Each year ushers in fresh ideas for pizza, and 2023 is no different. At Ember & Crust Pizzeria Authentic Taste, Every Slice, we track what’s winning over pizza fans around the world. Here’s our selection of the most exciting and widely loved toppings making a splash this year.
1. Fermented Veggies
The emphasis on gut-friendly foods has reached pizzerias, with fermented vegetables turning into a surprise favorite. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions bring layered tangy notes that pair beautifully with cheese and sauce. These toppings offer probiotic benefits and introduce lively texture contrasts to classic pies.
Our new “Fermentation Celebration” pie highlights house-made sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola, finished with a drizzle of local honey to soften the acidity. It might sound unconventional, but it’s rapidly becoming one of our most requested specialties.
2. Plant-Based Protein Picks
As plant-forward dining keeps growing, demand has surged for pizzas featuring inventive meatless options. Beyond standard veggies, new plant-based proteins now satisfy even committed meat enthusiasts.
Plant-based Italian sausage crumbles, seasoned tempeh, marinated jackfruit “pulled pork,” and pea-protein “pepperoni” are now menu regulars. They’re not only for vegetarians—many guests choose them for distinctive flavors and an easier-on-the-stomach experience.
3. Regional Chili Peppers
Spice lovers, rejoice! In 2023, pizza fans are seeking out specific regional chilies instead of generic red pepper flakes. Calabrian chilies remain favorites, and we’re also seeing Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang show up on pies.
Our “Global Heat” pie layers four different regional chilies, each showcasing its own flavor profile in separate quarters. It’s a fiery journey that’s become a hit with adventurous eaters.
4. Wild, Seasonal Finds
The farm-to-table ethos has evolved into forest-to-pizza with a rise in seasonal foraged ingredients. Wild mushrooms lead the pack, with chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods starring during their peak seasons.
Beyond mushrooms, we’ve tried spring ramps (wild leeks), sea vegetables like dulse and nori, and even spruce tips for a distinctive aromatic touch. These elements connect diners to nature while delivering flavors you can’t replicate in cultivation.
5. Signature Honey Finishes
The sweet-savory contrast from honey has proven it’s here to stay. Building on the hot-honey craze, 2023 has brought a boom in distinctive honey styles drizzled right before serving.
Truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, smoky mesquite honey, and even CBD-infused honey are appearing nationwide. These final flourishes add depth and elevate even simple pies to gourmet territory.
Honorable Mentions
A few other toppings that nearly made the top five but are still turning heads:
- Cured egg yolks, microplaned into a golden “snow” over the pie
- Pickled fruits—especially stone fruits like peaches and plums
- Ancient grain accents, such as crispy farro or popped sorghum for crunch
- Dollops of artisanal butter (particularly cultured or herb compound butters)
Whether you’re loyal to timeless favorites or eager to explore bold new combinations, pizza remains one of the most versatile and beloved foods. At Ember & Crust Pizzeria Authentic Taste, Every Slice, we respect tradition while welcoming innovation—which is why you’ll find both a classic Margherita and cutting-edge specialty pies on our menu.
Have you sampled any of these trending toppings? Or do you have a standout combo you’d like to see on our list? Tell us in the comments or during your next visit!