STORY
Crowded Table Pizza was founded by Allison Leroux, whose background spans hospitality, agriculture, and community-based education.
Allison grew up working in her family’s pizzeria and otherwise outdoors with gardens and animals. Grateful to have been able to learn alongside highly respected pizzaiolos, with opportunities to compete in international pizza competitions around the world. These unique experiences established both technical skills and a passion for continuing in the pizza & food industry.
Later, studying Animal Biology and Agriculture at the University of Guelph to further understand how food production systems, land stewardship, and community are connected confirmed her interest in the relationship between producers and consumers, particularly in urban contexts where connections and education can be harder to find.
Her studies, plus a strong love for being involved in her community, have given her a first-hand glimpse into how the food we eat is made from seed to slice. In December of 2023 (in the middle of exams, of course), Crowded Table was started as a passion project, following in her parents’ footsteps in her own way.
It’s all inspired by the welcoming community she’s found wherever she goes and the fact that the best memories are made while sharing meals around a crowded table.
COMPETITIONS & PROFESSIONAL EXPERIENCE
Crowded Table is informed by international competition experience and mentorship within the pizza industry.
Highlights include:
Growing up working at Amadio’s Pizza in Mississauga, ON
1st Place – World Pizza Games largest dough stretch (2022)
2nd Place – International Pizza Challenge, Traditional Division (2022)
Staging at Truly Pizza in Dana Point, CA during soft opening, 2023
Top placements at Canadian Pizza Summit since 2022
Campionate Mondiale della Pizza in Naples, Italy June 2025
Consultant for inaugural Restaurants Canada Show Pizza Competition, now going on 4 years