Pizza has overtaken burgers as the second most popular quick food choice in South Africa, according to data released Sunday by News24. Chicken remains the dominant force in the country’s quick-service restaurant market.
The shift in consumer preference is reflected in the financial performance of Debonairs Pizza, a key player in the South African fast-food landscape. The company reported substantial revenue growth throughout 2025, contributing to pizza’s rising popularity. Debonairs Pizza offers a range of options including the Real Deal pizza, Pizzawrap, and Triple-Decker varieties, with current large Real Deal pizza combos priced at 179.90 Rand for two pizzas and 269.90 Rand for three.
While Nando’s continues to hold a strong position with its flame-grilled PERi-PERi chicken, and Pizza Hut remains a competitor, the increasing demand for pizza extends beyond traditional restaurants. Frozen pizza sales are experiencing significant growth in grocery stores, indicating a broader consumer trend. Pizza Pizza South Africa also offers a diverse menu, including meaty, chicken, and vegetarian options, with specialty pizzas like the Chicken Tikka and BBQ Chicken.
Debonairs Pizza’s menu includes several signature pizzas, such as the Meaty, featuring ground beef, spare rib, and ham, priced at 89.90 Rand for a regular size and 199.90 Rand for a large. Other popular choices include the Creamy Chicken and Sweet Chilli Chicken, both also priced at 89.90 Rand and 199.90 Rand respectively. The company also offers lunch specials, including the Eazzy Lunch PizzaWrap for 39.90 Rand and the Eazzy Lunch Real Deal for 64.90 Rand.
The growing recognition of South African pizzerias on the global stage is also contributing to the increased demand. The trend suggests a changing appetite among South African consumers, with pizza now firmly established as a major contender in the fast-food sector.
