This Main Street mainstay just celebrated is 15th anniversary. As the story goes, "in March of 2004, after three guys got together and saw a need for a solid neighborhood bar that celebrated Durham." Over a decade and a half later, they're still going strong. Open seven days a week, The Federal offers drool-worthy nachos, Buffalo chicken sandwiches and burgers – plus a late-night menu.
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Hours:
Monday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM Tuesday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM Wednesday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM Thursday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM Friday: 11:30 AM – 2:00 AM Saturday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM Sunday: 10:00 AM – 2:00 AM
I visited this placed for the first time while visiting Durham. My boyfriend and I ordered nachos for the appetizer and he got the carnitas as an entree and I got the fish tacos. The nachos were good. We didnt care for the cheese used, but the pico on it was pretty tasty and gave it a fresh taste. He really liked the carnitas and so did I! The meat was really well seasoned and melted in your mouth! As for the fish tacos, they were returned due to a stale aftertaste, but the customer service given by the waitress was amazing about it, took care of it immediately, and asked if I wanted to order something else. I got the fed burger as a replacement! The burger was super delicious because it was super juicy and seasoned really well. Plus the size of it is pretty big. The fries were also really good.
Janie Smith Gleason
Jun 26, 2025
5
I love this place! The food is always so good, which is surprising given the size and variety of the menu. Comfortable/casual spot with amazing fries, sandos, specials, and drinks. And the folks who work there are so kind.
Matthew Ivey
Apr 4, 2025
5
The Federal has the best nachos in the RTP, easily. The incredibly tender steak, well seasoned and cooked to perfection, the generous proportions of cheese and toppings, it's just too good not to recommend.
Brett Hughes
Apr 4, 2025
5
Had a great experience with almost 20 guests in the beer garden area. Easy to order with the QR codes on every table. Dog friendly inside and out. Go with the standard bar fare and you won’t be disappointed. Griffin and Vivienne teamed up to provide excellent, friendly service. Highly recommend!
BRIAN MASSENGILL
Apr 4, 2025
5
One of our new favorite spots. We started off with Federal Fries, and a Federal Burger. Someone in our party got chicken wings and loved them. We also got the large pretzel with cheese and buffalo chicken dip. We will definitely go again and we look forward to sitting outside.
The food was really great. Just not as good as the other guy. But thank you for being good.
We will definitely come back.
Update***
Still one of our favorite go-to spots. Fed fries every time! A few things to know, there are two wait staff for the entire place. They do good, Just keep that in mind. The Fed Burger is still one of my favorites.
We enjoy the outdoors seating just be ready for a few beggars to approach you.
We will definitely go back!
Taurean
Feb 11, 2025
5
I recently ordered from this local spot and found the service and food to be solid. The guy working tonight was prompt, friendly and hospitable, which made the ordering process straightforward. I ordered buffalo wings and fries—it hit the spot. This is a reliable option for a late-night bite. If you’re in the area and need something quick, it’s worth checking out. Thank you.
Fenrael
Jan 27, 2025
4
Stopped by the Federal for lunch. We started with the deviled eggs. They were really good, but a bit salty. We got the Italian beef, the Steak salad, and the fried cheese curds. Everything was delicious, but just a little heavy on the salt. The steak salad was HUGE! I loved it and it definitely cane with a good amount of steak. The atmosphere is pretty chill. The Federal is a a small bar with a big foodie thing going on. We would come back for sure.
BRIAN MASSENGILL
Jan 18, 2025
5
One of our new favorite spots. We started off with Federal Fries, and a Federal Burger. Someone in our party got chicken wings and loved them. We also got the large pretzel with cheese and buffalo chicken dip. We will definitely go again and we look forward to sitting outside.
I told myself I wasn't going to put this part in, but it happened. You have a 50/50 chance of getting the nice Waiter. One was nice and the other was........ Not as nice. Please take my sense of humor and go try it for yourself.
The food was really great. And even the bad
service was not that bad. Just not as good as the other guy. And I'm sorry I don't know the other guy's name. But thank you for being good.
We will definitely come back and we will probably be too scared to say anything next time also. All for fun, thank you.
Andrew Brigida
Oct 25, 2024
5
We visited Federal in downtown Durham during Oktoberfest, and it was an amazing experience! They had a special Oktoberfest menu that really set the mood with German-inspired dishes and festive brews. We loved the bratwurst plate, which was perfectly seasoned and served with sauerkraut and a pretzel. The atmosphere was cozy and lively, and the staff was friendly and knowledgeable about both the regular and special menus. Whether you’re looking for a great spot to celebrate an event like Oktoberfest or just want a casual yet delicious meal, Federal is a fantastic choice. We’ll definitely be back!
William
Oct 24, 2024
5
Ordered delivery. Impossible burger was amazing, seasoned well and super tasty with a good char on the outside. Mushrooms and Swiss on top was plentiful, didn't feel like it was too little or too much. Fries were great as well. Would highly recommend
