The 2026 March Madness-style Sweet 16 bracket of best pizza in Sarasota has been sliced down to the Final Four, with competitors receiving an impressive 40% of the votes in Round 2. This year’s spotlight is on Columbus-style pizza, which is gaining national recognition among food lovers.
Columbus-style pizza is characterized by its thin crust, toppings that reach the edge, and a distinctive square cut. This unique style has sparked debates among pizza enthusiasts, with some dismissing it as inferior to New York-style pizza. However, a recent article in the New York Post highlighted the growing popularity of Columbus-style pizza, suggesting that it is carving out a niche in the competitive world of pizza.
In a 2024 best-of poll conducted by Dispatch, Terita’s was voted as the local favorite among 11 Columbus-style nominees, further cementing its place in the hearts of Sarasota residents. Massey’s, the original creator of this style, was founded in 1949 by Dan and Jim Massucci, who are credited with bringing Columbus-style pizza to life.
Andrea Margolis, a local food critic, remarked, “The pizza’s unique characteristics are helping Columbus to gain national recognition as the city continues to build its reputation among food lovers.” This sentiment is echoed by many who are witnessing the rise of this Midwestern pizza style.
In addition to the local pizza scene, the upcoming release of the “Pizza Movie” on Hulu on April 3, 2026, is generating buzz. The film features a shy college student and his reckless roommate navigating a chaotic night, promising a blend of humor and absurdity. Critics have noted that the film is “as stupid as it is hilarious, fueled by the comedic gold of Gaten Matarazzo and Sean Giambrone.”
As the pizza bracket continues to unfold, observers are eager to see which establishment will claim the title of Sarasota’s best pizza. With Columbus-style pizza on the rise, it seems that the competition is heating up. Details remain unconfirmed regarding the final matchups, but excitement is palpable among local pizza lovers.