Galette des Rois for the Festival of Kings

Sounds impressive, non? And it is. The Galette des Rois is a French dessert traditionally served on the day of Epiphany. It's a golden cake filled with an almond cream filling called frangipane, but the special touch is small china figurine called la fève. Back in the day, a dry white bean was used instead of a figurine; fève means fava bean en français. The fève is baked into the cake, and the person who finds it in his or her slice becomes King or Queen for the day.

During the week of Epiphany, from January 3rd to January 9th, Chef Philippe Roussel of Gavroche is baking Galettes des Rois, served either by the slice ($7.50) or whole, which serves about 6 people ($42). If you'd prefer to celebrate at home, cakes can be pre-ordered, with at least 2 days advance notice.

Gavroche, 212 W. 14th Street between 7th and 8th Avenues, 212-647-8553.

Photo by Geert Teuwen