Each year brings fresh ideas to the world of pizza, and 2023 is no exception. At SilverSoftOrbit, we continually track what captures pizza lovers’ imagination worldwide. Here’s our rundown of the most exciting and popular toppings that have been generating buzz this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Interest in gut-friendly ingredients has led to a surge of fermented vegetables on pizzas. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions contribute bold tangy notes that harmonize with cheese and sauce. These toppings also offer probiotic benefits and introduce new textures to traditional pies.
Our new Fermentation Celebration pizza features house-made sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola, finished with a drizzle of local honey to balance the acidity. The combination may seem unconventional, yet it’s quickly becoming a crowd favorite.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
As plant-based eating grows, demand for pizzas with creative meat alternatives has risen. Beyond standard veggie toppings, innovations in plant-based proteins offer options that satisfy even devoted carnivores.
Plant-based Italian sausage crumbles, seasoned tempeh, marinated jackfruit pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni are now regulars on our menu. These proteins appeal not only to vegetarians but to many guests who appreciate their distinct flavors and lighter digestive impact.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Spice lovers are in for a treat. In 2023, pizza enthusiasts embraced specific regional chilies rather than generic flakes. Calabrian chilies remain popular, with Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora chilies, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang making appearances on pies.
Our Global Heat pizza showcases a blend of four regional chilies, each contributing its own flavor to different portions of the pizza. It’s a fiery adventure that’s especially loved by adventurous diners.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
The farm-to-table movement has evolved into forest-to-pizza, thanks to the growing popularity of seasonal foraged items. Wild mushrooms lead the trend, with varieties like chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods appearing as their seasons allow.
Beyond mushrooms, we’ve explored spring ramps (wild leeks), sea greens like dulse and nori, and even spruce tips for a distinctive aromatic touch. These ingredients connect diners to the natural world and deliver flavors that aren’t easily cultivated commercially.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
The sweet-salty contrast of honey has become more than a fleeting trend. Building on hot honey’s popularity, 2023 has seen a surge of specialty honey varieties drizzled onto 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 simple combinations to a gourmet level.
Honorable Mentions
A few other toppings that just missed the top five but are still making a splash include:
- Cured egg yolks, shaved over pizza like golden snow
- Pickled fruits, especially stone fruits like peaches and plums
- Heritage grain toppings, such as crispy farro or popped sorghum for texture
- Artisanal butter dollops (cultured or herb-compounded butters)
Whether you’re a traditionalist who sticks to the classics or an adventurous eater eager for bold new pairings, pizza remains one of the world’s most versatile and beloved foods. At SilverSoftOrbit, we honor tradition while embracing innovation—evident in both timeless Margherita and cutting-edge specialty pies on our menu.
Have you tried any of these trending toppings? Or is there a unique combination you’d like to see us offer? Share your thoughts in the comments or next time you visit!