For the third consecutive year, a small pizzeria in Madison, Alabama has walked into a room full of New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles restaurants—and walked out with a top ranking.
Valentina’s Pizzeria & Wine Bar has been ranked No. 12 in the United States by 50 Top Pizza USA for 2026—jumping nearly 20 spots from its No. 31 ranking just two years ago. The restaurant also took home the organization’s Best Dessert List 2026 award at Wednesday night’s ceremony, cementing what has become one of Alabama’s most remarkable culinary ascents.
For owner Joe Carlucci, a Guinness world record holder and eight-time World Pizza Champion, the recognition is meaningful precisely because of where it’s happening.
“We’re not in Manhattan or downtown Chicago,” he said. “We built this one guest at a time, one pizza at a time, and we’re proud to represent Alabama on a national stage.”…