Ever go out to eat at the Olive Garden or Friendly’s, to see the wait staff parade out to a table singing “Happy Birthday” and bearing a tiny candle-lit cake? The birthday boy or girl usually blushes at the stares of other customers and playfully chastises the family member who secretly planned the surprise. In the hustle and bustle of New York restaurants, you don’t usually get that kind of performance…but if you want it, we discovered the tradition at Kashkaval Foods on 9th Ave., between 55th and 56th Streets.
When Pando, the owner of this cheese shop/wine bar (which has a wonderful selection of Mediterranean tapas), found out it was our friend Leah’s birthday, he planned a b-day brigade all on his own initiative. At the end of our meal, the lights dimmed and he surprised Leah with this miniature red velvet cake, as we all sang “Happy Birthday.” I don’t think she was too embarrassed. I say relish in your birthday glory! So go, and if you’re in the mood for a delicious/cheap dessert for the table, pretend it’s someone’s birthday.
surprise birthday cake from Kashkaval
December 10, 2008 at 10:02 pm
I’ll pretend its my birthday anyday if it involves red velvet cake! :p