L’AUBERGE CHEZ FRANCOIS - - “A French Country Inn”

I cannot imagine anyone around the metropolitan area who doesn’t know of the famous French restaurant in Great Falls, “L’Auberge Chez Francois.” Francois Haeringer started Chez Francois many years ago in the District and then moved to Northern Virginia where his son Chef Jacques is continuing in his father’s footsteps. The restaurant is located at the end of Spring Valley Road and is still as charming as ever. There’s an extensive menu with a wide selection of French dishes they are famous for. The Chateaubriand de L’Auberge comes with an assortment of fresh vegetables and is a must if you’re a beef person. The Dover sole sautéed with lobster, mushrooms and tomatoes is also outstanding. I must say, the seafood at Chez Francois is exceptional and the escargots are the best I’ve had. Another authentic dish is the Alsatian sauerkraut choucroute with smoked fish. There’s so much more---be sure to end your meal with either a soufflé or baked Alaska. I was really impressed that L’Auberge Chez Francois hasn’t changed and is still living up to its reputation. The restaurant is open for lunch and dinner except on Mondays and there’s plenty of free, self-parking. For information and reservations, call 703-759-3800. Be sure to check the website at www.laubergechezfrancois.com.