The world of pizza is filled with endless possibilities, from classic Margheritas to experimental gourmet creations. Yet amidst this vast sea of options, one pizza stands tall above all others, inspiring both passionate devotion and heated debate. Join us as we explore why the pineapple pizza deserves its crown as the undisputed king of pizzas.
The Undisputed Champion of Pizzas
The Hawaiian_pizza represents the pinnacle of pizza innovation, combining unexpected elements to create something truly extraordinary. Born not in Italy or Hawaii as many might assume, but in Canada in 1962, this culinary masterpiece was the brainchild of Greek immigrant Sam Panopoulos. Working in Chatham-Kent, Ontario, Panopoulos drew inspiration from Chinese-Canadian sweet and sour dishes, deciding to experiment by adding canned pineapple to pizza. The name ‘Hawaiian’ actually derives from the brand of tinned pineapple used, rather than any geographical connection to the tropical islands.
A Perfect Marriage of Sweet and Savoury
What makes pineapple pizza truly exceptional is its remarkable balance of flavours. The sweetness of the pineapple creates a delightful contrast against the savoury tomato sauce and salty ham or bacon, resulting in a taste experience that engages all parts of the palate. This combination might seem unconventional to pizza purists, but those with adventurous tastes understand that this contrast is precisely what makes it special. The juicy bursts of pineapple refresh the palate between bites of rich cheese and meat, creating a dining experience that continually renews itself with each mouthful.
The Textural Symphony in Every Bite
Beyond its flavour profile, pineapple pizza offers an unmatched textural experience. The slight crunch of the fruit alongside the chewiness of melted mozzarella and the crisp base from quality pizza ovens creates a sensory journey unlike any other pizza variety. This textural contrast is particularly noticeable when the pizza is prepared in high-temperature ovens like the versatile Dome which uses wood or gas, or the portable Roccbox with its stone floor that ensures perfect heat distribution. The slight caramelisation that occurs when pineapple meets high heat adds another dimension to the experience, creating sweet, slightly charred edges that complement the smoky elements of the pizza.
Why Pineapple Pizza Outshines All Others
The superiority of pineapple pizza extends beyond its taste and texture. Its cultural impact has been immense, sparking conversations and dividing opinions like no other food item. A 2017 YouGov poll revealed that while 82% of people enjoyed pineapple as a fruit, opinions were more divided when it came to its place on pizza, with 53% approving and 29% strongly opposing. This controversy has even reached political spheres, with Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau publicly defending this Canadian invention, while others like the President of Iceland jokingly suggested banning it altogether.
The Sophisticated Palate Prefers Pineapple
Despite some resistance, pineapple pizza has steadily gained recognition among those with discerning tastes. Its popularity speaks volumes about changing attitudes toward culinary experimentation. In 1999, Hawaiian was documented as the most popular pizza variety in Australia, accounting for an impressive 15% of all pizza sales. By 2015, it had become the most commonly available pizza in UK takeaways, demonstrating its mainstream appeal across continents. Even celebrities have weighed in on the debate, with Dwayne ‘The Rock’ Johnson proudly joining Team Pineapple, recognising the sophisticated flavour combination that elevates this pizza above conventional options.
Culinary Traditions Embracing the Pineapple Topping
While some critics argue that pineapple on pizza breaks with tradition, culinary innovation has always been at the heart of food evolution. The modern pizza itself evolved from Neapolitan dishes during the 18th and 19th centuries, representing an innovation of its time. Today, forward-thinking chefs are embracing and refining the pineapple pizza concept. Chef Franco Pepe, for instance, elevates the combination by using fresh pineapple served cold with prosciutto, demonstrating that this pairing can be refined for even the most discriminating gourmands. The prevalence of pineapple pizza on menus worldwide, from Sydney to Copenhagen, London to Tokyo, shows its acceptance in diverse culinary scenes, transcending its controversial reputation to become a legitimate part of global pizza culture.
Top 5 Best Pizzas of 2025
- Hawaiian Pizza – The reigning champion, blending sweet pineapple with savory ham for a perfect flavor balance.
- Margherita – A timeless classic with fresh mozzarella, basil, and a rich tomato sauce, representing pure simplicity.
- Prosciutto and Arugula – An elegant choice featuring thin slices of prosciutto topped with peppery arugula.
- BBQ Chicken – A smoky, tangy favorite with shredded chicken, barbecue sauce, and red onions.
- Vegan Veggie Delight – Loaded with seasonal vegetables, vegan cheese, and herbs, appealing to plant-based diets.
- Four Cheese – A decadent mix of mozzarella, gorgonzola, parmesan, and ricotta for cheese lovers.
- Spicy Pepperoni – Pepperoni slices with a spicy kick, balanced by a mild tomato base.
- Seafood Special – Topped with shrimp, scallops, and a garlic herb drizzle for seafood enthusiasts.
- Vegetarian Fiesta – A colorful array of peppers, olives, onions, and mushrooms, perfect for vegetarians.