L'Auberge Chez Francois

French restaurant · Great Falls

L'Auberge Chez Francois

French restaurant · Great Falls

5

332 Springvale Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066

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L'Auberge Chez Francois by L’Auberge Chez Francois/Facebook
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null
L'Auberge Chez Francois by null

Highlights

Elegant restaurant serving classic French dishes in a farmhouse setting & on a garden patio.  

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332 Springvale Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066 Get directions

laubergechezfrancois.com
@laubergechezfrancois

$$$$$ · Menu

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332 Springvale Rd, Great Falls, VA 22066 Get directions

+1 703 759 3800
laubergechezfrancois.com
@laubergechezfrancois
𝕏
@LaubergeChezF

$$$$$ · Menu

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reservations required
outdoor seating

Last updated

Jul 10, 2025

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@eater

"Back in 1954, culinary pioneer François Haeringer was inspired to bring a taste of his native Alsatian countryside to D.C. His sons keep his spirit alive at the cherished Falls Church inn that’s filled with family heirlooms and murals of Haeringer’s birthplace in France. All these years later, the restaurant remains most famous for its hot souffle. A traditional Alsatian plum tart with cinnamon ice cream is also a fine new finale. Arrive early for a creative cocktail from the downstairs bar or take a stroll around the six-acre property’s gorgeous gardens during warmer months." - Tierney Plumb, Stephanie Carter

15 of the Most Romantic Restaurants in D.C.
View Postcard for L'Auberge Chez Francois
@eater

"For a culinary getaway that’s not too far from the city, check out this longtime family-owned establishment set against a picturesque farmhouse and two outdoor gardens in Great Falls, Va. Indulge in classic French fare, including foie gras and escargots, while sitting fireside and enjoying live music — keep an eye on its special events calendar for dates and details." - Mekita Rivas, Eater Staff

D.C.’s Best Fireside Destinations for Cozy Dining and Drinking
View Postcard for L'Auberge Chez Francois
@eater

"Culinary pioneer François Haeringer brought a taste of his native Alsatian countryside to D.C. way back in the 1950s. His sons keep his spirit alive at the cherished Falls Church inn that’s filled with family heirlooms and murals of Haeringer’s birthplace in France. The restaurant remains most famous for its hot souffle, along with lobster bisque and delicacies like snails plucked from Burgundy vineyards. Arrive early for a cocktail from the downstairs bar or take a stroll around the six-acre property’s gorgeous gardens. A tasting menu option starts at $97." - Vinciane Ngomsi, Tierney Plumb

Where to Find Fantastic French Food in D.C.
View Postcard for L'Auberge Chez Francois
@eater

"Culinary pioneer François Haeringer brought a taste of his native Alsatian countryside to D.C. way back in the 1950s. His sons keep his spirit alive at the cherished Falls Church inn that’s filled with family heirlooms and murals of Haeringer’s birthplace in France. The restaurant remains most famous for its hot souffle, along with lobster bisque and delicacies like snails plucked from Burgundy vineyards. Arrive early for a cocktail from the downstairs bar or take a stroll around the six-acre property’s gorgeous gardens. A tasting menu option starts at $97." - Vinciane Ngomsi, Tierney Plumb

Where to Find Fantastic French Food in D.C.
View Postcard for L'Auberge Chez Francois
@eater

"While it’s a trek across the Potomac River and through the woods, L’Auberge offers a dining experience unlike any other. The French farmhouse-styled mainstay has been in service for more than 60 years under the guidance of chef Jacques Haeringer and his father. The menu offers a la carte and multi-course options, but always order the French onion soup as a starter or pairing dish." - Vinciane Ngomsi

Where to Find Fabulous French Onion Soup in D.C. - Eater DC
View Postcard for L'Auberge Chez Francois

Diego G

Google
This is an amazing restaurant, they offer great service, atmosphere and food quality. The entire decoration makes you feel at the French countryside. Our waiter was great and on point with all requests. And the manager kept an eye on every table making sure all service met their standards.

Birckhead1

Google
We went here for my Birthday a couple weeks ago and it was Fantastic!! The food, everything we ordered was outstanding!! We had outdoor seating near the gardens and the weather was Absolutely Beautiful, not to hot not to cool and the atmosphere was Great!!! We had "Jose" as our waiter and he was phenomenal. We had an excellent experience for my Birthday and would highly recommend "L'Auberge Chez Francois" to anyone looking for authentic French cuisine as well as a Amazing experience!!

Chelsy Ma

Google
Great service and decent food. I love the intimate atmosphere making it more casual. My only complaint is their chairs are a bit high for my feet to land comfortably on the ground :)

Tiffany Edwards

Google
Celebrating a birthday with my kids at an amazing restaurant. It’s been over 15 years since being here and it remains a classic place to dine. My children enjoyed it for the first time. We sat outside. It was a beautiful day. Good food. Good company. And excellent service. We stayed for almost 5 hours and didn’t feel rushed. That is the true meaning of fine dining.

