As the weather weaves from cold to warm, sun to rain, a burst of wind among the stillness of the crescent city, tourist begin to arrive and pack the streets of the quarter. The cake shops pick up business. Purple, green and yellow lights illuminate houses all over the city, and we begin to choose our parades and mardi gras parties. Carnival time in Louisiana is right around the corner.

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The first installment of my Mardi Gras articles will focus on one involving the sweet tooth, a tradition every year, king Cakes.

" King Cakes are a vibrant part of the Mardi Gras tradition in New Orleans. As part of New Orleans's Christian faith, the coming of the wise men bearing gifts to the Christ Child is celebrated twelve days after Christmas. We refer to this as the Feast of the Epiphany, or Little Christmas on the Twelfth Night. "

http://www.mardigrasneworleans.com/kingcakes.html

The king cake has its roots in medieval France and Spain. In colonial Louisiana, Creoles celebrated this time of year with the bal du roi (king's ball), where they served a fancy cake with a bean placed inside. The person who found the bean in his or her piece of cake became the king or queen of the next ball, creating a series of balls that would culminate with the final grand event on Mardi Gras evening. Today the bean is replaced with a plastic baby.

Trying to pinpoint the best or most unique king cake is an impossible feat, as taste and memories are specific to each individual, ask five people and you will most certainly get five different answers. Here are a few local favorites as well as some king cakes that I indulge in yearly.

Where to Find Them

Randazzos: is a New Orleans staple for King Cakes, shipping out tons of their unique and delicious cakes nationwide. Since 1965 they have been one of the most sought after cakes.

Ambrosia Bakery: located in Baton Rouge, this bakery offers a unique and coconut flavored delight, The Zulu King Cake. Inspired by the Mardi Gras Krewe the Zulu Social Aid & Pleasure Club, this king cake is sure to be a hit at any party.

La Louisiane Bakery: a delivery company only as of yet, provide the very best traditional brioche or cinnamon, plain or filled king cakes.

Cake Cafe: located on Chartres street , aside from traditional king cakes, here is some exclusive choices. Signature Apple Goat cheese. Raspberry Cream Cheese and Pecan Cream Cheese.

And don't forget the Oschner 2017 King Cake Festival. Jan. 29th at the Mercadez Benz Superdome. Admission is free. Bon a petit' and I'll see you all very soon. Let the Mardi Gras Indians Music start off our 2017 Carnival.