This insightful article was inspired by content originally published on The Ledger by Sara-Megan Walsh
Introduction
Polk’s Best pizza didn’t come from a large chain it came from a small local shop that turned community passion into a big win.
Every so often, a humble neighborhood pizzeria reminds us what makes pizza culture so magnetic. This year, That 716 Pizza Joint in Lakeland, Florida, snagged Polk County’s coveted “Best Pizza” title and the story behind their dough-slinging success holds delicious lessons for pizza enthusiasts, industry suppliers, and pizza shop owners alike.
We spoke with local fans, dissected their winning strategy, and gathered actionable insights on how anyone from your home kitchen to your bustling pizza shop can take a slice of this success.
The Secret Sauce Behind That 716 Pizza Joint’s Local Fame
So, what catapulted this local joint to the top? According to patrons, it’s the authenticity that sets them apart. From their hand-tossed dough to a commitment to Buffalo-style specialties, their pizza isn’t just food it’s a story on a plate.
“We’re bringing a taste of Buffalo to Florida,” says owner Joe Mancuso, who grew up on the iconic pies of Western New York. “Our dough is made fresh daily, our sauce is scratch-made, and our toppings are high-quality it’s old-school pizza craftsmanship.”
This authentic approach offers a powerful takeaway for every pizza shop owner and home chef: quality and regional identity can be your competitive edge.
🍕 For Pizza Enthusiasts
Love the idea of Buffalo-inspired pizza but can’t book a flight to Lakeland? Here’s how you can recreate that 716 magic in your own kitchen.
Master the Dough The Foundation of Great Pizza
Did you know that most home pizza fails start with the wrong dough? For that chewy, airy crust, use bread flour for higher gluten content and a long, cold fermentation for flavor.
Pro Tip: Use a best home pizza oven for restaurant-level results. A countertop model like the Ooni Karu 12 is perfect for achieving blistered crusts.
Invest in Artisanal Ingredients
Joe swears by premium mozzarella and spicy cup-and-char pepperoni a Buffalo staple. Stock your pantry with artisanal pizza ingredients like San Marzano tomatoes, imported cheeses, and locally cured meats.
Check out our favorite pizza making tools and ingredient kits here.
Experiment with Regional Styles
Buffalo pies are known for a slightly thicker crust, tangy sauce, and hearty toppings. Try a “716 Night” at home:
- Use a blend of mozzarella and white cheddar.
- Top with cup-and-char pepperoni for that crispy edge.
- Finish with a swirl of hot honey.
📦 For Pizza Suppliers
Behind every successful pizzeria is a reliable supply chain and That 716 Pizza Joint proves that local tastes and premium sourcing still matter.
Bulk Up on What Sells
Key insight: The demand for regional authenticity is rising. Suppliers who offer bulk pizza ingredients that cater to specific styles Buffalo, Detroit, Neapolitan can win loyal clients.
- Hot Tip: Expand your catalog to include specialty cheeses, heritage flours, and niche toppings.
- Affiliate Opportunity: Connect with pizzerias using a trusted bulk ingredient supplier.
Embrace Sustainable Pizza Sourcing
Today’s pizza shops want to tell a story. Suppliers who can guarantee traceable, sustainably-sourced ingredients have a market edge.
“It’s not just the taste. People want to know where their food comes from,” says Mancuso. That means transparent labeling and local partnerships are a must.
🍕 For Pizza Shop Owners
Whether you’re a single location or dreaming of franchise fame, That 716 Pizza Joint’s win offers a blueprint for neighborhood pizzerias everywhere.
Define Your Regional Hook
What makes your pizza unique? Is it New York foldability? Chicago deep-dish decadence? A local twist can be your marketing superpower.
“People love a good story and pizza with a sense of place gives you one,” says marketing consultant Gina Rossi, who advises independent pizzerias.
Explore our expert pizza shop marketing strategies here.
Streamline Operations Without Losing Soul
Winning “Best Pizza” is as much about consistency as flavor. Joe credits his team and their simple but effective processes like prepping dough daily and using a reliable pizza POS system to handle high-volume nights.
Modern solutions like this integrated POS system can make ordering smoother, track inventory, and build customer loyalty programs that keep your biggest fans coming back.
🔥 Trends Every Pizza Pro Should Watch
That 716 Pizza Joint’s rise isn’t happening in a vacuum. Here’s what’s shaping the pizza industry:
✅ Regional Revival: More shops are doubling down on local styles and ingredients.
✅ Plant-Based Demand: Even Buffalo-style pies are adding plant-based toppings to satisfy evolving tastes.
✅ Automation & Tech: From smart ovens to delivery software, operational efficiency is the new frontier.
Exclusive Pizza Pro Tip 🍕
“Don’t try to be everything to everyone,” says Joe Mancuso. “Do one style really well. Then stay obsessed with quality. That’s what keeps people coming back.”
Ready to Win Your Own “Best Pizza” Title?
That 716 Pizza Joint’s victory reminds us that authenticity, craft, and local love still matter in a world of fast-food giants.
Whether you’re a home pizza enthusiast, a supplier, or a shop owner, there’s never been a better time to get inspired, gear up, and up your pizza game.
🍕 Quick Resources
- Best Home Pizza Oven
- Bulk Pizza Ingredients for Suppliers
- Integrated Pizza POS Systems
- Pizza Dough Recipes & Tips
Affiliate Disclosure
This article contains affiliate links, which means Pizza Magazine may earn a commission if you make a purchase through them, at no extra cost to you. We only recommend products and services we genuinely believe in.