Ian Peterson

Google
Wonderful evening at L’Auberge. This place is a true French dining experience out in kind of the middle of nowhere. We were surprised how expansive it is, and by the overall experience. The food is very good, but it is very traditional. If you like traditional French cuisine, then you will enjoy it very much. No complaints on any of the dishes, it is just a lot of heavy food that became overwhelming after a while. The dining experience itself is also great. It’s very slow and drawn out. You feel like you are there for a proper evening rather than just dinner. I would recommend if you are willing to spend for a special occasion and you are ready to eat too much food

Andrea

Google
I truly enjoyed my dining experience at L’ Auberge Chez Francois. From the minute you walk in, everything is curated to make you feel welcomed and part of the family. The food was exquisite. I especially loved the Grand Manier Souflee. You cannot leave this place without trying one! I’d like to recognize all the wonderful staff who provided exceptional customer service. One of the best dining experiences in Northern Virginia. I look forward to returning soon!

Arnold

Google
L'Auberge Chez François offers a delightful escape to the French countryside with its rustic décor and charming, cozy ambiance. The service is warm and attentive, making you feel right at home. The food, from classic escargot to rich coq au vin, is exquisitely prepared, capturing the authentic flavors of French provincial cuisine. It’s the perfect spot for a truly immersive and memorable French dining experience.

Doug Christenson

Google
Always a great meal combined with top notch service. L'Auberge had always been able to maintain quality in a time when other restaurants struggle. Highly recommend any dish that utilizes their organic produce grown on the premise.

Josephine H.

Yelp
An experience I can't rave enough about. Went at the recommendation of my sister in law and what an incredible night with some of the best tasting food. In the heart of great falls, l'auberge provides fresh tasting meals in a friendly atmosphere. Everyone was attentive and kind. Each person made small conversations and helped whenever they could. Many of the greens and vegetables are grown right in their own garden and I love how they cultivate their own ingredients. The hard work in preparation is evident in how fresh everything tasted. Every single part of the fixed meal was delicious and greatly portioned. I would have to say the must have is the Grand Marnier souffle. Absolutely get this because it was the perfect way to end the meal.

Steve N.

Yelp
I'm not sure it gets any better than this restaurant. Chez Francois never disappoints, from outstanding service to fantastic French food in a rustic setting and then add Christmas decorations. This makes for a perfect evening with friends. My wife and I had Chateaubriand for two. The beef simply melts in your mouth. I wanted to order something else but we are drawn to this entree because it is so good. To finish the evening warm chocolate soufflé with raspberry sauce. The waiter also brought us complementary chocolate truffles. This restaurant has been around for years but it is still doing everything right. I would encourage everyone to go and experience it.

Amy B.

Yelp
Incredible first experience at this restaurant. My friend has been raving about it for years and we decided to try it. Many were there for a special occasion and most men were in a jacket. Formal, warm and inviting cottage with so much character. Everything we ate was delicious, you can't go wrong with the lobster bisque, seafood dishes or tenderloin. We got the raspberry dessert soufflé and was perfectly made and a vanilla base. Service was impeccable and attentive. You feel swept away for the evening into a small French village. A must go experience!!

Maitrayee D.

Yelp
This restaurant never fails . We had the prefix menu plus lots of extra we were able to taste . From the appetizer to dessert . Hands down, some of the most delicious food I've eaten lately! They utilize only the freshest ingredients". Not sure why this place didn't get a Michelin star .

Sheri W.

Yelp
I celebrated my birthday by going to this much heralded restaurant and I was taken aback that the reviews do not exaggerate. The fireplace was lit, holiday lights had been hung, and the cottage atmosphere was delightful. Service was impeccable. The menu was varied and all exceptionally cooked and presented. The best part of my meal was the Classic Beef Bourguignon. It epitomized the excellence for which this restaurant is known and there is a reason they are celebrating 70 years.

Stephen C.

Yelp
Fantastic dining experience from beginning to end. Upon driving into the lot of the restaurant, you're greeted by a charming restaurant building that is both homey and welcoming. Walking in, we were greeted right away with smiling faces and seated to our table. The service was also impeccable and accommodating. I ordered one of the spirit-free beverages but wanted to add gin to it and they were able to do that. Then you're offered a four-course meal for a reasonable price where I ordered the lobster bisque, house salad, La Matelote de Poissons et Crustaçé (a feast of various seafood with white lobster sauce), and crème brûlée. Between salad and entree, we were offered complimentary spoonful of sorbet as a palette-cleanser from the acidity of the vinaigrette dressing. Our table also ordered the mussels and New York strip steak. Both tasty as well. Pretty much everything was delicious and probably one of the best meals I've had in a while.

Le Système D.

Yelp
Have heard about this restaurant since coming to the DC area and decided to check it out. Very old school in almost every way, which wasn't a bad thing at all and actually really great! The restaurant is set in Great Falls far off the main roads and in what looks like used to be a heavily wooded area that is now mostly large houses/mansions. Service is hit or miss, but the food is well executed classic French technique which I really enjoyed as we don't see a lot of that style anymore. The kitchen is super solid, you can taste and see that on the plate as well as the staging of the food. Looking forward to going back again and bringing relatives.

Bobby S.

