The JR Nagoya Takashimaya is set to host the highly anticipated Italian Food Festival, dubbed "Italy Week," from February 5 to February 11, 2025. The event will feature nine selected Italian gourmet shops, each providing visitors with the opportunity to indulge in authentic Italian cuisine and delicacies.
Among the notable participants is the renowned Italian pastry shop, Lituz, making its debut in the Tokai region. The chef, Shiotsuki, who spent seven years training in Italy, will be present to demonstrate the preparation of signature dishes such as 'Cannoli' and 'Tiramisu.' These culinary delights will be available for attendees to savor, including mini versions of the cannoli and various baked goods.
Located at the basement, the offerings from Lituz include:
- Cannoli (¥1,180)
- Mini Cannoli (¥700)
- Tiramisu (¥700)
- Cookie Can (¥4,500)
- Canestrelli (¥500)
Another participant, Sono Contenta, is known for its Italian sweets and breads, offering local specialties like 'Cantuccini,' crafted by its owner who trained for nine and half years in Italy. The menu boasts delectable treats such as:
- Cantuccini Mandorle (5 pcs: ¥837)
- Cantuccini Choccolate (5 pcs: ¥837)
- Frollini (6 pieces: ¥783)
- Grissini (15 sticks: ¥1,572)
- Assorted Cantuccini (15 pcs & 6 pieces Frollini: ¥2,981)
Adding to the culinary extravaganza, the acclaimed chef, Tokuichi Ochi, will host the popular restaurant 'La Bettola da Ochi Nagoya.' Chef Tsujimoto, the representative manager, will be selling traditional Italian starters, pasta, and meat dishes such as:
- Beef Cheek Stewed in Red Wine (¥1,944)
- Italian Omelet with Truffle Flavor (¥756)
- Homemade Salmon Marinade (¥1,080)
- Penne with Snow Crab and Sea Urchin (¥1,944)
- Penne with Tomato Sauce and Cheese (¥1,620)
Pizza lovers will also have their favorites catered to by the popular Neapolitan pizzeria, Solo Pizza Napoletana. Attendees can purchase frozen pizzas to enjoy at home, including the classic Margherita pizza along with several unique flavors:
- Margherita (¥1,242)
- Quattro Formaggi (¥1,814)
- Truffle & Porcini (¥2,354)
- Teriyaki Chicken and Broccoli Pizza (¥1,383)
- Rustic Pizza with Ricotta and Ham/Salami (¥1,383)
From Mie Prefecture, Pasta Sauce Kitchen is also participating, known for its exceptional sauces and lasagne. This booth will provide frozen products for home use, including:
- Matsusaka Beef Bolognese (290g: ¥1,580)
- Pescecatore (290g: ¥1,970)
- Beef Tail Stew Pasta (270g: ¥1,620)
- Matsusaka Beef Roast Beef Slices (100g: ¥3,200)
- Seafood Lasagne (350g: ¥1,970)
For cheese lovers, the workshop 'Caseificio San Francesco' from Gifu Prefecture will provide fresh mozzarella, burrata, and ricotta cheese, all made from locally sourced milk using traditional Italian methods. The menu includes:
- Burrata (280g: ¥3,900)
- Burrata with Black Truffle (280g: ¥4,320)
- Mozerella (250g: ¥2,100)
- Panino with Mozzarella & Prosciutto (¥1,500)
- Panino with Stracciatella & Mortadella (¥1,750)
The Italian baking specialty shop 'Bottega del Pane' will also showcase its award-winning Panettone, which won honors at the Panettone Contest 2024 in Japan. Visitors can look forward to:
- Classico Panettone (¥3,240, 1/4: ¥810)
- Chocolate Panettone (¥4,104, 1/4: ¥1,026)
- Bomboloni (¥260)
- Sfoffiatella Plain (¥540)
- Margherita-style Focaccia (¥324)
Tokyo’s beloved Italian eatery, Bigote, will also join, offering affordable meat dishes, sausage, gratins, and doria—all staples of authentic Italian dining.
The wide array of Italian sweets, cheese, bread, and savory dishes creates the perfect opportunity for families to gather for meals or host home parties with delightful Italian flavors. With such diverse offerings, the event promises to be a culinary adventure!