Pizza topping preferences vary by region, and Georgia has its own distinct patterns. National survey data and regional sales reports reveal some clear differences.
Pepperoni is number one everywhere, including Georgia. This is not a surprise. Pepperoni dominates pizza orders in every state. What varies is the second and third choices.
Sausage is more popular in Georgia than the national average. Southern sausage — particularly the coarsely ground, fennel-heavy variety — is a staple of Georgia pizza orders. It outperforms mushrooms, onions, and bell peppers in the state, unlike in the Northeast where vegetables rank higher.
Extra cheese is a Georgia favorite. Georgia pizza orders are more likely to include extra cheese than orders in most other states. This aligns with the general Southern preference for richer, more indulgent food.
Chicken is a popular topping in Georgia. Grilled or breaded chicken appears on a higher percentage of Georgia pizza orders than the national average. Buffalo chicken pizza is particularly popular in the Southeast compared to other regions.
Pineapple is more accepted in Georgia than in the Northeast. The Hawaiian pizza debate is less contentious in the South. Georgia pizza eaters order pineapple on pizza at rates slightly above the national average.
These preferences hold across chain and independent restaurants, suggesting they reflect genuine regional taste rather than menu availability.