Bocca di Lupo

In the heart of Clarens, surrounded by majestic mountains that cradle its beauty, lies a restaurant with a name steeped in history and culture: Bocca di Lupo, which translates to “The Mouth of the Wolf.” This name is not just a title; it embodies the spirit of Italy, a nation where the wolf stands as a powerful symbol, much like the Blue Crane does for South Africa. The wolf is intricately woven into the fabric of Italian identity, echoing tales of the founding fathers. Legend has it that a she-wolf nurtured the abandoned twins, Romulus and Remus, who would go on to establish Rome in 753 BC. This connection to history casts the wolf as a harbinger of good fortune, particularly in times of strife, as it is closely tied to Mars, the Roman god of war. In Italy, the wolf is more than a creature of the wild; it inspires countless sayings that reflect the Italian way of life. Expressions like “you are hungry like a wolf” and “your mouth is as big as a wolf’s mouth” evoke images of hearty appetites and the joy of sharing food. Yet, perhaps the most endearing phrase is “In bocca al lupo!”—a heartfelt wish of luck, akin to sending someone off with a warm embrace filled with courage. The customary response, “crepi il lupo!” signifies triumph over adversity, a sweet victory in the face of challenges.