The Federal (Again)

Here is another review that sat in "draft" format for almost a year!  The Federal's menu changes seasonally, but the bucket of balls and the zucchini matchsticks always seem to make the cut. 
 
CHICKPEAS: 5

We went to the Federal on a recent Friday night for a more casual dinner then our last visit.  We sat in the bar area where there was a a guitarist playing covers of Dave Matthews and the like.    The bar area is cozy with dark wood paneling.  There center of the room has a number of small high top tables and low tables border the wall.

To start, we got a "bucket of balls."  The Federal's risotto balls are to die for.  I could eat them as my entire meal, but I restrain myself.   We also got a second appetizer that we had never had before: zucchini matchsticks.  The zucchini was sliced into very thin short slices and then cooked with almond slivers, olive oil and some spices.  It was served covered with pecorino cheese.  Even though it was my idea to order it, I was a little skeptical once it came out.  It turned out to be really delicious.  The zucchini was cooked to perfection.  I wouldn't call it crispy as the menu describes it, but it definitely holds its own and maintains a firm texture.  The almonds definitely add a crunch and the cheese, while delicious, also serves to maintain the temperature of the dish.  We will certainly be ordering this again.

Zucchini Matchsticks

If you remember our last visit, I was in love with the gorgonzola pop over and wanted to order it again.  To my delight, I found it on the menu by itself (well mostly).  Listed under handhelds is the prociutto di parma stuffed "pop-over."  I quickly settled on my decision.  Unfortunately, I think my first encounter with the gorgonzola pop-over was a fluke.  This second order was overflowing with gorgonzala, whereas my first attempt was slightly flavored like gorgonzola.  If you enjoy gorgonzola, you will enjoy this.  I am still on the fence about gorgonzola, and really only enjoy it in small quantities.  Once I removed the bulk of the gorgonzola, this was still a really delicious meal.  

"Pop-over"

My fiance got a burger with fries.  The bun appeared to be homemade and everything on his plate tasted delicious just as it was!

Fries and the extras that came with the burger

Burger

We have already been back to The Federal at least once since and it is probably time to go again!