Every year introduces new food waves into the pizza scene, and 2023 is no different. At AmberWillowMeadow, we continuously observe what captivates pizza aficionados globally. Here’s our summary of the top pizza garnishes that have caused a stir this year.
1. Fermented Vegetables
With increasing attention to digestive wellness, fermented vegetables have turned into an unexpected sensation atop pizzas this year. The introduction of kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions brings a complex zest that pairs well with the savory taste of cheese and sauce. Besides offering probiotic perks, these garnishes add an intriguing new textural element to classic pizzas.
Our Fermentation Fiesta pizza stars in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola cheese, topped off with a splash of artisanal honey to counterbalance the sour notes. This combination may seem atypical, but it's quickly rising as one of our most sought-after specialty pizzas.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
As plant-forward diets are getting more traction, there's been a notable surge in the appeal for pizzas embellished with inventive meat substitutes. Beyond traditional vegetable options, breakthroughs in plant-proteins are tempting even ardent carnivores.
Options like plant-based Italian sausage bits, spiced tempeh, jackfruit prepared as pulled pork, and pea protein 'pepperoni' are now staples on our menu. These toppings are enjoyed not just by vegetarians but also by customers who appreciate their distinct tastes and gentler impact on digestion.
3. Regional Chili Variants
Those who covet spiciness are celebrating! The year 2023 has witnessed a shift in pizza lovers opting for distinct regional chili variants rather than nondescript crushed red pepper. While Calabrian chilies hold onto their popularity, chilies like the smoky Spanish ñora, the fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang are finding their way onto pizza creations.
Our International Scorch pizza offers an assortment of four diverse regional chilies, each imparting its distinct taste to one quarter of the pizza. It's a fiery escapade that’s garnered favor with those who favor the exotic.
4. Seasonal Foraged Edibles
The trend from farm-to-table has branched into forest-to-pizza, due to the popularity of seasonal wild-foraged edibles. Leading the trend are wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, featured prominently when they come into season.
Apart from mushrooms, we’re experimenting with foraged goods like spring ramps, oceanic greens such as dulse and nori, and even spruce tips for a unique fragrant touch. These ingredients offer customers an immersive natural experience with flavors not found in farmed produce.
5. Special Honey Drizzles
Honey, with its ability to create a sweet and savory balance, has solidified its place as more than just a fad. Expanding on the hot honey trend, 2023 has unveiled a range of specialty honey types used as drizzles on pizzas right before they are served.
Truffle honey, honey infused with fermented garlic, mesquite-flavored honey, and even CBD-enriched honey are making their debut in pizzerias nationwide. These drizzles add an intricate layer of flavor and elevate straightforward pizza choices to the level of haute cuisine.
Honorable Mentions
Additional garnishes that narrowly missed our top five but are still having an impact include:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated atop pizza for a luxurious touch
- Marinated fruits, particularly stone fruits such as peaches and apricots
- Ancient grain embellishments, like crunchy farro or popped sorghum for added texture
- Gourmet butter spots, especially those with cultured or blended herbs
No matter if you favor classic styles or are eager to explore innovative flavor duos, pizza remains one of the most versatile and beloved dishes worldwide. At AmberWillowMeadow, we honor the classic fare while welcoming new twists—that's evident with both timeless Margherita and avant-garde specialty pizzas found on our menu.
Have you sampled any of these trending garnishments? Or perhaps you have a distinctive favorite blend you think we should offer? Share in the comments or on your next visit!