El Federal

El Federal review

Built in 1864, El Federal is officially listed as one of BA's most historic bars. It's also one of the best-kept; check out the magnificent cash registers. It's pretty original too; bar staff work from a lowered floor while the bar itself is thigh high. There's a standard offering of beers and spirits and a long menu of sandwiches and other snacks. With the faded yellow lamps hanging overhead and the old advertising posters, it captures that elusive spirit of a bygone era.