So, I finally got around to trying Fredi The Pizzaman. And for the first time since moving to Michigan I can say I found a pie which is worth going out of my way. The sauce was clearly not just something out of a jar and the crust.... it was crisp but still had air and flavor. The pies are umami bombs. Fredi's is definitely the best pizza I've had in Michigan and is among the best I've had since leaving NYC. Fredi's exemplifies the difference between a place run by a genuine, skilled, experienced pizzaiolo and a place run by an owner/manager who buys pre-packaged ingredients and leaves all the kitchen work to part-time minimum-wagers. I drove 90 minutes round-trip in the pouring rain and I will be back, not just because I happen to be in the neighborhood. For those inclined to try Fredi's: do not wait until the end of the day. There was a waiting line at 1:30 pm on a rainy Wednesday afternoon and since Fredi uses only fresh ingredients, it is my understanding that they occasionally run out. read more

Such an interesting place. No calling ahead, you take a number like at a deli counter. I brought cash because the vibe of this place suggested they might not even take credit card (they do). We would have eaten in, but the place was a bit small - I think a couple booths and a few counter seats. Best pizza in Detroit? I can't think of anything better that I've had. We tried three different pizzas and enjoyed them all. Can't wait to go back! read more

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Fredi is the man!!! I love his creativity and consistency. Always delicious. Try the hot honey pepperoni!!! read more

Very good pizza ,and the Goulash is very good also, our lunch crew tried it last year for first time and we all enjoy a trip to Fredi's. It is a little odd ordering, pull a number like the sos, but staff does a good job explaining it. However when it is crowded it hard to sit around and wait, without being in way. Staff is organized though and does a great job moving people in and out. Small footprint restaurant but they maximized seating and made outdoor seating as well. Highly recommended if you are in the area. read more

We just went here today to see if this pizza was as good as everyone claimed. Let me tell you it was not... IT WAS BETTER. This is a humble building with limited seating and a preference for cash. On my first visit we tried the large pizza with mushrooms. Even the picture of the pizza is a work of art. Absolutely flavorful with quality pepperonis, mushrooms and and Italian sauce worth dying for..( but don't, go back and get more). read more

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If you haven't found your way here- you simply must. Mostly carry out and a few tables. Get here early because when things run out they are done. We made it around 1 on a Saturday afternoon. We were pretty hungry. You take a ticket, attempt to finagle a table, and weight. Cans of coke, Fanta, etc are available. They don't offer vegan cheese and trust a sufferer of body vs dairy- these pies are lactaid worthy. We had the (I think) santori- pepperoni and hot honey. We also got cheese since they were already out of sausage. Each pie had fresh basil leaves on top. Yummy thin crust. Between three of us and two pies only 3 slices left. Well, we were hungry. And it was that good. I'm sure we will be back! And don't forget to take your number. read more

Fredi The PizzaMan - Take the ticket - Italian Near Me - Melvindale, Michigan

When you get to be construction barrel in size, there are a couple or things you know about the food world: B&F (Burgers n'Fries), ICx3Pl&P (Ice Cream, Cookies and Cakes& pies), BBQ (ummmm well Bar-B-Cue), FCiaf (Fried Chicken in any form), BD (breakfast delights) and of course Pizza. And that's what we have today. As funny and absurd as it sounds I had to go to the Federal Building today to find out why I wasn't allowed in the country of Spain. Want to know more? Read my upcoming biography Pepper in a Sea of Salt. I digress. Since I was just a quick hop, skip and jump away from Melvindale, I decided to finally get to Fredi the Pizza Man because everyone and their mother raves about it. And while usually the public going gaga over anything immediately turns me off to something, let me tell you right now and here. This slice was AMAZING! Most places in the area do not make a great NY slice but man does Fredi come through. The slice has enough crunch while still being soft enough and big enough to be foldable. Even better is the pepperonis they use curl up and get that little pool of oil in them. Mmmmmmmm this fat boy getting fatter. And for $3 it is a great deal ($5 with a pop). The place is small, and lines are to be expected by lunchtime. They have an old fashioned numbering system like you would have at the deli, which I just absolutely loved. Place your order, they call your number, you eat. Easy Peasy! I do wish this was closer to me cause it would be my lunch at least twice a week. Can't believe I waited this long to come here. Get here!!! read more

