Frank Sinatra is rumored to have said, “I would like to be remembered as a man who had a wonderful time living life, a man who had good friends, great food and fine family, and I don’t think I could ask for anything more than that.”
The quote from Ol’ Blue Eyes fits Fredi’s Pizza/Pasta quite well. Located in the downriver community of Melvindale, Michigan, Fredi’s is an old school pizzeria with a family-like atmosphere. Pictures of the Rat Pack and Detroit sports teams decorate the walls; family history and Italian cuisine permeate the air.
Although we came to review this little restaurant located blocks away from the Ford River Rouge Complex, it’s hard to deny the story that’s bigger than the eatery itself: Fredi’s Pizza/Pasta is all about community and relationships. Restaurant Owner Fredi Bello doesn’t only take pride in his food; he takes pride in connecting with his patrons. Case in point: During our visit, he knew everyone who walked through the door.
Our culinary exploration of Fredi’s Pizza/Pasta began with a slice of New York Style Pizza. The large, foldable slice of pie featured a thin and crispy crust with fresh pepperoni and mozzarella. In Metro Detroit, the land of deep dish pizza, a New York style slice is a nice change of pace. Order it by the slice or as a whole pie.
One of Fredi’s most popular dishes is a true throwback. The Goulash is a classic Italian dish, featuring elbow macaroni, hamburger, onions, green peppers, and homemade sauce. It’s a hearty, satisfying bowl of goodness guaranteed to satisfy any size appetite.
Fredi points out that the Goulash recipe goes back, way back. His father owned a breakfast restaurant thirty-five years ago and one of his staff members taught him how to make it. When the recipe was passed down to Fredi, he incorporated his own homemade sauce and has been selling it to words of praise ever since.
What would an Italian joint be without a classic Italian sandwich? Fredi’s Italian sandwich includes fine Italian meats, homemade dressing, and fresh-baked bread from a local Italian bakery, toasted to perfection. It’s crunchy, tangy, and addicting. We think it’s absolutely delicious, but don’t take our word for it.
Fredi’s Italian sandwich is regarded as one of Metro Detroit’s Best Sandwiches by the Detroit Free Press. Ever the family man, Fredi actually missed the original phone call from the Free Press when they contacted him to tell him about the honor. Why’d he miss the call? The restaurant was closed due to the birth of his child.
While the food at Fredie’s Pizza/Pasta is memorable, the personality and service of Fredi Bello are what make the place truly special. Who can ask for more than that?
Fredi’s Pizza/Pasta is located at 17900 Allen Rd., Melvindale, Michigan. The restaurant is open Monday through Friday, 10:30 AM to 4:30 PM. For more information, please visit www.fredispizzadinners.com.
Fredi’s is far more than just great food. Fredi and his crew treat everyone as a VIP, whether it is your first visit or your fiftieth.
Fredi is a true professional with a passion for his customers. He takes the time to get know every one of us. The food is outstanding – from the pizza to the sandwiches to the goulash – definitely worth the experience!