Yelp
The service was impeccable... the ingredients for every dish was fresh and perfectly cooked. It is a full course dinner that takes a few hours... starting with fresh bread from the oven, there were 5 courses and an option for desert... There are items on the menu that are included in the main entrées and for another $12-$18 you can upgrade your appetizer and salad. The desserts are a separate cost... First and foremost... yes, the chairs are a bit uncomfortable... but it's because we have become accustomed to super comfortable office chairs, lazy boys, couches and memory foam everything. Also we have all gained too many pounds You become so full through the courses that by the time you get to the dessert, you almost can't imagine taking another bite... but it's so worth it... The beef Wellington was ok... the papa Ernest was a little bit of everything and it is perfect for those who like to try a little bit of everything! You can't go wrong with any of the dishes... just pick the protein and dish that you generally love the most... it will be cooked perfectly. Most people come dressed in business casual/tie/no jeans and ladies in dresses... it's a place for special occasions... You can make your reservation on the open table app...

Igor B.

Yelp
This is a combo of French food with German influences. Spetzle was the best ever - by far. Appetizer - beef cheek was the first class. Main meal - beef bourguignon was generous and delicious. Grand Marnie Souffle was the real deal - something devilishly good to be offered before signing your soul out. It is good "to die for". Service was a perfection - nothing to suggest. Memorable visit and will repeat for sure.

Mary H.

Yelp
This cozy spot in the country gave me a feeling of an old world chalet with a nice warm fireplace. You're warmly greeted when you enter and they immediately coat check you. Our server assisted us with menu options and was very attentive. Did I mention service was excellent?!? We started with cocktails. They served us with fresh bread too... Delicious! The bread looked so dense but was actually light and airy. We decided to just order a 1/2 bottle of wine. With those unlit quiet residential roads, something to consider. Starters Wagyu beef cheeks: delicious and so tender Asparagus with country ham-tasty Pommes frites to share- perfectly crispy House salad-delicious! Sorbet to cleanse the palate Entrees Grilled duck- so tender and prepared well New York strip steak- prepared well, delicious! Desserts crème brûlée- delicious! Best I've ever had! Dark chocolate tart-perfectly sweet. We also received a complimentary dessert-chocolate mouse with meringue. Not on the menu... It's was delicious! We were very happy with our meal. I thought portions were good. We left satisfied and would definitely return.

Margaret A.

Yelp
My husband surprised me with dinner here on the occasion of our 9th anniversary. Beautiful spot with the gracious service one expects of a classy old school French restaurant. Lovely dining outside on a mild late summer evening on the patio with a view of the restaurant gardens. The food was delicious, from the amuse bouche to the Grand Marnier soufflé for dessert. We saw the chateaubriand on the PBS show Signature Dish and had to try it. I also got excellent wine recommendations from the sommelier. Would definitely come here again.

Nancy R.

Yelp
For decades, L'Auberge Chez Francois has been the place to celebrate special occasions and enjoy an elegant and delicious meal.  And over the years, this has not changed.  Chez Francois is still the epitome of elegance and service.  It is often the little things that make the difference, from the personnel in the parking lot directing you to an open space and wishing you a wonderful evening to the endless (dangerously so - yum!) garlic bread and cottage cheese.  The value of the meal goes beyond the food itself to the gracious and relaxed environment in which everyone can enjoy a convivial evening.  Don't get me wrong - the food is also a tremendous draw.  Longtime favorites include the bouillabaisse and the rack of lamb as well as the grand marnier souffle which is known as one of the area's best desserts.  But, no matter what you choose from the extensive menus, from amuse bouche through appetizer, salad with that potent garlic crouton, intermezzo, entrée, dessert to a special treat at the end, you cannot go wrong.  Only remember to pace yourself and to relax and to savor the experience.  If it is your birthday, you will even get a special additional meringue treat!  Even if there is no  occasion you are celebrating, being at Chez Francois is enough to make any day special.

Jen R.

Yelp
Overpriced okay-food in a charming setting Service was good and very attentive. This place is old school, like put napkins on your lap, take your coat at the door old school. The somm was pretty awkward, he never said a word, and didn't seem to want to offer an opinion or converse with us. Ambiance was old school and cozy. Food was okay. Some dishes were just not cooked properly. I think for $107-$130 per person I was expecting something better. - The hyped up cesear salad, I honestly thought I could get at Applebees. The lettuce was a little soggy and the large pieces of anchovies were way too salty. - foie gras on toast, the toast was soggy and limp - gold beet tartar tasted muddled, lacked brightness - duck breast main was good, well-cooked but side of wild rice, was like two small spoonfulls - Dover sole was bone dry - lobster main was good, but we didn't like citrus slices in the hot sauce.. - soufflé was warm and fluffy!

Sherry S.

Yelp
3 friends took me here recently for a birthday lunch. Truly a special place with excellent food and service. Pricey but worth it. I'd have given it 5 stars but the waiter did not tell us about the Ala carte menu, only giving us the VERY pricey prix fixe luncheon menu. We had to ask! Still, it was a memorable birthday luncheon.

John L.

