Pizzerias compete for top prize in Mahoning Valley Pizza Cook Off

Who do you think makes the best pizza in the Mahoning Valley?

Over 800 people attended the Mahoning Valley Pizza Cook-Off to see who makes the best pie in the Valley.

The cook-off took place on March 26 and was organized by Potential Development, a Pre-K through 12th-grade school in Youngstown for children with autism.

Youngstown Professional Firefighters, Local 312, members judged the pizzas from a few favorite restaurants around town.

“Even in the face of Saturday’s severe weather, the pizzerias rallied on Sunday to provide our large crowd with delicious pizzas and a fabulous atmosphere. We are grateful to them, our many sponsors, and our guests who participated in our live and silent auctions and basket raffle, making the 2023 Mahoning Valley Pizza Cook-Off an outstanding fundraiser for Potential Development,” Potential Development CEO, Paul Garchar.

Who was named the ‘best pizza in the Valley’

Belleria in Struthers, Bruno Bros. Pizza, Cocca’s Pizza, Pizza Joe’s and St. A’s Bistro participated in the cook-off.

It was the first time Potential Development could host the event in person since 2019.

The 2023 winners:

Best Traditional Pizza: Belleria/Struthers

Best Gourmet Pizza: Pizza Joe’s

Best Non-Red Pizza: St. A’s Bistro

Best Brier Hill Pizza: Cocca’s

The People’s Choice Award, determined by attendees’ votes: Bruno Bros. Pizza.

2023 Mahoning Valley Pizza Cook-Off Maestro di Cucina best overall pizza: Cocca’s

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This story was originally published April 5, 2023 at 5:00 AM.