Sandro Fabbrini Photography - Sandro Fabbrini Photography

Saintly Salami a Charcuterie Haven

In the quaint Flemish countryside village of Alveringme, there stood a peculiar bistrot known as 't Hof van Commerce. This charming establishment was unlike any other in the region, adorned with a mishmash of vintage memorabilia, mannequins striking poses from a bygone era, sacred images casting their solemn gazes, and racks upon racks of old-time bras and corsets, giving it an atmosphere that was both eccentric and inviting.

As the morning sun cast its warm glow upon the cobblestone streets, 't Hof van Commerce bustled with life. Locals and tourists alike flocked to this hidden gem, drawn not only by its quirky decor but also by its reputation for serving the finest cold cuts, sausages, and butchery products in all of Flanders.

Inside, the air was thick with the aroma of freshly baked bread and smoked meats. The sound of laughter and clinking glasses filled the cozy space as patrons settled into their seats, eager to partake in the culinary delights that awaited them.

Behind the counter stood the proprietress, a formidable woman with a twinkle in her eye and a quick wit. Known simply as Lise, she ruled over 't Hof van Commerce with a firm yet gentle hand, ensuring that each customer received nothing but the best service and the most delectable fare.

Regulars spoke in hushed tones of the wonders hidden within the depths of the bistrot – secret rooms filled with vintage treasures, hidden passageways leading to forgotten corners of the past, and a cellar stocked with the finest beers known to man.

But perhaps the true heart of 't Hof van Commerce lay in its kitchen, where the master butcher worked his magic day in and day out. A master of charcuterie, he took great pride in his craft, using age-old techniques passed down through generations to create the most succulent sausages, the most flavourful cold cuts, and the most mouthwatering butchery products imaginable.

Each morning, the old butcher could be found in the kitchen, surrounded by a symphony of sizzling pans and bubbling cauldrons, his hands moving with the precision and grace of a seasoned artist. And each evening, as the last of the patrons filed out into the night, he would retire to his workshop tucked away in the depths of the bistrot, where he would spend hours perfecting his recipes and dreaming up new creations to tantalise the taste buds of his loyal customers.

And so, 't Hof van Commerce continued to thrive, its eccentric charm and unparalleled cuisine drawing visitors from far and wide. For in this tiny village in the heart of Flanders, there existed a place where time stood still, and the simple pleasures of good food and good company reigned supreme.