Only mother nature decides the fate of the truffle

This is both a story and a news tip about truffles. The truffle season kicks off again in September, and as an Italian and truffle specialist, I’ve noticed that the Netherlands is becoming increasingly enthusiastic about truffles!

Massimo Damiano at Il Tartufo di Massimo

My name is Massimo Damiano. I come from Perugia, the capital of the Umbria region in central Italy—a city known for its chocolate and university, in a region famous for its truffles. Umbria is one of the few regions where all types of truffles grow naturally.

I remember the first time I tasted truffles—I was seven years old. One of my uncles was a chef at one of the most renowned restaurants in Perugia. He often cooked for the entire family during the holidays, and sometimes he let us taste fresh truffles and other delicacies.

The first time I went truffle hunting with a dog was in 1990. It’s something truly special—how a dog can have such a nose for truffles. It’s always a magical experience.

1992 - A move to The Netherlands

I’ve been living in the Netherlands, in Amsterdam, since 1992, now together with my daughter Nora. I moved here for love. Since arriving in the Netherlands, I’ve witnessed an incredible transformation in the culinary scene. Interest in food and drink has grown immensely and become much more refined over the years. Initially, I remember only a handful of restaurants were interested in using truffles on their menus.

Today, I receive questions about fine black and white truffles from both the summer and autumn seasons, and restaurants regularly ask me which wine pairs best with which truffle. The people who appreciate truffles come from all age groups and walks of life—many young people, too. Food brings people together.

Massimo Damiano at Il Tartufo Di Massimo

2006 - The start of Il Tartufo Di Massimo

In 2006, I decided to register with the Chamber of Commerce and start my own venture. I already had sales experience and knew several clients on the market, especially in Amsterdam. Slowly, with a website, business cards, and donations to charity dinners (Italia al Dente, De Smaak van Italië, Taste of Amsterdam, Sunday Market), and other small events, my name began to circulate among top restaurants in the Netherlands and beyond. My clients are chefs at every level—from Michelin three-star restaurants to pizza makers and chefs at traditional Italian trattorias.

Exclusively Italian truffles

The truffles I sell are exclusively of Italian origin. I only work with products from my homeland, central Italy. Thankfully, the truffle remains a product over which only Mother Nature decides—when, how much, and how it grows. And frankly, I’m glad it’s that way. It’s an honest and beautiful ingredient you may or may not enjoy, but I’m certain that if it’s prepared well by a skilled chef, and tasted with attention and appreciation, you’ll experience the very best of it. In that moment, you’re in Amsterdam and Italy at the same time. I’m proud to have brought a piece of Italy to Amsterdam.

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Il TARTUFO DI MASSIMO

KvK-nummer: 34257316

BTW-identificatienummer: NL002298057B94

Massimo Damiano

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