Trumbull County witnessed a celebration of culinary excellence as local pizza establishments showcased their talents at the highly anticipated Slice of the Valley event. Hosted at the Eastwood Event Centre within the Eastwood Mall in Niles, the annual pizza and beer competition attracted a flurry of attendees eager to savor the finest flavors the Mahoning Valley has to offer.
The competition, held yesterday from 4 to 7 p.m., brought together a diverse array of local pizza shops and breweries vying for recognition. Among the standout winners were Jimmy Neno’s, awarded first place for the best plain pizza, and Cocca’s Pizza, securing the top trophy for specialty pizzas.
Distinguished guests, including Cleveland Cavaliers announcer Sean Peebles and former Cleveland Browns players Kelly Holcomb and Peyton Hillis, lent their expertise to the judging panel. Alongside them were esteemed locals such as Jeremy and Gracie Oklota from Youngstown Pizza Reviews, radio personality Dan Rivers, and musician Doug Thomas.
In addition to the official judging, attendees had the opportunity to cast their votes for the best pizza and beer, while a new award category honored the crowd’s favorite for the best wings. The lively atmosphere and spirited competition were complemented by the Rotary Club of Warren’s organization of the event, underscoring the community’s support for local businesses and culinary excellence.
For pizza aficionados and beer enthusiasts alike, Slice of the Valley served as a platform to celebrate the region’s rich culinary heritage and vibrant gastronomic scene, promising an unforgettable experience for all who attended.