It makes natural that McDonald's would launch its new pizza in Italy, a country that knows its pizza.
Like many American companies in Italy, the chain thrives in an alternative gastronomic universe where being American makes it enjoyable.
Starbucks, inspired by Italian coffee shops, has done well in Italy. McDonald's has delivered on Italians' need for Americanized versions of their classic menu items, not classic pizzas.
McDonald's offers a pie-shaped pizza instead of a circular one. Panzerotti, or Pizza Pockets, are larger Totino's pizza rolls that resemble calzones.
"McDonald's has the most glorious appearing pizza pockets - in Italy!" wrote the popular Twitter channel, which discovered the new pizza delicacy.
"McDonald's dropped Panzerotti in Italy, but they're good. Pizza sauce and cheese in a fried shell."
McDonald's hasn't focused on new product innovation recently. While growing its digital and delivery business, the chain has focused on operations and efficiency.
Panzerotti may match the chain's minimal menu. MCD may be able to create fried pockets with existing equipment without disrupting operations.
That would give the corporation a striking new product unlike Wendy's or Burger King.
Pizza Pockets are fast-food pizza without the aspirations of reviving McPizza. The chain may backdoor into a new industry with a product that could be the next fast-food hit.
Panzerotti is currently only available in Italy. This item seems more U.S.-oriented than other McDonald's overseas-only offerings.