Yelp
Love their hospitality! I brought my wife here for our anniversary. The maître d' congratulated us, and they presented a beautiful surprise dessert with a candle near the end of our meal. We ordered a 4-course prix-fixe meal. We ordered 2 cocktails. 1) Passion Fruit Crémant Cocktail Crémant d'Alsace, St. Germain Elderflower Liqueur, and passion fruit pureé. It was a fruity tasting sparkling white wine with hints of honeysuckle, pear, and citrus. 2) Hibiscus Flower Margarita Hornitos Reposado Tequila, Triple Sec, Essence of Hibiscus Flowers, and fresh lime juice. This was a tart, citrusy, and slightly sweet margarita with a floral aroma and a pink color. It had a good, strong tequila flavor. The four course meal started with complimentary plates of garlic bread, seed coated bread, french bread, butter, and cottage cheese with chives, tabasco, onions, salt, pepper, and garlic. All of the fresh-made bread had a hard crust with soft and moist crumb. This impressive variety of flavors was an auspicious beginning! We were served amuse bouche in glass demitasse cups. It was lentil soup with chopped chives. It tasted of sherry wine and chives with a light earthy nutty flavor from the lentils. This is a present from the chef. Amuse bouche is French for mouth amuser. It is meant to awaken the palate for the courses to follow. 1(a) La Cassolette de Joues de Boeuf Braised Wagyu beef cheeks, potatoes, mushrooms, and parsley with sherry wine sauce. The beef was very tender and moist. The beef and sauce made this dish incredibly savory! Think of it as a French beef stew. 1(b) Toulouse sausage with bacon wrapped scallop in a white bean sauce. The sausage was coarse ground pork with a mild garlic, salt, and pepper flavor. The scallops were huge, like U10 size. They were tender, sweet, and succulent. Paired with the savory bacon, they were to die for. The sausage and scallops were immersed in a white bean and white wine sauce. The sauce was mild in flavor and didn't match the savoriness of the proteins. A flavorful dish nonetheless! 2) La Salade de L'auberge Organic mesclun salad, garden crudités, and vinaigrette maison. It had mixed greens and vegetables with shaved cheese. The dressing was peppery with good flavors from the seasonings and herbs. A very fresh tasting salad! 3(a) Classic Beef Bourguignon It had carrots, yellow beets, celery, french green beans, spaezteles, white onion, and tender beef in red wine sauce. The vegetables were organic. I thought the La Cassolette de Joues de Boeuf was savory. This took it to another level! All of the ingredients were fresh, and the marinated beef was tender and rich. 3(b) Rockfish filet with french green beans, carrots, and boiled potato. This was on their specials list. The rockfish was moist and tender. It was plated with a mild lemon sauce underneath. The sauce was plain with no depth in flavor. The vegetables had no seasoning. The fish was very good, everything else was too bland. 4(a) Grand Marnier souffle It had candied orange peel on top. The Grand Marnier sauce had an excellent orange and liqueur flavor. The souffle was light and fluffy with a delicate sweetness. Absolutely exquisite and well-made. 4(b) La crème brulée à la vanille Tahitian vanilla in a creamy custard. It was rich and creamy with perfect caramelized glaze on top. We would have preferred more vanilla flavor. This was beautifully made. We got coffee with dessert. They serve Julius Meinl Coffee. It was a dark roast that is full bodied with a touch of burnt flavor. A little cream took care of that burnt flavor. The service was professional, courteous, helpful, attentive, responsive, and friendly! Absolute perfection! The dining room and restrooms were immaculate! Opened in 1976, this family-owned restaurant is run by Chef Jacques Haeringer. He took over from his father, Chef François Haeringer. I remember the first time I visited back in 1988. It made a lasting impression! Over the years, the exquisite French cuisine continued, and we should all appreciate it. FYI, Jacques Brasserie is located in the basement of this building. The entrance is at the back.

Jacob C.

Yelp
My wife and family came here for her birthday recently. It is a very nice and pretty place. I thought some of the food was delicious (beef cheeks, mushroom crepe, lobster entree). Other dishes were OK to bad, in my opinion. The meal started with the bread course featuring garlic bread - all were very good. Then there was an offering from the chef of a split pea soup - it was fine, but nothing I would order again if given the opportunity. A little chalky and underseasoned. For appetizers, we had the beef cheeks, lobster bisque, salmon, and mushroom crepe. The beef cheeks and mushroom crepe were the winners. Both delicious. The lobster bisque, again, was fine but I wouldn't order it again (made me long for the crab bisque at Ray's the Steaks). The salmon was pretty good, as well. The house salad was fine, but again nothing amazing. The mango sorbet palette cleanser was good (though, oddly we noticed they had switched to raspberry when we were leaving). For mains, I had the seafood in lobster sauce and my wife had the lobster and crab in a citrus white wine sauce. Both were tasty; however the fish and lobster were all overcooked - maybe from sitting on the scalding plate. (Not bad enough to send back, but not good enough for the price point either). One of my daughters had the kids filet mignon, which was fine, but not as good as at steakhouses like Guerra or Mussel Bar. The other had the vegetarian dish - mushrooms in a red wine sauce. That one was really disappointing. It was filled with lots of other veggies rather than meaty mushrooms and was pretty flavorless. My wife and I ended up sharing our dishes with our daughter, because, thankfully, she likes seafood and the portions were pretty large. We didn't do the optional soufflé for dessert and instead opted for the plum and chocolate tarts. Both were very good, but you have to really like dark chocolate for that chocolate tart. My wife does and loved it, but it was inedible for me. They also brought us a special additional dessert (ice cream with meringue) for my wife's birthday, which was tasty and a nice touch. All in all, it was a very good meal in a very nice restaurant, with good ambience. I was left wondering at the end of the meal, however, if we would have been happier creating our own "pris fixe" at another restaurant (It was about $500 for the 4 of us without drinks, so you could order a lot of delicious food at a Guerra or Mussel Bar, for example). Also, my wife and I went to Alias in Warrenton for another special occasion recently, and, though that was more expensive per person, I found the food to be a lot better and perfectly cooked. Service was fine, but I heard some other waiters giving much better and detailed information than ours at a nearby table in response to the same questions we asked (after we had ordered). I'd give 3.5 stars if I could, but I don't think 4 stars is warranted at the price point, due to the issues noted above.

