Work to transform an iconic downtown storefront in Gulfport is underway and on track to open late this summer.

Renowned Mississippi chef Robert St. John brought his king cakes to Gulfport, where he plans to open The Downtowner later this year. He sold out of 150 of them in about 30 minutes.

These king cakes are draped with Mardi Gras beads, sprinkled with pale green, gold and purple that make a bed for the baby. Here’s how they taste.