Most Sacramentans probably know Frank Fat’s in downtown for two things: its proximity to the Capitol and its banana cream pie, an unexpected treat at a Chinese American restaurant.
Frank Fat immigrated from China and settled in Sacramento, after working in restaurants across the United States. Eventually, he decided to open his own, a diner-style restaurant, where he hoped to share flavors from his home country and also serve customers food they felt comfortable eating, like meatloaf and steak.
CapRadio spoke with Fat’s grandson Kevin Fat about the origin of the dish and its connection to traditional Chinese cuisine.