After a brisk day on the windswept hills of the Ardennes, we were in the market for some wholesome comfort food and the name around Bastogne was "The Ardenne Ham is King. "King Ham" says the folklore," rules over a court of pork nobility which includes smoked, garlic and juniper flavored sausages, meat pies and other pork meats." We went in search of this King and maybe a few of his knights.

Restaurant MacAuliffe blazed with warm lights, but not a soul stirred inside the spacious window clad rooms. The brass and glass doors swung easily as we entered and we searched for a person any person. With keen interest I was drawn to a flame on the back wall in the left corner. If there was someone here I was not going anywhere as long as they could give me something to eat. I was going to stay right here in front of the beaming fire.

Our hosts quietly approached from the bar behind a half wooden partition and offered us a booth. I kept glancing at the couple sitting next to the fireplace and whimpering. Few patrons were scatted around the dozens of booths and tables, but one was sawing at majestic ham hock. "I must have me one of these," Robert announced, and he did. He shared a little with me. I scanned the generous menu and discovered a choice of Mediterranean selections. Kebobs (12.90 Euros) of beef chicken and pork paired with chucks of bright crisp peppers and onions appealed to me. Both arrived accompanied by the crisp fries and a springy salad with tangy vinaigrette. Bob moaned over the succulent warm subtle flavored ham in its crusty skin. (15.90 Euros). We complimented the feast with a ½ liter of mellow Tokay (12.50 Euros). We dinned leisurely and when the couple vacated the fireplace we swooped.

Savoring the last of our wine and reluctant to venture back to the cold Bob ordered coffee and Kirsch, a local clear cherry brandy. They call it Kirsch Wasser. The only cure for a long day on the slopes. We warmed ourselves by the golden fire and whiled away the time with remembrances of the day. Our host and hostess joined us by the glowing fire and delivered complimentary drinks. We discovered Bassem and Hayat were from Morocco and hence the Mediterranean flavor to the menu. MacAuliffe was a gourmet slice of "King Ham" and another warm portion of Bastogne hospitality.

MacAuliffe takes your credit cards, debit cards, and small traveler checks. A small prowl revealed a glass studded sun dining room graced by masses of potted plants and a tinkling fountain. Open for lunch and dinner.