As we enter a new year, the pizza scene is once again refreshed with novel taste sensations that have captured the hearts of pizza enthusiasts. At TheFutureOfNow, we keep a close watch on the latest preferences that are tantalizing the palates globally. Presented here is a compiled list of the top pizza toppings that are currently in vogue for this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Gastronomic trends are increasingly focused on digestive wellness, which has brought fermented veggies to the forefront as an unexpected favorite on pizza menus. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions are contributing layers of zestful tastes that enhance the flavors of cheese and sauce. These toppings do more than just tantalize the taste buds; they also bring probiotic advantages and a whole new textural complexity to conventional pizza offerings.
We feature the Fermentation Festivity pizza, adorned with in-house fermented sauerkraut, kimchi, and creamy gorgonzola, all tied together with a sweet drizzle of artisan honey to offset the tangy profile. Despite its unconventional pairing, it is rapidly becoming one of the top specialty pizzas we're asked for.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The upswing in plant-centric diets has led to a marked increase in the number of pizzas being adorned with innovative non-meat options. Beyond the usual veggie toppings, advancements in plant-based proteins have provided a satisfying alternative even for staunch carnivores.
We've introduced various plant-based toppings such as Italian sausage substitutes from plants, seasoned tempeh, marinated jackfruit that mirrors pulled pork, and pea protein crafted to mimic pepperoni. These plant proteins cater to not just vegetarians but also those in pursuit of distinctive tastes and a less heavy meal experience.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
For those who live for spicy flavors, the year has seen a dedicated following for specialty regional chilies on their pizzas, moving beyond the usual red pepper flakes. Calabrian chilies continue to be popular, yet now we're also seeing a rise in distinct chilies like Allepo peppers, Spanish ñoras, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and spicy Korean gochujang.
The International Spice pizza offers a quadrant-based selection of these varied chilies, each contributing a distinct sense of place and taste. This pie has become a favorite for those seeking a fiery culinary escapade.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
Seasonal foraged ingredients are transforming pizzas with the forest-to-table concept. Leading this trend are wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, which appear on pizzas during their respective peak seasons.
In addition, we experiment with foraged spring ramps, ocean-harvested greens like dulse and nori, and fresh spruce tips that impart a unique fragrant twist. These natural ingredients not only offer a new dining experience but also flavors that cultivated produce simply cannot match.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Honey's capability to create a sweet and savory blend has been well recognized beyond being a mere fad. Following the trajectory of hot honey's success, this year has showcased an explosion in the use of a diverse range of honey types used as finishing drizzles on pizzas.
Drizzles like truffle-infused honey, garlic-fermented honey, smoky mesquite honey, and even CBD-enriched honey have been featured on numerous menus. These final touches contribute a layer of sophistication that transform even the most simple pizza into a gourmet offering.
Honorable Mentions
A few toppings that haven't quite made it into our top five but are still causing a stir include:
- Cured egg yolks finely grated over pizzas for a rich umami experience
- Pickled fruits, particularly stone fruits such as peaches and cherries
- Ancient grain additions like crispy farro or popped sorghum for added crunch
- Artisanal butter touches (especially those infused with herbs or cultured)
Whether you lean towards time-honored favorites or are inclined to explore inventive flavor blends, pizza remains a universally cherished and infinitely customizable dish. Here at TheFutureOfNow, we pay homage to time-honored traditions while also celebrating culinary creativity, hence our menu features both the classic Margherita and experimental gourmet creations.
Have any of these trendy toppings caught your attention? Or maybe you have a unique topping combination in mind that you'd like us to consider? Share your thoughts in the comments or drop by for a visit and tell us about your dream pizza!