Federal Delicatessen
The newly opened Federal Delicatessen (aka “The Fed”) is another of Al Brown’s creations. The atmosphere and decor of the restaurant is definitely not something you would expect from a typical Auckland eatery. Even the staff are dressed the part. We now officially have an NYC diner right here in the heart of the CBD! (Spot Al Brown in the photos)
The Fed offers a kiwi twist on NYC jewish delicatessen. To drink we ordered the Egg Cream ($6), the Chimney Sweep ($4) and some orange juice. The Egg Cream was something new to me. It had a hint of soda and a subtle egg flavour. For those who love peanut butter and chocolate, the Chimney Sweep tastes just like a Reese’s Peanut Butter Cup but less salty. We had to order another because we couldn’t get enough of it.
As appetisers we had Latkes($18) which tasted similar to a hash brown served with salmon. The salmon was very fresh and the potato crispy. We also tried the Smoke Kahawai Cakes served with lime mayo ($14).
For mains we shared a spit-roast chicken ($23). It was served with a pot of gravy that helped moisten the chicken as it was slightly dry – too dry for my liking. We also had Poutine ($9 small), a Canadian dish with fries, gravy and cheese curd which tended towards the saltier side.
To satisfy our sweet tooth we opted for the Banana & Toffee Pie with caramel popcorn ($11.50). It was delicious. It wasn’t overly sweet and I loved the addition of caramel popcorn.The Mom’s Recipe Lemon Meringue Pie ($11.50) was also a good choice. The lemon curd was tangy and paired well with freeze-dried raspberries.
As a newbie to this type of cuisine, the mains didn’t wow me particularly but dessert and the Chimney Sweeps certainly did. I would suggest also trying their breakfast and sandwich menu and their highly raved about NY Cheesecake.
Other Al Brown restaurants we have visited and blogged: Best Ugly Bagels, Depot Eatery.
Federal Delicatessen.
86 Federal Street, Auckland Central.
T: 09 363 7184
TWO HONEST TRUTHS 
when I read al brown – I thought you meant alton brown!
that pie looks delicious 😀
Haha no no, this is the one https://www.facebook.com/AlBrownNewZealandChef
I went there with a friend in the weekend – I got the toasted Reuben and the chocolate cherry pie. They were yummy!
Yay, we can’t wait to go back!