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Small spot similar to New York pizza spot, seating is very minimal, the ambiance was ok, the place was clean but older looking; you come in grab a number..when they call your number head to counter place your and you wait for your pizza to be made. The service is quick! I just wish the crust was a little more appetizing like the New York pizzas. The crust was hard zero softness and tasted like nothing actually. read more

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The only criticism I have is that this location is super small. They could really benefit from a larger dining room. The food and the service were excellent when we were there. One of the ovens was an operational and it was an extraordinary long wait just to order however, the pizza was cooked perfectly, and my wife's calzone was not only huge but very tasty. For my taste, I would've ordered the calzone with half of the mozzarella cheese read more

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Life changing pizza. What else can be said. Prepare for a life of pizza disappointment after trying one of the pies. Tops in the state. Make the trip. read more

I am having the BARZINI pizza which is your choice of 3 meats. The gulash will be your appetizer if you choose it. Me personally I am not a crust eater but in this case the whole pizza is awesome. This is the 2nd best pizza place in the Midwest. But don't take my word for it this place came out in Pizza Magazine. The taste here is magical and unforgettable you will come back. It's not very big here the table service will knockout the whole table in seconds. 70 and 80s nostalgia you will be reminded of yesterday it's a neighborhood establishment. You will not mind spending here they also have calzones. You will have conversations with people from out town they come from all over the place. The pizza here better than New Jersey pizza. Detroit has it going on with their pizza, Fredis is the place to be. That is all. Chief Remember good Salsa is not made New Jersey. read more

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The absolute best (oven cooked) pizza I've ever had in S E metro Detroit hands down, thanks again Fredi for satisfying & tantalizing our taste buds!!!!! read more

Dave Portnoy was right...Fredi serves up phenomenal pizza! You will be forever grateful to the pizza gods if you are fortunate enough to try Fredi's. The pizza is absolutely delicious! It's not a Detroit style pizza, but it is an Italian style thin crust pizza that is very similar to New Haven style pizza, which is the best pizza style in the world in my opinion. The true testament is that Fredi's pizza would still stand out in CT, NY, NJ, and Philly. I met the owner and he seems like a great guy. I love his mission and focus on making a difference. The hours are limited and there is no way to call. You just have to show up and order. The pizza came out very quickly...probably less than 10 mins. The restaurant was pretty much spotless inside and had indoor and outdoor seating. Definitely check it out, but they sell out so get there early. I went on a Tuesday arrived at 4 and got the last pizza available. read more

I would wait 3 hours for this pizza. Hands down some of the best pizza I've ever had in all of my travels. I'll be dreaming of the "crunch" of this crust for months to come. Love the atmosphere. Fredi and his team are friendly and courteous. Next time I'm back in Detroit this will be a must stop. read more

Fredi The PizzaMan - Italian Near Me - Melvindale, Michigan

When I went last it is great, the basil is a great touch and the hot honey makes whatever pizza it is that you order from there.

My first time after finally making the long trip. Ordered the goulash and Corleone pizza. Burned the hell out of my mouth on both items, but well worth it. Both were very tasty. The woman working the counter was super nice too. I'll be back with my family soon! read more

Great pizza. Got the $3 slice of NY pizza and some ravioli with the grape soda. Ravioli was pretty legit. Small place, gets pretty warm in there. The restroom was clean. Great place. read more

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Fredi's pizza and goulash are a must try!! Both are amazing!! Dave Portnoy even gave his pizza a high score and said it's the best in Detroit. Fredi makes all of the food himself and he's one of the nicest people you'll ever meet. I used to live down the street from his business and I can't believe I'm just now trying it! I can't wait to return! read more

Fredi The PizzaMan - You must get a slice while you wait! - Italian Near Me - Melvindale, Michigan