Eric W.

Yelp
Okay. Dating myself. L'Auberge Chez Francois has been open for 70 years. We've been going for 35. Never had a bad meal here. Or a mediocre one. This is an old school restaurant in all the best ways. You might think it's expensive. And it is. But it's the best value restaurant I've ever been to. The entree price gets you bread, appetizer, amuse bouche, entree, and dessert. I had the Tuna Tartare, House Salad, and Beef Wellington. My wife got the warm Asparagus, House Salad, and Rack of Lamb. All expertly prepared. The ambiance is amazing. French Cottage in the countryside of Great Falls. The service is impeccable. You don't get much better. And get the soufflé for dessert. You have to order it when you order your meal. Well worth it. I will keep coming here until I die. It's that good.

Kristine C.

Yelp
Solid. Consistent. Not hip by any means but a classic and tasty restaurant. I appreciate the service and the fixed price menu structure around the entree of choice.

Trolling K.

Yelp
We have been devoted customers since the late 70's. The service, atmosphere and food have always been exceptional. Granted it has changed a bit from before the fire shut it down, but it has come back better than ever.

Matthew H.

Yelp
L'Auberge Chez Francois is one of the best fine dining restaurants I have eaten at in the United States. The entire business model here is amazing. Every restaurant should strive to be as amazing as this one. From the moment you drive up to this wonderful business, you are met with kindness and warmth from the staff. The food and service are phenomenal. Many people come from all over the area to dine here on special occasions. Come hungry; you get a good amount of food when ordering from the set menu.

FoodCritic V.

Yelp
Can't go wrong with L'Auberge anytime. Perfect date night, dinner, or romantic evening. Interior upstairs is fixed menu and their outside or interior downstairs is a la carte off the menu. Both experiences are phenomenal. They profile a little bit; In my mid 20's I've come here on dates and I don't get nearly the same quality of service vs when I come with my parents (they give 10x better service when with my parents). I tip 20-25% every time I come here but one of the cons of being younger in life at a place that is used to middle aged customers. Ambiance is cute Definitely romantic and good date, anniversary, or special occasion spot. Food is always incredible

Chris D.

Yelp
We went for our anniversary last night and it was fantastic! The service was impeccable, the ambiance was lovely and the food was out of this world. I think the thing that really got me was how spaced out the dining room was. You are not right on top of your neighbors like so many places so it just feels roomy and comfortable. I wasn't a huge fan of the Cherry Bourbon Smash but that is probably a personal taste thing. My wife's cocktail was great! We had the tomato salad which was heavenly. I had the beef cheeks which was good and my wife had the oysters which she loved. I went with the lobster for my entree and loved every bite while my wife had the duck which was sublime. We went with the soufflés and loved every bite in addition to the meringue they treated us to for the occasion. It is not cheap but it's worth every penny. We will return!!

Elaine F.

Yelp
We moved to Annapolis six years ago, so we had not visited l'Auberge for some time. It has not changed. Every detail is still perfect. I had given my husband a gift certificate, and this was a special occasion lunch. The service is the most attentive anywhere we have been, and every morsel is delicious. We had their prix fixe lunch. They always bring out breads, including some marvelous garlic toast served with Alsatian cheese. We each ordered a drink; I had a nice glass of an Alsatian Pinot Gris. The amuse bouche was a creamy lentil soup in a little handled cup, and it was amazing. I ordered their to-die-for lobster bisque, and my husband had the onion soup. He had beef burgundy, and I ordered the wild mushroom ragout (a vegetarian entree). Both came with spaetzle, and they were so tasty. It was his birthday, so they brought out a special dessert--chocolate icecream covered with toasted meringue with a candle. Then we had two more desserts that came with the meal--cheesecake & creme brulee. We may have eaten enough to last us all week. The interior and grounds are lovely, and they anticipate every need. (We had a private party some years ago downstairs in Jacques Brasserie), so that is another option. We traveled over an hour each way, but it was worth it.

Christine P.

Yelp
We came here for a birthday meal last month. This place has the French quaint country inn vibe. The service was top-notch, our server was attentive and explained the menu and our options. The food was delicious as well, we enjoyed the lamb rack and beef wellington most and were full from their portions. We took home the crème brûlée since we were so full, probably wouldn't recommend that as it became floppy and soggy.

Luis S.

Yelp
I visited this place for my anniversary. Service was great and the food was good. It was a great dinner experience and everything was tasty. I have no complaints. I guess, I was expecting more. It's just a very traditional place.

Pixie K.

Yelp
We went on our special date Anniversary, Every thing are great food wise , Service and ambience But I was a little disappointed that as a special date night that we are already mention it, we had been seating in a small tiny table that has a wall in between big room even though they have so many table available. Just make us feel like we are being isolated from the room.

Bo V.

