SIMPLE TOO: An Evening with Yotam Ottolenghi
Hosted by Donna Dooher
SIMPLE TOO: An Evening with Yotam Ottolenghi
Hosted by Donna Dooher
SHOWS & TICKETS
ABOUT
Join Yotam Ottolenghi for an intimate and energizing evening celebrating his forthcoming Fall 2026 cookbook, SIMPLE TOO, the long-awaited follow-up to his bestselling Ottolenghi Simple. Eight years after redefining “flavor without fuss,” Ottolenghi returns to explore what “simple” means now — in a world of endless notifications, long commutes, and minds split between podcasts, WhatsApp groups, and homework help. In conversation, he’ll share how SIMPLE TOO was born from real life: recipes that work with you, not against you — dishes you can begin with half a plan and still end with a deeply satisfying meal. Expect laughter, honesty, and that signature Ottolenghi spark as he declares, “The lemon is back!” and explains why bold flavor remains at the heart of simplicity.
Drawing from the book’s vibrant themes, Ottolenghi will dive into the ingredients and techniques that quietly shape this new collection: beans simply dressed, black chickpeas, sesame in generous handfuls, sweet-and-spicy balances, pasta cooked directly in its sauce, and whole meals roasted start-to-finish in a single tray (with far less washing up). He’ll also introduce the new “Fundamentals” chapter — fifteen fridge-ready flavor builders like spring onion oil, green salsa, za’atar oil, confit tomatoes, and chilli crisp — the small things that make big differences on the busiest weeknights. Through stories from the writing process with co-author Verena Lochmuller, practical tips, and reflections on finding pleasure in cooking even when you’re already tired, Ottolenghi will reveal how SIMPLE TOO is less about doing less — and more about making everyday cooking feel generous, achievable, and full of joy.
Yotam Ottolenghi is one of the most influential voices in contemporary food, renowned for his vibrant, vegetable-forward cuisine and imaginative approach to everyday cooking. Born in Jerusalem and based in London, he is the author of numerous acclaimed cookbooks — including Plenty, Jerusalem, Simple, Flavor, and Sweet — that have transformed how home cooks and chefs around the world think about seasonality, texture, and spice. His work extends beyond books to successful delis and restaurants, where bold combinations, fresh produce, and multicultural inspirations meet. Throughout his career, Ottolenghi has championed cooking that feels both joyful and accessible, proving that deeply flavorful food doesn’t have to be complicated.
DONNA DOOHER
Celebrated as Toronto’s “Queen of Brunch,” Donna Dooher has shaped the city’s brunch culture for more than three decades. She first introduced her warm, generous style of cooking as the founder of the beloved Mildren Pierce restaurant—an iconic spot that helped define how Toronto gathers around the table. Donna later went on to launch Cookworks, which evolved into a popular Food Network series and two best-selling cookbooks—with a third currently underway.
In 2008, Donna opened Mildred’s Temple Kitchen in Toronto’s LibertyV illage, where she continues to own and operate the restaurant along with its companion retail line of fan-favourite pantry and frozen staples. Mildred’s reflects Donna’s long-held philosophy of returning to the table: meals that are seasonal, comforting, and rooted in locally sourced ingredients. Her cooking celebrates simplicity, done exceptionally well. A proud champion of Canada’s hospitality community, Donna is a devoted supporter of local agriculture—self-described as a “fork hugger.” She has served as National Chair of Taste Canada, CEO and Chair of the Board for Restaurants Canada, and Co-Chair of the YES CHEF! Fundraising campaign at George Brown College. Today, she continues to advocate for Canadian hospitality on the global stage.
Your Visit
Want exclusive benefits while making a real difference to the important work we do as a charitable, non-profit arts organization?
Become a member today and unlock exclusive benefits – like early access to tickets with members-only presales, monthly ticket giveaways, and an insider's tour of the legendary Massey Hall. Plus, enjoy premium in-venue perks, including private lounge access, priority bar service, and complimentary coat check—all while supporting the vital, mission driven work we do for artists and our community.
By Public Transit
- Subway: Located beside St. Andrew Station on the University Line.
- Streetcar: Take the 504 King to King & University.
- GO Transit / VIA Rail: A 5–6 block walk from Union Station or 1 subway stop to St. Andrew Station.
Parking at Roy Thomson Hall
Roy Thomson Hall Underground Garage
Clean, well-lit, and located directly beneath the Hall with two levels. Entrance on Wellington St., west of Simcoe.
Open 24/7 (closed on holidays). First-come, first-served.
Payment Options
- Reserve your spot and book ahead using SpotHero
- Garage machines accept cash or credit.
- On event days, debit and cash are accepted when an attendant is on-site (2 hours before the event).
Bags are discouraged and subject to security screening. Bags larger than 14" x 14" x 6" are not permitted. Allowed bags must be soft-sided and fit completely under your seat.
Roy Thomson Hall is committed to ensuring an inclusive and accessible experience for all guests. We continue to enhance our facilities and services to support a wide range of accessibility needs.
Accessible Entrances
Patrons with accessibility needs are encouraged to use the main entrance on Simcoe Street, where priority entry will be provided.
Accessible Restrooms
Barrier-free washrooms are available on all levels and can be accessed via the central elevator.
Accessible Parking
Designated accessible parking spots are available, accessible via Wellington Street. Spaces are limited and offered on a first-come, first-served basis.
Accessible seating is available on all levels and can be purchased online, or by calling 416-872-4255.
Bars and washrooms are conveniently located on every level of the venue. The Grange Wine Bar, located on the main level, offers a curated selection of wine and refreshments. Accessible washrooms are available on all levels via the central elevator.
Coat check is available in the lobby, beside the main entrance. Please note that Roy Thomson Hall is a cashless venue, so only credit or debit cards are accepted.
For everyone’s safety, all guests will go through a quick security screening before entering, including bag checks and metal detectors.
Thanks to our official hotel partner, our patrons receive exclusive offers across the Pantages Hotel and Silver Hotel Group locations including:
- Music fans visiting Massey Hall will receive 15% off available room rates at Pantages Hotel
- Music fans visiting Roy Thomson Hall will receive hotel rates of 20% off available room rate at Radisson Blu Toronto Downtown
- Additional preferred rates at partner hotel properties including Hotel Victoria, The Anndore House and Novotel Toronto Centre.
Box Office & Ticketing Information
- When you purchase tickets, you will be sent a link to your digital wallet, accessible on any smart mobile device
- Log in using your Massey Hall or Roy Thomson Hall login credentials, no new passwords to remember!
- No app download required and your tickets can be saved in Apple Wallet or Google Wallets
- Tickets include a QR code to be scanned on arrival at the venue
If you do not have a mobile phone, please contact our ticketing and box office team at [email protected] or by phone at 416-872-4255 after purchasing your tickets.Digital Tickets are paperless tickets accessed through your digital ticket wallet on your mobile device. After purchasing tickets, you will receive a confirmation email with a link to your digital wallet. Log in, select your performance, and your tickets will be ready to scan. You can easily share tickets so each guest has their own. Click here for our Frequently Asked Questions
Why are there service charges?
Service fees cover the operational costs of ticketing and vary by event and promoter requirements.
Can I get a refund?
Refunds are only available:
- If you purchase Booking Protect at checkout (via our third-party partner)
- If an event is cancelled
For postponed events, we’ll contact you with your options.
Cash refunds are not available; alternate arrangements will be offered if needed.
Reach us at 416-872-4255 or [email protected].
The box office located inside the Roy Thomson Hall lobby, opens 3 hours before each event.
Note: All transactions are cashless.