How this Calgary restaurant became one of the world's top pizzerias
When it comes to Calgary’s dining scene, having world-renowned pizza probably wouldn’t spring to mind. However, one spot has catapulted the city onto the world stage through its recognition as one of the world’s top pizzerias.
For Jeremy Hube, it was a long journey to reach this point. Speaking to Dished, Hube revealed he had been making pizzas for around 15 years before finally branching out on his own and opening Pizza Culture in 2020.
Italian Inspiration
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While there’s no shortage of great pizza in Calgary, Hube’s values are very much aligned with the way pizza is made in Naples, and making authentic Napoletana pizza is what Pizza Culture is all about.
“We’re using the same ingredients, the same ovens, the same methods, and it’s really all about technique,” Hube explained.
The dough used for its pies isn’t refrigerated. Instead, it’s naturally leavened, using a sourdough starter that has been continuously refreshed for a decade.
Authentic ingredients are also crucial, with as much sourced from Europe as possible, such as double-zero flour, tomatoes, buffalo mozzarella, and olive oil.
Charlie Hart/Dished
Perhaps the most high-profile Italian import at the restaurant is Pizza Culture’s impressive oven. Built by a third-generation oven builder in Naples, the Stefano Ferrara creation is at the heart of the operation.
The oven, which is fired with cherry and apple wood from the Okanagan, reaches a staggering 900 degrees Fahrenheit. Hube adds that one key component is cooking pizzas within 90 seconds.
World Recognition
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While Pizza Culture has built a strong following in Calgary since its opening, it has also begun to receive recognition on the world stage.
The pizzeria was inducted into the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana in 2023. The organization certifies pizzerias that are making true Neopolitan pizza around the world. Pizza Culture is the only spot in Alberta to become a member.
Then, in September 2024, the independent guide 50 Top Pizza revealed its annual list of the world’s top pizzerias, where Pizza Culture placed at number 96. It was one of only two Canadian spots to make it.
Hube said the organization contacted him after they’d independently inspected and rated the restaurant based on factors such as the pizza, the service, and the atmosphere.
“We’re really honoured. It’s a tremendous achievement that we’ve been able to accomplish here in Calgary, a place that’s not typically known for pizza,” Hube added.
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Hube travelled to Naples for the award ceremony, where he connected with pizza makers from around the world. He added that the experience was “really humbling.”
“It was awesome just looking at all the people that you look up to, and now they’re there, and they’re your peers. It’s a nice feeling to be part of the global pizza community.”
While Canada isn’t known on the world stage for its pizza scene, Hube said there are a lot of interesting things happening across the country.
“It’s super cool that we’re on the map now, and so are Calgary and Canada.”
Pizza Culture
Address: 1114 Edmonton Trail, Calgary
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