Holywater's World Famous King Cake
“The Glory That Is New Orleans Peak Mardi Gras”
Pick Up
Order for pick up at Holywater!
Delivery
Order on Door Dash
“Now dat’s da best King Cake I ever had!”
The History of King Cakes
A king cake is a sweet, colorful pastry tied to the celebration of Epiphany and the Mardi Gras season. As native New Orleanians, it’s a tradition we’ve cherished our whole lives.
The tradition dates back to ancient Europe, where the "King Cake" was part of the Feast of the Epiphany, marking the arrival of the three wise men to see baby Jesus. The cake was baked in a circular shape to symbolize the journey of the wise men, and sometimes a coin or bean was hidden inside. The person who found it would be crowned "king" for the day, leading to festivities and a bit of friendly competition.
When French settlers brought the tradition to New Orleans in the 18th century, it evolved into the festive, community-driven tradition we know today. The cake’s signature colors—purple (justice), green (faith), and gold (power)—were introduced in the 1980s as part of the Mardi Gras celebrations. The tiny plastic baby, added later, is now a hallmark of the king cake tradition. Whoever finds it in their slice is expected to either host the next party or provide the next king cake, adding an extra layer of fun and camaraderie to the season!
Hours + Location
We’re open late, 1am during the week and 2am on Friday and Saturday. Weekdays, we open for dinner and drinks at 4:45pm. On Saturday and Sunday we serve brunch from 10am to 3pm and remain open for dinner and drinks afterwards.
We’re located downstairs at 112 Reade Street, right at the corner of West Broadway. Look for the door with a porthole. That’s us.
“Stepping into Holywater is like finding a ship with a New Orleans-themed bar moored in a sea of Tribeca lofts.”
Holywater News
Here’s a little press on Holywater
Contact Us
We’re here to help. Click below to shoot us a quick note. We’ll follow up ASAP.
