2 Pittsburgh Pizza Chefs Win In National Contest

PITTSBURGH, PA — Two Pittsburgh pizza chefs were among those who took home honors at the recent Sixth Annual Real California Pizza Contest in Napa, California.

Jay Falk of the local Caliente Pizza & Draft House chain and Eddie Stalewski of Mercurio's, with locations in Shadyside and Fox Chapel, were recognized for their use of California milk products in their pizza creations.

In a special team event, Falk partnered with Michael Vakneen to win the top prize in the three-cheese team bake-off. The duo shared the contest’s $7,500 prize.

Stalewski clinched the $7,500 prize in the protein-focused category with his Rose Bowl pizza. This winning creation featured a crunchy, cheesy Frico edge on a thin, tavern-style cornmeal crust, topped with mild Giardiniera vegetables, handmade Calabrian sausage, and pepperoni roses. The pizza is made with fresh mozzarella, provolone, white cheddar and dry jack cheeses and is finished with a sprinkle of pickled Juanita peppers and a basil pesto drizzle.

Judges evaluated the entries on taste, texture and the inventive use of cheeses.