At Nelly’s Kitchen, we understand that pizza is a deeply personal experience, and opinions on toppings spark lively debates at pizza places everywhere. One of the most contentious topics in the pizza world is the inclusion of pineapple as a topping. As pizza enthusiasts ourselves, we thought it was high time to address the great pineapple debate and share our perspective on this divisive issue.
There’s no accounting for taste.
First and foremost, pizza is an art form, and taste is subjective. We understand that people like what they like, and no amount of impassioned speeches about tradition can change that. Our menu has options that appeal to people of all tastes, including Hawaiian pizza. Pineapple, with its sweet and tangy profile, adds a distinctive twist that complements the savory elements of a pizza.
Some argue that pineapple disrupts the delicate balance of flavors. However, we see it as a delightful contrast, a burst of sweetness that dances on the taste buds alongside the richness of cheese and the savory goodness of various meats. It’s a culinary adventure that keeps the palate intrigued.
What about tradition?
It’s true that pineapple isn’t a traditional pizza topping, and you won’t find it in Italy except at restaurants catering to tourists. Pineapples couldn’t have possibly come to Europe before the Columbian Exchange, but it’s worth noting that tomatoes couldn’t have either. Both tomatoes and pineapples are New World crops, so pizza as we know it relies on an important ingredient that isn’t native to Italy.
The counterargument is that although tomatoes and pineapples came to Europe at the same time, the first pizza makers didn’t see fit to include them on their pizzas. Hawaiian pizza didn’t really take off until sometime in the 1960s, and that was almost exclusively in North America. Even the most staunch defenders of pineapple on pizza had to admit the traditionalists have a point there.
Your favorite pizza places do it all!
No matter what your pizza preferences are, you’ll find something you love at Nelly’s Kitchen. We have pizzas on our menu to satisfy diners with traditional and adventurous tastes alike. Come visit us and see how we stack up against other pizza places! We’re confident you’ll love our pizza, subs, and everything on our menu.
Visit us at 133 Lafayette Square in Haverhill or order online!