21 Once-Popular Pizza Styles That Are Slowly Disappearing
Pizza has always been a comfort food staple crispy crust, gooey cheese, endless toppings. But like everything else in the food world, pizza trends come and go. Over the decades, we’ve seen all kinds of styles rise to fame, fill late-night cravings, and then quietly fade from menus. Some were regional favorites, others had their moment in the spotlight thanks to food fads or chains trying something new. Today, many of these once-beloved styles are getting harder and harder to find. Here are 21 pizza styles that were once hot and are now slowly disappearing from the slice scene.
1. Taco Pizza
Taco pizza once reigned supreme in Midwest diners, offering a delightful blend of seasoned beef, lettuce, and cheese. The crunchy addition of tortilla chips added a fun texture that won over many fans. As tastes shifted, this fusion favorite began to fade from menus. Despite its nostalgic appeal, it struggles to compete with gourmet and traditional styles. Often remembered fondly by those who enjoyed it during its heyday, finding a taco pizza today is a rare treat. Still, its legacy lives on in the memories of its former devotees.
2. Deep-Dish Sicilian Pizza
Deep-dish Sicilian pizza, with its thick, airy crust, was once a staple in many pizzerias. The square shape, combined with a hearty tomato sauce and generous cheese topping, created a comforting, filling dish. As culinary trends evolved, Sicilian pizza often took a backseat to other styles like Detroit or New York thin crust. This hearty pie may still be found in traditional Italian eateries, but its presence is dwindling. Its rich flavor and satisfying texture make it a beloved memory for many pizza enthusiasts. However, it now competes with more modern options.
3. White Pizza (No Sauce)
White pizza, known for its elegant simplicity, features a rich blend of ricotta and mozzarella without the distraction of tomato sauce. A sprinkle of garlic adds a subtle kick, making it a favorite among cheese lovers. However, its understated charm has been overshadowed by more extravagant toppings like pesto and buffalo sauce. Once a standout on many menus, this cheese-centric delight now fights for attention amid a sea of bolder flavors. Despite its decline, white pizza holds a special place in the hearts of those who savor its creamy richness.
4. Stuffed Crust with Weird Fillings
In the 90s, stuffed crust pizzas with quirky fillings captured imaginations and taste buds alike. Pizza chains experimented with hot dogs, cheeseburgers, and even nacho cheese tucked into the crust. While this novelty had its moment, it eventually disappeared as diners sought more sophisticated flavors. The playful spirit of stuffed crusts remains, but the outlandish fillings have mostly vanished. For those who remember its quirky appeal, stuffed crust pizza represents a nostalgic nod to culinary creativity. Yet, today’s pizza landscape is more refined, leaving this trend in the past.
5. Breakfast Pizza
Breakfast pizza, once a brunch staple, delighted diners with its savory mix of eggs, bacon, and sausage. The combination of breakfast favorites on a cheese-covered crust offered a satisfying start to the day. However, as brunch menus evolved, this morning delight became a rarity. Today, it’s more likely to be found in creative kitchen experiments than on restaurant menus. Its unique blend of flavors is fondly remembered by those who enjoyed it during its prime. Although breakfast pizza has mostly disappeared, its inventive spirit continues to inspire food enthusiasts.
6. BBQ Chicken Pizza
BBQ chicken pizza brought a sweet and tangy twist to the pizza world, especially popular in California during the 90s. Its barbecue sauce base, paired with tender chicken and red onions, created a distinctive flavor profile. As culinary preferences shifted towards spicier and more diverse options, this once-loved style began to fade. Today, flavors like buffalo chicken or Korean BBQ are more likely to take center stage. Despite its decline, BBQ chicken pizza holds a nostalgic charm for those who remember its unique taste and bold personality.
