Among Italy’s many glorious cultural exports, one of its greatest gifts to the world is pizza. The dish is loved all over the globe, especially in the U.S.

In fact, a poll published recently by WorldMetrics.org* found that 35% of Americans order pizza at least once a week, making the item one of the most versatile and popular foods out there.

With prime pizza season — including football and back-to-school — nearly here, let’s look at a few ways you can implement simple, yet effective, emerging pizza trends to maximize guest experiences, guarantee return business, and help you stay ahead of the curve.

Neapolitan Inspiration

Italy is home to a mouthwatering range of pizzas, from the featherlight and crispy round pizzas of Rome to the thick square slices of Sicily. Pizza Fritta, Naples’ legendary deep-fried pocket pizza, similar to a calzone, is surging in popularity here in America.

Considered a street food in Italy, it’s enjoyed as a snack, appetizer, or light meal that’s often taken on-the-go. To bring some of the charm of Neapolitan food stateside, consider offering Pizza Fritta as part of happy hour or late-night menus with the option to mix and match with Italian cocktails like Aperol or Hugo Spritzes.

You can take it a step further by allowing guests to customize their fillings with various cheeses, meats, and vegetables. Piancone®, for example, sources the finest deli meats and cheeses so that you can offer your guests a taste of the old world. From creamy dollops of mozzarella to thinly sliced prosciutto di Parma, your guests will feel like they’re munching on pizza in il bel paese (the beautiful country).

Slice, Slice Baby

Another trend-forward option is Pizza al Taglio, a Roman-style pizza that’s baked and served in rectangular pans and then sold by the slice. This category of pizza, which is quick to prep and easy to market, is ideal for grab-and-go or fast-casual settings.

In Rome, a new generation of Pizza al Taglio joints focused on artisanal ingredients is gaining steam. Studies show that sales for gourmet and artisanal pizzas in the U.S. have increased by 15% over the last five years. To stay ahead of the curve, consider adding new and unique toppings to your offerings, including figs, artichokes, and Gorgonzola cheese. Or consider a special like this Taco Pizza, topped with avocado, pickled red onions, and tomatoes, as a fun way to incorporate trending fusion flavors into your pies.

Sweet Tooth

Who said pizza has to only be savory? Dessert pizzas are among the hottest ways to attract social buzz and entice return business. These sweet alternatives, which can either be served as a whole pizza to be shared between friends and family or sold in single portions for grab-and-go guests, provide a simple but effective strategy with low food costs and high-margin potential.

Nutella is a popular base option, and you can offer guests the option to add on sliced fruits like peaches and strawberries. Alternatively, you can offer guests a dessert package that includes a base (usually plain white pizza), and the option of two sauces like chocolate or caramel, and three toppings.

This customizable offering is easy to market and will appeal to all kinds of guests, from couples and friends to families with young children — especially during back-to-school season.

*WorldMetrics.org Report 2025: Pizza Consumption Statistics