As we stride through 2023, the pizza industry continues to embrace new gastronomic trends. Here at FernLightPark, we've been observing the global preferences of pizza aficionados. We are excited to present our curated selection of the most sensational and sought-after pizza toppings of the year.
1. Pickled Veggies
The emphasis on digestive wellness has entered the realm of pizza, where pickled veggies have emerged as an unexpected favorite. Kimchi, fermented cabbage, and marinated onions are infusing pizzas with layers of zesty tastes that enrich the creamy and savory elements of cheese and tomato sauce. Not only do these toppings add probiotics to your diet, but they also introduce novel textures to the classic pizza.
For instance, our Fermentation Fiesta pizza comes with our own fermented cabbage, kimchi, and bleu cheese, all tied together with a local honey drizzle offsetting the sour notes. This blend may seem unconventional, yet it has quickly soared to the top as one of our most in-demand special pizzas.
2. Meat-free Alternatives
As more consumers adopt plant-forward lifestyles, the call for meat-free pizza options has surged. Vegetarian toppings are evolving beyond mere veggies, with breakthroughs in meat alternatives providing choices that even die-hard carnivores can enjoy.
We've introduced an array of plant-based options like faux Italian sausage bits, flavored tempeh, seasoned jackfruit pulled pork, and pea protein pepperoni to our menu. These alternatives are not solely for vegetarians—several of our patrons opt for them due to their distinct tastes and lighter impact on digestion.
3. Exotic Peppers
For those seeking a fiery kick, 2023 has witnessed a celebration of specific chili peppers instead of the typical red pepper flakes. While Calabrian peppers persist in their popularity, we're also seeing unique varieties like aromatic Turkish Aleppo peppers, sweet-smoked Spanish ñora chilies, bright Peruvian aji amarillo, and savory Korean gochujang make their way onto our pizzas.
Try our International Heat Wave pizza, showcasing a quartet of these regional chilies, each delivering its own distinct flavor to separate parts of the pizza. It offers a piquant journey favored by our more daring patrons.
4. Wild-harvested Ingredients
Local sourcing has expanded from farm-to-table to encompass forest-to-pizza, shining a spotlight on wild, seasonally foraged additions. Wild mushrooms like chanterelles, morels, and maitake are prominently featured when in season.
We've also been creative with wild ramps, sea greens such as dulse and nori, and aromatic spruce tips to add depth. These components offer direct connections to nature and flavors that can't be replicated by cultivated produce.
5. Artisanal Honey Varieties
Honey's role in creating a sweet and salty contrast has become a staple finish. This year, the variety of special honeys drizzled over pizzas prior to serving has expanded.
Customers can now experience the decadence of truffle honey, garlic-aged honey, smoky flavoured honey, and cannabinoid-free honey variants. These honeys are the final flourish, transforming even simple pies into exquisite creations.
Honorable Mentions
Other toppings that nearly made our top five but are still causing a buzz include:
- Cured egg yolk shavings, lending a luxurious touch to pizzas
- Pickled fruits, with a focus on stone fruits such as peaches and plums
- Ancient grain toppings, providing a crispy addition like fried farro or popped sorghum
- Handcrafted butter spots, especially fermented or herb-seasoned varieties
Regardless of whether you prefer classic favorites or are willing to explore innovative flavor profiles, pizza remains one of the most versatile and universally loved dishes. At FernLightPark, we celebrate time-honored traditions while welcoming new culinary explorations—you'll find everything from the timeless Margherita to the boundary-pushing creations on our menu.
Have you sampled any of the trendy toppings we mentioned? Or perhaps you harbor a distinct topping combination you'd love to recommend? Share with us in the comments, or during your next visit!