Hawaiian pizza: the underdog among controversial pizza styles

The debate over Hawaiian pizza—“Why is sweet, warm fruit on a pizza?” versus “The sweet-and-savory combo is perfect”—has become a global meme. But in reality, there are far more bizarre and divisive pizzas around the world. Compared to them, Hawaiian pizza almost seems mild.

 

Banana Curry Pizza Recipe

 

Sweden

They have Banana Curry Pizza, topped with banana, curry powder, and peanuts. Surprisingly popular among locals who enjoy the unique sweet and exotic flavor. Another is the Kebab Pizza, now considered Sweden’s “national pizza”: it features grilled kebab meat, lettuce, tomato, onion on pizza dough, drizzled with yogurt or garlic sauce. Hearty enough to serve as a full meal and extremely popular.

 

Portuguesa Pizza

 

Brazil

Portuguesa Pizza is a classic, loaded with ham, onion, olives, plus boiled egg and peas—so substantial it feels like a pizza-meets-salad-plus-main course. There’s also Pizza de Sorvete (Ice Cream Pizza): instead of tomato sauce, it’s drizzled with Nutella, condensed milk, fruit jam, and chocolate sauce, then topped with scooped ice cream, marshmallows, banana, strawberry, peanuts, chocolate chips, even coconut shavings. Though critics argue it strays far from authentic Italian pizza, Brazilians emphasize family-friendly dining, variety, and fun.

 

'Durian Pizza' Launched by Pizza Hut

 

China & Southeast Asia

Durian Pizza is another bold example. Given that pineapple on pizza already sparks outrage, durian’s notorious smell and divisive flavor provoke even stronger reactions. What's more surprising: it’s not just a novelty in small eateries—it’s offered as a limited-time special by global chains like Pizza Hut in those markets.

 

Also mentionable: Pakistan’s pizzas topped with spaghetti, and in Australia some pizzerias serve sushi-on-pizza—both fitting contenders for “most controversial pizza.”