A Slice of Italy: Unpacking the Culture at Leaning Tower of Pizza 'leaning tower pizza sherman oaks'

Tucked away in the heart of Sherman Oaks lies a beloved institution that has been serving up authentic Neapolitan-style pies since 1980 – Leaning Tower of Pizza. But beyond its mouthwatering menu, curious diners often wonder what goes on behind those red-and-white checkered doors.

As with any bustling eatery, working at an Italian restaurant comes with its fair share of challenges and perks. Current and former employees have shared their candid thoughts about life inside the Leaning Tower walls – from grueling shifts to genuine camaraderie.

One consistent theme that emerges is the fast-paced nature of the kitchen environment. 'Be prepared for long hours,' warns one server, who wishes to remain anonymous. 'We're talking 12-hour shifts on weekends during peak season.' This frenetic pace can be exhausting but also serves as a bonding experience among staff members who rely heavily on each other to keep plates spinning.

Despite grueling workloads, many employees praise the close-knit atmosphere that pervades Leaning Tower's kitchen. 'It feels like family here,' gushes Maria, an experienced pizza maker with over five years under her apron. 'We look out for one another – especially during crazy shifts.' This sense of camaraderie is partly due to management's hands-off approach which allows employees to take ownership of their stations.

However, this relaxed atmosphere comes at a cost. Salaries are generally lower than what you'd find elsewhere in the industry, with starting hourly rates hovering around $10-$12 for servers and pizza makers alike. Benefits also leave much to be desired; health insurance is offered but only after six months of service – an eternity considering many employees burn out long before reaching this milestone.

Despite these drawbacks, Leaning Tower's charm seems to captivate even the most skeptical newcomers. 'At first, I thought it was going to drive me crazy,' confesses new hire John, a recent transplant from New York City. 'But once you settle in and get used to the rhythm – man oh man – there's nowhere else I'd rather be.'

So if you're looking for an authentic Italian experience that goes beyond the pizza itself (though let us tell you, those pies are something special), consider trading in your fancy restaurant gig for a shift at Leaning Tower of Pizza. It may not be easy – heck, it'll probably push you to your limits more times than once. But if you're willing to roll up those sleeves and immerse yourself fully into the Italian way of life (which means plenty of pasta and red wine after hours), then this beloved Sherman Oaks institution might just become your second home.

Rating: 4/5 stars

Recommended for foodies, families with older children, large groups, local cuisine enthusiasts.

Leaning tower pizza sherman oaks