A Chillicothe pizzeria is getting international recognition after competing in one of the largest pizza competitions in the world.
Lievita recently placed 25th in the world for its cheese pizza at the International Pizza Expo’s World Pizza Challenge in Las Vegas. The restaurant also ranked third in the Midwest in the same category.
The competition draws hundreds of pizza makers from around the globe, with participants preparing their pizzas live for judges over a three-day event. This year’s challenge included more than 700 competitors.
The restaurant is known for its slower approach to pizza-making. Lievita uses a naturally fermented sourdough crust, house-made sauce, and cheese made without added fillers. That process takes more time, which the owners say is part of maintaining consistency.
After sharing news of the ranking, Lievita saw a noticeable increase in demand.
The shop has since increased its daily dough production while keeping the same preparation method in place. To help manage inventory and prep, the restaurant also adjusted its hours. Lievita is now open from 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. Sunday through Thursday and until 9 p.m. on Friday and Saturday.
In addition to pizza, the menu includes pastas, sandwiches, salads, and build-your-own options. You can see the full menu here.
For Columbus-area residents, Chillicothe is an easy drive and offers more than just a quick pizza stop.
Visitors can explore Hopewell Culture National Historical Park, a UNESCO World Heritage site featuring ancient earthworks built by Indigenous peoples more than 2,000 years ago. Downtown Chillicothe also has a growing mix of local shops, historic buildings, and small restaurants within walking distance.
If you’re planning a visit to try one of the world’s top-ranked cheese pizzas, there’s enough nearby to turn it into a full afternoon trip.
