From Pleasanton to the Pizza Superbowl: Tri-Valley Small Business Heads to Las Vegas

From Pleasanton to the Pizza Super Bowl: Tri-Valley Small Business Heads to Las Vegas

Pleasanton, CA — In just a few years, Much Ado About Pizza has gone from a pandemic-era passion project to one of the fastest-rising independent pizza brands in the country.

Now, owners Mark and Kira Zabrowski are heading to Las Vegas March 21–27, 2026 for the internationally renowned International Pizza Expo — widely considered the most influential gathering in the global pizza industry.

Kira Zabrowski will compete in the prestigious Traditional American Division, showcasing the sourdough-driven style and ingredient-forward philosophy that has helped define the Pleasanton pizzeria’s identity. Mark Zabrowski will compete in the highly technical Best Cheese Slice category and will also serve as a culinary judge, evaluating top talent from around the world.

Beyond competition, the Zabrowskis will represent both the U.S. Pizza Team and the Galbani Professionale Blue Coat Team, serving as ambassadors for Galbani Cheese. Kira will also take the stage for a live demonstration alongside Donatella Arpaia of Iron Chef America.

The week will culminate with national recognition at the Pizza Marketplace Top 100 Movers & Shakers awards ceremony at the Las Vegas Country Club, where Much Ado About Pizza will be honored as one of the industry’s most influential brands. The company has also been named one of the Top 25 Fast Casual Brands to Watch in 2026, signaling broader momentum beyond the Bay Area.

For a small, independently owned pizzeria in Pleasanton, the moment reflects a larger shift: Bay Area operators are shaping the future of artisan pizza on a national scale. "As a small, independent business from Pleasanton, it’s an honor to represent our community on a global stage.We built this from the ground up with intention — from our sourdough to our community roots,” said Kira Zabrowski.

From local pop-ups to international competition stages, Much Ado About Pizza is emerging as one of Northern California’s most dynamic independent restaurant brands.