7. Taco Bell Mexican Pizza-Inspired Pies
Inspired by the fast-food favorite, Taco Bell’s Mexican pizza found its way onto creative pizza menus. With seasoned beef, cheese, and salsa layered on a crispy crust, it was a playful nod to Mexican flavors. Over time, as tastes matured, these fun, fast-food-inspired creations became less common. Today, they’re more of a novelty item than a menu staple. For those who enjoyed their quirky charm, these pizzas offer a nostalgic glimpse into the past. However, the modern pizza scene often leans towards more traditional or gourmet options.
8. French Bread Pizza
French bread pizza, a freezer-aisle star of the 80s and 90s, was a quick and easy favorite. Its crispy, golden crust and convenient size made it a hit for busy families and college students. As frozen food options expanded, this nostalgic treat began to fade from shelves and menus. Though it’s rarely seen today, French bread pizza remains a beloved memory for those who grew up enjoying it. The simplicity and convenience of this dish continue to evoke fond recollections, even as new pizza trends emerge and evolve.
9. California-Style Pizza
California-style pizza, with its thin crust and unconventional toppings, became a trendsetter in the early 2000s. Ingredients like goat cheese and arugula brought a fresh, gourmet twist to the classic pie. Despite its initial popularity, this style has become less widespread as tastes shifted. The focus on artisanal and traditional options has overshadowed the once-iconic California style. Its innovative spirit, however, continues to influence modern pizza creations. For those who embraced its culinary experimentation, California-style pizza remains a fond culinary memory, even though it’s less prevalent today.
10. Greek Pizza
Greek pizza, with its spongy, oily crust and abundant toppings, was once a New England favorite. The combination of olives, feta cheese, and robust flavors made it a standout choice for many pizza lovers. As trends shifted towards crispier, lighter options, Greek pizza began to lose its foothold. Its rich, hearty appeal is still cherished by those who appreciate its unique characteristics. Though less common now, Greek pizza represents a flavorful chapter in pizza history. Its distinct taste continues to be enjoyed by those who seek out traditional Greek eateries.
11. Crab or Seafood Pizza
Crab or seafood pizza offered a taste of luxury, especially in coastal cities. Topped with crab, shrimp, or other seafood delights, these pizzas catered to adventurous palates. As preferences shifted towards more traditional toppings, seafood pizzas gradually became rarer. Their unique flavor profile still appeals to those who appreciate gourmet experiences. While these pizzas may be harder to find, they retain a special allure for seafood enthusiasts. The combination of oceanic flavors and classic pizza elements creates a memorable dining experience, even though it’s now less frequently encountered.
12. Dessert Pizza
Dessert pizzas, with their sweet, indulgent toppings, were buffet staples that delighted many. Chocolate chip cookie crusts, apple pie toppings, and marshmallow swirls made for a sugary feast. As dining trends evolved, these sweet creations became less common. However, their novelty and indulgence are fondly remembered by those who enjoyed them. Dessert pizzas offered a playful twist on the traditional pie, appealing to those with a sweet tooth. While they may be rare today, their fun and whimsical spirit continue to inspire creative dessert innovations.
13. Veggie-Heavy “Garden” Pizzas
Garden pizzas, brimming with fresh vegetables, were once marketed as a healthy alternative for pizza lovers. Piled high with bell peppers, onions, and tomatoes, they appealed to those seeking nutritious options. Over time, these veggie-heavy creations were overshadowed by plant-based meats and curated topping combinations. Despite their decline, garden pizzas remain a nostalgic choice for those who value fresh, natural ingredients. The simplicity and wholesomeness of a garden pizza offer a refreshing change of pace, even as modern trends dominate the pizza landscape.
14. Cheeseburger Pizza
Cheeseburger pizza, with its fun combination of ground beef, pickles, and cheddar, brought a playful twist to pizza nights. Mimicking the flavors of a classic cheeseburger, this creation offered a unique taste experience. As pizza trends evolved, this whimsical fusion began to wane in popularity. However, the nostalgic appeal of cheeseburger pizza remains strong among those who relished its quirky charm. While it’s not as common as it once was, cheeseburger pizza continues to be a beloved novelty for adventurous eaters. Its playful spirit adds a touch of fun to pizza history.
