SIMPLE TOO: An Evening with Yotam Ottolenghi
  • Arts and Culture

SIMPLE TOO: An Evening with Yotam Ottolenghi

The bestselling cookbook author and chef in conversation
Monday, Oct 12, 2026 7:30 pm - 9:20 pm CTAthenaeum Center for Thought & Culture

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SIMPLE TOO

SIMPLE TOO

By Yotam Ottolenghi

Event Information

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About the Event:

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 chili 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.


This event is presented in partnership with the Athenaeum Center for Thought & Culture.

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Yotam Ottolenghi

Yotam Ottolenghi

Yotam Ottolenghi is one of the most influential voices in contemporary food, renowned for his vibrant, vegetable-forward cuisine a...

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