An Italian dream came to life within the historic walls of the Columbus Citizens Foundation. It was here, between Madison and Park Avenue, that on June 29th the official inauguration of House of Made in Italy took place — a cultural and promotional project that celebrates Italian identity in the United States, launched in conjunction with the Summer Fancy Food Show, the most important trade fair in the U.S. agri-food sector, now in its 69th edition.
Conceived by I Love Italian Food — an international organization committed to protecting and promoting the authenticity of our cuisine around the world — in collaboration with the Columbus Citizens Foundation, House of Made in Italy is a real home of Italy: a physical, living, and dynamic place designed to host events, masterclasses, talks, tastings, and moments of cultural exchange between our country and the American professional world.
The project will have a one-year duration, through summer 2026, accompanying the path toward the FIFA World Cup in North America. Over the course of twelve months, the House will become a stage for events dedicated to Italian excellence: not only food & wine, but also design, fashion, craftsmanship, sports, and culture. A cross-cutting narrative of the Made in Italy, built with passion and a shared vision among institutions, companies, and key players in the industry.
The ribbon-cutting marked the official launch of the project. Speakers included Alessandro Schiatti, President of I Love Italian Food; Maria Palandra, board member of the Columbus Citizens Foundation; Fabrizio Di Michele, Consul General of Italy in New York; Raimondo Lucariello on behalf of ICE – Italian Trade Agency; Ettore Prandini, President of Coldiretti; and Dominga Cotarella, President of Fondazione Campagna Amica.
In his inaugural speech, Alessandro Schiatti delivered moving words that touched the hearts of the guests:
“Once upon a time, there was a country that struggled to stay united. And yet, it inspired the entire world. That country is Italy — a land of painting, music, design, architecture, and of course… food. Despite our differences, there is one thing that truly brings us together: Made in Italy. That’s why we created the House of Made in Italy — a home to tell, promote, and teach our culture to Americans. Today, we open its doors. It’s the beginning of a year-long journey, but above all, a story of pride.”
The evening turned into a multisensory journey through the most authentic Italy. Chef Michele Mazza and Luigi Speranza won over the audience with their Pasta allo Scarpariello, prepared with Pomodorino del Piennolo del Vesuvio DOP, bringing all the warmth of the South to the plate. Roberto Caporuscio, master pizzaiolo, served his fragrant and unmistakable creations, while the cuochi contadini of Campagna Amica offered homemade tagliatelle with Prosciutto di Parma DOP and lemon zest, evoking the kitchens of our countryside. The evening concluded with pastry chef Bilena Settepani, who delighted guests with Sicilian cannoli filled on the spot — a simple and heartfelt gesture that lit up both eyes and palates.
The success of the inauguration was made possible thanks to the collaboration with the Columbus Citizens Foundation, always committed to promoting Italian-American culture, and to the strong support of institutions and partners who believe in the power of Made in Italy as a force of unity and national pride.
House of Made in Italy is now a home open to the world. A place where Italy is told, tasted, and heard. A home that invites everyone to step inside and discover that behind every flavor, every object, every note, and every gesture lies a story made of beauty, passion, and identity.
House of Made in Italy is a project by I Love Italian Food and Columbus Citizens Foundation, presented under the patronage of Italian Trade Agency, with the support of Coldiretti and Filiera Italia.
Sponsors: Agriform, Mulino Caputo, Casa Modena, Ciao Il Pomodoro di Napoli, Filicori Zecchini, Acetaia Giusti, Granterre, Lurisia, Monini, Parmareggio, Effeuno, Il Newyorkese, Marino PR, La Gazzetta dello Sport, and Istituto 100% Italiano.
