A delegation from Emilia Romagna brought the region’s culinary excellence, cooperative traditions and community spirit to New York on October 26, 2026, launching a North American mission extending through November 1.
Led by Regional Undersecretary Manuela Rontini, Agriculture Councilor Alessio Mammi and Matteo Daffadà, president of the Consulta degli Emiliano Romagnoli nel Mondo, the delegation was joined by European Parliament member Stefano Bonaccini.
The visit began at Pier 36 with the opening of Vinitaly USA, held in New York for the first time after two editions in Chicago. Regional wineries showcased their products, while a Parmigiano Reggiano cheese wheel opening ceremony featuring soccer legend Alessandro Del Piero attracted considerable attention.
At New York City Hall, the delegation met Ana María Archila, Deputy Commissioner Matthew Kirkegaard and Carly Avezzano from Mayor Zohran Mamdani’s administration. Discussions explored food affordability, housing accessibility and Emilia-Romagna’s cooperative economic model.
The visitors also learned about a new initiative providing rest facilities and bicycle charging stations for delivery workers.
At Eataly Downtown, a special event celebrated Emilia-Romagna’s 46 PDO and PGI products. Casa Artusi presented traditional recipes inspired by Pellegrino Artusi and introduced its International Observatory on Italian Cuisine.
Italian American organizations played an important role. Diego Segalini of the Val Trebbia and Val Nure Association, Frank Capitelli of the Valtarese Foundation and Silvana Mangione of the CGIE participated in the celebrations.
The mission highlighted how regional businesses, cultural institutions and Italian American communities can collaborate to strengthen transatlantic relationships and create new opportunities for future generations.
