Matt Passalinqua, the chef at Passalinqua's Pizzera, a new restaurant in Erie, competed in the International Pizza Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Matt competed in the traditional pizza category against over 100 contestants from around the world. He presented two classic pepperoni pizzas to a panel of judges, showcasing his mastery of Erie-style pizza.

The International Pizza Expo is the largest pizza event in the world.

Matt scored 17.85 overall, with the top score being 22.94. This was his first time competing at the expo; he earned Erie pizza a spot in the 78% bracket.

Matt will be joining Kara & Amanda on Erie's only 4 p.m. newscast, First at 4, on Thursday, April 6th.