Wharfside Stories: Pizza, Brews and Fabulous Views at Fred’s

The news that a new pizzeria and brewbar called Fred’s was landing at the Wharfside caused quite a buzz on socials. And it’s not hard to figure out why. The thought of carving up freshly made margherita and supping on in-house ales while enjoying a legendary Mount’s Bay view sounded like a dreamy night out to many Penzance folk.

As the weeks went by and Fred’s took shape, it was also clear this was a restaurant with some irresistible design touches – open plan, striking monochrome murals and a pizza oven that’s a bit of an artistic triumph.

By the time it opened, Fred’s was as hot as a slice of pepperoni topped with California reapers. And it’s continued to draw in the crowds and has exciting plans for the months ahead.

We grabbed owner Josh for a quick chat to find out about fine food and drink with great views. And to get his answer to the most divisive topic in pizza-dom: yes or no to pineapple.

Josh, why should people come to Fred’s?
We make and serve homemade wood-fired pizza in a modern, open-plan pizzeria and brewbar. It’s a great place to meet, enjoy a pizza and maybe have a drink inside or out. And we have unrivalled views of Mount’s Bay and St Michael’s Mount.

Tell us a bit about your pizzas and your brews. What makes them stand out?
The pizza menu will always be changing – we’re constantly bringing in fresh new ideas with a keen eye on local produce and seasonality. From November, beer will be made on site and served directly from the brew tanks. You cannot get fresher pizza or beer!

We love the fact that there are so many veggie and vegan options. What was the reason behind this?

Plant-based dinners are the fastest-growing section of the food trade – you ignore them at your peril. Not all pizzas need meat and cheese.

Your star pizza, in your opinion, is…

At the time of writing, it is the Merguez Sausage, Roasted Apricot and Whipped Feta. It is meat, but it is also amazing!

You have some fantastic signage and murals – the place looks wonderful. What inspired you?
I’ve been working with a great designer, Jas, for several years, and she has helped my concept come to life. The murals are a practical solution to showcasing our vast space, which we have kept completely open plan. The openness creates an inclusive atmosphere, where everyone can see the food being cooked.

The best seats in the house are…

The sharing tables at the front. They have the best view and are a great excuse to meet a group of friends – or make new friends.

And why the name ‘Fred’s’?

My grandfather gave me the nickname Fred when I was little. He was an arable farmer and would have grown the grain for the beer and the flour, so it’s a little nod to him.

And what’s brought you the most joy so far?
Return customers who praise the staff and food.

Why did you choose the Wharfside?
It’s a central location with killer views. Oh, and it’s just two minutes from where I live 😄.

You own the successful Crown pub in Penzance. What inspired you to expand into this new venture?
It feels like a natural step and Penzance is going places – the timing is right.And what’s coming next for Fred’s?

The brewery arrives in November, and that will, I believe, really put us on the map.

We’ll finish with a highly controversial subject: is it ever acceptable to put pineapple on pizza?

Pizza is a personal thing and who am I to say no? But, personally, will I put it on pizza at Fred’s? Let’s just say that is highly unlikely!