Re-inventing Fatt Cat Café
The Rockton landmark is now dedicated to special events and special occasions.
Most people who have lived in Rockton, Roscoe or South Beloit are familiar with the grand yellow and purple -trimmed Victorian farmhouse at 911 N. Blackhawk Blvd. in Rockton.
The majestic home was built in 1856. At one time, the property also included a barn. Several families lived in the house through the years.
The house stood empty for a while, until Pat Mannino saw the potential for a restaurant/antique shop on the property. Pat purchased and refurbished the building and opened the Elderberry Tearoom in 1994. It became a favorite spot for lunch in the three dining rooms. Every room was filled with antiques.
Two years ago, Pat and her daughter, Jennifer Davenport changed courses. “We have re-invented ourselves. We changed the focus of the business and changed the name to Fatt Cat Café.”
The home is still filled with charm and antiques. The dining space is now dedicated to special events, such as wedding and baby showers, small weddings, anniversaries, birthday parties and other special occasions. The rooms are festively decorated to fit the occasion. Home-made and hand-decorated cupcakes follow the theme and color décor of each event.
Pat is the bakery specialist supreme. She creates customized gourmet cupcakes - true culinary works of art. In her spare time, she writes poetry.
Custom cupcakes can be ordered and picked up at the Café, which is now available for rent.
“My goal is to preserve a piece of Rockton’s history in a place that I have learned to love.”
For special event rental information, or to order cupcakes online, contact Pat at 815-624-2832 or by email at fattcatcafe@charter.net.
View examples of Pat’s customized cakes and cupcakes on Facebook and at Fattcatcafe.com.
