Each year brings fresh directions to the pizza world, and this season is no different. At LunarCedarMarket, we keep a close watch on what’s winning over pizza fans everywhere. Here’s our roundup of the most exciting and in-demand toppings making waves right now.
1. Fermented Veggies
The focus on digestive wellness has reached pizzerias, with fermented vegetables emerging as a surprise favorite. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions add bright, tangy complexity that pairs beautifully with rich cheese and sauce. Beyond their probiotic perks, these toppings introduce lively textures to classic pies.
Our new “Fermentation Celebration” pizza showcases house-made sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola, finished with a touch of local honey to round out the tang. It may sound unconventional, but it’s rapidly becoming one of our most requested specialties.
2. Plant-Based Protein Alternatives
As plant-forward dining continues to rise, demand has grown for pizzas featuring inventive meat-free options. Going beyond standard veggies, modern plant proteins now satisfy even steadfast meat lovers.
Plant-based Italian sausage crumbles, seasoned tempeh, marinated jackfruit “pulled pork,” and pea-protein “pepperoni” are now menu regulars. They’re not just for vegetarians—many guests choose them for distinct flavors and a lighter feel.
3. Distinct Regional Chilies
Spice enthusiasts, rejoice! Pizza lovers are embracing specific regional chilies instead of generic red pepper flakes. Calabrian chilies remain a favorite, and we’re also seeing Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora chilies, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang show up on pies.
Our “Global Heat” pizza features four regional chilies, each bringing its own character to a different quadrant. It’s a fiery, flavor-forward journey for adventurous eaters.
4. Wild, Seasonal Finds
The farm-to-table idea has evolved into forest-to-pizza, with seasonal foraged ingredients gaining traction. Wild mushrooms lead the pack—look for chanterelles, morels, and hen of the woods during their peak seasons.
Beyond mushrooms, we’ve tried spring ramps (wild leeks), sea vegetables like dulse and nori, and even spruce tips for a fresh, aromatic note. These ingredients connect diners to nature while delivering flavors you can’t easily cultivate.
5. Signature Honey Finishes
The sweet-savory contrast of honey has moved from fad to favorite. Building on the success of hot honey in recent years, there’s been a surge of unique honey varieties drizzled on pizzas just before serving.
Truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, smoky mesquite honey, and even CBD-infused honey are popping up on menus nationwide. These finishing touches add depth and turn simple combinations into something special.
Also Worth Trying
A few more toppings that narrowly missed our top five but are still turning heads include:
- Cured egg yolks, finely grated over the pie like golden snow
- Pickled fruit, especially stone fruit such as peaches and plums
- Heritage grains for crunch, like crisped farro or popped sorghum
- Small scoops of artisanal butter (notably cultured or herb compound)
Whether you love timeless classics or crave bold, new pairings, pizza remains one of the most adaptable and adored foods. At LunarCedarMarket, we respect tradition while pushing boundaries—that’s why you’ll find both a classic Margherita and cutting-edge specialties on our menu.
Tried any of these trending toppings? Got a unique combo you’d like us to feature? Share your ideas in the comments or tell us on your next visit!