Frank Fat's, a Sacramento institution, boasts a menu that's as rich and layered as its history. This isn't your average Chinese-American restaurant; Frank Fat's offers a unique culinary experience blending Cantonese traditions with American influences. This post delves into the Frank Fat's menu, exploring its highlights, popular dishes, and what makes it a Sacramento dining landmark. We'll examine pricing, portion sizes, and even offer some insider tips to enhance your dining experience.
Appetizers: Starting Your Frank Fat's Journey
The appetizer selection at Frank Fat's is a tempting journey in itself. Beyond the typical egg rolls and spring rolls (which are, admittedly, excellent), the menu offers a wider range of options to pique your interest.
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Potstickers: These aren't your average frozen potstickers. Frank Fat's version is pan-fried to perfection, with a crispy exterior and a juicy, flavorful filling. They're a perfect starter to share.
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Sesame Chicken: This classic is a testament to Frank Fat's ability to master American-Chinese fusion. The tender chicken is coated in a deliciously sweet and savory sesame sauce.
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Barbecued Spare Ribs: If you’re feeling adventurous, these fall-off-the-bone ribs, glazed in a rich barbecue sauce, are a must-try. They're often a highlight of the appetizer section.
Pricing & Portions: Appetizers generally range from $10-$20, with portions designed for sharing, especially if ordering multiple items.
Entrees: The Heart of the Frank Fat's Experience
The entree section is where Frank Fat's truly shines. They offer a vast array of choices, catering to various tastes and preferences. Don't be intimidated by the size of the menu; the staff is incredibly helpful in guiding you to the perfect dish.
Classic Cantonese Dishes
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Moo Goo Gai Pan: This classic Cantonese dish is a testament to Frank Fat's commitment to traditional flavors. Tender chicken and crisp vegetables are stir-fried in a light yet flavorful sauce.
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Kung Pao Chicken: A spicy and savory delight, this popular dish is a perfect example of the balance of flavors Frank Fat's excels at. The chicken is tender, the peanuts are crunchy, and the chili peppers provide a satisfying kick.
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Sweet and Sour Pork: This is another American-Chinese classic, executed with precision at Frank Fat's. The perfectly balanced sweet and sour sauce complements the crispy pork perfectly.
Frank Fat's Specialties
Frank Fat's menu wouldn't be complete without its signature dishes. These are often the most popular items, and for good reason. They represent the restaurant's unique culinary identity.
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Frank Fat's Famous Mongolian Beef: This dish is legendary. Tender beef, stir-fried with a rich and savory sauce, is often cited as a must-try.
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Lobster Cantonese Style: A splurge-worthy option, this dish showcases the freshest lobster prepared with Cantonese flair.
Pricing & Portions: Entree prices range from $20-$40, with portions generally being quite generous. Many dishes are easily sharable.
Sides & Beverages: Completing Your Meal
No meal at Frank Fat's is complete without exploring their side dishes and beverages.
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Fried Rice: A classic accompaniment to any Chinese meal, Frank Fat's fried rice is fluffy, flavorful, and perfectly cooked.
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Egg Foo Young: This is another American-Chinese classic that’s executed with great skill at Frank Fat's.
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Beverages: Frank Fat's offers a full bar, with a wide selection of wines, beers, and cocktails to complement your meal.
Dessert: A Sweet Ending
While often overlooked, the dessert menu at Frank Fat's is worth exploring.
- Fortune Cookies: A classic Chinese-American tradition, Frank Fat's fortune cookies are the perfect sweet and crunchy end to your meal.
Case Study: A Recent Family Dinner
Last month, my family and I enjoyed a dinner at Frank Fat's. We ordered the potstickers, Mongolian beef, and sweet and sour pork. The potstickers were perfectly crisped, the Mongolian beef was tender and flavorful, and the sweet and sour pork was a perfect balance of sweet and tangy. The portions were generous, and we had enough leftovers for lunch the next day. The total bill came to approximately $100 for four people, which we felt was reasonable considering the quality of the food and the generous portions.
Final Thoughts: Why Frank Fat's is a Sacramento Must-Visit
Frank Fat's offers more than just a meal; it offers an experience. The rich history, the attentive service, and the consistently delicious food make it a Sacramento staple. Whether you're a long-time resident or a first-time visitor, a visit to Frank Fat's is a must-do for any food lover exploring Sacramento’s culinary scene. Remember to make a reservation, especially on weekends, as it's a popular spot.
