Fred's Sandwiches

For those who think sandwiches are boring, you haven’t tried Fred’s. Owned by Victoria McDowall and Harry McArthur, the light, bright Cuba Street shop has white walls and upbeat orange seating along one side of the room, with a few small tables and stools at the front window.

Their sammies are served on locally made breads from Wellington Sourdough, Shelly Bay Baker, and Dough Bakery. The classics are worthy, such as egg, cheese and bacon, as are fillings such as panko chicken schnitzel with iceberg lettuce, mustard and pickle mayo.

Along with head chef Aidan Coveny, the duo also creates weekly specials. You could be in for a braised chicken sandwich on focaccia with harissa and green herbs, pecorino and aioli – dialled up with the genius addition of a salty and sweet peanut praline. The emphasis, says McDowall, is on fresh and flavoursome sandwiches, with plenty of sauce.