Yelp
We went to Chez Francois to celebrate our wedding anniversary last Saturday. The ambiance was romantic and their garden was beautiful. The weather was perfect for outdoor dining. Their bread was amazing, crusty outside and soft inside. The waiter was friendly. However, he didn't tell us about their special appetizer, tuna tartare (one of my favorite appetizers). I heard him telling the table next to us about it after we had already ordered. Unfortunately, we didn't have that choice. We had wagyu beef cheeks (La Cassolette de Joues de Boeuf). It is similar to beef stew. It was tasty and the beef was so tender. For the main dishes, we ordered La Sole de la Manche and La Matelote de Poissons et Crustaçés. Both dishes were well prepared and delicious. My husband's Dover sole came with green beans. I was surprised my seafood dish didn't come with any vegetables. For dessert, we enjoyed blueberry tart with ice cream. I found out later that our waiter forgot to serve us the chocolate truffles that came with the prix-fixe menu. That is why I reduced a star. This restaurant is pricey but the food and ambiance were awesome. We will probably come again to celebrate other special occasions.

Christopher L.

Yelp
Came here for a set menu dinner with French Cuisine! Incredibly pricey and incredibly authentic, but the ambiance and dishes is something I will never forget. You are treated like royalty here. And I think we came on the most perfect DC day. Even though we ate inside, walking around the grounds which includes a tent, gazebo, grass, and a garden that they use for their salads. I ate a sort of seafood parfait, veal, salad, and a cheesecake, and it was all very great French Food. Getting here was pretty difficult though ):, and ubers kept canceling on us. This adds to the experience though because one of the servers offered to drive us back which we took them up on!

Jimmy L.

Yelp
Came here to celebrate my anniversary. I was forewarned by a foodie friend that this place is overrated. She was right. The starters, like the bread, amuse bouche and salad were good, but everything else was downhill from there, except for the soufflé. Would I come back? No. Am I glad I checked it out? Yes, just to check it off the bucket list.

David H.

Yelp
Brought our daughter here for 30th birthday the same spot we had our wedding reception in 1991. The reception and service were warm and friendly and the food was outstanding including my daughters rack of lamb and the raspberry soufflé A leisurely dinner with family snd friends made all the more memorable by the staff.

Shawn H.

Yelp
Been here twice in two weeks for dinner and I'm thrilled to report that I now have a favorite French restaurant in VA! After moving from nyc, especially during covid, I struggled to find places to put in regular rotation or recommend. The hype is real here- the food and service is excellent. The ambience/decor needs a facelift though- the old school cool only goes so far before it starts getting a bit too shabby. The stained glass windows and crazy red wallpapers are just a couple things that I was a bit overwhelmed by. But the food makes up for it. And the pricing isn't bad- it's about $100-110 per person plus drinks and tip. I was so impressed that I took my family here for dinner for my mother's birthday recently - everyone gave their nod of approval and cleared off their plates. They brought out a complimentary extra small dessert with a candle, which was a nice finishing touch. I was not a fan of the saffron broth seafood medley though- I couldn't finish it. My entire family tried it and it was the one mistake I made here but that's on me for being a bit adventurous that day. Sticking with the other seafood items on the menu (since I don't eat red meat but others have raves about it). I always leave happy and stuffed and can't wait for my next visit.

Su K.

Yelp
I truly enjoyed the food and service. The only thing that bothered me was the presence of a fly around the window at the restaurant. Additionally, it would be great if the parking lot had a better flow, perhaps with a two-way system or a more easily accessible exit.

Anh S.

Yelp
We are fortunate to live 5 minutes away from this gem of a restaurant. This was our first time dining here and we were quite excited since French cuisine is our favorite. This place is quaint, refined and elegant. The setting feels like it's straight out of the movies! French countryside restaurant. The decor all adds to the feel and you can feel that you're in for a treat. We were like , oh please let this place be good lol. We were not disappointed! The restaurant is family owned and operated for generations. It is romantic, sophisticated and downright adorable. We were swiftly greeted and escorted to our table. Reservations are highly recommended! This place gets full quickly. We went for lunch and it was starting to wind down. We ordered the set menu for $100 per person that included 5 choices : Amuse bouche, appetizer, salad, entree and dessert. We also had to add to this French onion soup... when in France .... My husband ordered: French onion soup, beef cheeks, garden salad, beef bourguignon. I ordered: French onion soup, Norwegian salmon trio, garden salad, bouillabaisse, crème brûlée. Service started with fresh made variety of breads and hand whipped butter with a hint of sea salt. I mean, come on, can we just eat this for our meal? I wouldn't have complained. It's incredibly addictive and beyond delicious. We are now super excited for our meals to come ! The French onion soup was incredible, you can taste sweet notes from the onion and the onion was the star of the soup. The broth was light and flavorful. Truly taste that it was made from scratch and nothing artificial was used. The beef cheeks were soft and melts in your mouth. It was bursting full of flavor . The smoked salmon was absolutely delicious and left you wanting more. The garden salad was served using fresh salad picked from their garden in the morning! Honestly , I was shocked if what a difference eating fresh vegetables made compared to what you purchase in supermarkets. Beef bourguignon was so flavorful with sweet notes from the vegetables. Very good. The bouillabaisse was amazing. You can taste clearly the saffron notes and every bite was a treat for your taste buds. The Grand Marnier soufflé (ordered from the beginning of the meal) was hands down the best thing I've ever tasted probably in my life ! I'm not a huge fan of orange flavored foods but my goodness, this was simply heavenly. Crème brûlée was creamy and delicious. The service was as good as the food. You get a different waiter for every course. Always an explanation of what you're about to eat. I find the food well worth the price! We left feeling royalty and wanting more. This is now our favorite restaurant and go to for all our special date nights and in general the place to go when we are craving amazing, well cooked foods. You won't be disappointed! Everything about this place is perfection. They have lived up to their name and all their awards have truly been earned. Can't wait to go back.

