Alyssa Gilbert shows off her award-winning ‘za, She’s My Cherry Pie. Photo: Melt Pizza Company
The team’s salty-sweet combo wins big at this year’s International Pizza Challenge.
Melt Pizza Company sous chef Alyssa Gilbert just brought home two third place honors from this year’s International Pizza Challenge which took place as part of the International Pizza Expo in Las Vegas from March 25–27.
Going head-to-head with over 500 of the world’s best pizza makers, Gilbert earned Third Best Pan Pizza and Third Best Detroit-Style Pizza with her entry, She’s My Cherry Pie, featuring candied jalapeños, cherry chutney, bacon, hot honey cream and garnished with pistachios.
The International Pizza Challenge has grown over nearly 20 years to become one of the largest and most prestigious pizza-making contests in the world. After Gilbert placed fifth in the qualifying round, She’s My Cherry Pie led her to the podium.
“My inspiration came from my love of sweet and salty flavors—I wanted to strike the perfect balance, with just a touch of heat to keep things interesting,” Gilbert says. “And yes, I’m a big supporter of fruit on pizza! It’s all about surprising people in the best way.”
This is the second year that Melt Pizza Company has placed at the International Pizza Challenge. In 2024, Anthony Gilbert, the creator of Melt Pizza Company and Alyssa’s brother, won first place in the Non-Traditional Division for the Northwest USA region, proving the brand’s delicious creativity.
She’s My Cherry Pie will be available for purchase at Melt Pizza Company’s downtown Stillwater location through the summer. In October, the Melt team will head to Columbus, Ohio, compete in a new additional International Pizza Challenge.
Melt Pizza Company
112 Main St. N., Stillwater; 651.342.0246
Facebook: Melt Pizza Company
Instagram: @meltpizzacompany
