La Galette des rois

Epiphany, celebrated on January 6 by Catholics and January 19 by Orthodox Christians, is a religious commemoration of the arrival of the Three Kings in Bethlehem. It is considered one of the oldest holidays in Christianity.

A Pagan Custom:

The tradition of sharing a cake is not linked to Christianity at all. It is more likely a tribute to the Roman Saturnalia festivals. These grand celebrations in honor of Saturn, the Roman god of time, took place between late December and early January.

At the time, this day was especially significant because slaves were invited to share a cake with the Romans. If they found the bean in the cake, they were crowned "Princes of Saturnalia" and could ask for anything they wanted for one day. We also owe the custom of having the youngest person present choose who will receive the next piece, by going under the table, to the Saturnalia.

In the Middle Ages, it is said that the person crowned king had to buy a round of drinks for the group. To avoid cheating, the edible bean was replaced with a porcelain bean.

As for frangipane, we owe it to Count Cesare Frangipani, who is said to have shared the recipe bearing his name with Catherine de' Medici.

Over the years, the celebrations of the winter solstice merged. Today, the common thread among these various festivities remains sharing. The modern tradition centers around a collective, convivial, and delicious moment, often enjoyed several times throughout January.

Every year, pastry chefs get creative, drawing from their imagination to satisfy even the wildest cravings. In January 2025, we’re indulging in the latest King Cakes in Paris. Epiphany is celebrated this year on Sunday, January 5 or Monday, January 6 for the purists, but when you love it, you make the most of it. The best part is that King Cakes are often available throughout the entire month, except for some exquisite limited-edition creations.

But the most exciting part is discovering where to find the best King Cake in Montmartre!

Whether you're a fan of the original, 100% classic version, or tempted by a reinvented one, there’s something for everyone! Check out our top suggestion!

And no one will be left out! For those a little farther from the 18th arrondissement, we’ve also selected the best King Cakes in Paris to satisfy all palates!

Get your forks ready and enjoy! And don’t forget to come taste ours at our breakfast, open daily from 7 a.m. to 10 a.m.!