Hof der dingen - Letter from Winston Churchill

Who would’ve thought that there’s a connection between Winston Churchill and West Flanders? The story connecting him to our beautiful region reads like a novel – full of sheer determination and a touch of feminism.

As you might have guessed by now, – West Flanders is known for its rich food culture. We’re spoilt for choice when it comes to having something sweet with your coffee for example – - think delicious pastries and biscuits with funny names like lukken, kletskoppen, lekkerkoeke, and klaaskoeken. At the root of this rich food culture are passionate, family-run bakers- like Oud Huis Deman, located in the heart of Bruges. 

At the heart of this culinary tradition are passionate, family-run bakeries—like Oud Huis Deman, located in the heart of Bruges. For over 140 years – spanning five generations – they’ve been making delicious artisan biscuits (or as Americans call them: cookies).

It all started in 1880 when Amandus Deman and his wife Stafenie Vervaeke started their own bakery in Bruges. They were known as ‘The Apothecary Bakery’ – due to the so-called medicinal powers of their biscuits. 

After Amandus passed away, the women of the family took over—and kept the business thriving. In fact, the bakery has always been passed down from mother to daughter—a rare and remarkable tradition in a male-dominated industry. 

The quaint little bakery welcomes customers from all walks of life – from curious tourists and loyal locals, to roaylty… and yes, even Winston Churchill. His love for the Bruges biscuits ran so deep that his wife felt compelled to write a personal thank-you note to the Deman family to express their appreciation. The Royal Palace took notice too –making Oud Huis Deman an official Purveyor to the Royal Household, a title given to their suppliers. 

A little West Flemish bakery with a big story—and a royal (and British) seal of approval.