Bellas Fat Cat   

Not too long ago, if East Side residents wanted an old-fashioned lunch of custard and a face-burger (a burger as big as your face, of course), they had to travel outside of the neighborhood. Bella's Fat Cat changed that in the summer of 2000 and brought a traditional custard stand to the hip Brady Street area. The Fat Cat serves rich vanilla and chocolate custard and a flavor of the day as well as a selection of flavored sodas. More adventurous (and hungry) custard fans can try banana splits, turtle sundaes or thick shakes and malts. The grill side of the menu offers chicken sandwiches, Chicago-style hot dogs and grilled cheese along with tasty and filling burgers. The interior of the Fat Cat is modern but alludes to the charm of an old soda fountain with high stools and a stainless steel counter. The place draws as eclectic a crowd, all momentarily united by the need for really good custard. -- SM