There's a sweet citrus Thai flavor flowing from Winnetka's Laundry Mall. Lemongrass was added to the bill of downtown district restaurants in August 2008, offering Northshore Thai cuisine lovers a full menu of appetizers, salads, sides and entrees.

Its namesake is taken from the staple herb found in Asian cooking and its menu resembles the many varieties that can come from lemongrass-based cuisine. Appetizers range between $4-$11 and one slightly spicy starting favorite is the Tod Mun, which is prepared with ground file of fish and blended with chili paste and then deep fried into golden brown cakes that sizzle their way off the plate and into your mouth. Chopped chives are wrapped in soft dough, deep fried and smothered in soy sauce to create chive dumplings.

The 10 noodle dishes, such as the Pad Thai, are piled high with egg-based noodles. Other dishes can be stir-fried or sauteed and complemented by chicken, beef, broccoli or other vegetables and like the 16 main entrees are in the $8-$10 range.

Grab a spoon to enjoy 10 different types of Thai soups ($7-$11) — chicken, shrimp, seafood, vegetable — of the Tom Yum, Tom Kha or Won Ton variety. Or leave out the meat and go for a dish on the full vegetarian menu featuring eight noodle dishes and salad menu ($8-$11). And for the heat-seeking Thai lovers there are six curry entrees ($9-$12), or a BBQ, basil, or seafood-based selection for fans of fried rice. Thirst is quenched via Thai iced coffee, iced tea or bubble tea ($3.25-$4), traditional sodas, or a beer and wine selection for dine-in patrons.

Several small tables and booths make up its peaceful dining room, but those short on time can pick up or cater their meals.

Average cost: $10-$20

Centerstage Reviewer: Chris Catania