At the heart of Southern California’s vibrant food scene stands Freda’s Pizza, a beloved establishment helmed by the passionate and dedicated Phil Adler. Phil’s love for pizza is matched only by his love for people, a combination that has shaped every aspect of his thriving business.
Phil describes himself simply: “Passionate about food, especially pizza.” This passion ignited his journey into the world of wood-fired pizza, which began with a profound love for both the culinary art and the community it brings together. “I felt it was the perfect way to show the community what we were capable of, and there’s simply something special about wood-fired pizza,” he shares. This deep-rooted belief has driven him to create something truly extraordinary, blending traditional techniques with a modern touch.
From humble beginnings, Freda’s Pizza has grown significantly under Phil’s leadership. Today, it boasts two mobile ovens and three bustling restaurants located in Camarillo, Westlake Village, and Moorpark, CA. In addition to their brick-and-mortar locations, they cater events all over Southern California, bringing the unique flavors of wood-fired pizza to countless gatherings and celebrations. “We love being able to bring our pizza to people, whether it’s at a wedding, a corporate event, or a local festival,” Phil says. “Seeing the joy on people’s faces when they take that first bite is incredibly rewarding.”
Running a successful restaurant business is no easy feat, and Phil acknowledges that finding the right people has been one of his biggest challenges. “At its core, the restaurant business is a people business,” he explains. “Finding the right people to help run the business is the most critical part of our success.” Despite the challenges, Phil finds immense joy in seeing and supporting his staff as they grow and develop their skills. “My favorite thing about being a business owner is seeing and supporting our staff grow,” he adds. “Watching them develop their skills and gain confidence is incredibly fulfilling.”
Phil has been in the restaurant business for 14 years, and his inspiration continues to come from food itself. “Food inspires me,” he says simply. His favorite pizza to make is a simple cheese or Margherita, believing that when made well, it is the best representation of their craft. “A well-made Margherita is the epitome of pizza perfection,” he explains. “The balance of flavors and the quality of ingredients really shine through.”
Freda’s Pizza is more than just a place to grab a bite; it’s a community hub where food, passion, and people come together. Phil Adler’s dedication to his craft and his team is evident in every slice, making Freda’s Pizza a cherished part of Southern California’s culinary landscape. “We’re proud of what we’ve built here,” Phil reflects. “Our customers are like family, and we’re grateful for their continued support.”
In every aspect of his business, Phil Adler demonstrates a profound commitment to quality and community, making Freda’s Pizza a beloved fixture in the local food scene. Whether you’re enjoying a slice at one of their restaurants or savoring a wood-fired creation at a catered event, the love and care put into each pizza are unmistakable.
