Pizza is no stranger to innovation, but two trends are heating up menus and consumer interest alike: artisanal styles and bold, spicy flavor.
In fact, 44% of pizza consumers are interested in trying artisanal pizza, yet only 1 in 3 operators currently offer it.1 That’s a significant gap and a golden opportunity for you. Artisanal pizza isn’t just about the final product; it’s about the story behind it. Examples include house-made dough, made-from-scratch sauces and using fresh, high-quality ingredients that elevate the experience and signal care and authenticity to your patrons.
At the same time, customers are looking for more spice. One in four consumers (and one in three Gen Z) want to explore spicy pizza options.1 But this isn’t just about tossing on jalapeños. It’s about layering heat in creative, craveable ways. Menu data shows hot honey has exploded by 416% on pizza menus over the past four years, while Calabrian chili peppers are up 53%, and hot sauce continues its steady climb.2
So how can you bring these trends to life at your restaurant?
- Show off your personal recipes: Start with dough made in-house and sauces that showcase signature flavors. These foundational elements set the tone for an artisanal experience.
- Elevate ingredients: Use premium cheeses, seasonal produce, and locally sourced meats. Highlighting these on the menu showcase your focus on quality.
- Spice it smart: Incorporate trending ingredients like hot honey, Calabrian chilies, or spicy oils to add dimension and heat. Consider offering a “build-your-own heat level” option to appeal to spice lovers and cautious diners alike.
- Test with LTOs: Limited-time offers are a great way to experiment with bold new recipes without long-term commitment. They also create urgency and excitement among customers looking for something different.
By combining the authenticity of artisanal with the boldness of spice, you can meet customer demand and stand out in a crowded market. The key? Start small, stay creative, and let quality lead the way.
Marketing Your Artisanal and Spicy Options
Be sure your customers know about your artisanal and spicy options with support from Grande. For Grande 100-Percenters, access new artisanal and spicy-focused stickers and social media content for use on take-out and delivery packaging. Order yours below!
