MADISON, Ala. — Valentina's Pizzeria and Wine Bar in Madison, Alabama, brought home first place in the Southeast Region of the International Pizza Competition.
Owner Joe Carlucci competed in the "best traditional pizza" category and was excited to bring home the win. He said he prepared for days and even booked a separate hotel room for his pizza dough.
Valentina's Pizzeria and Wine Bar is named after Carlucci's 8-year-old daughter. She spends some of her free time helping her dad in the pizzeria.
"Well to be honest with you, the south is known for it's barbecue, it's not really known for pizza," said Carlucci. "We have some of the best pizza places in North Alabama in Madison and Huntsville. I'm just honored to be recognized as one of the top ones in this competition."
Carlucci is no stranger to pizza competitions. In 2019, he won the title of "World's Fastest Pizza Maker" in Naples, Italy. Also, he has been in the pizza business for around 30 years and is helping his daughter, Valentina find her passion for pizza too.
Carlucci commissioned a mural on the side of the pizzeria to commemorate the legacies of American Civil Rights leaders. He encourages the Tennessee Valley to stop by and indulge in a deep conversation over a slice of pizza.
Visit Valentina's Pizzeria and Wine Bar's Facebook to learn more.