Mardi Gras is nearly upon us.
Although King Cakes are technically available after the 12 days of Christmas, there’s no doubt that they reach their peak popularity at Mardi Gras.
These unique, bread-like cakes have been a popular treat this time of year since the Middle Ages. The first king cakes were made in Europe to celebrate Catholic Epiphany, also known as Three Kings Day (January 6). Centuries later, these cakes made their way to New Orleans via the French and they’ve become a staple ever since.
So what exactly is a King Cake?
A King cake is a ring-shaped pastry, kind of like brioche, that gets covered in heaps of icing and topped with Mardi Gras-themed sprinkles. Depending on where you’re ordering your King Cake from, it may be more bread-like or more cake-like, but there’s really no wrong answer here.
Hidden inside some King cakes, you’ll find a plastic baby. To some it has religious connotations, to others, it’s more a symbol of luck and prosperity. But finding the baby is the fun part. If you’re lucky enough to get the slice that has the baby in it, you’ll be crowned king or queen for the day, having your cake and eating it too.
Where to find them in Columbus
We’re really lucky that there are some excellent options for King Cake here in Columbus. From French bakeries to Authentic New Orleans coffee shops, you really can’t go wrong when choosing where to order your King Cake.
Enjoy eating these delicious treats and have a great Mardi Gras, Columbus!
Resch’s Bakery
Resch’s Bakery offers King Cakes every year, and every year, they’re delicious. You can order your King Cake, or other New Orleans inspired Mardi Grandview treats, by placing an order in person or over the phone. In addition to King Cake, the bakery is also offering beignets, paczki, and specially decorated sheet cakes.
Location: 4061 E Livingston Ave, Columbus, OH 43227
Website: Resch’s Bakery
La Chatelaine French Bakery & Bistro
How does Mardi Gras at home sound? La Chatelaine is putting together quite the spread for those looking to celebrate, and of course it includes their incredible individual King Cakes. No sharing for you! The dinner party box includes a three-course meal and a Hurricane! You also get a mask, beads, and some trinkets.
Location: Locations in Dublin, Upper Arlington, and Worthington
Website: La Chatelaine
The Original Goodie Shop
The King Cakes at The Original Goodie Shop are hand-made and baked from scratch. Every cake has your choice of filling, plus they’re topped with a light lemon frosting and decorated with Mardi Gras sprinkles and beads. These are hefty cakes, serving 12-15 people. I hope you’re ready to eat!
Location: 2116 Tremont Center, Upper Arlington, OH
Website: The Original Goodie Shop
Way Down Yonder Beignets & Coffee
Way Down Yonder is an incredible place to visit any day of the week, but Mardi Gras is something else. The King Cakes are made fresh, from scratch. They’re made to share, complete with the hidden baby to symbolize luck and prosperity.
Location: 386 East Main St, Columbus, OH 43215
Website: Way Down Yonder Beignets & Coffee