Truffles

[jarand]

We've never tried them, but want to. We'll be in numerous ports in Italy in August and September. If you know anything about truffles--what they taste like, where to get them, what to expect for cost--we'd reallyt appreciate hearing. Thanks!

[euro cruiser]

You might be a tad early in the season for truffles. We went to a truffle festival in Acqualagna (Le Marche) a few years ago in mid-October.

 

They come from the more northern regions of Italy, particularly Piemonte (northwest) and Le Marche/Umbria (central/east). If you are going to find them early in the season your best bet would be near the source. You didn't specify which ports you'll be at; if you have a stop in the Adriatic at Ancona you'll be in Le Marche, a good place to look for truffles. The closest port to Piemonte is Genoa, so I'd look on menus there as well. Restaurants in Tuscany will also feature truffle dishes.

 

Before the season you're more likely to find dishes with dried or preserved truffles rather than fresh, but they will still be very, very good.