Local Pizza Chef Shoots for the Stars and Wins Global Honor

In an inspiring tale of dedication and local pride, Will Grant, a pizza maker from Kingston, Washington, has received a prestigious international award that recognizes his talent and hard work. Grant has become the first non-Italian ever to win the esteemed Premio Follie Lifetime Achievement Award, an accolade that highlights a lifelong commitment to the craft of pizza making.

A Legacy of Excellence

Grant, the owner of Sourdough Willy’s and That’s A Some Pizza, has deep ties to his community, with family pizza traditions dating back nearly 40 years. Having been raised in North Kitsap, Grant expresses immense pride in representing his area on a global stage. The award is not just a personal triumph; it symbolizes the rich heritage of his family's pizza-making legacy, which remains alive through the use of a 130-year-old sourdough starter originally utilized by his parents.

The Secrets Behind the Success

According to Grant, the keys to making exceptional pizza lie in using high-quality ingredients and a meticulous preparation process. His pizzas require seven days of dough-making before they can be served, ensuring every bite is crafted to perfection. Grant emphasizes the importance of respecting the 'cornicione', or the pizza crust, which he believes is vital to the overall pizza experience.

A Journey from Local to Global

Since being awarded this honor, Grant has witnessed a surge in visitors traveling from across the country to sample his globally recognized pizzas. His story resonates with many who dream of reaching great heights in their careers, proving that with passion and perseverance, anything is possible. Furthering his mission to share the art of pizza making, Grant also conducts master classes at prestigious pizza events around the globe, alongside offering local classes for aspiring pizzaiolos right in Western Washington.

Both Sourdough Willy’s and That’s A Some Pizza are open seven days a week, inviting the community and visitors alike to indulge in the culinary artistry that has put Kingston on the world map. Will Grant's journey is a testament to the potential for local talent to achieve international recognition while remaining deeply rooted in their heritage.