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  • Pizza: New Twists On An Old Favorite

Pizza: New Twists On An Old Favorite

Revenue
October 07, 2021
Profile picture for user Mike Fernandez
By Mike Fernandez
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Dough Is On The Rise

Unique pizza flavors are on the rise! Current consumers are looking further than typical cheese, pepperoni, or even supreme flavors of toppings. In this pizza market, having stand-out topping combinations can add a whole new dimension to your center. Your center might already be a big topic of entertainment in your area, and unique pies may have consumers driving the extra mile just for a slice.

It's no surprise pizza is such a big hit- it's in our DNA. Humans are drawn to foods that are fatty, sweet, rich and complex. Pizza hits all these right on the nose. Cheese is fatty, meat toppings tend to be rich, and the sauce is sweet.

In 2013, research firm Technomic reported that 40% of Americans eat pizza at least once a week. That statistic has continued to grow according to a 2018 study which shows that 43% of us eat it at least once a week and 83% eat this doughy goodness at least once a month. After that much pizza, people start looking at new and creative ways to get a slice of the good stuff. While some of us may stick to long time favorites such as pepperoni or margarita, today's pizza market has many connoisseurs looking for more. Flavors like buffalo chicken, a la vodka, and hot honey are making waves across the country.

This leaves a huge opportunity for bar and food providers to go above and beyond with their menus, and the best part for bowling centers is that many of the ingredients are inexpensive and have a long shelf life. On average, a single pizza topping can add around $2 to the price of a pie, but cost pennies on the dollar to the kitchen. The current market tells that people are happily willing to pay good premiums for the right pizza combinations — especially if they can get a good picture to show others.

Recently I visited Pizza Craft Pizzeria in South Florida, a newer spot that has managed to shine among the many pizzerias in the area. Pizza Craft may not have a long list of pizzas combinations but has absolutely perfected the ones they offer. After trying the a la vodka pie and spicy soppressata (which uses the new fad of spicy honey), we asked to speak to their executive chef Jasiel Tejedas, and had some tips for the bowling centers around the country. “The dough we use is high quality. Everything is fresh. All our ingredients from sauce to toppings are fresh. It makes a difference. There are rules you have to follow, and if you follow them, then you got it.”

If you're looking for an affordable way to attract new customers and have the regulars promote you even more, the key is simple — turn your crust into a canvas!

'Foodies' has become a popular buzzword in the past decade. What was once a small hobby for some, has become a way of life for many. Trying and tasting refreshing takes on classic foods has consumers flocking around the nation, filling their stomachs, and making sure everyone knows what their top recommendations are.

Not all pizza combinations have so many fans; the president of Iceland was recently caught in media controversy after casually mentioning that pineapple pizza should be banned in his country, but said 'he is glad he does not hold so much power'.

Trendy And Unique Pizza Flavors That Are Easy To Add To Your Menu:

  • Buffalo Chicken Pizza
  • Spicy Honey
  • Mediterranean Pizza
  • Alla Vodka Pizza
  • Chicken Pesto Pizza
  • White Pizza
  • Sauce: Ranch dressing
  • Cheese: Sharp cheddar
  • Toppings
    • Shredded chicken tossed in buffalo sauce
    • Green onions
    • Bleu cheese
  • Drizzle
    • Buffalo sauce
    • Ranch dressing
  • Sauce: Spicy Marinara
  • Cheese: Mozzarella & Gorgonzola
  • Toppings
    • Capicola ham
    • Mediterranean seasoning
    • Red Chili Honey, or Mike’s Hot Honey
  • Sauce: Olive oil and garlic
  • Cheese: Shredded mozzarella and Feta cheese
  • Toppings
    • Artichokes
    • Chopped spinach
    • Kalamata olives
    • Sun-dried tomatoes
    • Fresh oregano
    • Optional: add meat
  • Drizzle
    • Buffalo sauce
    • Ranch dressing
  • Sauce: Vodka sauce
  • Cheese: Shredded mozzarella
  • Toppings
    • Shallots
    • Smoked pancetta
    • Optional: add meat
  • Sauce: Pesto
  • Cheese: Shredded mozzarella and Pecorino Romano
  • Toppings
    • Chopped chicken
    • Thinly sliced tomatoes
    • Thinly sliced red onion
  • Sauce: Garlic and olive oil
  • Cheese: Ricotta, mozzarella, and Pecorino Romano
  • Toppings
    • Freshly chopped oregano
    • Freshly chopped thyme
    • Crushed red pepper flakes

Sides of ranch and garlic butter are popular for dipping, charge a small fee for that (.50 to $1)

Booze Section

Featured Beer: Sam Adams Oktoberfest, German Lager Cocktail: Pumpkin Spice White Russian

Sam Adams OctoberFest is an easy-to-drink brew. Its appearance is a pleasant amber color with some carbonation. OctoberFest has a caramel malt taste, low bitterness, and some tartness; its aroma has a sweet and nutty caramel smell that is not overwhelming. It is a perfect seasonal brew that is very enjoyable to drink!

For the drink, add vodka, pumpkin spice creamer, and coffee liqueur (Kahlua) into a cocktail shaker filled with ice. Shake to combine.

It’s easy to make this drink picture perfect, if needed. For the rim, mix pumpkin pie spice, sugar, and crushed graham crackers on a plate. Dip the rim of your glasses in water and then into the graham cracker mix to coat.

Booze & Bites

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