Executive chef/owner, Lemongrass, 2348 Polk St. (at Union) 415-929-1183 www.lemongrasssf.com

Upcoming projects: Working on a line of sauces for retail and creating dishes for the Real Foods deli case several times per week.

Fun fact: Sawatdee had three monks bless the restaurant recently, as she does each year to celebrate the King of Thailand’s birthday.

Last thing you cooked for yourself?
Noodles with vegetables and prawns – I don’t eat red meat. I don’t think it’s good for you. Favorite food from your childhood? Thai green curry with fresh seafood – my hometown in Thailand, Phet Buri, was by the beach.

How would you describe working in your kitchen?
Very busy. The kitchen is small and we do Waiters on Wheels, home delivery, catering, plus food for take out, and for those who are dining here. It goes by so quickly – I love it.

Something in your fridge or freezer at home that would surprise people?
(Smiles) Frozen pizza – that’s my second fast meal after noodles.

A meal or a dish that, as a young chef, was an inspiration or a revelation?
I love curry and rice with sautéed seafood and all the wonderful spices of Thailand – growing up, this made me think, “Oh my God, this is food to die for!”

Last restaurant you ate at besides your own?
McCormick and Kuleto’s – I love their fresh seafood.

The dish on your menu that will follow you wherever you go?
Lemongrass chicken savory, which is sautéed chicken breast, red curry, peanuts, coconut milk, bell peppers, and Thai basil served on a sizzling platter.

Favorite offal?
We don’t use these parts of the animal in Thai cooking and I don’t even like to see them much – they’re scary!

What are your guilty pleasures?
Ice cream – I love it, (smiles) but I feel bad afterward.

What would your last meal on earth be and where would you have it?
Sushi – I love it – at Kyo-ya in the Palace Hotel here in The City. The service is good, it’s beautiful inside, and the they have great food.