Reviving a Valley Favorite Tradition (Image Credits: Unsplash)
Las Vegas — The 8 News Now Best Pizza Bracket has reached a fever pitch with only four pizzerias remaining in the competition for the valley’s top slice.[1][2] Good Day Las Vegas host JC Fernandez sampled offerings from the finalists this week, building excitement as voters decide the semifinals.[1] Semifinal voting continues through midnight on April 8, setting the stage for the ultimate championship battle.
Reviving a Valley Favorite Tradition
The pizza bracket debuted in 2022, when voters from across 64 entries crowned Dom DeMarco’s as champion.[2] Organizers brought it back this year to reflect the evolving Las Vegas dining scene. Rounds progressed steadily from March 10, trimming the field through daily fan votes – one per person per day.
Early stages whittled contenders down methodically: 64 to 32, then 16, eight, and now four. The format mirrors March Madness intensity, but with cheese pulls and crust debates instead of buzzer-beaters. Finals loom next week, with the winner revealed April 16.
The Elite Four Standing Strong
Pizza Rock, Napoli Pizza, Metro Pizza, and Dom DeMarco’s emerged as the survivors, each boasting loyal followings and distinct styles.[1] These heavyweights represent a mix of local staples and award-winners.
- Pizza Rock offers diverse options including California, Detroit, and Chicago styles, with expansion to 10 locations inside Allegiant Stadium.[1]
- Napoli Pizza, a family-run spot in the southwest valley, traces roots to 2006 and features massive 36-inch pies supporting local charities.[1]
- Metro Pizza honors neighborhood traditions with fresh daily dough, hand-stretched and hearth-baked, in tavern or Sicilian styles.[3]
- Dom DeMarco’s, the 2022 defending champion, delivers authentic New York and Neapolitan pies using Brooklyn recipes, plus Sicilian squares.[4][2]
Fernandez’s Hands-On Final Four Tour
JC Fernandez kicked off the spotlight visits at Pizza Rock downtown, where corporate chef Anthony Andreason detailed the chain’s journey from Green Valley Ranch origins. Fernandez sampled The East Coaster, a bestseller that claimed ‘Best Traditional Pizza in the World’ at the Las Vegas Pizza Expo. One bite left a lasting mark, underscoring its contender status.[1]
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He then headed to Napoli Pizza near Rainbow and Blue Diamond, meeting owners Harry Abkarian and Nyree Balian. The family business, started by Nyree’s father after moving from Boston, now eyes a downtown expansion. Fernandez experienced the signature 36-inch pizza, renowned for its impressive cheese pull.[1]
Fernandez extended the tour Tuesday morning to the other semifinalists, Dom DeMarco’s and Metro Pizza, as promised in recent coverage. These visits amplified voter engagement ahead of the tight deadline. Fans tuned in via 8 News Now segments to witness the tastings firsthand.
Semifinal Matchups Packed with Rivalry
Voters face two pivotal clashes in the semifinals. Napoli Pizza squares off against Pizza Rock, pitting family tradition against innovative variety. Meanwhile, Metro Pizza challenges defending champ Dom DeMarco’s in a battle of local authenticity.
| Matchup | Contender 1 | Contender 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Semifinal 1 | Napoli Pizza | Pizza Rock |
| Semifinal 2 | Metro Pizza | Dom DeMarco’s |
Cast your vote daily at the 8 News Now voting page to influence the finalists.[2] The pressure mounts as every ballot counts toward crowning 2026’s best.
Key Takeaways
- The bracket revives a 2022 tradition, now testing Las Vegas’ pizza evolution with 64 starters down to four.
- Fernandez’s tours highlighted standout bites like Pizza Rock’s award-winner and Napoli’s charity giant.
- Semifinals end April 8; vote now to shape the championship path.
As the dough rises on this pizza pursuit, one clear truth emerges: Las Vegas boasts world-class slices worthy of the crown. Which semifinalist advances in your view? Vote today and share your pick in the comments.
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