15. Buffalo Chicken Dip Pizza
Buffalo chicken dip pizza, a favorite in college towns and sports bars, combined the spicy flavors of buffalo chicken with creamy cheese. This bold, saucy creation was a hit during its prime. However, as tastes shifted towards more gourmet options, this pizza style began to fade. Its adventurous spirit and distinct flavor still resonate with those who appreciate its unique combination. While it may be less common now, buffalo chicken dip pizza remains a fond memory for many. Its spicy, cheesy allure continues to be enjoyed by those who seek out bold flavors.
16. Mac & Cheese Pizza
Mac & cheese pizza, a carb-lover’s dream, combined creamy macaroni with a golden crust. Popular at kids’ parties and casual gatherings, this creation offered a comforting, indulgent experience. As culinary preferences evolved, mac & cheese pizza began to disappear from menus. Its playful, comforting nature is still cherished by those who enjoyed it during its heyday. For those who crave nostalgia, this pizza provides a delightful throwback to simpler times. While it may be rare today, mac & cheese pizza remains a beloved memory for many pizza enthusiasts.
17. Taco Bell Collab Pizzas
Taco Bell collaboration pizzas emerged as a playful twist, blending popular fast food items into pizza form. These vibrant creations captured imaginations with their inventive toppings and fun presentation. Over time, as culinary trends shifted, these experimental pizzas became less common. However, their quirky charm and creative spirit are fondly remembered by those who enjoyed them. While they may not be as prevalent today, Taco Bell collab pizzas represent a unique chapter in pizza history. Their fun, playful nature continues to inspire culinary creativity and innovation.
18. Flatbread Pizza
Flatbread pizzas, once considered a sophisticated alternative, offered a thin, crispy base for gourmet toppings. Popular in the 2010s, their elegant presentation made them a hit in trendy eateries. As artisanal and classic styles gained popularity, flatbreads began to take a backseat. Despite their decline, flatbread pizzas remain a favorite among those who appreciate their delicate texture and gourmet flair. Their influence on modern pizza trends continues to be felt, even as they become less common on menus. The blend of simplicity and sophistication makes flatbreads a cherished memory.
19. Personal Pan Pizza
Personal pan pizzas were once the go-to choice for individual servings, popular in school lunches and casual dining. Their crispy crust and convenient size made them a hit among busy eaters. As pizza trends shifted towards larger, shareable options, personal pan pizzas began to decline in popularity. However, they remain a nostalgic favorite for those who grew up enjoying them. The simplicity and convenience of personal pan pizzas continue to evoke fond memories, even as new trends emerge. Their legacy as a childhood favorite endures in the hearts of many.
20. Pizza Bagels
Pizza bagels, a freezer-aisle staple, combined two beloved treats into one convenient snack. Popular in the 90s, they offered a quick and easy solution for pizza cravings. As new snack options emerged, pizza bagels began to fade from popularity. Despite their decline, they remain a nostalgic favorite for those who enjoyed them as a kid. Their playful, bite-sized nature continues to charm those who remember their convenience and flavor. While they may be rarer today, pizza bagels hold a special place in the hearts of snack lovers everywhere.
21. Taco Bell’s Mexican Pizza (The Original)
The original Taco Bell Mexican pizza, with its crispy crust and distinctive flavor, became a cult favorite. Despite its brief removal from menus, it has returned in a new form, though some fans still long for the original taste. Its unique blend of Mexican-inspired ingredients on a pizza base captured the hearts of many. While its return has been welcomed, the nostalgic charm of the original continues to be celebrated. The enduring appeal of Taco Bell’s Mexican pizza showcases its lasting impact on the fast-food scene, even as it evolves.