Treat Yourself to a King Cake at Bistro V – Crispy, Creamy and Irresistible!

For the month of January only, a special cake is made daily by the pastry chefs at Bistro V.

Gallete des Rois, also called “King Cake” is a round delight of homemade layers of puff pastry with a frangiapani almond cream filling.

The flavor is buttery with a lingering pleasant almond essence. A crispy exterior is matched with a smooth filling – think of it as the best croissant you ever ate, filled with a perfected, sweet filling – in a slice.

A slice of heaven, crispy, creamy and just delicious! Credit: Karen Sheer

Marc Penvenne, the owner tells us, “the finest quality, simple ingredients make an incomparable King Cake.”

Starting January 6, twelve nights after Christmas (Epiphany Day), the season for the cake begins. Its history can be traced back to 16th century Paris. King Cake is also synonymous with the Mardi Gras tradition in New Orleans, but this version is more highly decorated with festive purple, green and gold coloring.

Each King Cake has a tiny fève inside, a porcelain figurine. One who receives this in their slice is a lucky person, and considered “king or queen for the day.”

To mark the festivity, Bistro V includes a gold paper crown with every cake. Kids will have fun reliving this rich tradition.

Whoever finds the fève, gets to wear the crown and is responsible for bringing the cake to the next gathering. The French eat this cake for the entire month of January, this way everyone gets a chance to find the fève, wear the crown, and be king or queen of the party.

King Cakes are available behind the pastry case, but it is recommended to call and place an order.

Bistro V (Bistro Versailles & Patisserie) is located at 339 Greenwich Ave Tel. (203) 661-6634