With a tagline like the “King of King Cakes”, you know you’re in the right place – if you want to try the classic New Orleans sweet treat, that is. Gambino’s Bakery has been in the business of sating the sweet teeth of loyal Louisianians (and now devoted customers worldwide) since 1949 and, while its recipe for King Cake’s changed over the years, it seems it has only done the business good.

The Gambino’s Bakery King Cakes are made with cinnamon-infused Danish dough and come with a range of fillings (anything from cream cheese to Bavarian cream or pecan praline), in addition to the little plastic baby. Just remember, if you’re the one who finds the baby, it’s your job to come back to Gambino’s to get the King Cake for next Mardi Gras.

The King Cakes are made year-round, but demand obviously skyrockets at Mardi Gras. But even if you’ve had your fill of the iconic gold, purple and green coloured cakes (the colours of New Orleans Mardi Gras), Gambino’s Bakery offers a whole host of other baked goods whenever you stop by. There’s always epic celebration cakes, cookies, eclairs, muffins and, of course, decadent slices of Doberge Cake (a layered buttermilk sponge that’s filled with custard and covered in buttercream). And should you not be in the Metairie area, never fret; Gambino’s Bakery has another NOLA spot in Gretna, as well as stores in Lafayette and Baton Rouge.