I don’t go to Long Beach very often, but when I received an invitation to check out the newly opened The Federal Bar, sister to the LA location, I dragged The Hungry Dogg along for the ride. The space is beautiful! Housed in an old bank, the original architecture remains intact and I was told that the bar was where the bank tellers used to sit. Way cool! *my photo does not do it justice)*
We started off with Ace of Spades ($10) — yes, tequila, my favorite! Avion Reposado, Birottet Creme de Mure, Lime and Agave Syrup make up this delicious cocktail. If I didn’t have to drive, I would’ve had a few more!
The menu is comfort-style, gastropub fare. Smoked Trout ($10) arrived on a wooden board with the trout in a jar. Arugula pesto toast, pickled onion and sliced hard boiled egg prettily arranged alongside. I absolutely LOVED this item. The smokiness of the fish, tartness of the onion and freshness of the arugula come together perfect.
The Lamb Chops ($12) were absolutely amazing! Tender, juicy and seasoned just right, the pear mint chutney and chimichurri were ideal accompaniments, especially the chutney! What a unique and creative accoutrement to serve with lamb.
I love kale and I love Brussels sprouts so when we saw Kale & Brussels Sprout Dip ($9) it was a no-brainer. Served warm, it was cheesy but not gloopy and heavy. Served with grilled ciabatta and pork belly chips — another name for delicious bacon — no matter how you eat it, every bite was a joy. The dip warmed up really well the next day and didn’t separate and wasn’t oily at all. Crazy good.
Who doesn’t love Mac N Cheese ($10), and the one here is pretty damn good. Three cheese with roasted poblano peppers, the texture was perfect, not too wet and not too dry. Kick your mac n cheese up a notch or two by adding bacon or short rib. Comfort to the max.
The Federal Burger ($11) is topped with smoked cheddar, bibb lettuce, black peppercorn aioli, balsamic onion and sandwiched between a brioche bun. Loved the interior, wasn’t a big fan of the bun. Served with garlic chips, I couldn’t believe how reasonable this item was! A really good portion for only $11!
We finished with Sweet Bacon Cristo ($8), a sweet, gooey sandwich which I really enjoyed. Chipotle peanut butter, chocolate and drizzled with marshmallow fluff — a first time for me — and it was pretty good, but only a few bites for me!
A really great experience with good food within a beautiful environment. Definitely a winner for the city of Long Beach!
The Federal Bar
102 Pine Avenue
Long Beach, CA 90802
Tel: 562-435-2000
Thank you Anita! I manage their social media management, so will be sure to post this several times over the next couple days!
Looks great Anita, and closer than driving to LA – will have to check it out!
I must agree, The Federal Bar in Long Beach is wonderful. Great food, great service, great people and I’ve had just about everything you had. It’s my new hangout.
Oh hooray, I’ve been waiting for this place to open! Another cool spot near me 🙂