Ow! It’s been an hour since I finished lunch at Krua Thai and my mouth is still on fire.

Don’t get me wrong. I really like this place; but you do have to take care when ordering “spicy” or even “mild-to-spicy” at this strip mall dive way out on Sherman Way. This was my second visit, and I was hesitant to deviate from the delicious dishes I ordered the first time. The good news is that it’s so inexpensive, I was able to order both the dishes I knew I loved, plus a few extras.

Pad Kee Mao, a luscious flat noodle that has been stir-fried with green chili, mint leaves and shrimp. Photos: Karen Young

Which brings me to the spice issue.

Unless you are a fire-eating dragon, you might think twice before ordering the Papaya Salad, shredded raw papaya in chilis and lime juice, served with either raw blue crab or shrimp. I pride myself on being someone who can withstand serious heat, but even I could not handle this dish. I didn’t even get to the shrimp. My mouth was burning so intensely after the first few bites that I had to cease and desist. I even paid dearly for allowing some of the papaya salad juice to seep into my other dishes. If you don’t believe me, by all means, ignore this warning and order away – I’d love to hear how you fare.

Tom Kha Kai soup— the classic coconut milk, lemon grass, lime and chili soup with mushrooms and chicken served in a flaming hot pot.

Still spicy, but much safer, and delicious, is the Tom Kha Kai soup — the classic coconut milk, lemon grass, lime and chili soup with mushrooms and chicken served in a flaming hot pot. By flaming I mean that flames are literally rising out of the middle of the pot, fueled by some kind of Sterno contraption within. It is both dramatic and delicious, except for the chicken, which is dark and a little funky for my taste (I prefer white meat). Ask for it with shrimp instead and you’re good to go.

My favorite dish, hands down, is the Pad Kee Mao, a luscious flat noodle that has been stir-fried with green chili, mint leaves and shrimp (you can choose beef or chicken if you prefer). It is perfect as far as Thai noodles go, and I will be back for more. Consider it a Thai comfort food.

Jonathan Gold of LA Weekly once called their Pad Thai “the best in town,” and while I couldn’t really confirm that (I haven’t ordered Pad Thai that much since the 80s), I will say that it’s quite good here. Thai rice sticks (noodles) have been gently fried with egg and adorned with shrimp, chicken, peanuts, tofu and bean sprouts in a flavorful tamarind juice spiced with hot chilis. Both the Pad Kee Mao and Pad Thai are addictive, which is just fine because the portions are enormous.

Papaya Salad - shredded raw papaya in chilis and lime juice, served with either raw blue crab or shrimp

Of course, there’s much more to this menu, too much to rattle off, but all the classics are here such as Satays, steamed mussels in Thai herbs, larb, curries, even catfish, trout and tilapia in various sauces, not to mention the Thai rice dishes. However, the stars of the show at this eatery are the noodles, which come pan-fried or in a number of soups and stews (I counted at least 25). There is no alcohol, but you can quench your thirst with Thai iced coffee or tea, young coconut juice, or tapioca iced tea or coffee, among other beverages.

Krua Thai may not have much curb appeal, but the prices are right (meaning cheap), portions are huge, and from what I have sampled, the food is authentic and good. An added bonus: it’s open daily until 3:30 a.m. in case you get a midnight craving.

Krua Thai 13130 Sherman Way North Hollywood, CA (818) 759-7998

Jennifer Evans Gardner is a food and travel writer, cookbook author, and owner of the Little Feet in the Kitchen cooking school. Formerly Editor-in-Chief for PeterGreenberg.com, Jennifer has also written for huffingtonpost.com, ePregnancy, Eating, Santa Barbara, and Kiwi, among other publications. www.jenevansgardner.com

In the past 12 months, over 54,000 dogs and cats have been impounded in the 6 LA City Animal Shelters alone. This is SHOCKING! If you find this as disturbing as I do, please spread the word — for a $300 tax-deductible donation you can sponsor a kennel which will help pay for the care of a shelter animal. Applications can be found on the department’s website at www.laanimalservices.com. Click “DONATE NOW!”  then click the white “SPONSOR” banner at the bottom of the page. The shelters are in need and we CAN make a difference.

