Joe’s Cafe wins 2023 NOLA Weekend King of Cake challenge

NEW ORLEANS (NOLA WEEKEND) - The NOLA Weekend King of Cake competition started with 32 bakeries across the metro area battling against each other to let you decide which one reigns supreme. After weeks of fierce competition, we officially crown our 2023 King of Cake champion.

Congrats to Joe’s Café for winning the third annual NOLA Weekend King of Cake challenge.

In the final round, Joe’s Café took home the victory with 54% of more than 24,000 votes. And that’s no small victory. There were nearly 240,000 votes throughout the whole competition.

Joe’s Café has several locations primarily on the West Bank, in Marrero, Gretna, Terrytown and Westwego. There’s also one location in Metairie.

While the business is primarily a donut and breakfast shop, Joe’s Café crafts handmade king cakes each year during Carnival.

Bakers braid cinnamon-infused dough and top it with creaming icing or one of several fillings. Offerings include the traditional king cake, strawberry, lemon, apple, Bavarian cream, cream cheese or strawberry cream cheese. Joe’s says their fan favorite is their praline pecan king cake.

This year, Joe’s Café celebrates 35 years in business. James and Stacey Armand opened their first donut shop on Lapalco Blvd. in 1988. The business has expanded to include a full menu at six locations, and their sons have joined the family business. The family says they take pride in serving delicious donuts and well-seasoned food, prepared by people who share a love of cooking.

Not Too Fancy Bakery, a home baker located in Kenner, was the runner-up in this year’s competition.

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