Our Story & Passion
Born from a love of authentic flavors, coal-fired tradition, and community — discover the heart behind every pizza we craft.
From a Family Dream to a Lehigh Valley Legend
Anthony's Coal Fired Pizza was born in 2003 from a simple but powerful idea: serve honest, bold pizza the old-fashioned way — with real coal fire, hand-stretched dough, and premium toppings that speak for themselves. Founder Anthony Esposito grew up watching his grandmother shape dough at 5 a.m. in her South Philadelphia kitchen, and he never forgot that love.
After years of perfecting the craft — traveling to Naples to study authentic Neapolitan technique and sourcing the finest San Marzano tomatoes — Anthony opened our doors at 750 N Krocks Rd, Allentown. The neighborhood embraced us instantly. Word spread fast: this wasn't just pizza. This was an experience.
Today, we remain a family-operated kitchen where every pie is fired at over 900°F in our signature coal-burning oven. That intense heat creates the perfect char, airy crust, and smoky depth that no gas oven can replicate. We haven't changed our recipe in 20 years — and we never will.
- Coal-fired at 900°F for unmatched char and flavor
- Hand-stretched dough made fresh daily
- Imported San Marzano tomatoes & premium cheeses
- Family-owned and operated since 2003
Our Mission & Core Values
Everything we do comes back to three things: great food, genuine hospitality, and honoring the coal-fired craft that started it all.
Craft & Tradition
We honor the time-tested art of coal-fired baking — every pizza is a testament to patience, heat, and respect for the craft.
Quality Ingredients
From imported San Marzano tomatoes to locally sourced toppings, we never compromise on what goes into our dough and sauce.
Community First
We are proud Allentown neighbors. We give back, hire locally, and believe that a great pizzeria is the heart of its community.
Genuine Hospitality
Every guest deserves warmth, attentiveness, and a meal that makes them want to come back. That's the Anthony's promise.
Two Decades of Coal-Fired History
From a single coal oven to a Lehigh Valley institution — here are the milestones that shaped who we are.
The First Flame
Anthony Esposito lights the first coal fire at 750 N Krocks Rd, Allentown. Opening night sells out within two hours — word travels fast when the pizza is this good.
First Regional Award
Anthony's wins "Best Pizza in the Lehigh Valley" from the Morning Call for the first time — beginning a streak of recognition that would define us in the community.
Menu Expansion
We expand beyond pizza to include our beloved coal-roasted wings, handcrafted pastas, and Italian sandwiches — all cooked using the same coal-fire philosophy that started us.
Catering Launch
Anthony's launches its full-service catering division, bringing coal-fired magic to weddings, corporate events, and private celebrations across Eastern Pennsylvania.
Online Ordering Goes Live
We launch our online ordering system, making it easier than ever to get Anthony's coal-fired flavor delivered straight to your door — without sacrificing the quality you love.
20 Years & Going Strong
We celebrate two decades of coal-fired excellence with a renovated dining room, an expanded menu, and the same unwavering commitment to flavor that Anthony lit up in 2003.
The People Behind Every Perfect Pie
Our team brings decades of culinary passion and hospitality expertise to every shift — because great pizza starts with great people.
Anthony Esposito
A South Philly native with Naples-trained technique, Anthony has been perfecting the art of coal-fired pizza for over 25 years. His grandmother's recipes remain the foundation of every pie.
Maria Esposito
Maria keeps everything running with grace and precision. From guest experience to team culture, she ensures that Anthony's is a place people love to visit and love to work.
Marco Bianchi
Chef Marco brings 18 years of Italian-American culinary mastery to our kitchen. He oversees all menu development, daily specials, and the sourcing of our premium ingredients.
Sofia Reyes
Sofia's infectious energy and attention to detail create the warm, welcoming environment our guests rave about. She leads our service team with empathy and excellence.