As previously mentioned, Chez Francois is located in a National Historic Landmark building called The Sail loft Building. In 1840 the port of Vermilion was a shipyard where large sailing vessels were made. The name of the building is derived by the building first commercial use which was to make and store sails for these large sailing vessels that sailed the Great Lakes. The original hand hewn beams and brick walls are still present today and add a rustic/romantic charm to the restaurant. The indoor dining room is formal with jackets requested for men. We are a destination restaurant, a perfect place to celebrate a birthday, anniversary or special event in your life.

The building is nestled along the Vermilion River. We have a Riverfront Café that is casual but sophisticated and not as formal as dining room inside.