Black Paris Divas Are Back! - Le Vésinet

Discover Paris! had the pleasure of cooking and touring with Black Paris Divas again this spring. Two separate groups enjoyed our Josephine's Suburban Paradise excursion in the nearby town of Le Vésinet.

We began both visits with lunch at the private villa La Riante.

In front of Villa La Riante
© Discover Paris!
Our gracious chef and hostess, Kristie Worrel, prepared a sumptuous, four-course meal fit for kings and queens!

Passing the hors d'oeuvres
© Discover Paris!

Kristie (standing) and group participants
© Discover Paris!

Kat St Thomas of Black Paris Divas raises a glass
© Discover Paris!

Stuffed cornish game hen, Amaretto carrots, and wild rice
© Discover Paris!

Kahlua cheesecake
© Discover Paris!
Then we walked to Le Beau Chêne, the villa once owned by Josephine Baker, and strolled around the periphery of the property. The house is undergoing extensive renovation. The owner hopes to have it inscribed on the list of historic monuments in France so that the government will subsidize the substantial cost of restoration.

Group at main gate of Le Beau Chêne
© Discover Paris!

Le Beau Chêne
© Discover Paris!

Showing photos of the property in Josephine's time
© Discover Paris!
Afterward, some participants from the first group elected to walk through the town with me to see the church where Josephine worshiped.

In front of Sainte Marguerite church
© Discover Paris!
We also visited the town hall, where I explained how, many years ago, Josephine petitioned the mayor for assistance in finding a new property to purchase after she lost her château at Les Milandes.

In front of City Hall
© Discover Paris!
We were blessed with fair weather for both excursions. Le Vésinet is truly an idyllic town and it is a pleasure to stroll through its mansion-lined streets!

Next week - cooking with Black Paris Divas!

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