Picture an American pizza maestro who turned a universal comfort food into a global adventure—meet Anthony Falco! Known as the 'Pizza Czar,' this culinary globetrotter has taken the art of pizza-making to new heights, crisscrossing continents to share his doughy wisdom. His debut cookbook, 'Pizza Czar,' isn’t just a recipe collection—it’s a passport to the world’s tastiest pizza secrets, served with a side of passion and a sprinkle of fun.
Born in Austin, Texas, Falco didn’t start with a rolling pin in hand, but his journey from pizza enthusiast to international consultant proves that sometimes, the simplest ingredients can whip up the most extraordinary tales. Let’s slice into the story of a man who made pizza his canvas and the world his oven.
The Making of Anthony Falco
Anthony Falco kicked off life on July 29, 1979, in the Lone Star State, where BBQ reigns supreme—yet pizza would steal his heart. His Sicilian grandmother sparked his culinary curiosity, teaching him the ropes of dough and sauce. After dabbling as a web designer and opening a tiny pomme frite shop in Seattle, Falco’s entrepreneurial flops nudged him to New York. There, fate—and some bartender buddies—led him to Roberta’s, a Brooklyn pizzeria that would become his proving ground.
For eight years, he honed his craft at Roberta’s, rising to the role of Pizza Czar. But the world beckoned, and in 2015, Falco traded the boroughs for Brazil, launching a career as an international pizza consultant. From São Paulo to Bangkok, his suitcase and spatula have seen it all, blending local flavors with pizza perfection.
Anthony Falco’s Unforgettable Pizzas
Falco’s magnum opus, 'Pizza Czar: Recipes and Know-How from a World-Traveling Pizza Chef,' hit shelves in 2021, distilling his global escapades into a must-have guide. Think of it as a love letter to pizza, packed with hacks, tips, and recipes—like a Brazilian mashed potato pie or a Bolognese-topped masterpiece with a béchamel zigzag. It’s practical yet playful, teaching you to master classics or riff with regional twists.
His style? Approachable genius. Falco champions fresh, high-quality ingredients and straightforward techniques, making pizza-making feel like a worldwide party. Beyond the book, his consulting gigs—spanning Bogotá to Bangalore—showcase his knack for adapting pizza to any climate or kitchen. Whether it’s a Sicilian square or a thin-and-crispy round, Falco’s creations are a tasty mash-up of tradition and innovation.
He’s not just about pizza, though—Falco’s illustrator side shines through in hand-drawn designs for pizza brands, adding a visual zest to his culinary legacy. Every project reflects his belief that pizza is more than food; it’s a cultural connector, a slice of shared joy.
Why Anthony Falco Matters
Anthony Falco’s impact stretches far beyond the oven. He’s redefined pizza as a global language, proving it can thrive at 8,000 feet in Bogotá or in subtropical India. His work inspires home cooks and pros alike to rethink the familiar, blending passion with precision. Chefs like Chris Bianco and Anthony Mangieri sing his praises, calling him a game-changer who’s stamped his passport—and pizza—across the planet.
More than a consultant, Falco’s a storyteller, weaving culture, travel, and flavor into every bite. He’s turned a simple dish into a vehicle for connection, leaving a legacy that’s as much about community as it is about crust. In a world of fast food, Falco reminds us to savor the journey—one slice at a time.
- Born: July 29, 1979, Austin, Texas
- Key Work: 'Pizza Czar' (2021)
- Fun Fact: He’s consulted in over 20 cities worldwide!
Ready to toss some dough like a pro? Snag 'Pizza Czar' and let Anthony Falco guide you on a deliciously global adventure!