Fredo's — Restaurant in Bakersfield

So I left a stellar review about 7 months ago. Since then we’ve come back to Fredos dozens of times and it was always a high quality, exceptional experience…We haven’t been in for about a month or 2, and Imagine my surprise when everything has changed and not for the better. It was bad enough that I felt the need to come on here and edit my review. Apparently there is new management. It seems like they are transitioning more toward like a vodka/ cran kind of vibe. Fast dirty cocktails you can get anywhere. The 88 miles per hour which I’ve order on many different occasions came without the spicy honey rim (which was my favorite part) and did not taste right. Aperol spritz came with no garnish either. The bar tender had minimal knowledge about the drinks and the sprits they had. They are using different pepperonis on the pizza (not the small ones anymore), they missed a pasta shipment so there was no pasta.. Cesar salad was totally different. It’s not a margarita pizza anymore, they are using different cheese so now it comes out just like a cheese pizza. You can see and taste they are using in my opinion lower quality ingredients. We didn’t recognize a single person working there anymore. The staff seemed frantic and disorganized. Small things like not giving us water and not giving us the right amount of cups we needed, or plates, or silverware…. They are apparently getting a dj and a second bar upstairs and opening for breakfast…. Idk different vibe than what it was. I won’t be back again. Sad to see one of my regular spots take...

Firstly, Fredo’s should have a line out the door. This last visit was my second and it did not disappoint. Fredo’s has the best Caesar salad in town. A friend and I selected the salmon and pear pizza….DELICIOUS! So flavorful, loved the contrast between the sweetness of the pair and the bit of tart from the balsamic vinegar, then you get the rich flavor of the salon. Loved it.

I encourage drinks before dinner, I’m usually a vodka tonic gal, but I like to try new things and I believe Fredo’s has curated an original drink selection. I ordered the ”Pardon my French,” a martini drink composed of vodka, passion fruit, lemon and lavender; it was sweet but not overly, what a treat. Our server was wonderful, she made some excellent recommendations. My first visit to Fredo’s was with my husband and another couple, my husband was initially concerned about only pizza on the menu. Ultimately, he was impressed with the originality of the pizza selections, ingredients and of course taste. So don’t be put-off by the pizza only menu.

I normally don’t rate interior design, but I appreciated the simple but elevated design of the dining room and bar. I don’t care for over-designed and loud piped-in music. I enjoyed that my friend and I could enjoy and excellent meal without having to raise our voices....

Let’s start from the beginning.. Viri, our server was absolutely wonderful. Knowledgeable, quick witted, respectful and fun. The pistachio pizza had absolutely no business being THAT delicious, and if you’re looking for a traditional margarita pizza, look no further. It’s unfortunate that I don’t possess the words in my vocabulary for just how great the entire experience was here tonight. I appreciated the option for a reservation as this is something our town needs ..however, do not let it shy you away from just walking in the door. I fear that the reservation aspect of it will make it seem like they are not “as available” but there was plenty of room. The only reason I give four stars for atmosphere is the house music. For a moment I could hear a classical jazz, which seemed much more appropriate and appreciated. But to each their own, it will not keep me from coming back.

Cheers to you Fredos, absolutely well done. Thank you for a great date night...