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Allentown-based Stargazer Cast Iron is redefining cookware with modern, hand-finished skillets made in the USA, earning global acclaim and demand.
Allentown skillet maker celebrates 10 years
Stacy Wescoe//September 29, 2025//
The Lehigh Valley has always been known for its history in steel making, but will it someday be known for its cast iron?
Dissatisfied with the quality of nonstick cookware, an Allentown man started a cast iron skillet company 10 years ago, that has now grown significantly.
Peter Huntley produced the first batch of Stargazer Cast Iron skillets after wearing out his first set of cheap nonstick pans.
Huntley, a Lafayette College alum and professional designer, was a fan of cast iron cookware, but became frustrated by what he saw as the fading quality of the pans.
He also thought the design of cast iron cookware was in desperate need of overhaul.
With his new skillets, Huntley said he embraced a “not your grandma’s skillet ethos” and changed out features like pour spouts in favor of modern features like a flared rim and long, stay-cool handle.
Since its launch, the Allentown made cast iron skillets have received accolades from the likes of Bon Appétit, Good Housekeeping and Popular Mechanics.
What began in Huntley’s garage with just 250 skillets has grown into tens of thousands of pans shipped around the world.
Every skillet is still American-made and hand-finished in Allentown.
