Ferragosto, the Italian summer holiday, is a time when the country takes a break from its usual hustle and bustle. It's a time to escape the heat, head to the coast or countryside, and enjoy good food with loved ones. This year, the Soho restaurant Bocca di Lupo is bringing the spirit of Ferragosto to Somerset with its 'Bocca in the Field' event. The restaurant, known for its celebration of regional Italian cuisine, will leave its usual Archer Street location for Wyke House near Bruton, a Grade II-listed Georgian house surrounded by six acres of countryside. The event, which takes place on August 15 and 16, will feature a long table where 50 guests will sit shoulder to shoulder, passing dishes family-style as the evening unfolds. The menu, which travels through all 20 regions of Italy, is a collaboration between Bocca di Lupo and Pharmacy Field Kitchen, and features produce from Somerset and the south west. The dishes range from Modenese tigelle with mortadella, pesto, and garden giardiniera to Tuscan-style Dexter beef fiorentina, and Sicilian caponata. The recipes below offer a taste of the journey, from the brittle shell of a freshly fried courgette flower to the earthiness of porcini and the crunch of a cannolo filled at the last possible moment. But what makes this event truly fascinating is the way it brings together the traditions of Ferragosto and the modern summer holiday. Ferragosto, which dates back to the time of Emperor Augustus, is a time for rest and relaxation, and Bocca di Lupo's event captures this spirit perfectly. In my opinion, the event is a testament to the enduring appeal of Italian cuisine and the importance of taking a break from our busy lives to enjoy good food and company. It's a reminder that sometimes, the best way to escape the heat is to head outdoors, sit down at a table, and share a meal with loved ones. So, if you're looking for a unique dining experience this Ferragosto, I highly recommend booking a spot at Bocca di Lupo's 'Bocca in the Field' event. It's an opportunity to immerse yourself in the traditions of Italian cuisine and the spirit of Ferragosto, all while enjoying the beautiful countryside of Somerset.
