The Four Seasons Hotel George V, Paris introduces a special farm-to-table culinary adventure. The journey commences at the hotel entrance, where Chef Simone Zanoni warmly welcomes guests and escorts them to the Domaine de Madame Elisabeth. Situated 20 kilometers (13 miles) southwest of Paris in Versailles, this expansive estate, once owned by King Louis XVI’s sister, houses Le George’s kitchen garden. Spanning 1,800 square meters (19,000 square feet), this chemical-free plot supplies the Michelin-starred restaurant with seasonal fruits and vegetables year-round. Under the guidance of Chef Zanoni and a team of individuals in professional reintegration programs, an array of produce including tomatoes, carrots, potatoes, eggplants, zucchinis, green beans, pumpkins, raspberries, strawberries, beetroots, and herbs flourish.
Amidst the serene and rustic setting of the vegetable garden, guests embark on a guided tour with Chef Zanoni, handpicking fresh greens and learning the art of harvesting vegetables at their peak flavor. This interactive experience fosters a connection with sustainable practices and celebrates the consumption of locally sourced seasonal ingredients.
Equipped with their gathered bounty, guests convene in a wooden open-air kitchen nestled within the heart of the garden. Here, a barbecue station, pizza oven, and pasta machine await. Guided by Chef Zanoni, participants engage in an al fresco cooking class, uncovering culinary secrets and preparing simple yet flavorful dishes like tomato and burrata salad, grilled zucchini with lemon, and tagliolini with pesto. An aperitivo featuring light bites and Champagne stimulates the appetite before guests gather around an elegant black wooden table to share their meal in the rustic yet chic ambiance.
Guests are further guided by Le George’s Head Sommelier, Francesco Cosci, named Best Sommelier of Italy in 2023, who assists in selecting the perfect wine to complement the meal. Prior to the journey to Versailles, Francesco personally escorts guests to the hotel’s cellar, recommending wines that harmonize seamlessly with their culinary creations. For wine enthusiasts, an outdoor wine-tasting class led by Francesco amidst the vegetable garden offers a deeper appreciation for the world of wines.
As the evening unfolds, guests are treated to the enchanting charm of a dinner under the stars, illuminated by glass lanterns and candles, evoking a sense of warmth and tranquility reminiscent of the dolce vita.