At Salvatore Pizza, we've served thousands of pizzas across our California locations. We recently analyzed our ordering data from the past year to identify the combinations that Californians can't get enough of. The results reveal fascinating insights about local tastes and how they've evolved from traditional Italian favorites.
1. The California Classic
Topping the list is what we've come to call "The California Classic" – a uniquely West Coast creation featuring grilled chicken, avocado, fresh arugula, and goat cheese on our signature thin crust with white garlic sauce instead of traditional tomato sauce.
This combination perfectly represents California cuisine's emphasis on fresh, local ingredients and fusion of different culinary traditions. The peppery arugula balances the creamy avocado and tangy goat cheese, while the grilled chicken adds satisfying protein.
Interestingly, this combination is most popular in our coastal locations, particularly Santa Monica and San Francisco, suggesting urban Californians are the most adventurous with their pizza choices.
2. Mediterranean Marvel
The second most popular combination features flavors from the Mediterranean: kalamata olives, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, spinach, and red onions on our olive oil-brushed crust.
This vegetarian option appeals to health-conscious Californians looking for bold flavors without meat. The briny olives and tangy feta provide a satisfying umami punch that makes this combination particularly satisfying.
We've noticed this combination is especially popular during weekday lunches, suggesting it's a favorite among working professionals looking for something flavorful yet not too heavy.
"California's diverse food culture has transformed what people expect from pizza. We're seeing a beautiful blend of traditional Italian techniques with local ingredients and global flavors." — Chef Marco Salvatore
3. Spicy Farm-to-Table
The third most ordered combination reveals Californians' love for local produce with a kick: house-made spicy sausage, roasted bell peppers, caramelized onions, and fresh basil on our classic tomato base.
This pizza strikes the perfect balance between traditional Italian flavors and California's farm-to-table ethos. Our locally-sourced sausage is made with a blend of traditional Italian spices and California-grown chilies, creating a unique flavor profile you won't find elsewhere.
This combination is a particular favorite in our Sacramento and Central Valley locations, where connections to California's agricultural heartland run deep.
4. Seafood Sensation
California's extensive coastline influences our fourth most popular combination: fresh shrimp, clams, garlic, lemon zest, and Italian parsley on a light cream sauce base.
This sophisticated seafood pizza showcases the incredible seafood available in California. The brightness of the lemon zest cuts through the richness of the cream sauce, while the parsley adds freshness. We finish this pizza with a light drizzle of our premium extra-virgin olive oil just before serving.
Unsurprisingly, this combination sees its highest orders in our coastal locations, particularly San Diego and Santa Barbara, where appreciation for fresh seafood runs deep.
5. The Updated Classic
Rounding out our top five is proof that sometimes the classics just need a slight California update: pepperoni, fresh mushrooms, caramelized onions, and fresh basil on our signature tomato sauce.
This combination stays true to traditional pizza flavors but elevates them with high-quality ingredients. We use artisanal pepperoni made with heritage-breed pork, seasonal mushrooms from local farms, and onions that are slowly caramelized to bring out their natural sweetness.
This pizza remains consistently popular across all our locations, showing that while Californians embrace innovation, they still appreciate the timeless flavors that made pizza a global favorite.
Regional Variations
Our analysis also revealed interesting regional differences across California:
- Southern California: Favors lighter combinations with more vegetables and lean proteins
- Northern California: Prefers more experimental combinations with artisanal cheeses and foraged ingredients
- Central California: Tends toward heartier combinations featuring local meats and seasonal produce
- Coastal areas: Overwhelmingly order more seafood pizzas than inland locations
Create Your Own California Combination
Inspired to try these California favorites? Visit any Salvatore Pizza location to taste these popular combinations, or create your own unique California-inspired pizza. Our chefs are always happy to recommend combinations based on seasonal ingredients and your personal preferences.
What's your favorite pizza combination? Let us know in the comments below!
