Georgetown to host inaugural EU-backed pizza competition
May 14 2026
The Delegation of the European Union to Guyana, Suriname and CARICOM, in collaboration with the Scuola Pizzaioli and the Embassy of Italy in Panama, has announced the launch of an inaugural Pizza Competition set for June 17, 2026, in Georgetown.
The competition aims to celebrate the blending of traditional Italian culinary heritage with Guyanese flavours and ingredients.
According to organisers, the event is open to Guyanese and CARICOM national pizza makers aged 18 and older, including both amateur enthusiasts and professional chefs.
Participants will compete in two categories — the Traditional Margherita (Neapolitan) and the Guyanese-Fusion Pizza category.
The Margherita category will require strict adherence to traditional Neapolitan pizza-making standards, permitting only dough, basil, tomato, olive oil and cheese. Meanwhile, the fusion category will challenge contestants to create pizzas featuring at least one locally produced Guyanese ingredient.
Organisers also made clear that pineapple will not be permitted on any pizza entered in the competition.
The winner of the Margherita category will earn the opportunity to represent the CARICOM region at the Continental Pizza Cup scheduled for September 2026 in Buenos Aires.
To maintain authenticity and quality, contestants will be required to follow Neapolitan pizza-making basics. Wood-fired ovens will be provided and maintained at a minimum temperature of 400 degrees Celsius, while participants must supply their own dough and ingredients and clean their assigned workspace.
Only ten applicants will be selected to compete in Georgetown.
Interested persons are required to submit a one-page application by May 17, 2026, outlining their personal and professional background, interest in pizza-making, and relevant experience in the craft.
Organisers said the initiative reflects the ongoing cultural exchange and partnership between the European Union, Guyana and the wider Caribbean region.
