Papa Johns Makes a Bold Run to Become the First Pizzeria Awarded a MICHELIN Star

ATLANTA--( BUSINESS WIRE )-- The MICHELIN Guide has not awarded a Star to a pizza establishment.

Read the original at Franchising.com
Papa Johns Makes a Bold Run to Become the First Pizzeria Awarded a MICHELIN Star

TL;DR

Papa Johns aims to become the first pizzeria awarded a MICHELIN Star, highlighting its Pan Pizza as a premium offering. The brand is hosting a one-night dining event in Manhattan to showcase its Pan Pizza and premium ingredients.

“This is a love letter to a food that has shaped moments and memories for decades,” said Jenna Bromberg, Chief Marketing Officer at Papa Johns. “That’s why we’re putting our Pan Pizza front and center. If any QSR pizza belongs in a MICHELIN-level conversation, it’s this one. Years in the making, our Pan Pizza was built to impress.”

Papa Johns describes Pan Pizza as aligning with criteria used for premium pizza discussions.

  • Quality Ingredients: An intentional lineup featuring a garlic parmesan crust, a six-cheese blend made with real Mozzarella, Provolone, Fontina, Asiago, Parmesan and Romano, and fragrant Italian seasoning. And, like every item on the Papa Johns menu, the Pan Pizza is made with no artificial flavors or colors.

  • Mastery of Technique: Years of testing, iterating, proofing and perfecting for that crispy edge and cloud-soft center

  • Harmony of Flavors: A balanced blend of taste and texture in every bite

  • Consistency: The same high standards delivered at every Papa Johns restaurant nationwide

As part of MICHELIN-related activities, a Manhattan location will host a one-night dining event featuring the Pan Pizza and premium ingredients. Guests will experience:

  • A three-course, pizza-forward chef-curated menu built around the Pan Pizza and Papa Johns' premium ingredients

  • Pepsi-Cola® pairing flights led by a dedicated Soda Sommelier to intensify, brighten and complement the flavors throughout the entire menu

  • An elevated, softly lit atmosphere crafted to showcase the artistry behind every slice

Seating is limited. Eligibility details and availability are provided by the event organizers.

In this story

This story was originally published in Franchising.com on February 11, 2026. Burnaze summarizes and links to the original reporting.

Read the full story at Franchising.com

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