Who won the second semi-final of the Pizza Bit Competition 2026?
A ferocious summer storm didn't stop the work of the competitors and judges gathered on the Adriatic coast at Cervia's welcoming Fantini Beach Club.
The Cervia Semifinal of the 2026 Pizza Bit Competition
In this vibrant setting, enlivened by the rhythm of RDS and the charming talents of Andrea Mainardi and Daniele Persegani, nine masters had twenty minutes to showcase their artistry, professionalism, and communication skills: essential elements for passing the regional selection process and aspiring to become the next Dallagiovanna Pizza Ambassador. At the center of the technical competition was Blackery, an innovative dark blend with cocoa developed in collaboration with Barry Callebaut, which tested the creativity and mastery of the contestants, who were tasked with enhancing its flavor in a perfect balance of innovation and taste.
The technical jury, composed of experts and journalists, subjected each contestant to a barrage of questions, testing their technical proficiency and "stage presence," essential for the role the future winner will play. This assessment was also shared by the public jury present. Three outstanding stories stood out from the rest, earning a ticket to the final act:
- Matteo Sanna, a skilled ambassador of his Sardinia from the pizzeria “Lera della pizza” in Sassari, with his “Sapori di Sardegna in Blackery,” with Sardinian fiordilatte, baby squid, wild garlic, sweet and sour onion, guanciale, and pecorino cheese.
- Nicola Guizzardi from “All'Insolita” in Cerea, with a delicious “Carbonara 3.0” with cream of Pecorino di Pienza, “Giovanna” pancetta from Capitelli, and marinated egg yolk.
- Gennaro Capparelli of the “52 Gradi” pizzeria in Conegliano, who wanted to amaze with his daring “Sintesi,” with Piedmontese PGI hazelnut cream, fiordilatte, tuna tataki, raspberry and ginger coulis, Szechuan pepper, and sorrel.
Having escaped the vagaries of the Adriatic weather, these three talents' dreams are already projected toward September, when the final showdown for the coveted title will take place in Gragnano Trebbiense, at the historic Molino Dallagiovanna headquarters. The pursuit of contemporary excellence continues, leaving behind the taste of a challenge won and the anticipation for the next chapters of this gastronomic adventure.