Zehra Allibhai: Bismillah, Let's Eat! (North York Central Library)

Beloved Toronto-based hijabi fitness influencer and coach Zehra Allibhai shares her first cookbook, welcoming everyone to her table and offering a new way to think about family food.

Muslims from all around the world start each meal by saying "Bismillah," which is like a short practice of gratitude. In Bismillah, Let's Eat!, health and wellness expert Zehra Allibhai invites us into her kitchen to explore cooking that is flavourful, accessible, wholesome and—above all—meant to be shared with joy.

From her healthy spin on traditional dishes such as shakshuka and chaat to sumac chicken and lamb karahi, her renowned hearty salads, and treats such as the perfect one-bowl chocolate cake, Zehra makes being in the kitchen fun, easy—and incredibly delicious!

Zehra Allibhai speaks about Bismillah, Let's Eat! and her own cooking evolution—starting in the kitchen with her Indian Kenyan family, and expanding through culinary adventures with her husband, as a mother, and as a fitness influencer.

Q&A and book signing to follow. Books available for purchase.

Ticket registration for this event is required: Free tickets for this event are available to book via Eventbrite.

About this event’s guests:

Zehra Allibhai

Read more:

Bismillah, Let's Eat!: Fresh and Vibrant Recipes from my Family to Yours

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This event is part of our signature Salon Series, where we host local and international authors, artists and thinkers in conversation about their new books and big ideas.

It is also a part of our new programming series, Islamic History and Culture. Many key events associated with this series in our inaugural year were created in collaboration with the Aga Khan Museum.

By providing a platform for learning, discussion, and celebration, we hope to foster a greater understanding and appreciation of Muslim communities' invaluable contributions to our shared history and identity.

Join us in celebrating the diversity that strengthens our community and makes our city a more vibrant and inclusive place for all.

The Aga Khan Museum is a presenting and collaborative partner on Islamic History and Culture.

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Note: This is an in-person event at the North York Central Library Concourse, Toronto Public Library’s new premiere event space for cultural and heritage programming located at 5120 Yonge Street (west side of Yonge St, one block north of Sheppard Ave).

Arrive early, meet people. The talk starts at 7 pm, but doors open at 6 pm. Come early so you can chat with your fellow literature lovers, and make new friends.

Reminder! We oversell these events to make sure that the most people have an opportunity to attend. Tickets are only guaranteed until 10 minutes before the show starts, at which point we will start opening up available spots to the rush line.

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Accessibility at Toronto Public Library:

Toronto Public Library is committed to accessibility. Please call or email us if you are Deaf or have a disability and would like to request accommodation to participate in this program. Please let us know as far in advance as possible and we will do our best to meet your request. At least three weeks’ notice is preferred. Phone 416-393-7099 or email accessibleservices@tpl.ca.