Front Room Pizzeria in Barry Gains Popularity After James Corden’s Praise
By Kathryn Williams
Pizza in Wales has been receiving high praise lately, with a multitude of establishments offering exceptional quality pies. From Cardiff’s 591 and West Pizza to Swansea’s Pizza Boyz, there are plenty of options to choose from. One such renowned pizzeria is Front Room in Barry, which garnered attention from the cast of Gavin & Stacey during the filming of the Christmas day finale episode last autumn. The cast, including famous faces like James Corden, frequented the pizzeria as their green room. Impressed by the pizza, compliments were shared with James Corden, who decided to sample their parmesan-dusted speciality for himself. The buzz around the pizza even led to Corden lauding it as ‘amazing.’
David Wigley, the owner of Front Room, recounted Corden’s visit, mentioning how the actor invested in a pizza restaurant in Italy and was keen on understanding the pizza-making process. Corden expressed his delight after tasting a slice, exclaiming, “Oh my god, that’s so good.” The interactions between Corden, the staff, and the pizza itself were captured in a video shared by Front Room. The pizzeria’s popularity soared after Corden’s visit, attracting even more visitors eager to taste the acclaimed pizza.
Curious to experience the praised pizza for myself, I ventured to Front Room in Barry’s Pumphouse. The historical location, once home to Hang Fire Smoke House and Alium, set the perfect ambiance for a delightful dining experience. The spacious restaurant, adorned with vibrant yet tasteful decor, offered a welcoming atmosphere for a Thursday night outing. The menu boasted an array of tempting options, including a variety of pizzas, starters like fried chicken, and a selection of beverages.
Opting for two regular base pizzas, a gluten-free option, and some delectable sides, my dining experience commenced. Front Room’s pizzas, known for their thin and crispy bases, featured an enticing selection of toppings like ‘The Proper Ronnie’ and ‘Forbidden Fruit.’ Among our choices was ‘The Mega Rita,’ a classic Margherita with a delightful twist, and ‘The Persian Lamb,’ a unique blend of flavours sure to tantalize the taste buds.
The ‘Rule Breaker’ specials, like the Persian Lamb pizza, showcased Front Room’s innovative approach to pizza-making. Topped with slow-cooked spice lamb, aubergines, pickled red onion, mint yoghurt, and feta, the Persian Lamb pizza was a delightful surprise. The balance of flavours and textures in each bite was truly exceptional. Additionally, the Classic Margherita and Front Room’s signature pizza, ‘The Front Room,’ impressed with their flavour profiles and quality toppings.
While most of the meal was a culinary success, the gluten-free base fell short in terms of texture and taste, failing to live up to expectations. However, the hearty servings of fried chicken, accompanied by a glass of Miopasso Primitivo, added to the overall dining experience. The friendly ambiance and attentive service at Front Room enhanced the dining experience, leaving a positive impression.
In conclusion, Front Room Pizzeria in Barry lives up to its reputation as a must-visit pizza destination. With a diverse menu, innovative specials, and a welcoming atmosphere, it’s no surprise that the Gavin & Stacey cast and celebrities like James Corden have been singing its praises. Whether you’re a pizza aficionado or simply looking for a memorable dining experience, Front Room promises a culinary adventure worth embarking on.
For those craving a taste of the acclaimed pizza and a slice of Welsh hospitality, Front Room in Barry beckons with its delectable offerings and warm ambiance.