The Val-de-Marne sits at the confluence of the Seine and Marne rivers to the southeast of Paris. It is a landscape of plains, plateaus and forests. In the 19th century, the banks of the Marne would draw the working classes out of Paris to enjoy the cheap wine produced here (called guinget). A guingette became known as a mini music hall/restaurant.
Although many of the establishments went out of fashion, Chez Gegene has remained open since the 1900's. It is found on the quai de Polangis at Joinville-le-Pont. This is a good spot to hire canoes or pedaloes.
Champigny-sur-Marne is also worth a visit for its ancient church of St-Saturnin, its many streets with revolutionary names and its Musee de la Resistance National.