About Us
Our Story
Monty’s Pimento Cheese isn’t just another name on a product label. It’s a tribute to the enduring memory of Angelo “Monty” Monteleone, a proud Sicilian immigrant whose story embodies the classic American dream.
Meet Angelo "Monty" Monteleone
Monty’s journey began in the early 1900's when his family emigrated from Sicily and settled in Brooklyn, N.Y. Growing up in the heart of the Italian-American community, Monty cultivated countless friendships and was always surrounded by a vibrant social circle. If there was a gathering, Monty was at the center of it. His outgoing nature and charm made him well-known and loved by everyone he met.
After serving in the US Air Corp during WWII, It was in Brooklyn where Monty met and fell in love with Rosalie, another Sicilian immigrant. After they married, the couple moved to Rochester, NY, where Monty worked tirelessly for the city dedicating many years before his retirement. Yet, despite his hard work, Monty always harbored a dream that never came to fruition: to open his own pizza shop, Monty’s Pizza.
Though Monty passed away before realizing this dream, his legacy lives on. His granddaughter made a heartfelt promise - to honor his memory and passion by naming a future business after him. Today, Monty’s Pimento Cheese stands as a testament to that promise, preserving not only Monty’s name but also the enduring values of family, food, dedication, and ambition that he held dear.
Meet the Cheese makers!
Monty’s Pimento Cheese, Established in July 2023, is more than just a business - it’s a family legacy. The recipe was crafted by Erin Monteleone Allen, originally from upstate NY, who moved to NC in 2004. Frustrated by store-bought options, Erin spent years perfecting her pimento cheese recipe, finally nailing it in 2015. Her creation quickly became a hit at gatherings with friends and family, who encouraged Erin and her husband to turn it into a business. Seven years later, in 2023 they took a leap of faith and launched Monty’s Pimento Cheese, honoring Erin’s promise to her late grandfather, Angelo “Monty” Monteleone. Since it’s launch, Erin and her husband, Brian Allen have become active in the local small business community, attending vendor events and connecting with fellow cheese enthusiasts. Grateful for the support of family and friends, they continue to grow Monty’s Pimento Cheese, making lifelong connections along the way.