Mississippi pizza restaurant makes US Top 10 list

Leña Pizza + Bagels in Cleveland, Mississippi, has climbed to No. 9 on the 50 Top Pizza US rankings, up from No. 38 last year. The restaurant combines Neapolitan pizza methods with flavors inspired by its owner Marisol Doyle’s Mexican heritage and Mississippi Delta cuisine. Doyle, recognized as the '2026 Pizza Maker of the Year,' also secured a spot as a speaker at the 2026 Best Pizza Awards in Milan. The restaurant’s standout dish, Potato Bacon Blanca, features white parmesan sauce, roasted potatoes, bacon, mozzarella, and green onions. Doyle, ranked No. 77 globally in The Best Chef Pizza’s 2025 rankings, previously earned the 'One to Watch' honor in 2025. Born in Mexico, Doyle moved to Cleveland with her husband after meeting in Arizona. She previously worked in restaurants for a decade before opening Leña, which began as a bagel project for the Cleveland Farmer’s Market. The couple’s decision to stay in Cleveland stemmed from its tight-knit community and revitalized downtown. Doyle’s recognition extends beyond national rankings; The New York Times also named Leña one of the 22 best pizza places in the country in 2024. The restaurant’s success reflects its blend of cultural influences and dedication to quality, earning praise from both critics and customers.