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The Federal

4.3

914 W Main St
Durham, NC 27701
Phone: (919) 680-8611
Visit Website

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.


Google Reviews

Photo of Karla Gia Karla Gia
Nov 29, 2025 5

Nice bar/restaurant! I got a burger with onion rings. It was tasty and not too pricy for what you get. Their alcoholic drink/cocktail menu looks affordable too. I'll be back!

Photo of Steve B Steve B
Nov 9, 2025 5

This is a divish sandwich joint. My prime rib sandwich was excellent, the fries were well seasoned, and it was inexpensive. Service was great. Another restaurant that makes downtown Durham great, completely contrary to what I was told when I moved here. Thumbs up.

Photo of Derricia Hill Derricia Hill
Sep 23, 2025 4

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.

Photo of Janie Smith Gleason 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.