Philly Pizzeria & Birreria Takes Top Honors in International Pizza Challenge

Davide Lubrano, co-owner of two Pizzata Pizzeria & Birreria locations in Philadelphia, has perfected his pizza preparation technique for more than 40 years. The third-generation pizzaiolo from Naples was recently crowned the champion of the International Pizza Challenge in Las Vegas.

The three-day tournament had Lubrano competing against some of the world's best pizza makers. Lubrano took top honors as the winner of the Best Roman-Style Pizza category. He also earned second place overall in the Pan Division, described as “any pizza made in baking trays such as Detroit style, square pans, Roman style, etc.” 

According to a PMQ Pizza report, Lubrano topped his winning pizza with "organic mixed wild mushrooms (oyster, shiitake, portobello, cremini), organic leeks, low-moisture mozzarella, prosciutto cotto Italian ham, stracciatella, pickled mushrooms in oil, chives, aged Parmigiano Reggiano, and truffle caviar pearls." The PMQ Pizza report also noted that customers can get their hands on the award-winning pizza for one day only, Thursday, April 17, at Pizzata Pizzeria & Birreria in East Passyunk. 

“We are so happy and very proud to represent Philly—a city that has shown us nothing but love since we first came here,” said Lubrano in a statement shared with PMQ Pizza. “We have put in so much work into our dough and on this pizza, and to come out a champion makes all the hard work worth it.” 

Lubrano acknowledged his brother, Ciro Lubrano, and his business partner, Vinny Gallagher, for their support. He also thanked Massimiliano Saieva, his Roman-style pizza instructor, for providing him with inspiration and mentorship.

In June, the Pizzata team will compete at the Caputo Cup, also referred to as the Trofeo Caputo. This highly anticipated pizza-making competition will take place in Naples, Italy.