THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED The Federal Bar

THIS RESTAURANT IS CLOSED The Federal Bar Restaurant Review:

The Federal Bar’s design is nothing short of grand. Housed in a former bank building, the restaurant's entrance is flanked by Corinthian columns, while vaulted ceilings and large windows allow plenty of light to contrast with the dark wood paneling inside. The menu, as overseen by chef Victor Lopez, is fairly typical gastropub fare. In the “pass-around” section, diners can find short rib poutine, ahi poke spiked with cucumber and yuzu pepper, and "dirty chips" --- a decadent mess of kettle chips piled high with peppered bacon, pickled onions, avocado crema and creamy blue cheese sauces. Stacked-tall burgers include The Smokehouse, a beef patty topped with smoked turkey, pulled pork, pepper bacon and smoked cheddar. Among entrées are Scottish salmon with braised fennel, New York steak with roasted veggies and mashed potatoes, and the real winner, fried rosemary chicken breast with a buttermilk biscuit and sausage gravy. Desserts are rich, with options like Elvis pie, salted caramel cheesecake and s’mores bread pudding. While the main bar is focused primarily on local craft beers, a wide selection of spirits is available at the upper rear bar. After dinner, head downstairs to the Parlour, a stylish speakeasy serving up artisanal cocktails. Adjoining it is the Federal Underground, a live music and event space containing the former bank vault, a small bar and stage. On weekends, brunch classics include french toast and meatloaf Benedict. Also located at 5303 Lankershim Blvd., North Hollywood, 818-980-2555.