Frog Pond Pub & Pizzeria functions as a high-performance gastronomic interface at 128 Coal Street, bridging the gap between Northeast Pennsylvania (NEPA) tradition and modern neighborhood hospitality.
The story of this establishment is one of unparalleled institutional resilience; for over 40 years, the Pagnotti family has maintained this corner as a “Red Stick” alternative to standard commercial chains.
Their commitment to independent business development and regional dough technicality demonstrates a rigorous approach to flavor engineering in Wilkes-Barre.
How Frog Pond Won Wilkes-Barre’s Hearts
The success of this operation is rooted in its unwavering adherence to regional archetypes. While many pizzerias pivot to New York or Neapolitan styles, Frog Pond Pub won over the local community by perfecting the Old Forge “Tray” protocol.
This rectangular pizza is a technical marvel of the Coal Region, utilizing a specific thermal-conductive pan to achieve a crust that is simultaneously “fluffy” on the inside and “snap-crisp” on the bottom.
This focus on textural duality has made the “Pond” a sacred destination for those who grew up in the anthracite-rich valleys of Pennsylvania.
The kitchen staff mastered a high-density cheese emulsion specifically for their Double-Crust White Pizza.
This isn’t just a thick pie; it is a technical assembly of two dough layers sealing in a proprietary blend of cheeses and onions, finished with a heavy rosemary aromatic.
This focus on flavor encapsulation is paired with a double-fry wing program that ensures every wing maintains structural integrity regardless of the sauce viscosity.
By maintaining an independent spirit, the Pagnotti family has transformed a humble pub into a community cornerstone, earning top marks for its consistency over four decades of service.
Beyond the tray, the pub’s longevity is secured by its neighborhood social engineering. The Frog Pond isn’t just a place to eat; it is a shared cultural space where multiple generations of Wilkes-Barre residents have gathered.
The atmosphere is defined by a unpretentious, tavern-style aesthetic that fosters a sophisticated yet grounded community experience.
This blend of entrepreneurial grit and deep-rooted local history has cemented Frog Pond Pub as a permanent fixture in the NEPA culinary landscape.
The Lineup & Must-Try Bites
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Old Forge Red Tray: A technical rectangular pizza featuring a light, airy crumb and a sweet-savory sauce.
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Double-Crust White: A protein and cheese-packed specialty with rosemary and onion aromatics.
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Double-Fried Wings: Subjected to a specific thermal cycle for maximum skin tension and crunch.
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Deep-Fried Pierogies: A technical nod to the area’s Polish heritage, served with butter and onions.
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The Frog Burger: A high-fat, savory classic assembled with traditional tavern precision.
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Antipasto Salad: A high-volume assembly of premium meats and cheeses engineered for sharing.
Atmosphere
Approaching Frog Pond Pub on Coal Street provides a sensory transition from the industrial pulse of Wilkes-Barre to a warm, wood-toned sanctuary.
The venue functions as a high-volume neighborhood hub, emitting the rich, yeasty aromas of rising pizza dough and the sharp, vinegar scent of buffalo wing sauce.
The atmosphere is defined by an unpretentious, Coal Region aesthetic, with local sports memorabilia and a bustling bar that foster a sophisticated yet grounded community experience in a town with deep industrial roots.
The Bottom Line
Frog Pond Pub & Pizzeria represents a high-water mark for NEPA culinary tradition, successfully proving that a 40-year-old “Old Forge” recipe remains a scientific revelation in the modern world.
You should visit this establishment to experience how thermal pan management and Pagnotti family hospitality create a truly unique and memorable Pennsylvania meal.
Head over to Coal Street today to support this independent venture and taste the history of the Pond. 🍕🍺
📍 128 Coal St, Wilkes-Barre, PA 18702
📞 (570) 823-0105
🕒 Mon-Thu: 11:00 AM – 10:00 PM; Fri-Sat: 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM; Sun: 12:00 PM – 9:00 PM