I went on a winter vacation getaway this week to The Federal Hotel located at 10 Water St in Brunswick, ME📍 This hotel offers excellent accommodations and has a spectacular on site restaurant called 555 North.

🍹 Cocktails:

• Sage Advice: A delightful blend of Lunazul Blanco Tequila, blackberry, sage, lime, and seltzer. As a tequila enthusiast, I found this concoction to be a true winner, earning a solid 9/10. The interplay of flavors, especially the herbal notes from sage, created a memorable experience.

• Leef Peepin: Featuring Barr Hill Gin, pear, vanilla, and honey, this drink offered a commendable mix, though it left me searching for that extra something. A respectable 6/10, but the creativity in its ingredients deserves applause.

🧀 Farm to Board:

• The charcuterie board showcased 555 North’s commitment to quality with 2 meats, 2 cheeses, pickled vegetables, and jam. A delightful ensemble deserving of an 8/10, though a tad more crostini would have elevated the experience.

🥗 Roasted Winter Squash Salad:

• Despite the switch to carrots due to a squash shortage, the salad maintained a standard appeal with goat cheese and a cranberry vinaigrette. A fair 6/10, but the creativity in adapting to ingredient challenges is acknowledged.

🥩 Entrees:

• The Filet Mignon, cooked to a perfect medium rare, showcased creamy potatoes and stole the spotlight with roasted wild mushrooms and an au poivre sauce. A stellar 9/10, the savory blend of pepper, Cognac, and cream in the au poivre sauce elevated the dish.

• The Scallops, generously sized and paired with a carrot and vanilla sauce, stood out with a fennel potato puree. An easy 9/10, the thoughtful combination of flavors and textures made this a standout dish.

🍰 Desserts:

• Sticky Date Cake: A unique and visually stunning treat featuring caramel apricot gel and coconut icing. A memorable 9/10, it was as delightful to the eyes as it was to the taste buds.

• Apple Creme Brulee: A creative twist on a classic, with perfectly cooked apples. A solid 9/10, showcasing the chef’s ingenuity in reimagining a beloved dessert.

In summary, 555 North at the Federal Hotel in Brunswick, Maine, offers a diverse and inventive culinary experience. From expertly crafted cocktails to thoughtfully designed entrees and desserts, the restaurant demonstrates a commitment to quality and creativity. I highly recommend checking this spot out on your next winter vacation!

Food: 9/10🍽️ Affordability: 6/10 💸 Ambiance: 8/10 ✨