Happy Frank Fat Day! On June 18, 1984, Sacramento Mayor, Anne Rudin, declared this day “Frank Fat Day” in honor of Chinese immigrant and local business entrepreneur Frank Fat.
“...Frank Fat is a highly regarded and valuable member of this community, a premier restauranteur, a recognized leader in the development of a strong Chinese community in Sacramento, and a friend to many...”
Frank Fat was born in China in 1904 and arrived in Sacramento at sixteen as a "paper son" during the restrictive era of the Chinese Exclusion Act. Through determination and hard work—washing dishes, picking fruit, and perfecting his English—he overcame significant barriers to achieve success.
Frank’s lucky break occurred in the 1930s when he waited tables in the basement of Hong King Lum restaurant where they offered Chinese Keno games. When Frank honestly held $900 in gambling winnings for a state official, his trustworthiness earned him the business loan that launched Frank Fat's restaurant in 1939. What began as a former speakeasy became California's legendary "Third House," where governors, Supreme Court justices, and legislators crafted landmark legislation over meals. The restaurant's famous "power booth" witnessed countless political negotiations that shaped state policy.
Frank's impact extended far beyond business success. He became a tireless community advocate, establishing the Chinese American Council and cultural initiatives like the Jinan Sister Cities Corporation. His restaurant served as a bridge between Chinese and mainstream American culture, demonstrating how immigrant-owned businesses can become integral to civic life.
Frank's wife, Mary, made her own significant sacrifices for their shared dream. Coming from a wealthy merchant family in China, she left a comfortable life to join Frank in California, where she worked in a cannery and devoted herself to raising their five children while supporting the family business.
Frank Fat and his family challenged stereotypes and discrimination, proving that Chinese immigrants and Chinese Americans could occupy central roles in American political and social spheres. His legacy continues today through his family's restaurant, which received the prestigious James Beard Foundation America's Classic Award in 2013. Frank Fat's story illustrates how immigrants don't merely adapt to their communities—they become essential pillars that strengthen, enrich, and help define them for generations.
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Note that this collection has only been partially digitized. The digital collection primarily contains photographs of Frank Fat, members of his family, and prominent local community members as well as government officials. The digital collection has recently undergone a content review to ensure collection materials are described accurately and sufficiently for discovery access. To report errors, please contact lib-scua@csus.edu.