Why do we love truffles? One of the most compelling theories is that their enchanting, musky fragrance reminds us of, well, ourselves. This pheromone-like allure inspires us to go to crazy lengths in the pursuit of the diamonds of the forest.

Record-breaking heat has resulted in an exceedingly small yield for this time of year, what would normally be peak truffle season. Thankfully, I know a guy who knows a guy. ;)

@luca.fantin just returned from the heart of white truffle country in Piedmont with the mother lode. These precious specimens take center stage in the @bulgarilucafantintokyo truffle menu until late December.

And what a menu it is! An opening bite of matsutake, uni, truffles and a touch of hazelnut oil. Sweet scallops, redolent of the Hokkaido kombu forests from which they were plucked, are the perfect match with cauliflower cream and truffles. And I could eat an entire pot of the ravioli filled with 36-month-old @consorziovaccherosse Parmigiano, afloat in rich chicken consommé. With wonderful wine pairings by @yukio_oya.

Even the sweet courses were given the truffle treatment, generously scattered over Luca’s signature milk dessert and used to finish a dish of persimmon and vanilla ice cream. Such a treat!