The Federal
Phone: (919) 680-8611
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.
Cuisines
- American
- Casual Dining
Details
- Meeting Rooms 1
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
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
Map
Google Rating
-
Ordered two prime rib sandwhiches this afternoon and one was not a complete sandwhich. It’s literally one piece of bread topped with the prime rib. One was correct however. Can’t even dip it. What a disappointment and waste for the cost of what typically is a great sandwhich. -
I had 6 fillings done in the morning, a concert in 30 minutes, and a mission to eat dinner somehow. It was pretty quiet but definitely too early for any normal bar crowd to be around. The bartender was super helpful and I got my food basically minutes after I ordered it. I ordered the soup of the day (chicken tortilla) and the fries (a small order which was still pretty large). They were both so good. I wish I'd had savoring time and an extra hour to enjoy every bite... -
The Federal is more than a restaurant, it's an experience. I had one of the best dinners at this fine establishment that I have ever had. My order consisted of "The Prime Rib Sandwich" (with fed fries) and a 100z pretzel. To begin, the pretzel was delicious, the outside of the pretzel was firm and slightly crispy, while the inside was soft and fluffy. Not only was the pretzel delicious, the mustard included provided an almost out of body experience with how delicious it was. The cheese with the pretzel complimented the Fed fries amazingly. My sandwich was excellent, it tasted as if it was blessed by the gods themselves. The bread was baked perfectly, the prime rib was cooked excellently, the onions were rich and flavorful. The cheese complimented all the flavors excellently. I would say the Federal is a 11:10 experience. -
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. -
I really liked this little place! It was chill, kind of a cross between a German bar and a sports bar in my opinion. I really liked whatever they season the fries with and the spicy mustard! I got the burger and if was good, but there was something on it that was very salty... Can't pinpoint what it was but overall still good. Would love to come back!
Nearby Businesses
.02 Miles Away
.04 Miles Away
.04 Miles Away
.05 Miles Away
Related Stories
Your Essential Guide to Durham’s Restaurants
In a food city like Durham, it can be hard to know where to begin. Kristin Bedinger, Discover Durham's Director of…
Heaters Gonna Heat: Durham’s Best Heated Patios
The temperature is dropping, so it's time to raise the heat. We fired up a list of restaurants in Durham, NC…
A Guide to Bars & Nightlife in Durham
Durham's vibrant bars and nightlife spots keep the party going strong with the best music, drinks and atmosphere around. The city…
Bull City Staples: Legacy Durham Businesses
These shops, restaurants and businesses have been serving the Durham community for over 15 years.
Where to Get a Late Night Bite in Durham, NC
When it comes to Durham restaurants that stay open late, you won’t have a problem finding a great spot. But, you…
Dine Outside at These Durham Patios
Explore Durham's outdoor dining options, full of cozy cafes, unique restaurants and great views.





















