Our Story

About Anthony's
Coal Fired Pizza

Anthony's coal fired pizza was born from a passion for authentic, wood-fired flavors and a commitment to crafting every pizza with the finest ingredients. Since 2002, we've been bringing real coal-fired pizza to Wayne, NJ and across the United States.

anthony's coal fired pizza restaurant interior with rustic coal oven
22+
Years of Excellence Crafting coal-fired pizza since 2002

The Story Behind
Anthony's Pizza

It all began with Anthony himself — a New Jersey native with deep Italian roots and an uncompromising belief that great pizza deserves real coal heat. In 2002, Anthony opened the first location in Wayne, NJ with a single hand-built coal oven and a recipe handed down through generations.

What makes anthony's coal fired pizza truly unique is our dedication to the craft. Our ovens burn at temperatures exceeding 800°F, creating a char and crispiness that no conventional oven can replicate. Every pie is hand-stretched, topped generously, and cooked to perfection in minutes.

Over two decades, we've grown from a neighborhood gem into a beloved destination across the United States — but our heart never left Wayne, NJ. We still source the freshest ingredients, still hand-craft every dough ball daily, and still put the same love into every single pizza that Anthony did on day one.

Explore Our Menu

22+

Years Open

800°F

Coal Oven Heat

50K+

Pizzas Served

4.9★

Avg. Rating

Mission, Vision & Promise

At anthony coal fired pizza, everything we do is guided by three foundational principles that have shaped us since day one.

Our Mission

To deliver the most authentic coal-fired pizza experience in the United States — using time-honored techniques, premium ingredients, and genuine Italian inspiration in every bite we serve.

Our Vision

To become the go-to destination for coal-fired dining across the United States — a place where families, friends, and food lovers gather around great pizza, great atmosphere, and great memories.

Our Promise

Every time you visit anthonys coal fired or order from us, you'll get the same unwavering quality, warmth, and flavor that Anthony himself would be proud to serve — no shortcuts, ever.

Our Core Values

The principles of anthony's coal fired are not just words on a wall — they are baked into everything we make and every experience we create.

01

Authenticity

We never compromise on tradition. From our dough recipe to our coal ovens, we stay true to what makes great pizza great.

02

Quality

Every ingredient is selected with care. Fresh mozzarella, San Marzano tomatoes, hand-picked toppings — quality is non-negotiable.

03

Community

Wayne, NJ is our home and our heart. We support local suppliers, employ local people, and give back to the neighborhood that made us.

04

Passion

Every pizza is made with the same fire and enthusiasm that Anthony brought to the very first oven he lit over two decades ago.

How Anthony Coal Fired Pizza Grew

From a single coal oven in Wayne, NJ to a celebrated pizza destination across the United States — here's the story of our growth.

2002

The First Oven Lights

Anthony opens the original location at 1600 NJ-23 in Wayne, NJ. With one hand-built coal oven, a family recipe, and fierce passion, the legend of anthonys pizza begins.

2006

First Major Award

Anthony's coal fired pizza is named "Best Pizza in New Jersey" by a regional food publication, drawing guests from across the state and putting Wayne, NJ on the culinary map.

2010

Menu Expansion

In response to loyal guest requests, Anthony's coal fired expands its menu — adding coal-roasted wings, house-made pastas, and fresh salads crafted with locally sourced ingredients.

2015

Catering Program Launched

Anthony's catering service launches, bringing the authentic anthony pizza experience to weddings, corporate events, and private parties across the United States.

2019

Online Ordering Goes Live

Anthony's coal fired pizza launches online ordering and delivery, making it easier than ever for guests across Wayne, NJ and surrounding areas to enjoy anthonys coal fired at home.

2024

22 Years & Still Burning Bright

Anthony's coal fired pizza celebrates over two decades of excellence. Still family-operated, still hand-crafting every pizza, and still the most authentic coal-fired experience in the United States.

Meet the Team Behind Anthonys Pizza

Our team is the secret ingredient — passionate, skilled, and dedicated to making every visit to anthony's coal fired an unforgettable experience.

Anthony, founder of Anthony's coal fired pizza Wayne NJ

Anthony Russo

Founder & Head Pizzaiolo

The visionary behind Anthony's coal fired pizza. Anthony brings 25+ years of Italian culinary tradition and an unquenchable passion for the perfect coal-fired crust.

Maria, Head Chef at anthonys coal fired pizza kitchen

Maria Conti

Executive Chef

Maria oversees all menu development at anthony pizza. A classically trained chef with roots in Naples, she ensures every dish reflects the authentic spirit of Italian cuisine.

Marco, Dough Master at Anthony's coal fired pizza

Marco DiLorenzo

Dough Master & Pizzaiolo

Marco has been hand-stretching dough at anthonys coal fired since 2005. His mastery of fermentation and hand-toss technique is the foundation of our legendary crust.

Sofia, Guest Experience Manager at Anthony's coal fired pizza

Sofia Martino

Guest Experience Manager

Sofia ensures every guest who walks into anthony's coal fired feels like family. With warmth, attentiveness, and a genuine love for hospitality, she leads our front-of-house team.

Want to be part of the Anthony's coal fired family?

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Experience Anthony's
Coal Fired Pizza Today

Join thousands of guests who have discovered why anthony's coal fired pizza is the most authentic pizza experience in the United States. Order now or visit us in Wayne, NJ.

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