We finally had Fredi's! The pizza came out of the oven fast & hot. We couldn't help but burn our mouths while shoving our first piece down our throats. Delicious! Nice, crunchy crust topped with fresh items baked to perfection. The sauce is the right ratio of tomato for this NY style pizza, my boyfriend getting light sauce on his pepperoni pie. I ordered up the Portnoy Original- drizzled with olive oil & topped with basil. Sooo good!! We will be back! Fredi donates to build Autism sensory rooms around the state. He is in the pizza shop whipping up pies himself. The shop closes when they sell out or at 5pm! Go support this amazing local business! He is a stand up guy! read more

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One of the best pizzas in Detroit hands down. Crust was perfect - crispy with just enough sauce. Toppings were delicious and had just enough flop to the undercarriage. Would highly recommend the drive. The owner is a great guy and supports the community kids with autism and sensory issues. Great place! read more

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Fame has gone to his head . No slices now apparently to big time . Medium pizza with pepperoni $17 for burnt garbage . I'll never go back to this place . read more

Okay this is the one! I will keep this updated review short but went back to Fredi's (of course I did) and wanted to try a different pie from the margherita I had last time so I got a medium Portnoy Cheese and wow that's the winner. The pizza is well done but the crust is still light and airy, the cheese looks to be different on this pie I'm guessing mozzarella off the block instead of fresh? Who knows but it's delicious. I originally had Fredi's margherita as my 3rd favorite pizza, this cheese pie beats that and might even move up to #2 on my list! read more

Fredi The PizzaMan - Classic Margherita Pizza - Italian Near Me - Melvindale, Michigan

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The pizza and service were awesome. The atmosphere is unique and very enjoyable for the a one of a kind pizza with character experience. read more

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Walk in, grab a ticket, wait for your number to be called, and order. The wait was about 15 minutes for a pizza, and the line builds fast. Despite the humid hot day, the place wasn't overly hot. There is a good amount of seating, and the walls are adorned with historical celebrities. Hands down, this is one of the best pizzas I've ever eaten. I had it fresh out of the oven. The crust was thin and crispy all the way through. The tips of the slices had a bit of flop due to the generous amount of mozzarella weighing them down. The sauce was fresh, sweet, and slightly acidic. The pepperoni cups were curled, toasted, and crispy. The pizza was still hot, so the cheese hadn't fully set and was sliding off. Regardless, it was amazing--I may have accidentally eaten the whole thing in one sitting. read more

Fredi The PizzaMan - Santino Large - Italian Near Me - Melvindale, Michigan

Being from NY and being a connoisseur of pizza Fredi The PizzaMan didn't miss a beat! Outstanding Right up there with Patsy's on 117th & 1st. Will be going back next time I'm in Detroit. K&G read more

Best Pizza Ever. Sauce is outta this world and the crust is the perfect balance between crisp and chewy. Pretty good system for handling the large number of people coming through the doors. There will be a wait...but remember, good things come to those who wait. read more

Best Pizza in the State of Michigan!!! Every time we are there they have such a following. Always people that have seen an internet post and come to visit. I've seen people from NY, PA, and Canada during our many visits. Eat a pie there and take one home. read more

Awesome spot. One of the best pizzas I've ever had the privilege to enjoy. Perfectly crispy, just how I like it. Shoutout Fredi, the best pizza in Detroit. read more

Fredi The PizzaMan - Margherita Pizza - Italian Near Me - Melvindale, Michigan

Awesome pie! The picture speaks for itself! I could just eat the crust and be happy. IMO, I have yet to find a better pizza. Fredi is a true pizzaiolo! read more

Fredi The PizzaMan - Awesome Pie! - Italian Near Me - Melvindale, Michigan

My boyfriend and I had to make the journey to try this place after seeing Dave Portnoys review from 2020. This place did not disappoint. When you first step into Fredi's, there's a ticket stand and you grab a number to place your order. They role these pizzas out quickly, so no matter how many numbers are in front of you, it won't be long before they're taking your order. Fredi makes all the pizzas himself, there's one busser, one person preparing ingredients, and one person taking orders. I could really appreciate that in a typically stressful environment, everyone knew their roles and did them well. The pizza was delicious! It was crispy and thin, a perfect New York Style pizza, with perfect ratios to toppings and crust. The location is small, a few booths and a few chairs up at bar like tables against walls or windows. There is some additional seating outside. All of this adds to the ambience. read more

Great pizza. Ordered pepperoni and honey hot pepperoni. Went on a Saturday and it was super busy, but it was worth the wait.

