Pittsburgh Pizzeria Triumphs at National Pizza Challenge in Columbus

Pittsburgh Pizzeria Triumphs at National Pizza Challenge

The culinary offerings of Pittsburgh have been put on display as the region’s own Slice on Broadway and Lucatino Italian Tavern returned from the Great American Pizza Challenge with a wave of prestigious accolades. Held in Columbus, Ohio, on October 11-12, 2026, this prestigious event celebrated the nation’s finest pizza makers, and the local team left a lasting impression.

Owner Rico Lunardi of Slice on Broadway was a standout performer, securing second place overall in the category of America’s Best Traditional Thin Pizza. His triumph was marked by his winning entry, a traditional thin-flatbread style pizza featuring a classic Margherita topped with pepperoni. Meanwhile, Alicia Reis, a talented pizza maker within the team, captured third place in the Best Pepperoni category, in addition to earning recognition as Best in the Northeast. Reis also performed admirably in the Traditional Thin-Flatbread Style category, achieving another third-place finish.

The culinary showcase included entries that exemplified two beloved local pizza styles. Slice on Broadway presented a classic pepperoni pizza showcasing New York-style crust, while Lucatino Italian Tavern showcased their remarkable tonda romana pizza, a thin, Roman-inspired Margherita garnished with pepperoni. Alongside them was teammate Tracy Dykeman, who participated in the dessert pizza competition, adding a sweet element to their impressive culinary repertoire.

“I couldn’t be prouder of Alicia and Tracy and the time they put into competing. These pizzas represent what we do every day in our restaurants,” Lunardi expressed with pride. His sentiment highlighted the teamwork and dedication that underpin their success. He also acknowledged the vital support from their staff back home, emphasizing that this victory was one to be celebrated by the entire team and their loyal patrons.

As a member of the U.S. Pizza Team, Lunardi viewed the event as more than just a competition; it was an opportunity to connect with fellow industry professionals and celebrate the craftsmanship that goes into creating exceptional pizza. The honor not only recognizes their individual talent but also shines a spotlight on the locally-owned businesses deeply embedded within Pittsburgh’s vibrant culinary scene.

Slice on Broadway operates six locations throughout the region, focusing on delivering high-quality pizza and exceptional customer service. Lucatino Italian Tavern, located in Carnegie, specializes in Roman-style pizzas and traditional Italian dishes, managed with a heartfelt family touch that comes from Lunardi’s inspirations—his sons Luca and Santino, after whom the restaurant is named.

The achievements at the Great American Pizza Challenge not only bolster the reputations of these establishments but also reinforce Pittsburgh's status as a significant player in the nationwide pizza landscape. The creativity and dedication displayed by the Pittsburgh pizza makers serve as a testament to the city’s rich culinary heritage, inviting even more pizza lovers to explore what the region has to offer.

In conclusion, the spoils of this competition underscore the passion, creativity, and hard work that define Pittsburgh’s pizza scene. With accolades in hand, Slice on Broadway and Lucatino Italian Tavern look forward to serving their community and possibly claiming even more titles in future culinary competitions.