Each year brings fresh culinary directions to the world of pizza, and 2023 is no exception. At NeutralPivotPark, we continually track what captivates pizza lovers worldwide. Here’s our summary of the most compelling and widely favored toppings making waves this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
The emphasis on gut health has found its way onto pies, with fermented vegetables becoming a surprising favorite on pizzas this year. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions contribute complex tangy notes that pair well with cheese and sauce. These fermented toppings not only offer probiotic benefits but also introduce new texture layers to classic pizza.
Our new Fermentation Celebration pizza showcases house-made sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola cheese, finished with a drizzle of local honey to balance the tanginess. The combination may sound unusual, but it’s quickly turning into one of our most requested specialty pies.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
As plant-based eating continues to rise in popularity, we’ve seen a marked increase in demand for pizzas featuring inventive meat alternatives. Beyond traditional vegetable toppings, advances in plant-based proteins have introduced options that satisfy even dedicated meat enthusiasts.
Plant-based Italian sausage crumbles, seasoned tempeh, marinated jackfruit “pulled pork,” and pea protein “pepperoni” are now regular staples on our menu. These proteins aren’t just for vegetarians—many customers choose them for their distinct flavors and lighter digestive impact.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Spice lovers, rejoice! 2023 has seen pizza aficionados adopt specific regional chili varieties rather than generic red pepper flakes. Calabrian chilies have stayed popular, but we’re now seeing Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora chilies, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang appearing on pizzas.
Our Global Heat pizza features a medley of four regional chilies, each contributing its own flavor profile to different sections of the pie. It’s a spicy adventure especially loved by our more adventurous guests.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The farm-to-table movement has evolved into forest-to-pizza with the growing popularity of seasonal foraged ingredients. Wild mushrooms lead this trend, with varieties like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods appearing during their respective seasons.
Beyond mushrooms, we’ve tried spring ramps (wild leeks), sea vegetables like dulse and nori, and even spruce tips for a distinctive aromatic note. These ingredients connect diners to the natural world while delivering flavors that can’t be cultivated on a commercial scale.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
The sweet-savory balance created by honey has solidified into more than a fleeting trend. Building on the popularity of hot honey from recent years, 2023 has seen a surge of specialty honey varieties drizzled on pizzas just before serving.
Truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, smoky mesquite honey, and even CBD-infused honey appear on menus nationwide. These finishing touches add depth and elevate even simple pizza combos to a gourmet level.
Honorable Mentions
Several other toppings that narrowly missed the top five but are still making a splash include:
- Cured egg yolks, grated over pizza like a golden snowfall
- Pickled fruits, especially stone fruits like peaches and plums
- Heritage grain toppings, such as crispy farro or popped sorghum for texture
- Artisanal butter dollops (particularly cultured or herb butter blends)
Whether you’re a traditionalist who loves the classics or an adventurous eater eager to explore bold new pairings, pizza remains one of the world’s most versatile and beloved foods. At NeutralPivotPark, we honor tradition while embracing innovation—that’s why you’ll find both classic Margherita and cutting-edge specialty pies on our menu.
Have you tried any of these trending toppings? Or do you have a unique favorite combination you’d like us to offer? Share your thoughts in the comments or next time you visit!