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 Intro
We couldn't
wait to visit 21 Federal. Over the years we have
had many marvelous meals with large and small
groups. Last year our experience was a bit disappointing,
so were hopeful that our visit would rediscover
the 21 Federal of past memories. Situated in a
beautiful white colonial, are a number of rooms
and a lively bar which create a very festive atmophere.
Each room, including those on the second floor
which has a separate small bar, is very attractive.
Our group of four were situated in the second
room on the main floor and tried a number of choices
on the menu, which all won high marks!
Ambiance  |
There
is something special about this place. No doubt
about it! Each room has its own personality, the
many mirrors on the walls, the framed pictures,
the use of framed windows in the walls, create small
intimate dining areas. Upstairs is also a fun place
to visit with a small bar tucked into the far corner.
The first floor bar is always packed and the chatter
is contagious. This could be a bit noisy, however,
for tables nearby. With the soft candle flickering
and the waiter on hand we were ready to order.
Food |
Ravioli
stuffed with artichokes and goat cheese and a south
western sauce, was a very good beginning. The mussels,
served with garlic bread in a creamy sauce was fine,
but the mussels were not all equally delicate. The
Vadalia onion soup served in a huge white flat bow
(the current fade on ) was outstanding.
An intriguing "napoleon" with a layering
of avocado, rare tuna and salmon was a taste treat.
For main courses, the good halibut was improved
with excellent rissoto and corn. The salmon accompanied
by crisp asparagus was cooked to perfection. An
interesting feature is the Bistro menu, which involves
smaller portions. One choice was pork chops , a
potato type salad and crisp parsnips. These were
very good, but more like crunchy potato chips, disguised
of any parsnip flavor. Dessert included a Kiwi sorbet,
which was good, but not outstanding. A rich bitter
chocolate dessert with a shortbread crust was deadly.
Fresh fruit including blackberries with vanilla
ice cream was very refreshing. The ice cream could
have been colder, a matter of personal preference
perhaps. The strawberry shortcake was heavy on the
cake and light on the berries.
All in all, the food, was very, very good and we
highly recommend a visit to this popular restaurant
this season.
Other Observations:
Our
evening was extremely entertaining, in part due
to a delightful waiter, who anticipated our every
need. When one of us was beginning to peruse the
menu and stated her choice out loud, he appeared
out of nowhere and remarked "excellent choice."
As we pondered over choices, he assured us 21
Federal was extremely flexible, except in one
thing, "You can't leave without paying the
bill." With his careful attention to our
questions, he was the perfect example of an attentive,
but not intrusive waiter.
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