Each year ushers in fresh pizza trends, and 2023 is no different. At UrbanMeadowRiver, we keep a close eye on what pizza fans worldwide are craving. Below is our take on the standout and most in-demand toppings shaping this year.
Fermented Veggies
The gut-health movement has reached pizza menus, turning fermented vegetables into an unexpected favorite. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions deliver layered, tangy notes that play beautifully with rich cheese and sauce. Beyond their probiotic perks, these toppings bring lively textures to classic pies.
Our new Fermentation Fiesta pie pairs house-fermented sauerkraut and kimchi with gorgonzola, then gets a light pour of local honey to mellow the acidity. It may sound unconventional, yet it's rapidly turning into a top-requested specialty.
Plant-Based Protein Options
As plant-forward dining gains momentum, demand has surged for pizzas showcasing inventive meat-free substitutes. Moving past basic veggies, modern plant proteins offer choices that win over even devoted carnivores.
You’ll now find crumbled plant-based Italian sausage, spiced tempeh, marinated jackfruit as pulled pork, and pea-protein pepperoni on our lineup. They appeal far beyond vegetarians—many guests pick them for distinctive flavors and an easier feel.
Regional Chili Peppers
Spice lovers, take note: in 2023, pizza fans are opting for named regional chilies over standard red flakes. Calabrian peppers remain favorites, and we’re also featuring Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang across pies.
Our World Heat pizza layers four regional chilies, each highlighting its character in separate quadrants. It’s a fiery journey that’s a hit with bold palates.
Wild, Seasonal Finds
Farm-to-table has morphed into forest-to-pizza as seasonal foraged items gain traction. Wild mushrooms top the list—chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods show up often when in season.
Beyond fungi, we’ve tried spring ramps (wild leeks), sea greens such as dulse and nori, and even spruce tips for a singular aroma. These picks link diners to nature and offer flavors that defy commercial cultivation.
Signature Honey Finishes
Honey’s sweet-salty interplay is here to stay. Building on the hot-honey craze, 2023 brought a surge of unique honey styles added as a final flourish right before the slice hits the table.
Menus now feature truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, smoky mesquite honey, and even CBD-infused honey. These last-second accents add depth and turn even straightforward pies into something elevated.
Also Worth Noting
A handful of near-miss favorites still making waves:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated over the pie like a golden drift
- Pickled fruits, with a special nod to stone fruits such as peaches and plums
- Heritage grains for crunch, including crispy farro or popped sorghum
- Small scoops of artisanal butter (notably cultured or herb-infused)
Whether you love the classics or chase daring new pairings, pizza remains one of the most flexible and adored foods on the planet. At UrbanMeadowRiver, we respect the old-school while leaning into new ideas—that’s why our menu spans from a timeless Margherita to boundary-pushing specials.
Tried any of these buzzy toppings yet? Got a standout combo you’d like us to add? Share in the comments or tell us during your next visit!