“Villa du Coq d’Or”, or “Villa of the Golden Rooster”. It is named after… well let’s uncover some history. Despite its name, the Villa du Coq d’Or in Perreux-sur-Marne doesn’t have much to do with roosters. However, there’s a fascinating link to a Parisian street with a similar name and a famous author.
In Paris, there was a street called Rue du Coq d’Or. The English author George Orwell stayed in a cheap boarding house above this street. The address was 6 rue du Pot de Fer. Orwell worked there as a dishwasher. He wrote about his experiences in his book “Down and Out in Paris and London”. The book was published in 1933.
The Villa du Coq d’Or in Perreux-sur-Marne may indirectly allude to this Parisian connection. Perhaps the name evokes the spirit of Parisian life. It could also be a nod to Orwell’s time spent on the Rue du Coq d’Or.
Interestingly, “Le Coq d’Or” translates to “The Golden Rooster” in French. There is a Le Coq d’Or Restaurant in Chiangmai. It was established in 1973. The owner Alan Telfer wanted French food, so he opened his own restaurant. The menu features traditional French cuisine.
While we might not find golden roosters here, perhaps we can appreciate the stories. Stories connect this Villa to Parisian streets, famous authors, and even a craving for French cuisine in Thailand.