The Federal Rehoboth

I didn’t even have a chance to dine at this establishment because I wasn’t able to get past the “hospitality” manager. Talk about a misnomer. I’ve never spoken to such a rude restaurant manager in my life. She basically told me that the Federalist probably wasn’t the “right restaurant” for me because I inquired whether a vegetarian version of their prix fixe menu reflected a price difference. The conversation was such a bad experience that I couldn’t stomach the thought of dining there.

Service: 1

A friend and I enjoyed an absolutely phenomenal meal tonight - thank you so much!! The service from everyone was impeccable from the moment we walked in sans resy and you somehow conjured us a table on the patio; your food (from the bread and fritters to appetizers to mains) was absolutely top-notch, and the atmosphere was perfect. Our server, Bengi, took the time to answer our questions about “Just what is in that incredible dressing?!” (Cherry vinegar) and “what is this yellow strip of crunchy deliciousness I’m currently enjoying?” (pickled fennel). Also, I don’t know what you put in the glorious house-made chocolates, but I do know that I could eat them every day for the rest of my life. Thank you again!!

Delicious food and very attentive staff. The parm and risotto fritters were amazing as well as the apple fritters. Great corn bread too. The scallop and risotto dish was perfect as was the cannelloni noodle dish. The mocktails are really good and the smoked old fashion drink was great. Definitely going back!!!!

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Perfect for a birthday celebration! Everything that we selected was delicious. Our mains were the Ricotta Gnocchi and the Hanger Steak. Our waiter gave good recommendations and gave us just the right amount of attention. Will be back.

Celebrating my birthday with my wife and read good reviews before booking. We couldn't have been treated better. Great service, very nice wine list, the food was fantastic and the atmosphere was charming. A+

We had a very nice meal last evening. The soup, salad and entrees were all very fresh and flavorful. Additionally, we each had a cocktail and they were mixed perfectly. The atmosphere is casual and quaint. We will be back.

We enjoyed everything we ordered. Had to get fritters in addition to our entrees. I was worried it would be too much food, but the portion sizes are reasonable. I had the house-made gnocchi with seafood in a saffron cream sauce and it was delicious. Service was very attentive. I don't think many people know about this place. We will definitely be back and bringing friends next time.

Best meal in Rehoboth! Everything was fabulous. Very consistent. The portions were perfectly sized so that we left full, but not stuffed. The only disappointment was we had mentioned a birthday celebration when making the reservation, but there was no acknowledgement by the staff.

Spectacular food in a truly mediocre setting. We had a gazpacho with Yellow, Tomato, and pineapple that was sublime.
Potato gnocchi with shrimp and jumbo lump crab also truly fabulous

Service was friendly, but a bit intrusive, too attentive. The restaurant was empty when we were there Wednesday night at 8 PM; and they kept trying to take our dishes away. Not really to push us out of the restaurant that just because they had nothing else to do.

And a truly terrible blueberry peach cobbler. I took one bite. They did comp me on the desert.

So most of the food is really quite good. But the ambiance is that of a mid range chain restaurant with super bright lighting. ( and I mean SUPER bright )

We would never go back because at these prices you want a total experience.

Obviously, I am the outlier in this review. Since most people love this place.
Not us ??

Atmosphere: 1

Food: 5

Service: 3

Great food and service. Having the owners onsite ensures that everything runs smoothly. Ate there twice in one week, something we almost never do. A great experience.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Cozy restaurant, excellent food and cocktails, highly recommend. Great customer service.

Atmosphere: 5

Food: 5

Service: 5

Recommended dishes: Large Mixed Cone of Fritters

The food and service were both excellent. We shared the Roman-style artichoke and the Parmesan risotto fritters. Both delicious! Entrees were the duck breast, scallops and a vegan option. All very good. Tiny martinis though.

We love the food and atmosphere of The Federal. Chef Todd offers beautifully prepared and presented food. The special Lotus Root and shrimp fritters were outstanding and not a menu item encountered often. Ellen is a fun and friendly host. The wine by the glass list is extensive and thoughtfully selected. We plan to return soon!

Great food in a mediocre setting. Sublime gazpacho of yellow tomatoes and pineapple- server assured me the pineapple didn't overwhelm and it was delicious. Corn fritters were good although no visible kernels of corn... Great salad with grilled peaches - a delicious summer standard. Light potato gnocchi with jumbo lump crab & scallops & shrimp - great dish for big appetite and warm weather. My friend raved about the flavor of his flank steak. Truly disappointing peach and blueberry cobbler , a thin layer of fruit with a topping that seemed like Muesli straight out of the box. Overall - we three thought our food was great - but we ( sadly) wouldn't go back because the ambience is that of a downscale chain restaurant .....

Service and ambience is very good. However we (4 adults) did not see the value in the prices that are charged. $9 for hearts of palm fritters and you literally get 6 leaves not 6 hearts of palms! Ordered Parmesan bread for $8 and you get 4 small pieces of bread! Dinner options were tasty but portions small for the money charged. Overall a nice evening out but would not go back.