The Federal — Restaurant in Waltham

This review is based on my dining Experience on :

1)Wednesday June 02nd, 2021 , 7:30 PM 2) Friday July 16th 2021 8:00PM 3) Tuesday May 02, 2022 7:30PM

Wednesday June 02nd, 2021. Like every Wednesday, I was visiting one of the many restaurants in my beautiful city of Waltham. Usually I always have a different guest. This time we decided to try The Federal, a modern steakhouse Restaurant with classic Italian Vibe, that has already set a high standard to the point that if I can add another star I will do it. I have to say that each staff member involved with my reservation performed an outstanding job. From Joe, the Hosts who answered the phone to accommodate my reservation, Sony, the most unique bussers, who speak several language, very accommodate and friendly, Aaron, a true classic waiter, who is very knowledgeable, able to recommend cocktails and food dishes, extraordinary demeanors, and genuine smile; I cannot leave behind my compliments for the bartender and chef, Excellent Job! And of course the Elegant gentlemen who authorized my entrance to the crystal cage where they store a jaw dropping selection of wines from Italy, France and of course USA. All of them convey a Winning attitude. Regarding the food and beverage quality, The Sangrias and other cocktails were tasteful and refreshing, our meal starting from the appetizers and salad such as: Beet & Fried Goat Cheese, Classic Chopped Caesar, calamari Fritto, Panko Crusted Haddock, with Lemon Risotto, Asparagus Delightful! Prime Skirt Steak Frites, with Garlic Butter & Parmesan Fried, and to finish off with a flourish a rich, smooth and marvelous Tiramisu. Overall The Federal reunites all the factors to make a restaurant experience great: Friendly, personalized service, Consistently great food, A memorable atmosphere, and Efficient customer service. I truly recommend this restaurant and I will come back! Cheers!

Friday July 16th 2021 8:00PM This time we celebrate my husband's birthday, and as always everything was very exquisite. As Argentines they are, they loved the steaks, tried several of the cuts and sauce, and everything exceeded my expectations. Dining Experience May 3rd, 2022.

A year later I visited The Federal in Waltham for my social gatherings and confirmed that their quality standards are undeniably real. My guests were impressed with the hygiene of the restaurant, the design, not to mention the impressive wine gallery, spectacularly displayed in an extravagant glass box... Make your wish! And the quality of the service, which by the way Sarah or Samantha, please forgive me for forgetting her name, but not her outstanding service, since she was a key piece so that Our dining experience was extraordinary. As always, complement to the chef... My Panko Crusted Haddock dish, always my favorite, was like losing the protocol and sucking your fingers! One of my guests Grilled Atlantic Salmon, was exquisite. and something that our waitress in her professional performing, made the difference when asking. At what end of cooking would she like her salmon?... That made such a difference, because for the tastes, the colors, since my guest was so pleased with the general preparation of her dish, that she rated it as the best Salmon that I have eaten in America, and in Europe! ... As for desserts, my obeisance’s to the Pastry chef, since I received the pleasant news that the desserts are homemade; I recommend everything they serve, but especially Poached Pear Mousse, Affogato, and the pistachio Crème brûlée….. Not in vain I always recommend The Federal as food from scratch. Excellent dining experience, in the beautiful...

We went for dinner tonight (a Saturday) with a reservation and were seated without delay. Front desk staff was pleasant.

Our server, Chris, came to greet us and was surprised to see bread hadn't been offered. He excused himself and was back quickly with bread and dipping oil. He then informed us of the specials and said the Beef Wellington was almost gone and there were 5 left if any of us thought we might order it. I immediately said I would like one held aside.

We ordered the crab cake and escargot appetizers, which were both tasty. My husband thought the escargot had a bit too much garlic, but overall, a solid start.

We then ordered 3 different steaks: previously mentioned Wellington, a sirloin (medium) and steak frites (medium rare). When I tell you we have NEVER been out to eat and had 3 different cuts all come out perfectly, I'm not kidding. We go out to eat often and to various establishments, but have never had the entire table so pleased with their steak. I even said to Chris the Wellington was superior to the one I had at a restaurant in downtown Boston with the name of a person well known for their Wellington on the front door...but I said the name.

As for any downside, they seemed short staffed. When asked how long he's been working at The Federal, Chris said he'd just started and was in his 3rd day. I don't know if they're actually short staffed but it felt that way. Also, the support staff didn't seem too supportive. When we decided to box up what was left, there was ABSOLUTELY NO ONE to help him bring the plates to box up. He did it over 3 trips, while also having other tables to serve. I worked in restaurants for 20 years. I've seen it happen. But the manager or someone usually steps in to help. I saw who I assume was the evening manager, but I didn't see her help any of the staff. She walked around a lot and gave orders, but I never saw her carrying anything.

I should also mention this was not at the height of dinner service. It was on the early side of dinner time, I hope they got another turn on the table! I'd definitely try it again for the food and the server we had. I'd hope for a smoother...

So, for starters, this is my first ever 1 star review. Not because I didn't like the food, which is very good. I've been coming here with my friend once per month and we sit at the bar. The service and food have always been 5-Star. Last week was different...

We started like we always do with bread service, Clams Casino, and Fried Calamari. All were on point. We ordered a steak to share which was also great. My friend asked if he could have a taste of two different red wines to accompany his meal, which by the way, no restaurant has ever refused. The Bartender stated that she could not accommodate as it was house rules, and also that it screws up the bottle for future pours????? My friend stated that in his 40 years of dining out, no restaurant ever refused a tasting of a wine. Her response was, "I don't make the rules". She was completely unapologetic.

We didn't make a scene and he just ordered one of the wines. At the end of the meal, we met one of the owners on the way out. My friend relayed his displeasure at how he was treated and the owner seemed uninterested in hearing his experience.

In a city where there are so many different choices, we will not be dining at the Federal ever again. The customer service was horrible and the whole situation made for an uncomfortable setting. You are a fancy restaurant in the upper end of $$$, you need...