As we roll into a new year, the pizza industry continues to experience an influx of fresh trends, and 2023 is no exception. At SableHarbor Pizzeria, keeping an eye on the pizza topping sensations that are delighting palates worldwide is our forte. Below are the top-ranking trendy toppings that are currently buzzing.
1. Fermented Vegetables
Focusing on digestive health has taken the pizza scene by storm, with fermented veggies rising to fame as a top choice. Varieties like kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions bring an intricate sour zest that pairs exceptionally with the creamy textures of cheese and sauce. Offering probiotics, these toppings also contribute unique textural layers to the classic pizza base.
The Fermentation Fiesta pizza is a prime example, showcasing our in-house sauerkraut, kimchi, and stilton cheese, all balanced with a touch of regional honey. While some may find this amalgam unconventional, it's swiftly climbed the ranks of our most coveted specialty creations.
2. Plant-Based Proteins
The trend towards plant-oriented diets isn't slowing down, leading to a boost in plant-derived protein toppings as an alternative to meat. These are not limited to traditional veggies, with advances in this area yielding options that even the staunchest carnivores enjoy.
On our menu, we now list plant-imitation Italian sausage crumbles, spiced tempeh, marinated 'pulled pork' jackfruit, and pea protein-based 'pepperoni'. These sustainable substitutes cater not only to vegetarians but also to those who favor their distinctive tastes and gentler effects on digestion.
3. Regional Chili Varieties
Those inclined towards fiery flavors are in luck. This year has encouraged a shift from standard crushed red pepper to distinct regional chilies. Although Calabrian chilies have retained their status, newcomers like Aleppo pepper, Spanish ñora chilies, Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang are increasingly finding their way atop our pizzas.
Embark on a zesty journey with our Global Heat pizza, a blend of four different regional chilies spread across the pizza, each quadrant presenting a particular zest. This spicy globe-trotting pizza has won over our thrill-seeking patrons.
4. Seasonal Foraged Ingredients
With a nod towards natural foraging, the farm-to-table initiative has extended its reach to pizzas with a seasonal twist. Leading the surge are wild mushrooms such as chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods, gracing our pizzas when they're in season.
We've also been exploring the incorporation of wild spring leeks, oceanic greens like dulse and nori, and even aromatic spruce tips. These components bridge the gap between nature and cuisine, imparting unreplicable flavors only nature can provide.
5. Specialty Honey Drizzles
Enhancing pizzas with a hint of sweetness, distinctive varieties of honey are making their mark. Building upon hot honey's success in previous years, this year has seen an emergence of unique honeys such as truffle-infused, fermented garlic, smoky mesquite, and other specialty honeys as final touches on pizzas.
These honeys bring depth and sophistication, transforming even the most straightforward pizza pairings into gourmet fare.
Honorable Mentions
Although not in the top five, these toppings are still creating buzz:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated over pizza to resemble golden flakes
- Pickled fruits—particularly stone fruits like peaches and cherries
- Whole grain garnishes, such as crispy farro or puffed sorghum for added crunch
- Gourmet butter varieties (especially cultured or infused with herbs)
Pizza remains a versatile and universally cherished dish, whether you're someone who honors timeless classics or someone who dares to explore unconventional topping fusions. SableHarbor Pizzeria pays homage to time-honored traditions and also paves the way for modern culinary innovation, which is why our menu includes both the classic Margherita and avant-garde specialty pizzas.
We're curious to know if you've had a chance to try any of these modern toppings or if there's an innovative flavor combo you'd wish to see on our future menus. Share your thoughts in the comments or during your next visit!