Top 5 Best Pizzas of 2025
- Hawaiian Pizza
- Margherita Pizza
- Quattro Stagioni
- Barbecue Chicken Pizza
- Seafood Pizza
- Veggie Deluxe
- Prosciutto and Arugula
- Pesto and Cherry Tomato
Pizza has long been a culinary canvas for innovation and expression, with countless variations captivating taste buds across the globe. While many claim to know which style reigns supreme, there’s one controversial contender that has sparked debates, divided nations, and even prompted political commentary—the pineapple pizza. This tropical twist on a classic has become more than just a meal; it’s a cultural phenomenon that continues to challenge traditional pizza orthodoxy.
Why pineapple pizza reigns supreme
When it comes to the world’s best pizzas, few can compete with the harmonious blend of flavours found on a perfectly crafted pineapple pizza. Also known as Hawaiian_pizza, this delightful creation has transcended its humble origins to become a global sensation. Despite fierce opposition from traditionalists, this innovative combination continues to win hearts and palates worldwide, standing proudly among legendary varieties like the Neapolitan pizza from Naples or the iconic New York pizza slice.
The perfect sweet and savoury balance
What makes pineapple pizza truly exceptional is its masterful balance of contrasting flavours. Sam Panopoulos, the visionary Greek-Canadian who invented this revolutionary dish in 1962, understood something fundamental about human taste preferences. Inspired by the sweet and sour profiles common in Canadian Chinese cuisine, he created a pizza that plays with our palate in ways traditional varieties simply cannot match. The natural sweetness of pineapple cuts through the richness of melted mozzarella and complements the saltiness of ham or bacon, creating a sensory experience that’s greater than the sum of its parts.
Cultural impact of this revolutionary topping
Few pizza variations have generated as much passionate discourse as the Hawaiian pizza. This Canadian invention has transcended its status as mere food to become a cultural lightning rod. In 2017, Gudni Thorlacius Johannesson, Iceland’s president, jokingly suggested he would ban pineapple on pizza if he could, sparking an international incident that prompted Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau to publicly defend this culinary innovation. Even celebrities have taken sides, with Gordon Ramsay declaring his opposition while Dwayne “TheRock” Johnson proudly stands as a supporter. The controversy has become so significant that Time magazine named Hawaiian pizza one of the 13 most influential pizzas ever in 2014.
The undeniable benefits of pineapple as a pizza topping
Beyond the delightful taste sensation, there are compelling reasons why pineapple deserves its place among the elite pizza toppings. Its popularity speaks volumes—in 1999, it represented an impressive 15% of all pizza sales in Australia, making it the nation’s most popular choice. Similarly, a 2015 survey revealed it was the most common pizza ordered at UK takeaways through Just Eat. These statistics reflect a growing appreciation for this innovative approach to pizza crafting.
Nutritional advantages of combining pineapple with traditional ingredients
Unlike many indulgent pizza toppings, pineapple brings nutritional benefits to the table. This tropical fruit adds valuable vitamins and enzymes while introducing a refreshing element to what might otherwise be a heavy dish. When baked in high-temperature pizza ovens like the Dome or Roccbox, the natural sugars in pineapple caramelize slightly, enhancing its flavour profile while maintaining its nutritional integrity. This makes pineapple pizza not just a delicious choice but a somewhat smarter one compared to pizzas loaded with processed meat toppings alone.
Texture enhancement: How pineapple elevates the eating experience
The textural contribution of pineapple to pizza cannot be overstated. While many international pizza styles rely solely on the contrast between crisp crust and melted cheese, pineapple adds another dimension entirely. Its juicy bite provides a refreshing counterpoint to the chewy dough, especially when cooked in artisanal pizza ovens like the Arc XL that achieve the perfect temperature balance. Some innovative chefs, like Franco Pepe, have elevated this concept further by using fresh pineapple served cold with prosciutto, creating a sophisticated interpretation that honours the original concept while refining the textural experience. The contrast between warm, melted cheese and the slight resistance of pineapple chunks creates a multisensory experience that makes each bite more engaging and satisfying than traditional pizza toppings can provide.
