Waltherione F was totally synthesized in seven steps and 31% overall yield from 2-nitro-3-methylanisole without the use of protecting groups. Key steps in the sequence were a Suzuki–Miyaura coupling to attach the n-octyl chain and a microwave-promoted cyclization of an acetonyl anthranilate to give the heterocyclic core whose 3-OH was O-methylated.