In the heart of Pittsburgh, a pizza revolution is quietly unfolding, led by none other than Ed Stalewski of @eddiespizza412 a viral Instagram sensation. With a passion for pizza that began in his childhood, Ed’s journey from a pizza enthusiast to a champion pizza maker is nothing short of inspiring.
We were lucky enough to have him on the podcast and got to hear his entire story from humble beginnings to becoming a well-known pizzaialo and pizza champion.
Cooking His Way Through The Pizza Bible by Tony Gemignani
Ed’s love for pizza started in Masontown, Pennsylvania, where he grew up enjoying rectangular pizzas at local restaurants. It wasn’t until Pizza Hut arrived in town that he discovered the world of round pizzas. This early exposure to Sicilian-style pizzas laid the foundation for his future culinary adventures.
A pivotal moment in Ed’s journey came when he received a gift certificate to Crate and Barrel. There, he stumbled upon “The Pizza Bible” by Tony Gemignani. This book, with its captivating images and easy-to-follow recipes, ignited Ed’s passion for pizza-making. He immersed himself in the book, learning the art of crafting perfect pizzas as a home maker.
From Home Ovens to Pizza Expos
Ed’s pizza-making skills flourished as he experimented with recipes from “The Pizza Bible.” He invested in essential equipment like pizza stones and steels, and a home pizza oven. These investments transformed his home kitchen into a pizza haven. His dedication paid off when he attended his first Pizza Expo in Las Vegas, where he was inspired by the vibrant pizza community.
Ed’s journey took a competitive turn when he decided to enter pizza competitions. Despite initial nerves, he quickly made a name for himself, placing 12th in his first competition. Later, he ended up winning the Northeast regional award. His unique creations, like the round pizza with pepperoni roses, earned him recognition and accolades.
A Passionate Pizza Advocate
Beyond competitions, Ed has become an ambassador for pizza ovens and a social media influencer. He enjoys sharing his pizza-making journey with a growing audience. His dedication to the craft and his willingness to learn from others have made him a respected figure in the pizza community.
Ed’s story is a testament to the power of passion and perseverance. While he continues to work in corporate America, his love for pizza remains unwavering. His dream of joining the World Pizza Championship team reflects his commitment to pushing the boundaries of pizza-making.
Ed Stalewski’s journey from a pizza-loving kid in Masontown to a champion pizza maker is a story of passion, dedication, and community. As he continues to create beautiful pizzas and inspire others, his legacy in the world of pizza is sure to grow. Follow Ed’s pizza adventures on Instagram at @eddiespizza412 and witness the artistry of a true pizza champion. Watch Ed’s full episode on The Pizza Story Podcast here.
Stay updated with more inspiring stories and delicious recipes by subscribing to The Pizza Story Podcast. Don’t miss out on the latest in the world of pizza and culinary excellence. If you want to hear the original pizza story, get our book: A Story About Pizza and our children’s pizza book.