An Italian dream has come true within the walls of the Columbus Citizens Foundation. It was here—between Madison and Park Avenue—that the official opening of House of Made in Italy took place on June 29. This cultural and promotional initiative celebrates Italian identity in the United States, coinciding with the Summer Fancy Food Show, the largest trade event of its kind in the U.S., now in its 69th year.

Created by I Love Italian Food—an international organization dedicated to defending and promoting the authenticity of Italian cuisine worldwide—in collaboration with the Columbus Citizens Foundation, House of Made in Italy is a true Italian home: a vibrant, dynamic physical space designed to host events, masterclasses, talks, tastings, and moments of cultural exchange between Italy and the American professional community.

The project will run for a full year, through summer 2026, accompanying the road to the FIFA World Cup in North America. Over the next twelve months, the House will become a hub for showcasing Italian excellence—not only in food and wine, but also in design, fashion, craftsmanship, sports, and culture. It's a multidimensional narrative of Made in Italy, shaped with passion and built through a shared vision involving institutions, businesses, and key players across the Italian supply chain.

The ribbon-cutting ceremony marked the official launch of the initiative. Among the speakers were 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 from the Italian Trade Agency (ICE); Ettore Prandini, President of Coldiretti; and Dominga Cotarella, President of the Fondazione Campagna Amica.

“Once upon a time, there was a country that struggled to stay united. But that same country inspired the entire world. That country is Italy—a land of painting, music, design, architecture, and of course… food,” said Schiatti. “Despite our differences, one thing truly unites us: Made in Italy. That’s why the House of Made in Italy was born—a home to share, promote, and teach our culture to Americans. Today we open its doors: this is the beginning of a year-long journey, but more importantly, the start of a story fueled by pride.”

The evening unfolded as a multi-sensory journey into the heart of authentic Italy.
Chefs Michele Mazza and Luigi Speranza won over the crowd with their Pasta allo Scarpariello, made with DOP-certified Pomodorino del Piennolo del Vesuvio, bringing the warmth of Southern Italy to every plate. Master pizzaiolo Roberto Caporuscio served up his unmistakably crisp, flavorful creations, while the Campagna Amica farmer-chefs offered handmade tagliatelle with DOP-certified Prosciutto di Parma and lemon zest, evoking the rustic flavors of Italy’s countryside. The night concluded with pastry chef Bilena Settepani’s freshly filled Sicilian cannoli—a sweet, heartfelt gesture that delighted guests both visually and gastronomically.

House of Made in Italy is a project by I Love Italian Food and the Columbus Citizens Foundation, presented under the patronage of the Italian Trade Agency (ICE), with support from Coldiretti and Filiera Italia.