and boy, was that a Godsend. Since then, their menu is very well-rounded and cultured. Egg Rolls, Dynamite Shrimp, Guacamole, Thai Crunch Salad, Korean BBQ Steak Tacos...ask and you shall receive!

Last night, everything we ordered was delicious. I was surprised Mom was willing to share a different salad and pizza with me. Our usual consists of Chinese Chicken Salad and Margherita Pizza. Truth be told, those are always great items to get if you're indecisive.

Dad is very traditional and got his usual Bolognese, and ate every last pasta noodle. Mom and I decided on Caramelized Peach Salad and Wild Mushroom Pizza. The Peach Salad was my utmost favorite. Omg, I should have just ordered a whole one!! It came with field greens, spinach, warm caramelized peaches, dried cranberries, toasted pecans, red onions, and Gorgonzola tossed in white Balsamic Vinaigrette. When served, the peaches are slightly warm...so tantalizing! This is a must-try!

As for the Mushroom Pizza- if you love mushrooms, you will just as much, love this pizza. It's topped with 4 different types of mushrooms- cremini, shiitake, white mushrooms and portabello. ANY mushroom-lover will have every craving satisfied!'

What I also loved was their unique guacamole. Though quite small, it is packed full of sweet white corn, black beans, scallions, cilantro, small bits of red pepper and of course, lots of chunky, creamy avocado. Not your usual smooth guacamole, but I loved it. Just wish it was a bit bigger!

California Pizza Kitchen is never at the top of my foodie list, but since this visit, I may be back for more Peach Salad and Guac!


Guacamole

Started off with their White Sangria- very fruity and sweet.

Bolognese

Wild Mushroom Pizza



Delicious Caramelized Peach Salad!!!!!!
This one's a winner!

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