The Great Falls institution continues its culinary legacy, with Warren Thompson stepping in as steward to carry its traditions forward
For 72 years, guests have found exceptional French dining first at Chez François in Washington, D.C., and since at L’Auberge Chez François in Great Falls, Virginia. Today, the restaurant enters a new chapter, one dedicated entirely to preserving the warmth, tradition and cuisine that have made it a cherished destination for generations of families, first dates and lifelong regulars.
Beginning in September, Warren Thompson, President of Thompson Restaurants, a longtime guest of L’Auberge Chez François and Jacques’ Brasserie, steps into a role as steward of the restaurant, committed to ensuring its traditions, hospitality and Alsatian culinary spirit continue exactly as guests have always known them. It’s a personal commitment for Thompson, rooted in years of being part of this place as a guest long before this moment.
Chef François “Papa” Haeringer, a native of Alsace, France, opened the
restaurant as Chez François in Washington, D.C. in 1954, building its reputation on classic French cuisine and gracious hospitality. In 1976, that tradition found a new home in Great Falls, Virginia, as L’Auberge Chez François, a reflection of the auberges of Alsace, where guests could step into the charm of the French countryside without ever leaving the region. Across seven decades, the restaurant has remained defined by that same spirit: seasonal French cooking, a storybook setting and a sense of occasion that has quietly become part of this community’s story. Many of today’s guests first dined at the original Chez François, and now carry on their own traditions and celebrations here with their children and grandchildren.
The award-winning restaurant has been recognized across the industry, named to OpenTable’s Top 100 Restaurants in America and Top 100 Most Romantic Restaurants, included in Washingtonian’s 100 Very Best Restaurants, and voted Best French Restaurant in Northern Virginia Magazine, among many other awards and accolades.
“For decades, we’ve created exceptional culinary experiences, built on fine cuisine and excellent service. It’s all about the memories people build here, one visit at a time,” said Owner and Executive Chef Jacques Haeringer. “This next chapter is built around carrying that feeling forward, for the guests who’ve been coming for decades and the ones just discovering us. Warren has loved this restaurant as a guest for years, and he understands what makes it special as well as anyone, which is exactly why I trust him with its future.”
“Being part of this restaurant’s story isn’t something I take lightly,” said Thompson. “As a long-standing member of the community, this restaurant has always held significance to me, long before I ever imagined playing a role in its future. Places like this are rare, they become part of how a community remembers itself. My role now is simple, to help make sure it’s here, in the same spirit, for decades to come.”
From the familiar friendly staff to the unique special events and Alsatian culinary charm, guests can expect the L’Auberge Chez François they’ve always known, complemented by Thompson Restaurants’ exceptional care.
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About Thompson Restaurants
Founded in 1992, Thompson Restaurants owns and operates restaurants in Maryland, Virginia, Washington DC, Ohio and South Florida. As part of Thompson Hospitality, the family-run organization has catered to client, customer and community relationships for over three decades. Led by President and Founder Warren Thompson, Thompson Restaurants owns and operates 15 beloved brands across more than 70 locations including Makers Union, matchbox, Big Buns Damn Good Burgers, Hen Quarter, Milk & Honey, Wiseguy Pizza and is rapidly expanding to different markets across the U.S. For more information, visit thompsonrestaurants.com.
About L’Auberge Chez François
Founded by legendary French Chef François Haeringer, L’Auberge Chez François traces its roots back 72 years, to 1954, when Chez François first opened in Washington, D.C., one block from the White House. In 1976, that legacy took root in Great Falls, Virginia, as L’Auberge Chez François, a reflection of François’s native Alsace, combining warm hospitality, timeless French cooking and a picturesque countryside setting. Today, the restaurant continues under the leadership of Executive Chef Jacques Haeringer, upholding the Alsatian culinary tradition. Known for its seasonal menus, exceptional service and storybook atmosphere, L’Auberge Chez François has become one of the nation’s most celebrated restaurants and a cherished destination for generations of diners. For more information, visit laubergechezfrancois.com.
