14/12/2025
: Heartfelt Support for the Tai Po Community
We are incredibly grateful to everyone who joined us on November 30th, 2025, for our Basilicata White Truffle Auction at Giando Italian Restaurant & Bar. Initially aimed at supporting Room to Read, we redirected our efforts after the recent tragedy in our community and raised over HK$570,000 for the victims of the fire.
This special evening was organized in collaboration with the Region of โa southern Italian gem known for its stunning coastlines and rich agricultural heritage, represented by Chef Gianni.
The vibrant Lucanian scene features events like the "Treasures of the Earth" festival in , which hosts a World White Truffle Auction that connects local activities with global events, including ours in Hong Kong.
The event began with a moment of silence to pay tribute to the tragedy of the Tai Po Fire.
Following this, the evening included a six-course Basilicata-inspired menu by , showcasing freshly shaved white truffle paired with exquisite wines from Lucania.
A lively auction led by Thomas Perazzi, Senior Director at Phillips Auction House, featured two exciting sessions, starting with a exclusive auction that yielded impressive bids:
๐๐ผ๐ ๐ญ: Basilicata Extra Large White Truffle (Approx. 330 grams) โ Winning bid: 32,000HKD
๐๐ผ๐ ๐ฎ: 1 Bottle of Basilicata Titolo Aglianico Del Vulture Vintage 2014 (15 liters) โ Winning bid: 64,000HKD
๐๐ผ๐ ๐ฏ: Exclusive Basilicata Bespoke Experience for 4 โ Winning bid: 28,000 HKD
๐๐ผ๐ ๐ฐ: 3 Bottles of Basilicata Titolo Aglianico 2004, 2012, 2022 (Double Magnum) โ Winning bid: 15,000HKD
Following the Hong Kong auction, the evening transitioned into a live-stream auction connected to the World Auction of Fine White Truffles in Matera, Italy, attracting bidders globally, including and , D.C. A highlight was the bidding for a 550-gram Basilicata extra-large white truffle, which fetched EUR 10,500 (approx. HKD 95,000), with the winning bid from a valued customer at Giando Restaurant.
Guests were treated to performances by clarinetist Lorenzo Losco, a talented musician from Basilicata and a member of the Hong Kong Philharmonic Orchestra, alongside guitarist Francesco Teopini, enriching the event's atmosphere.
We sincerely thank everyone for their exceptional generosity. All funds will be donated directly to for Tai Po fire relief efforts, reflecting our strong community spirit.
A heartfelt thank you to the Basilicata Region for your invaluable support and to distinguished guests like Consul General of Italy, Mr. Carmelo Ficarra, and Ms. Louisa Wong from Harmony House for their unwavering support. During the dinner, Ms. Wong emphasized the critical importance of psychological support for those affected by the Tai Po fire, highlighting why Harmony House is vital for our community.
Together, we can make a difference.
Giandomenico Caprioli
Giando Italian Restaurant & Bar
Thomas Perazzi
Room to Read
Harmony House
Consulate General of Italy in Hong Kong