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The Untold Story Of Champion Pizza Bed-Stuy: 7 Secrets Behind Brooklyn’s Most Inspiring Slice

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Champion Pizza’s Bed-Stuy location, situated on the vibrant Fulton Street corridor in Brooklyn, is far more than just another New York City slice shop; it is a testament to the American Dream, fueled by a world-class pie and an inspiring rags-to-riches owner. As of late , this culinary fixture continues to draw crowds with its acclaimed menu, but the true flavor lies in the remarkable journey of its founder, Hakki Akdeniz, whose story of resilience and philanthropy is baked into every crispy crust.

The establishment at 1196 Fulton St has quickly cemented its place in the competitive Brooklyn culinary scene, standing out not only for its signature New York-style pizza but also for its commitment to the local community. From award-winning creations to a unique "Upside Down Square" slice that has reviewers raving, Champion Pizza Bed-Stuy offers a powerful combination of quality, innovation, and heart that defines the modern *Bedford-Stuyvesant* food experience.

The Champion's Profile: Hakki Akdeniz Biography

The driving force behind the Champion Pizza chain, including the popular Bed-Stuy outpost, is the globally recognized restaurateur and philanthropist, Hakki Akdeniz. His personal story is a powerful narrative of overcoming adversity to achieve extraordinary success in the New York City food industry.

  • Full Name: Hakki Akdeniz
  • Born: February 1, 1984
  • Place of Birth: Turkey
  • Current Residence: New York City, USA
  • Occupation: Restaurateur, Founder, and CEO of Champion Pizza chain
  • Notable Achievement: World Champion of Acrobatic Pizza Performing Competition
  • Philanthropic Work: Regularly donates thousands of pizza slices and clothing to the homeless and community.
  • Key Recognition: Featured in a Super Bowl Budweiser advertisement highlighting his inspiring journey.
  • Signature Style: Known for both traditional New York-style slices and massive, innovative pies.

Akdeniz arrived in the United States with almost nothing, experiencing homelessness in the early years of his journey. This challenging background profoundly shaped his life and his business philosophy, leading to a deep-seated commitment to giving back to the community that mirrors the spirit of *Brooklyn* itself.

Unpacking the Menu: 3 Must-Try Award-Winning Slices

The Champion Pizza menu is built on a foundation of classic *New York-style pizza*, but it truly shines with its inventive, championship-caliber pies. The Bed-Stuy location offers a full array of crowd-pleasers, from crisp-crusted Cheese Pizza and Pepperoni Pizza to specialty items that have earned the chain its "Award Winner" status.

1. The Phenomenal Upside Down Square

If there is one slice that has become a viral sensation and a local favorite at the 1196 Fulton St shop, it is the *Upside Down Square* pizza. This deep-dish delight is a twist on the traditional Sicilian slice, where the layers are inverted. Reviewers consistently call this pie "AMAZING" and the "PRIZE" of the menu.

In a classic *New York slice*, the cheese is typically placed first, followed by the sauce and toppings. The Upside Down Square flips this convention: a thick, airy, and crispy crust is topped with a layer of mozzarella and other cheeses, followed by generous dollops of sweet, tangy tomato sauce, often finished with a sprinkle of Pecorino Romano. The result is a caramelized cheese edge and a vibrant sauce flavor that hits the palate first, offering a truly unique textural and taste experience that pizza aficionados in *Bedford-Stuyvesant* are lining up for.

2. The Acrobatic Champion's Creations

Hakki Akdeniz is not just a CEO; he is a *World Champion of acrobatic pizza performing*. This unique skill, which involves tossing, spinning, and manipulating dough with incredible flair, translates directly into the quality and creativity of his pies. The "Award Winner Pizzas" on the menu are a nod to his competitive spirit and mastery of dough.

While the menu features staples like the *Margherita Pizza* and various calzones (including Chicken Calzone and Veggie Calzone), the "Award Winner" category often includes rotating, massive, and innovative creations. Akdeniz has been known to create pies the size of a mattress and even a 40-pound pizza/cheeseburger hybrid, showcasing his commitment to pushing the boundaries of what a pizza can be. These creations are a major draw for the *Brooklyn pizza* faithful looking for something beyond the ordinary.

3. The Reliable Classic: New York-Style Slice

Despite the flashier options, Champion Pizza Bed-Stuy remains a quintessential *New York-style pizzeria*. The classic cheese and pepperoni slices are the foundation of the business, known for their thin, foldable crust, perfect char, and balanced ratio of sauce to cheese. For those exploring the *Bed-Stuy food scene*, this is the reliable, dirt-cheap slice that still holds up, perfect for a quick lunch or late-night bite. The consistency and quality of the classic slice ensure that Champion Pizza is a staple for the local *Fulton Street* community.

More Than Dough: The Bed-Stuy Community Impact

What truly elevates Champion Pizza Bed-Stuy from a simple business to a beloved neighborhood institution is its owner’s powerful commitment to social responsibility. Hakki Akdeniz’s personal experience of homelessness drives a significant philanthropic mission that directly benefits the *Bedford-Stuyvesant community* and New York City as a whole.

From Homelessness to Humanitarian

Akdeniz's journey from sleeping on the streets to owning a successful chain of pizzerias is one of the most compelling *American Dream* stories in the city. He leverages his success to aid those in similar situations. The Champion Pizza chain regularly donates thousands of pizza slices and clothing to individuals experiencing homelessness. This dedication to *homeless outreach* is not a one-off event but a core part of the company's DNA, making its presence in the community a source of pride.

The opening of the Bed-Stuy location was met with enthusiasm, even garnering support from Mayor Eric Adams, who recognized the significance of Akdeniz’s journey and his positive impact. The pizzeria serves as a tangible example of how a business can succeed while prioritizing *philanthropy* and community welfare.

A Hub for Local Food Lovers

The Bed-Stuy neighborhood is known for its rich history and evolving *Brooklyn culinary scene*. Champion Pizza, located strategically on Fulton Street, is positioned as a welcoming hub. Its commitment to quality ingredients, combined with its competitive pricing (even being mentioned in discussions about the *best dollar slice in NYC*), ensures it remains accessible to a diverse customer base.

The constant stream of positive reviews, particularly highlighting the unique items and the overall "amazing" experience, confirms its status as a top-tier *Brooklyn pizza* destination. Whether you are ordering a massive specialty pie for a party or grabbing a classic slice for lunch, Champion Pizza Bed-Stuy delivers a meal that is satisfying on multiple levels—culinary, inspirational, and communal.

Champion Pizza Bed-Stuy is a true champion in the *New York City pizza landscape*, offering a slice of its owner's extraordinary life story alongside its delicious, award-winning food. It’s a must-visit location for anyone seeking great pizza and a powerful reminder of how far determination and generosity can take you.

The Untold Story of Champion Pizza Bed-Stuy: 7 Secrets Behind Brooklyn’s Most Inspiring Slice
champion pizza - bedstuy
champion pizza - bedstuy

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