The cozy setting and warm hospitality at El Federal make you feel right at home! This restaurant's…read moremenu promises to take you on "a trip around Argentina," as it features all sorts of local dishes showcasing the flavors and produce of the country! We started off with a basket of warm house bread, and it came with several different types, but by far my favorite was the focaccia, which was topped with cheese and herbs and had a lightly salty flavor! All the breads went nicely with the ramekin of sauce on the side, which our waiter described as homemade "mayonnaise."
Next, we had the Silo Pampeano salad, made of quinoa, roasted almont, goat cheese, arugula pesto, and fresh arugula. The salad was nothing fancy, but dressed with a little olive oil and vinegar, made for a really refreshing yet hearty dish. Finally, we tried the Milanga Pampeana, which was a thinly-pounded slice of deer meat, which was then breaded and fried, served over fried slices of sweet potato and a side of Mendozan tomatican, which was a mixture of egg, tomatoes, onions, and peppers cooked in a small iron skillet. While the deer meat had a nice gamey flavor, parts of it were a bit tough, and there was way too much greasy breading, given how thin the slice of meat was! However, it was tasty nevertheless, and I wouldn't hesitate to come back to try more of the menu. The standout of this restaurant to me, however, was the service--there was only one waiter manning the entire restaurant, but he was so kind, attentive, friendly, and helpful! Great experience, and great value!
