Right in the heart of Eagan, Minnesota, Carbone’s Pizzeria has quickly become a staple in the community, offering more than just great food. It’s a place that feels like home. With a rich history rooted in family values and community support, Carbone’s stands out not just for its legendary pizzas but for its deep commitment to the people it serves.
Andrea Kintz, co-general manager of the Eagan location and veteran of Carbone’s since 2002, knows the power of personal connections. “I was a single mom trying to find something that would help me support my daughter,” she reflects, sharing her journey from server to manager. “It’s a family-oriented place that took great care of me while I took care of them. It has been the best of give-and-take situations.”
A Focus on Customers and Great Food
The Eagan store, which is a sister location to the original Carbone’s on East 7th Street in St. Paul, is unique in its operations. Unlike many pizza franchises, Carbone’s focuses on a personalized approach to business, emphasizing people over corporate systems. “We don’t do the corporate avenue,” Kintz explains. “We take care of people based on people. Everyone has a different story.”
For customers, that philosophy translates into a dining experience that goes beyond just pizza. “It’s the best pizza anywhere,” Kintz says. And while their pizza is a favorite for many, there’s a hidden gem on the menu: the grilled ham and cheese sandwich. Served with Carbone’s signature garlic butter, it’s a “sleeper pick” that’s as delicious as it is unexpected.
One of the most popular menu items is the Family Meal Deal: a large two-topping pizza, paired with a small cheese bread or pizza fries appetizer, and the option of dine-in or to-go drinks. Perfect for families looking for a hearty meal at an unbeatable value, it’s just one of the many reasons Carbone’s continues to earn the love of local residents.
A Focus on the Community
But Carbone’s is more than just great food; it’s a business that is deeply embedded in the community. The restaurant sponsors local hockey and soccer teams and has been an advocate for domestic violence shelters, working with organizations that help those in delicate situations. “We don’t publicly talk about it as we want to protect those involved,” Kintz says, emphasizing the sensitivity of the causes they support.
Their community-driven approach extends beyond charitable donations. Every holiday season, Carbone’s supports Hope for the Brave, hosting toy drives for children in need. They also sponsor back-to-school shoe drives to make sure that students start the year off right. In addition, donation baskets filled with branded items are placed out for organizations like Feed My Starving Children, with proceeds going toward silent auctions that benefit these worthy causes.
In addition to their community efforts, Carbone’s Eagan also offers a convenient way for teams, clubs, and organizations to raise money through their frozen pizza fundraisers. “It’s an easy way to get involved and raise money for a good cause,” says Kintz. “No money upfront, free selling materials, and of course, our delicious products and outstanding service.”
Delicious and Affordable Catering
Catering is another area where Carbone’s stands out from the crowd. Offering a diverse menu that goes beyond pizza to include sandwiches, calzones, and more, Carbone’s is an ideal choice for events of all sizes. With their focus on fresh, high-quality ingredients, the catering menu ensures that every guest enjoys a memorable experience.
Since 1954, Carbone’s has been perfecting the art of pizza-making, using only the freshest ingredients to create meals that families and friends can share. From hoagies to pasta, the variety on the menu ensures that everyone, no matter their tastes, will find something they love.
Reflecting on Carbone’s role in St. Paul, Kintz notes, “Being a part of St. Paul for 20+ years and growing within the community has been so rewarding. I can’t wait to see what the future holds with Eagan.” It’s clear that the future of Carbone’s is bright, and with the dedication of people like Kintz, the Eagan location is set to continue making a positive impact on the community for many years to come.
Whether you’re in the mood for a classic pizza, a delicious sandwich, or a catering option for your next big event, Carbone’s Eagan delivers on all fronts. It’s more than just a place to eat; it’s a place that understands the value of family, tradition, and community.
Are you hungry? Head on over to Carbones in Eagan for a great meal.