There are tasty foods, there are famous foods… and then there’s pizza. That round invention that has managed to bring together cultures, generations, and groups of friends with one universal question: “Shall we order a pizza?”. Every February 9, World Pizza Day is celebrated, the perfect excuse to pay tribute to one of the most beloved dishes on the planet.
Although today we associate it directly with Italy, the idea of placing ingredients on flatbread goes back much further. In ancient Greece and Rome, flat breads topped with oil, herbs, and other accompaniments were already being eaten. However, pizza as we know it was born in Naples in the 18th century as humble food for the working classes. The famous Margherita pizza, created in honor of Queen Margherita of Savoy, eventually turned it into an Italian national symbol thanks to its colors, which represent the country’s flag: tomato, mozzarella, and basil.
So why has pizza become so famous? Because it’s democratic, adaptable, and perfect for sharing. Whether you love cheese, spicy flavors, seafood, or even something sweet, there’s always a pizza for you. Its format also makes it ideal for gatherings, celebrations, or last-minute dinners, and its versatility has allowed every country to create its own version without losing the essence.
Around the world, there are flavors that never go out of style. The Margherita remains the absolute queen, pepperoni dominates in the United States and many European countries, Hawaiian pizza divides opinions but continues to be one of the most ordered, and four-cheese or vegetable pizzas win over those looking for bolder or lighter options. In Italy, however, tradition is in the air: the Neapolitan, marinara, capricciosa, or quattro formaggi are part of the country’s culinary DNA, always made with simple, high-quality ingredients.
Over time, countless pizza styles have emerged. From the Neapolitan with its high edges and soft dough, to the Roman style, thinner and crispier, from pizza al taglio sold by the slice, to the large, flexible New York–style pizza, the deep-dish Chicago style with its thick, stuffed base, or gourmet versions with unexpected ingredients. Pizza has proven it can be traditional or creative, street food or fine dining.
But every good pizza starts with the dough. The key lies in simple ingredients and patience. Quality flour, water, yeast, salt, and proper resting time. The right hydration, gentle kneading, and slow fermentation help develop flavor and texture. The secret is letting time work its magic: a well-rested dough is easier to digest, more aromatic, and much more delicious. After that, everyone can add whatever they like, from classic toppings to bold combinations that break the rules.
Pizza is not just food; it’s culture, history, and a meeting point. It’s the dish that shows up at celebrations, on sofa-and-series nights, at family gatherings, and on spontaneous dates. Maybe that’s why we love it so much: because it always comes with good moments.
So this February 9, let’s celebrate World Pizza Day the way it deserves. With a slice in hand, good company, and the certainty that sometimes the simplest things are the ones that make us happiest.
And yes, it’s PIZZA, not “peetsa” or “peesa”… :-)
(It had to be said—and now it’s been said) :-)
WARNING! Another “can of worms” that could be opened around this topic is: pizza with or without pineapple?… This is where you can really see people’s age (and different generations) and the life experiences that have shaped them.
In this sense, in the newsroom (see: my desk surrounded by colleagues), there’s a clear divide. Part of the team openly declares themselves fans of the ‘NO pineapple’ team, although the ‘WITH pineapple’ team ended the day with more supporters…
And you—what team are you on?
We’re listening (and reading) on social media. :-)
