Celebrated on 05/06/2026
Crepes Suzette was accidentally created in 1895 by a 14-year-old assistant waiter named Henri Charpentier at the Café de Paris in Monte Carlo. The dish was originally intended for the Prince of Wales, and when the sauce caught fire, it created the dramatic flambé effect that became its signature.
National Crepes Suzette Day is celebrated on May 6th each year, though its exact origins as a food holiday are unclear. The dish itself was invented in 1895 by Henri Charpentier, a young waiter at the Café de Paris in Monte Carlo. While preparing a dessert for the Prince of Wales (later King Edward VII), Charpentier accidentally set the sauce on fire, creating the flambéed crepes that became known as Crepes Suzette. The name is believed to honor a French actress, Suzanne Reichenberg, who performed under the stage name Suzette. The holiday likely emerged in the late 20th century as part of a broader trend of celebrating classic dishes, promoted by food enthusiasts and culinary organizations.
Over time, Crepes Suzette evolved from a luxurious restaurant dessert to a home-cooked specialty. Modern celebrations often involve preparing the dish with variations, such as using Grand Marnier or Cointreau for the flambé. Restaurants may offer special menus featuring Crepes Suzette on this day, and home cooks share recipes online. The holiday emphasizes the theatrical element of flambé cooking, and many celebrate by hosting dinner parties or visiting French restaurants. Social media has also popularized the day, with food bloggers and influencers posting photos and videos of the dramatic flaming dessert.
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