The pizza and Fredi are amazing. First off, I drove in from Columbus and saw a sign that they were out of pizza. I was highly disappointed and saw Fredi outside prepping the restaurant for opening. I asked him if they were sold out and he told me that sign was from last night and to come back when they opened at 11. He then asked for my name and gave me a fist bump. When I came back at opening he remembered my name and who I was! I thought that was nice that he's so personable even when I'm just a random patron. He does great things for the community and his story is one to love. He definitely deserves the best. As for the pizza it was perfection. Dave should've given this place a 9 but probably didn't because it's not in NY. It was easily in my top 10 pizzas along with Lucalis and Di Faras. It's crispy and light, while using fresh ingredients. Fredi is definitely a maestro of pizza making. I wish I lived closer but he sells out everyday and I'd feel guilty for not letting everyone experience this place just once. Overall, I drove here from Columbus to be there at opening and it was well worth the trip. I hope to be back one day and definitely will tell everyone I know to visit if they can. read more

Fredi The PizzaMan - Italian Near Me - Melvindale, Michigan

THE BEST!!! Delicious pizza with a perfect crisp yet chewy crust. The meat ravioli is also excellent. The sauces on both the pizza and the ravioli are so flavorful. The service is friendly and welcoming! read more

Phenomenal pizza. I drove about 5 hours round trip to try this pizza out and it didn't disappoint. I'll be making it an occasional road trip destination. read more

Fredi The PizzaMan - Sausage, mushroom and onion. Large. - Italian Near Me - Melvindale, Michigan

Growing up in NYC I often heard that the reason ny pizza is the best is because of the water. I always believed this urban legend because I've had pizza all over the country and none of it tasted like NY pizza - until today. Believe the hype! Fredi makes damn good NY style pizza. It's very thin and crispy with flavorful sauce and cheese. I think sticking to cheese or 1 topping is best. Besides the pizza everyone is so nice inside. I had followed the IG account daily for the better part of one year so I felt like I was seeing a celebrity as I watched Fredi make the pizzas. I'll be back! read more

Fredi The PizzaMan - Large cheese - Italian Near Me - Melvindale, Michigan

Easily the best pizza in Michigan and possibly the Midwest (depending on what style you like). This is true premium pizza, and I would put it up there with some pizzerias on the East Coast. read more

Great pizza on a good thin crust. It is almost self serve. Take a number when called order then when called a second time pay & take your pie. There are a few tables and a few more outside during good weather but most people take it home Friendly staff but no call in orders. read more

Fredi is the 1 & Only Man. Very welcoming, proceeds go towards a good cause and definitely worth the wait. Best Pizza in Detroit Hands Down! read more

Fredi The PizzaMan - Pepperoni Margarita - Italian Near Me - Melvindale, Michigan

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Phenomenal experience. Friendly staff all around. Grab a ticket at the entrance, they call your ticket number, you order and pay after you get your pizza. Absolute unit of a mom and pop spot with plenty of locals and chill vibe. Small intimate interior with spots to share inside as well as outdoor patio options to also share. The pizza we ordered, pepperoni and cheese, was New York style/inspired and has a nice crispy crust with perfect roni to cheese ratio. Plenty of signage, autographs, and accolades letting you know this spot is the real deal and I agree. read more

Fredi The PizzaMan - The anatomy of the pizza, nice crispy thin crust. - Italian Near Me - Melvindale, Michigan

Best authentic Italian pizza in Michigan. Must love light thin crust. Great little pizza joint. It was different than any other pizza I've ever experienced in a great way. Super light. Crispy. Tangy sauce. I liked the pizza with toppings Better than cheese only. Go see Fredi the pizza boss himself. read more

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