By Mia Finley
“Everything came full circle in a weird, non-planned kind of way,” says Alexander “Zan” Dial, 43, on opening up Federal St. Cafe last month.
After getting a degree in political science, Dial opted for a chef’s jacket instead. He enrolled in culinary school and started his own catering business, NOVA Personal Chef. After 13 years, he wanted the casual pace of a small breakfast and lunch cafe of his own. Federal St. became that spot.
The inside has bright walls, lots of windows and refurbished furniture. “We like the whole mismatched thing. It reflects our food and vibe,” Dial says. “A little bit here and there for both breakfast gatherers and laptop students alike.”
The menu shows Dial’s Southern roots—he’s from South Carolina—with choices like biscuits and gravy, shrimp and grits, salad with beef tenderloin and a fried egg and pulled pork barbecue with a housemade South Carolina mustard sauce. Federal St. hopes to open for weekend brunch with options like steamed mussels in white wine and garlic, croissant French toast with a berry compote and mimosa specials.
Dial also sees the importance of local partnerships. “Right after this, I’m literally going around the corner to a farm to talk about sourcing from them,” he says. (Also coming to Middleburg: Trotters Perk Bistro plans to open down the street.)
To celebrate its grand opening this week, Federal St. Cafe is offering two free pancakes with every purchase (while supplies last) and a prix fixe dinner on Saturday. / Federal St. Cafe; 4 E. Federal St., Middleburg
