We report the rapid synthesis of various cycloheptane-fused chromones and an oxepine fused flavone in 5 steps from the corresponding 2-hydroxy acetophenone. Furthermore, we describe the synthesis of xanthones, in moderate to good yield, from 2,3-disubstituted flavones using a Friedel Crafts alkylation strategy. (C) 2018 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.