The Wonders of Black Paris

Beyond the postcard image of the French metro area lies a world of Black excellence where history, cuisine and creativity intersect

- Kimberly Wilson

Paris, the “City of Love.” I first fell in love with this city at the tender age of 7. My mom, who didn’t get to see the world as a child because her parents couldn’t afford it, wanted a different experience for her children. And what an experience it was. This trip would be the genesis of my love of travel; and even after touching nearly every corner of the globe as an adult, I still always find my way “home” to Paris.

What is it about the city that I find so enchanting? It’s a question I often hear—from some who scoff at the idea of yet another “soulless big city,” or from others who recount negative encounters they’ve had with rude Parisians. But if you go beyond the Eiffel Tower, you’ll find that the joy is in the magic of Black Paris: the people, the food, the neighborhoods, the culture—our culture—and oh so much more.

A Culinary Journey Through Black Paris

First and foremost: When I say the food is good, it’s really that good. I often say that the best fried chicken I’ve had in my life is in Paris—and it’s at none other than Gumbo Yaya Southern Kitchen, arguably the best soul food restaurant in the city.