About Us

The story of how a small restaurant in Santa Margarita expanded into a prominent chain

The story started with Charlie Zhang, a Chinese immigrant who came to the U.S. in 1982. Charlie had a vision: to open a restaurant that catered to the American appetite for tasty, quickly served Chinese cuisine made with fresh ingredients and cooked to order. In 1989, the inaugural Pick Up Stix restaurant opened its doors in Rancho Santa Margarita, California.

Was Charlie's concept successful? Indeed, it was. Pick Up Stix now stands as a prominent name in the quick-casual dining market, boasting over 50 locations across California.

Charlie's triumph hinged on crafting recipes and sauces that married traditional Asian culinary arts with the American taste, reducing oils while incorporating wine, vinegar, and soy sauce. This fusion created the unique flavors that are now synonymous with Pick Up Stix. The tradition continues, with food being freshly prepared in an open kitchen, providing guests a view of their meals being made.

The signature dish at Pick Up Stix is the House Special Chicken, a must-try, featuring white wine, garlic, soy sauce, and succulent caramelized chicken pieces. It's the crowd favorite. Other beloved dishes include Orange Peel Chicken, Mongolian Beef, Firecracker Chicken, and Beef and Broccoli. Beyond the renowned Cream Cheese Wontons, guests can savor Asian Lettuce Wraps, Egg Rolls, and more.