LAFAYETTE, La. — Although Mardi Gras as we know it may not be happening this year, two local shops are aiming to keep traditions alive and vibrant.
Rêve Coffee Roasters is bringing out fun variations of the classics Acadiana knows and loves. They are making their own versions of king cakes, plus two drinks: the King Cake cappuccino and the Malty Gras Mambo.
The creative director at Rêve says that the lack of festivals wouldn’t stop them from providing the colors and flavors of the season.
“Since it’s not really happening, we just wanted to make it feel special, feel fun…,” said Carter Liles. “To provide the same festivities and colors and great taste in food that our culture is known for here in Acadiana.”
The cappuccino is served in a traditional goblet and rimmed with sweet sparkles.
The Malty Gras Mambo is topped with a torched marshmallow, bringing a toasty element to the chocolate and caramel flavored malted drink.
“People are really happy to see it. It’s kinda nice to see the colors and everything,” said manager Dalton Key. “As cliché as it sounds, people are like ‘oh wow, it’s so pretty’ or ‘wow it looks really good'.”
Down the street, at Pop’s Poboys, you can get a king cake daiquiri. It’s a boozy concoction with king cake vodka and everything people love about the traditional cake.
But there’s nothing traditional about this daiquiri - it even comes with a piece of cake and a mini baby.
The manager at Pop’s says people like the drink.
“It’s absolutely popular,” said Ashely McClinton. “Especially when we bring it out and everyone sees the whipped cream, they’re like ‘what’s that? Give me one of those’.”
One customer at Pop’s says not even COVID can stop the Mardi Gras spirit.
“I think it’s great,” said Lori Guidry. “I think we’re keeping the tradition alive, and that’s what Louisiana is all about. We have Mardi Gras, and you can’t stop Mardi Gras … COVID can’t stop Mardi Gras.”
-----------------------------------------------------------
Stay in touch with us anytime, anywhere.
To reach the newsroom or report a typo/correction, click HERE.
Sign up for newsletters emailed to your inbox. Select from these options: Breaking News, Evening News Headlines, Latest COVID-19 Headlines, Morning News Headlines, Special Offers
