The first time I encountered a black truffle, I was browsing in the fabulous Valvona and Crolla Italian delicatessen in Edinburgh. A delivery was ushered in, with some ceremony, the white polystyrene box being held aloft like precious cargo. The incredible smell that emanated from the tightly closed box filled the store and stopped shoppers in their tracks.
You can indulge in one of Italy’s most luxurious and sensuous foods at a black truffle season celebration at Bellagio restaurant in Terenure, Dublin (October 13th to November 8th). Bellagio head chef Luca Rosati, who comes from truffle-rich Umbria, has enlisted a friend from home to hunt for the supplies he needs for the promotion. To launch the event, Bellagio is putting on a five-course truffle menu on Tuesday, October 13th (€65, including a glass of Prosecco). Book on 01-4927625.