All about truffle

When it comes to luxury in the culinary world, few ingredients hold as much allure as truffles. Known for their rare and earthy aroma, truffles are a favorite for anyone wanting to elevate a dish from delicious to unforgettable.

As we settle into fall, there’s no better time to indulge in these luxurious flavors. Here are three decadent ways to enjoy truffles this season—perfect for private dining experiences, intimate gatherings, or simply savoring the essence of autumn.

A Primer on Truffles

Truffles are a type of fungus that grow underground, typically in the roots of trees like oaks and hazelnuts. What makes them unique is that they can’t be farmed easily on a large scale and are foraged with the help of trained dogs or pigs. This makes truffles both rare and valuable—adding to their mystique.

There are several types of truffles that you’re likely to encounter in fine dining:

• Black Truffles – Known for their bold, earthy flavor, black truffles are typically harvested in France and Italy during the fall. They add depth to savory dishes and hold their flavor well even when cooked.

• White Truffles – These truffles, which are rarer and often pricier, have a garlicky, delicate flavor and are best shaved over dishes just before serving. They’re primarily found in Italy’s Alba region and reach their peak in fall.

• Summer Truffles – Milder in taste than black or white truffles, summer truffles are available in warmer months and are enjoyed for their subtler flavor, although they’re not as rich as fall truffles.

In Chicago, you can find truffles in specialty markets, from purveyors like Regalis Foods, or shops like Eataly and Publican Quality Meats. However, to enjoy truffles at their best, private dining experiences are an excellent option to savor this seasonal ingredient, especially when prepared as part of personalized menu by Michelin-trained chefs. Here we recommend 3 dishes that will elevate the finest flavor of truffles, which received raving from our clients and their guests.

1. Truffle Risotto with Wild Mushrooms

For a dish that embodies the warm, earthy flavors of fall, try truffle risotto with wild mushrooms. Risotto is creamy and comforting on its own, but when paired with the intense flavor of black truffles, it becomes something truly indulgent. The richness of the truffles combines beautifully with the nutty, slightly sweet taste of the wild mushrooms.

This dish is an experience in itself. The rice is slow-cooked and stirred to release its natural starch, creating a velvety texture that’s ideal for absorbing truffle oil and freshly shaved truffle. Wild mushrooms—such as chanterelles, porcini, or morels—add layers of flavor that elevate each bite, creating a savory, woodsy essence perfect for a fall gathering.

With each spoonful, you’ll enjoy a depth of flavor that brings out the best of autumn. The truffle’s distinct aroma, coupled with the mushrooms’ earthiness, makes this risotto a luxurious choice for those looking to savor truffles in a comforting and familiar way.

2. Seared Scallops with Black Truffle

If you’re craving something refined yet comforting this fall, seared scallops with black truffle, creamy corn velouté, and roasted chanterelles is a dish that delivers on every front. Here, fresh scallops are carefully seared to get that perfect golden crust on the outside while staying tender and buttery on the inside—a texture that’s simply irresistible.

What really brings this dish to life is the corn velouté, which adds just the right amount of sweetness to balance the scallops’ natural brininess. It’s creamy, smooth, and pairs beautifully with the earthy punch of black truffle, creating a blend of flavors that’s both elegant and satisfying.

And let’s not forget the roasted chanterelles! Their nutty, slightly peppery taste adds depth and texture, while enhancing that unmistakable autumn vibe. The truffle’s rich aroma infuses every bite, tying it all together and making this a dish that truly feels like fall on a plate. It’s a perfect choice if you’re hosting a private dinner and want to bring a bit of seasonal luxury to the table.

3. Pumpkin Gnocchi with White Truffle Shavings

To embrace both the flavors of fall and the luxury of truffles, pumpkin gnocchi with white truffle shavings is a beautiful choice. The delicate gnocchi, made with seasonal pumpkin, adds a subtle sweetness that pairs wonderfully with the garlicky, earthy notes of white truffles.

White truffles are delicate and best enjoyed raw, making them an ideal addition to the soft, pillowy gnocchi. Shaved over the gnocchi just before serving, the truffles bring a complex aroma that adds depth without overpowering the pumpkin’s natural flavor. A hint of sage and nutmeg rounds out the dish, giving it a cozy, autumnal feel.

Photo by Gabriella Clare Marino

The beauty of this dish lies in its balance. The sweetness of the pumpkin and the intense aroma of the truffle create a harmony that is both comforting and refined. This gnocchi is an excellent choice for those who want to experience white truffles in a way that’s both traditional and unique.

Enjoy Truffles in a Private Dining ExperiencE

Truffles are more than just an ingredient—they’re an experience. When incorporated into carefully crafted dishes, they can transform any meal into a memorable celebration of flavor and aroma. If you’re in Chicago this fall and eager to experience truffles at their finest, a private dining experience is a wonderful way to do so. In a personalized setting, you can enjoy truffles prepared by expert chefs who know how to highlight their unique qualities and create unforgettable pairings.