Episode 17: Frank Fat's, a Sacramento Institution

A Seat at the Table

Let us know what you thought of this episode and any other comments you may have.

Join the conversation as your host, Natalie Mariani-Kling delves into Sacramento history by talking with Kevin Fat, a 3rd generation member of the Frank Fat’s Restaurant Group family. Frank Fat’s in downtown Sacramento stands as the oldest family owned restaurant in the city, having opened in 1939 and still being owned and run by members of the Fat family.

Kevin talks about the history of Fat’s, how his grandfather first came to America from China at age 16 and even with a language barrier, his personality, integrity and love of people helped him forge relationships that would help him open his namesake restaurant. Little did he know his restaurant, which opened in a neighborhood akin to skid row, would become populated by all the politicians and movers and shakers in Sacramento decade after decade.

Kevin also shares the role his mother, Lina, had in growing the family business into multiple restaurants and becoming the Executive Chef of Fat City Bar and Cafe and China Camp. The latter helping to revitalize Old Sacramento. Her self-taught culinary skills left an indelible mark on the menus.

Today Kevin oversees Fat’s three current restaurants, Frank Fat’s and two locations of Fat’s Asian Bistro and Dim Sum Bar in Folsom and Roseville.

Visit Frank Fat’s website

Visit Fat’s Asian Bistro website

Visit the Capital Region Family Business Center website

Sponsor:

River City Bank