California’s hospitality industry is entering 2025 with a unique mix of opportunities and challenges. From bustling restaurants in Los Angeles to coastal resorts in San Diego, demand for skilled workers remains high — but so does competition for top talent.

The restaurant industry is facing an unprecedented talent shortage. From chefs to front-of-house staff, and even management roles, good people are harder than ever to find. Based on Ztalent’s front-line recruitment data, this article breaks down the root causes of hiring challenges and offers actionable strategies to help businesses gain an edge in the race for talent.