For a limited time, New York pastry-lovers have the chance to be crowned royalty

Until January 15, people who dine at any three of Pastry Chef François Payard's locations in New York will have a chance to be crowned king or queen for the day. The critically acclaimed Payard will be serving a traditional Galette des Rois, or King's Cake, which is a flaky, buttery-rich pastry with flavors of Tahitian vanilla and Valencia almonds. The delicacy stems from a 14th century tradition in northern France that celebrates The Epiphany where people bake the cake in honor of the Three Kings who visited baby Jesus.

Another interesting part of the custom that Payard is reenacting is hiding a treasure inside of each cake. Whoever finds the trinket, in this case a ceramic macaron, inside the massive cake will be crowed king or queen for the day, literally, as each cake comes served with a paper crown. For those on a lucky streak, if you collect all six macaron colors you can tweet a photo of your good fortune or bring the trinkets into the shop for a free 24-piece box of (edible) macarons.

The Galette des Rois are served in three sizes, 4p ($24), 6p ($33) and 8-10p ($46), and, in order to ensure availabilty, it is advised to pre-order the cakes by calling (212) 995-0888 x 131.

Pastry Chef François Payard's three locations include:

• FPB – 116 West Houston Street, New York, NY 10012; Tel: 212.995.0888
• FC Chocolate Bar at The Plaza – 1 West 58th Street, Concourse Level, New York, NY 10019; Tel: 212.986.9241
• François Payard Bakery – 210 Murray Street, New York, NY 10282.; Tel: 212.995.0888

Filed under: Business, Festivals and Events, Food and Drink, North America, United States