Pizza Varieties by Country 2024

Although pizza may be most famous for being one of Italy’s own culinary creations, its versatility and approachability make it a popular food item that’s also well-enjoyed throughout the rest of the world. Here’s a closer look at the differences and similarities in how countries worldwide make and enjoy pizza.

Pizza Varieties Around the World

Each nation’s approach to pizza varies according to multiple factors like ingredient availability, local preferences, and spiritual beliefs. Here are some of the best-known examples:

Italy

Italy is considered the official birthplace of pizza as people know it today. Italy is also the only known country to have government legislation that sets rules governing how pizza must be made in order to be considered pizza in the first place. The dish is typically served unsliced and eaten with a fork and knife.

In Italy, the most recognizable and popular pizza variety is perhaps the simple but delicious Margherita, consisting of fresh mozzarella, tomato sauce, and basil atop a crispy, thin crust and finished with a little olive oil.

Argentina

As Argentina is famous for its robust, juicy beef, pizzas are often meat-heavy. For example, the thick, hearty Fugazza con Jamon is a popular approach and includes onions and ham over an abundance of cheese.

Japan

Japan is well-known for its fusion-style approach to many foods, pizza included. Japanese pizza can best be described as a twist on traditional savory Japanese pancakes and may incorporate familiar ingredients like pork, fish, and vegetables. Sauces balance sweet and savory and are served on top.

Sweden

Although pizza flavors lean toward the mild side of the spectrum in Sweden, they also reflect local tastes and flavor trends. Kebab pizza is a very popular approach here. Other popular toppings include bananas with curry, seafood, and meatballs.

United States

In the U.S., each state and region has its own signature approach to pizza. Examples include New York City’s thin-crust pizzas and deep-dish Chicago pizzas. However, the United States as a nation also embraces multiple other flavors and styles.

Factors That May Affect Pizza Preferences

Naturally, a country’s cultural and spiritual differences will be the greatest influences on how its people like to make and eat pizza. However, ingredient availability is definitely another. For example, countries that produce and eat a lot of seafood as a rule are more likely to eat it on their pizzas, as well.

Globalization and economic factors are also important. In countries where it's more available and affordable as a prepared option, pizza is typically eaten more often.