Chez Francois - Geneva

I have just learned that Chez Francois will be closing with June 24th being their last service. There has been no comments as to why, Chef Francois Sanchez has had this restaurant in this format for about 5 years and also operated the same space as Granada Tapas for 8 years. It's a shame to loose another good one after loosing 302 West, just a few doors down. I do plan to eat at CF a few times before they close.

http://chezfrancoisrest.com/

Ugg. Thanks for the bad news anyway. I've had several excellent meals here and when it was Granada, both food and service wise. Sad to see it go. They serve an excellent hanger steak with frites.

I for one will not miss the place -- two of the worst meals I've ever had at a restaurant were at Chez Francois.

But let's see how all this plays out...and remember, only the 302 West name is gone forever.

Mark

Another bastion of fois gras down the tube. I felt that Chez Francois was the best French food in the western suburbs-superior to both Bistros Maisonette and Banlieue. The fois gras and skate preparations were as good as any in Chicagoland except maybe for Eric Aubriot.
Their email newsletter stated "Francois and I have decided to close our doors and take some needed time with our family." Running a restaurant for 12 years seems to trigger a burnout syndrome. Recently at Dunlays on the Square, I had a conversation with one of the owners about the chef-owner of Clark Street Bistro from whom they purchased their original location. I had always liked the tagines there and wondered what happened to the chef. The conversation turned to "no, we haven't heard anything from him, but after 10-15 years, it takes its toll (and you make your money)." Maybe Francois and Betsy felt the same.
Unfortunately Granada and Francois were very worthy restaurants that I will miss sorely.

Thanks for the added info MLS, our local paper today reported that the building already has been sold.

Didn't think it would come out until next week, but...

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

CONTACT: Jeremy Lycan, 630.365.1988, or
Jody Richardson, 630.913.6666

Former 302 West Team, including Chef Jeremy Lycan, to open Niche Restaurant at 14 South 3rd Street in Geneva

302 West restaurant’s former chef, Jeremy Lycan, along with his kitchen and service staff, will be opening Niche Restaurant in downtown Geneva, at 14 S. 3rd Street.

Just four days following the closing of 302 West, twelve former employees, led by Lycan, convened to carry on the tradition of excellent contemporary American cuisine in the Fox Valley. Lycan, who honed his skills at 302 West for five years under the guidance of mentor Joel Findlay, took over as executive chef after Findlay’s passing in 2004.

“After the sale of the restaurant, we learned as a team that the Geneva community wanted us to remain a part of their family,” said Lycan. Following the farewell edition of “Tasty Bits,” 302 West’s newsletter, Lycan and his team were overwhelmed with support from their loyal customers. After teaming up with investors, Lycan began the search for the perfect location.

While researching possibilities, Lycan learned that Francois and Betsy Sanchez, the owners of Chez Francois (a restaurant located just a few steps south of the former 302 West) were happy to pass the torch on to the next generation. Planning began immediately to open Niche in the former Chez Francois space. Niche will focus on contemporary American cuisine. Its constantly evolving menu will place emphasis on seasonal, artisanal and local foods. “We decided to continue with contemporary American cuisine because its eclecticism allows us to select the foods and cooking styles from around the globe,” Lycan said.

Accompanying the menu will be a strictly American wine list concentrating on boutique wineries and highlighting interesting varietals. Lycan eagerly anticipates the continued pairing of Sommelier Jody Richardson’s wine with his fare. The two plan on numerous wine events building on their great relationships with several American winemakers.

“We have been fortunate to work with and feature so many inspiring figures in the wine industry. We really want to continue to offer these amazing opportunities to our loyal customers while introducing our new customers to up and coming wineries,” said Richardson.

The staff of Niche looks forward to reconnecting with their loyal patrons and opening their doors to many new friends. Chez Francois will continue to serve their customers until Saturday, June 24, to give the Sanchezes and their staff a chance to thank their guests for years of patronage. Niche plans a late summer opening, following renovations to the space.

The new place sounds promising!

I am always happy to see posts about the Fox Valley area!!

The official opening date for Niche is August 30th. They have begun taking reservations (630-262-1000), and their website should be up and running in the very near future...

Mark