What did pizza look like in 2026? More protein, global inspiration, premium ingredients and plenty of unexpected takes on the classics. We’re looking back at the trends, flavors and menu innovations that shaped the year and what they could mean for pizza menus in 2027. From standout LTOs to evolving consumer preferences, see what caught consumers’ attention and discover Rich’s pizza solutions to help turn what’s trending into what’s next.
Pizza continued to prove itself as the ultimate canvas for global flavor. Familiar formats paired with globally inspired ingredients gave operators new ways to introduce consumers to flavors from around the world.
Stat: Calabrian Chili Pepper has grown +36% on menus over the past 4 years. 3
Once a trend, now a staple. Flatbreads have earned a permanent place on pizza menus everywhere. Its versatility makes it an easy canvas for everything from globally inspired toppings to premium shareables.
64% of Gen Z and 63% of Millennials in the US are interested in trying global pizzas and flatbreads.4
Premium ingredients gave familiar pizza formats an upgrade as consumers have prioritized real over pretenders.
Stracciatella Cheese has grown +209% on menus over the past 4 years.3
Pizza kept moving beyond lunch and dinner and gained momentum as a daystarter. An increased desire for breakfast-friendly toppings and portable formats created new possibilities for operators.
Bacon is the 5th most popular protein option on pizza menus.3
Every daypart covered. Consumers weren’t satisfied with just breakfast, lunch and dinner pizza options. Sweet applications paved the way for pizza to shine as the ultimate shareable dessert.
Dessert pizza has entered the ubiquitous stage.3
Hot, fresh and ready to help. Rich’s new Pizza Product Comparison Tool lets you explore our portfolio, compare products and find the right fit for your operation.
Through our acquisition of Great Kitchens Food Company, including the Pizzeria UNO® brand, we’ve expanded our pizza portfolio to offer a broader range of solutions designed to help operators meet evolving consumer demands.
This trend is kind of a big dill. Tangy pickles, creamy crème fraîche, ranch, mozzarella and pepperoni come together on Rich’s Gluten-Free Detroit Style Pizza Crust for a bold take on one of pizza’s buzziest flavor combos. Finished with dill and parsley, it’s a craveable way to bring something unexpected to the menu.
Throwing a party for 200 people and your caterer just backed out? You might want to call Brian Edler of Findlay, Ohio. He set the record for most pizzas made in one hour at 206!
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1. Mintel, 2025
2. Datassential, Inspiration Reports: Pizza, September 2025
3. Datassential, World of Pizza, 2026
4. Datassential, Global Pizzas & Flatbreads, 2026
