Foodies have been left divided over a new list of the "best pizzas in the world", with some describing the ranking as "cursed". The list, puts a classic favourite at the very top of the pizza pile: the simple yet widely beloved Pizza Margherita. The iconic dish, which originated in Naples, is closely followed by Pizza Napoletana in second place, and Pizza Quattro Formaggi in third.
Unsurprisingly, each topping in the top 10 was created in Italy, where the first recorded mention of the modern pizza was written down by poet and essayist Benedetto di Falco all the way back in 1535.
The list, which was compiled by online travel guide Taste Atlas, also puts the rectangular dish Pizza al taglio in fourth place, and the cherry tomato topped Caprese Pizza in fifth.
One person tweeted, "No deep fried? A sham of a list!", but was quickly referred to number 27 – the crispy and delicious Pizza Fritta.
Another wrote: "We all know the best pizza is the real one. Let's go pepperoni!"
A third demanded: "Where's the Hawaiian one? Should be top 10 at least."
A fourth indignant foodie shuddered: "This list is cursed."
According to Taste Atlas, Pizza Margherita was rustled up for Queen Margherita of Savoy, during her 1889 visit to Naples. The dish, with its bright red tomatoes, creamy white mozzarella and leafy basil, was intended to represent the colours of Italian flag, and the Queen was said to be very impressed.
Chef Raffaele Esposito of Pizzeria Brandi, who is credited for creating the pie, named it after the Queen. It's understood however that the topping dates back to at least 1866, many years before Queen Margherita's history-making royal visit.
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