Each year ushers in fresh ideas for pizza, and 2024 keeps the momentum going. At Ember & Crust Pizzeria, we keep a close eye on what’s delighting pizza fans worldwide. Here’s our curated list of the most buzzworthy and in-demand toppings taking center stage this year.
1. Fermented Produce
With wellness-focused dining on the rise, fermented vegetables have become an unexpected star on pizzas. Kimchi, sauerkraut, and pickled onions bring lively, tangy notes that play beautifully with rich cheese and sauce. Beyond their probiotic perks, these toppings add intriguing textures that refresh classic slices.
Our new “Fermentation Celebration” pie highlights house-fermented sauerkraut, kimchi, and gorgonzola, finished with a drizzle of local honey to soften the bright acidity. It may sound unconventional, but it’s quickly turning into one of our most frequently ordered specialty pizzas.
2. Plant-Derived Proteins
As plant-forward dining grows, we’ve noticed a strong uptick in interest for pizzas featuring inventive meat-free options. Going far beyond standard veggies, modern plant proteins offer flavors and textures that satisfy even devoted carnivores.
Vegan Italian-style sausage crumbles, spiced tempeh, marinated jackfruit “pulled pork,” and pea-protein “pepperoni” now appear regularly on our lineup. These choices attract not only vegetarians—many guests pick them for their distinctive taste and easier digestibility.
3. Chilies by Region
Spice lovers, this one’s for you! Rather than defaulting to generic red pepper flakes, 2024 is all about specific regional chilies. Calabrian peppers remain beloved, while Aleppo pepper, smoky Spanish ñora, fruity Peruvian aji amarillo, and Korean gochujang are also finding their way onto pies.
Our “Global Heat” pizza showcases four regional chilies, each with a distinct flavor profile featured on separate quadrants. It’s a fiery journey that’s become a hit with our boldest diners.
4. Wild, Seasonal Finds
The farm-to-table ethos has expanded into forest-to-pizza as foraged ingredients gain traction. Wild mushrooms lead the way, with seasonal favorites like chanterelles, morels, and maitake making regular appearances when in season.
Beyond fungi, we’ve tried spring ramps (wild leeks), sea vegetables such as dulse and nori, and even spruce tips for a uniquely aromatic touch. These additions connect guests to nature and offer flavors you can’t replicate through conventional cultivation.
5. Specialty Honey Finishes
The sweet-and-savory harmony of honey has proven it’s here to stay. Building on the “hot honey” craze, 2024 brings a wave of distinctive honey styles drizzled over pies right before serving.
Truffle honey, fermented garlic honey, smoky mesquite honey, and even CBD-infused honey are popping up nationwide. These finishing accents add depth and can transform even straightforward combinations into something gourmet.
Notable Runners-Up
A few other toppings that narrowly missed our top five but are still drawing attention include:
- Salt-cured egg yolks, finely grated over slices like a golden flurry
- Pickled fruits, especially stone fruits such as peaches and plums
- Ancient grain accents, like crispy farro or puffed sorghum for crunch
- Dollops of artisanal butter (notably cultured or herb-infused varieties)
Whether you favor time-honored classics or love venturing into bold new territory, pizza remains one of the most versatile and adored foods. At Ember & Crust Pizzeria, we respect tradition while pushing boundaries—that’s why our menu features both a classic Margherita and cutting-edge signature pies.
Tried any of these rising toppings yet? Have a distinctive combo you’d like us to add? Share your ideas in the comments or tell us on your next visit!