Each year, the pizza industry witnesses the emergence of new gourmet trends, and the year 2023 is not an exception. At SoftCobaltMeadow, keeping abreast of the trends that entice pizza enthusiasts worldwide is our priority. We present the top pizza toppings that have made a splash in 2023.
1. Fermented Veggies
As gastro wellness takes center stage in pizzerias, fermented veggies have become an unexpected favorite on pizzas. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions bring a zesty complexity that pairs well with the creamy cheese and sauce layers. These toppings are not just flavorful but also a great source of probiotics, and they add an intriguing new texture to classic pizzas.
Our exclusive Fermentation Fiesta pizza is loaded with in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and sharp blue cheese, with a touch of local honey to counteract the sourness. Though unconventional, it's quickly ascending our list of top-requested specialty pizzas.
2. Meat Alternatives from Plants
As plant-based diets gain momentum, the call for pizzas adorned with inventive meat substitutes has surged. Far from ordinary veggies, the introduction of plant-based proteins have been devised to please even hardcore carnivores.
Options like crumbled plant-based Italian sausage, spiced tempeh, pulled pork jackfruit, and pea protein pepperoni have become staples on our menu. These aren't exclusively for vegetarians; numerous guests opt for them due to their distinct tastes and easier digestibility.
3. Localized Chili Types
For those who chase the thrill of spice, 2023 has encouraged the exploration of specific localized chili peppers over generic pepper flakes. While Calabrian chilies continue their streak of popularity from past years, other varieties such as Aleppo pepper, Spanish ñora chilies, Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang are also being thrown into the mix on pizzas.
The Global Heat pizza we offer is a combination of four distinctive regional chilies, each adding its unique taste to the pizza. It's a fiery gastronomic journey that's become a favorite among guests seeking culinary adventures.
4. Wild Forage-Inspired Components
Moving from the farm directly to your pizza, the trend for wild foraged ingredients is growing. Wild mushrooms are spearheading this movement, as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods appear during their peak seasons.
But the trend doesn't stop at mushrooms. We've incorporated springtime ramps, sea greens like dulse and nori, and even the distinctive aroma of spruce tips. These natural elements bring a connection to the wild and flavors not found in commercial products.
5. Unique Honey Garnishes
The trend of honey as a complement to savory has continued to hold strong. On top of the widespread hot honey, 2023 is witness to the rise of distinctive honey varieties being dribbled over pizzas right before they're served.
The incorporation of truffle honey, garlic fermented honey, smoky mesquite honey, and even CBD-infused honey is becoming commonplace. These drizzles add a sophisticated twist and can turn a simple pizza into a gourmet affair.
Honorable Mentions
Some additional toppings that didn’t quite make the top five but are nonetheless making an impact include:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated over the pizza for a luxurious effect
- Pickled fruits, with a penchant for stone fruits like peaches and cherries
- Ancient grain accents, such as crispy farro or popped sorghum for added texture
- Dollops of crafted butter (including cultured or mixed herb butters)
Whether your palate favors time-honored classics or is inclined to sample innovative flavors, pizza remains one of the most versatile and cherished dishes worldwide. At SoftCobaltMeadow, we pay homage to tried-and-true methods and simultaneously champion new approaches—that's evident from our menu, which proudly presents both the enduring Margherita and avant-garde creations.
Have you sampled any of these trendsetting toppings, or do you have your own unique topping combination in mind that you'd love us to try? Share your thoughts in the comments or during your next visit!