The Federal

Dined here on a recent trip to Atlanta. Wanted a quick bite, slipped in without a reservation but it was an early dinner hour. We both ordered a burger-although it is probably more of a steak locale- but the burger was delicious. Our waiter was funny and informative. Tempted us with the dessert menu- tried the lemon tart. Heavenly.

I have had one of the best dinners of my life here...That said, I had a let down of a brunch here too. I went out with my best friend and girlfriend for dinner here and we were not disappointed. We each got the high-end steak, some gruyere potatoes, some oysters, and a few bottles of wine. It was also my friend's birthday, so we got to try some of their cake for dessert...The best thing out of the lot was the gruyere potatoes. Now, that is not to downplay anything. The service was great, the steak was otherworldly, the oysters were enjoyable, and the cake was a delightful surprise...But those gruyere potatoes though....we were all literally talking about those potatoes for days/weeks later. We were on a food high of which I have never experienced before. We were all so content, so happy, so drunk off of those gruyere potatoes paired with steak, it was somewhat heart-breaking to see they had taken the gruyere potatoes off of the menu when we passed by this past week, but not nearly as bad as brunch. After experiencing such a wonderful dinner, my girlfriend and I went a few months later to The Federal for brunch and if there is one thing to take away from it, don't order the beignets...not sure if it was old oil they were using or bad/expired ingredients, but we both immediately felt bad after eating them and they didn't taste good. We had gotten the steak and eggs, which were only okay, but I wouldn't recommend either. I know my girlfriend wants to press pause on returning back there, but if they could bring back those gruyere potatoes, I can all but guarantee that myself, my girlfriend, and my best friend would go back in a minute (like I mentioned earlier, we nearly did, but the gruyere potatoes had been removed from the menu).

I’m not from Atlanta and was recommended by a friend to try The Federal this past weekend. The moment my guest and I walked through the doors, we were greeted with a warm welcome. Upon being seated, our server introduced herself and shared a few recommendations. The food was absolutely amazing! I highly recommend the 30 day dry aged KC strip! I can’t wait to visit again and try more items from their delicious menu! Thank you for the experience!

So delicious! The burger is a 5-star staple. If the Brussels sprouts are on the menu, order them! And tonight we had a divine French-inspired fish dish, lightly fried and served with a white wine sauce with tomatoes and capers. Great wine list including a super Tuscan and a couple of Orin Swift selections available by the glass. Highly recommend. ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