A.k.a. akassan.
And in Haitian Creole, pronounced that way, even when spelled AK-100. It's a creamy cornmeal drink, not too sweet, with traces of vanilla and cinnamon; I've seen it flavored with strawberry, too, and I believe banana. Compared with the best-known version, developed in 1970 (in Queens!) and distributed under the Mrs. French's label, Perpetual's akassan (about 20 fl. oz.; $2.50) pours more freely and doesn't seem so sugary. Not that I tried the two side by side — one akassan of any sort is more than enough.
Also shown below: a Haitian patty ($1), which Perpetual Bakery prepares in beef, chicken, and the codfish variation shown below. The thin spread of fish seems merely an accent, but even pressed above and below by dense, somewhat buttery pastry, its flavor speaks loud and clear.
Perpetual Bakery
1914 Nostrand Ave. (Newkirk-Foster Aves.), Flatbush, Brooklyn (shown)
347-533-6872
Also at 8123A Flatlands Ave. (East 81st-82nd Sts.), Canarsie, Brooklyn
718-209-1890
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