MADISON — Splendido.
Fantastico.
Meraviglioso.
No matter how you say it, Valentina’s pizza is mucho gusto.
The award-winning pizzeria has added another laurel to its collection as the No. 27 Best Pizzeria in the United States, awarded by the 50 Top Pizza guide this month in New York City. It was a jump from No. 31 last year.
Owner Joe Carlucci, a world pizza champion and passionate artisan, accepted the award on behalf of the entire Valentina’s team.
“This award is about more than just the pizza,” Carlucci said. “It reflects every detail of the dining experience — from food to cocktails, service to atmosphere. I’m proud of our entire staff for earning this recognition.”
What makes 50 Top Pizza‘s rankings especially meaningful is its comprehensive evaluation process. Anonymous inspectors visit restaurants and rate them on every element of the guest experience: food quality, wine and cocktail selection, service, ambience, and overall presentation. With more than 70,000 pizzerias in the U.S., placing in the top 30 is no small feat.
Valentina’s also received The Best Cocktail List 2025 – Sei Bellissimi Award, one of the coveted special awards given by 50 Top Pizza USA.
Mixologist and Chef Niles Peacock helped design Valentina’s award-winning cocktail program, blending inventive recipes with sophisticated technique.
Adding to the celebration, Alabama Magazine announced Valentina’s as a double winner in the 2025 Best of Bama Awards:
- Best Pizza in Alabama – for the second year in a row
- Best Bartender in Alabama – Bar manager RJ Griggs
“RJ brings an energy and level of craft to our bar that elevates the entire dining experience,” Carlucci added. “His win is well-earned and a perfect example of the aptitude and dedication we have across the team.”
Follow Valentina’s on social media: Instagram, www.instagram.com/valentinaspizzeria and Facebook, www.facebook.com/Valentinaspizzeria2020. Or visit, valentinaspizzeria.com.
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