Katie A.

Yelp
I was following the directions to this place, and it seem like it was in a very residential area. And then, suddenly it appeared! Beautiful interior; the service was excellent. Had the bouillabaisse, which had wonderful flavorings and a wide range of seafood in it. Desert was a plum tart, with a side of homemade cinnamon ice cream. I am not a dessert person, but it was outstanding!

Zack G.

Yelp
Upscale French restaurant with a multi-course pre-fixed menu The place is out in the suburbs, but you drive by some absolutely enormous homes on the way there so it is an entertaining drive. Once you arrive at the restaurant it looks like it was taken straight out of a small French village, as every inch, inside and out, is ornately decorated The place is deceptively big. Even though there were a lot of people there, and the parking lot was practically full when we arrived, we still had a few empty tables around us in the room we were in. The price tag here is $ x4, but you do get a ton of food. For one flat rate (which is a little north of $100 per person) you get bread & butter, an appetizer, salad, palate cleanser, entree, desert, and post-desert treat. Also, since my GF brought me here for my birthday, they gave us a scoop of ice cream and a bit of meringue as well. It seems like she had the right idea choosing this place, since literally every other table around us (probably 6 or 7) was also celebrating something. It was hilarious but, given the price tag, not shocking. Service was amazing and every course came very quickly, but our dinner still took ~2 hours because there were so many different courses. Food itself was solid. As were our drinks.

Nick H.

Yelp
My wife and I had our Valentine's Day dinner there, this restaurant definitely lives up to its reputation. The ambiance there feels like a restaurant in French countryside, very unique and tasteful. The vibe was romantic for sure, especially for Valentine's Day, haha. We had the 7-course V-day special menu, the meal itself was quite remarkable. Surprisingly, the restaurant had Beef Wellington that night, it was very juicy and tender, the portion was generous as well (although it was not as good as the Beef Wellington from the Gordon Ramsey Restaurant, still quite palatable in my opinion). Oh, I can't say enough about the Braised Wagyu Beef Cheeks, OMG, this is probably the tenderest beef I've ever had, it literally melted in my mouth. Also, you have to get the Soufflé cake, it was absolutely exotic and delicious, so moreish! Seriously, all dishes were spot on, no complaints at all, 10 out of 10. The service was attentive and faultless. Now I can really see why this restaurant is so hard to book. Highly recommended!

Kate R.

Yelp
This place is clearly ALL about who you have as your server. I am baffled at the service we received from ours. He brought us cocktail menus and took a cocktail order and then that was it. For 25 minutes. We had to flag down another waiter who we observed being very attentive to and engaged with his other tables to ask for a dinner and wine list menu. Our server seemed to have two other tables (a table of 6 celebrating a birthday, which by the way we were celebrating my husbands birthday too) and what seemed to be a couple who were either regulars or some kind of VIP. He didnt seem to have any other tables. He would walk around and not even glance our way despite having to walk by us to get to his table of two. It was pretty baffling. After the kind server brought us menus (and we saw him inform our waiter we had been waiting and requested menus) we waited...and waited...again. We had to flag down the poor guy again and tell him we were ready to order. He went and got our server and when our server finally approached he did not apologize or acknowledge his lack of attention. He just said, "Are you ready to order?" After we FINALLY got our food orders in, it was great from then on. The food was amazing. No frills but just knock it out of the park CLASSIC french cuisine. Another shout out to our guy who was not our server (Mohammad) - when he saw I had not touched my amuse bouche, he came and asked about it. I told him I was just not a fan of split pea soup and he immediately offered to bring me their special soup of the day (gazpacho). It was INCREDIBLE. And it's just the small service touches like this that really make a special evening. For 450 dollars I expect, at bare minimum, a little attention. You dont have to be especially engaging or charming but if you just touch the table to let us know we exist, it makes all the difference. I suggest management address this as it really had a significant impact on our evening. If we ever go back, we will absolutely know to request Mohammad as our server and pray they have been able to keep him. Last note: we sat outside on a gorgeous evening but unfortunately I got absolutely massacred by mosquitos. My legs were completed covered in bites. I would suggest they place citronella candles around or if you plan on dining outside and attract mosquitos like me, don't skimp on the bug spray. Not their fault but just something for diners to consider. This would have easily been a 5 star review but the service really left a bad taste in my mouth.

Sue S.

Yelp
Everything was perfect. Food as always excellent, fresh, tasty and cooked perfectly. Service is incredible, I dined alone, usually service for solo diner tends to be bad. Not here. They were on it. Ambience is beautiful, I ate in the garden room . Highly recommend this place. Have gone there for years, never declined. Kept high standards.

Ellie A.

Yelp
Highly recommend this lovely restaurant. Order the chocolate soufflé. You will not be disappointed. My cousins & I went for lunch on a summer day. Book your reservation. Lovely French atmosphere in the heart of horse country. A gem.

Mike S.

