It was the best kept secret in Rome – that underground restaurant beneath the Coliseum for the gladiator beasts. Lions often ate there, but tigers and bears also patronized the place.
Appetites whetted by a victory and perhaps a sampling taste or two, the beasts came to enjoy the spoils of the day.
While the beasts generally had the edge in their contests, victory was never a sure thing. Once in a great while, an unusually wily opponent was able to prevail. Then the day’s menu could feature a chef’s special: Pan-fried Panthere leo, a treat relished by some other combatants.
Appetites whetted by a victory and perhaps a sampling taste or two, the beasts came to enjoy the spoils of the day.
While the beasts generally had the edge in their contests, victory was never a sure thing. Once in a great while, an unusually wily opponent was able to prevail. Then the day’s menu could feature a chef’s special: Pan-fried Panthere leo, a treat relished by some other combatants.
