Our October LWD outings have always been about ambience just as much as they’ve been about food. Two years ago, we were wowed by the cuisine and the beauty of La Boheme. In 2012, we took a walk (and a few sips of margarita) on the spooky side at Ortega 120. This October, we decided to keep it local, heading to downtown Long Beach for dinner at The Federal Bar. The speak-easyness of the place lent itself to the time of year – contemporary creepy, an atmosphere that was simple to create in the former bank The Federal Bar inhabits.
Our gluttonous eyes had high expectations, several of us wanting to take advantage of the happy hour specials while saving room for entrees. This was a goal my stomach was unable to accomplish, it screaming out “no more!” after I forced down two of their “pass-arounds” (aka appetizers – $2 off during happy hour). Coupled with a couple glasses of their $3 house white, I was a happy and stuffed camper after only an hour or so.
I’d call The Federal Bar a welcome and needed addition to the DTLB scene. It’s fun, it’s friendly, it’s tasty, and it’s HERE. As much as I love LA restaurants, it can be a pain in the you know what just getting in the door. Here, we got ourselves no-stress eating at a great price (with $3 public parking just off of Pacific and an easy same-day reservation). I will return soon to dive into the entrees and sample their dessert; I also hear they have a nice brunch. I hope The Federal Bar is here to stay, becoming an established Long Beach staple. The Ladies certainly found it worthy.
Until we eat again…
The Federal Bar
102 Pine Avenue
Long Beach, CA 90802