Yelp
Is there ever a time when Chez Francois isn't excellent? I didn't think so. The ambience is impeccable and the food is exquisite. And, as always, the service is customized and perfect. This one's a no brainer - there's literally no way to have a bad meal.

Walito A.

Yelp
A Culinary Gem in Great Falls: I had the pleasure of dining at L'Auberge Chez Francois, and it was nothing short of spectacular. As someone who appreciates the blend of innovation and tradition, this place struck the perfect chord. From the moment we arrived, the ambiance set a welcoming and sophisticated tone. The attention to detail in both decor and service was evident, creating a comfortable yet elegant atmosphere. The menu, a delightful array of French classics, was both authentic and creative. Each dish we tried was a testament to the chef's mastery and passion for French cuisine. The flavors were rich, well-balanced, and truly indulged the senses. What stood out to me the most was the quality of ingredients used. It's clear that L'Auberge Chez Francois takes pride in sourcing the best, and it shines through in every bite. L'Auberge Chez Francois is a must-visit for anyone seeking a high-quality French dining experience in Virginia. It's not just a meal; it's a celebration of fine cuisine and impeccable service. Highly recommend!

Mel H.

Yelp
One word. Perfection. Outstanding ambience. Excellent service. And every course was wonderful. From the amuse bouche to the salad, mains, and SOUFFLÉ, the flavors were spot on - and my spouses 50th birthday was so memorable. The rack of lamb was wonderful and the lobster with citrus sauce was heavenly. You can't miss by visiting for a special event...or just because the cuisine is an experience to remember.

Lana S.

Yelp
My friends and I came here for a friend's birthday dinner. The place is located in middle of nowhere great falls. Wait staff was great! Explaining everything course and making suggestions. We were very well taken care of. We decided to do pre fix menus and each got a variety of appetizers and entrees. The meal started off with this super delicious garlic bread and tomato soup. They grow alot of the vegetables and herbs onsite which is super cool! We then got our appetizers. I got the escargot which was good and herb infused but lacked a bit of seasoning. I decided to opt for the tomato salad which was the special instead of a regular salad. Omg best tomatoes I've ever had. So fresh from the garden! For entrees my friends for a variety of items from steak to lobster. I got the "everything" plate which came with a piece of steak, lamb, veal, lobster and seasonal veggies. It was all pretty good cuts of meal + cooked very well. Again lacked a touch of seasoning. We all enjoyed our meals. For dessert I got the creme brulee which was good! My friends got a the soufees which I wish I ordered. Amazing. We ended up with these chocolate truffles which completed our whole dining experience. It was fun to walk the grounds afterwards :)

Lori W.

Yelp
Oh my!!! How fortunate are we that L'Auberge Chez Francois is in our "back yard"?! Mom and I had lunch yesterday at Jacques Brasserie, and it was beyond incredible as always! Tried 2 new cocktails and let me tell you...these are incredibly crafted, well balanced & packed with flavor!! -Blueberry French 75 -Bisou Du Jardin The gazpacho... With the freshest tomatoes ! Local Rockfish prepared perfectly. Mom is always a fan of the best tasting cheeseburger & homemade pommes frites. Of course we had to save room for dessert. We usually order the soufflés, but ventured outside our normal choice and rewarded with incredible choices. La Tarte au Chocolat with Valrhona chocolate & I ordered the peach dessert with ice cream. Outstanding service, as always. Such genuine hospitality. One of the best restaurants in the U.S.

Andrea Desiree C.

Yelp
Absolutely the best restaurant in DC and a bucketlist meal worthy of your time and money. The service, ambiance, and of course the cuisine make it a dining experience you will return to again and again.

Connie C.

Yelp
We come here every year for my husband's and his dad's birthday! Service is really good and each of the dishes are delicious. Wine corkage fee has gone up over the years but they also do have a good wine list. We always get the prefix menu and escargot is a staple. Rack of lamb is my favorite and I also enjoy the soup they give you. Grand Mariner or chocolate Soufflé is a must here! Make sure to make a reservation and the ambiance is country French vibe. They also give you chocolate truffles with the bill, such a nice touch. I look forward to us going every year!

Rebecca W.

Yelp
We absolutely adore Chez Francois! The charm and their service are truly unmatched! The ambiance is great whether you sit inside or outside. If you do happen to sit outside you have views of the garden. The menu is wonderful. My personal favorites are the asparagus appetizer followed by the veal scallopini and Grand Marnier soufflé. Every. Single. Bite. Was.Delicious! Stephan is a wonderful waiter, he waited on my husband and I for our first anniversary and tonight we celebrated our fifth anniversary!

Lynne B.

Yelp
Oh my gosh! I was invited to join my girlfriend and her father for her birthday. I've always considered myself quite the foodie, but this was my first time here. This was without a doubt, one of the top meals I've ever had in my entire life! We did the prefix menu on a Sunday afternoon, and it was absolutely divine! The service was amazing, the food was out of this world, and the ambience was second to none. I've already tried to make reservations for Mother's Day, but unfortunately, unfortunately they don't make them that far out. Trust me, I haven't marked on my calendar when I can try and make reservations! I definitely recommend!

LaMarise V.

Yelp
Bonjour love this restaurant! Fantastic food and service! I love speaking French when I'm there for dinner or lunch. Maybe we will make reservations for my daughter's March birthday if we are not in Paris, France!! Au revoir