East Valley Animal Care Center, 14409 Vanowen St., Van Nuys, CA 91405, 818-756-9323

Charles

Impound # 1096382 Border collie/Brittany mix, 4 years, 36 lbs I’m Charles and came to the shelter as a stray. I was very scared when I arrived but once I got to play with my kennel mate I came out of my shell. The volunteers say I’m the sweetest guy around. I love other dogs and love attention. Please consider adopting me. I really want to have a home and someone to love me.

Shatzi

Impound # 1091862 Schnauzer mix, 2 yrs, 13.6 lbs I’m Shatzi and was dumped by my guardians. I’m not too heartbroken because they kept me outside by myself and gave me no attention. I’m praying someone adopts me soon though. I will be happy when I find a home. I’m sweet, handsome and just want to please you. PICK ME. I need a home and someone to love.

Kyle

Impound # 1099156 Snowshoe/Siamese, 1 ½ yrs, 8 lbs I’m Kyle and was found running around the street. I’m super friendly, very affectionate, good with other cats and fine with dogs too. I’m the greatest companion ever!!! The staff says I’m a keeper. Won’t you take me home?

Kelly

Impound # 1094656 Rabbit, 8 months, 3 lbs I’m Kelly and was found with 3 litter mates on the street. I’m so friendly, cute as a button, and love to sit in your lap. Thing is, I’m now in danger and need to be adopted soon. The shelter has too many rabbits and I’m afraid I don’t have much time. Won’t you consider adopting me…and my litter mates? Rabbits are great companions and make perfect pets.

More great treasures…

West Valley Animal Care Center, 20655 Plummer St., Chatsworth, CA 91311, 818-756-9325

Bert

Impound # 1095552 Domestic long hair cat, 2 years, 8 lbs I’m Bert and am looking for my Ernie…my best friend for life! I was found as a stray all alone on the street. I’m extremely friendly, love people, other cats and love to be by your side. The other cats think I’m very handsome too. Adopt me!! Love me! Pick me!! I’ll make the best forever friend.

Malcom

Impound # 1090226 Domestic short hair cat, 4 years, 12 lbs I’m Malcolm and need a home. I don’t take the best picture but I’m told I’m incredibly handsome and charming. I was found as a stray and taken to the shelter. My time was up there so they transferred me to the W Valley shelter to buy me more time. I’m super friendly and love love love to be held. I love people and cats too. Why isn’t anyone adopting me? I don’t have much time so please consider taking me home. The volunteers say I’m AMAZING and someone would be lucky to have me.

Senta

Impound # 1087557 Domestic short hair rabbit, 1 year, 5 lbs I’m Senta and was found all alone on the side of the road. I’m very friendly, beautiful and love to be held! Being next to you is where I want to be. Won’t you take me home? I’m beautiful and can’t wait to find my forever friend.

Rocky

Impound # 1095249 Welsh Corgi mix, black , 1 year, 25 lbs  I’m Rocky, the handsome brown & white one in the pic. The black and white dog next to me is my very best friend in the whole word, Gordito (Impound # 1095248 Welsh Corgi mix, brown). We were dumped at the shelter because our guardians lost their home. We are not having a good time here…we are scared and don’t understand what is happening to us. We love other dogs, love people and REALLY love each other more than life itself.

Please consider adopting us. We need to stay together and are so afraid someone is going to take one of us without the other. Please…please…can you open your heart and love us both? We have so much to give and a lifetime of love.

Rachel Weil has established a successful 13-year reputation in publicity adept in a cross-section of public relation disciplines. She has published articles on behalf of her clients, and is a sought out speaker at events, conferences, community audiences and panel discussions relating to public relations. She is also committed to giving back to the community, supporting many charities through her business and as an individual. Animal welfare is her greatest cause. Weil Public Relations is located in Sherman Oaks, CA. Rachel can be contacted directly at rachel@weilpr.com

March 20 is a date that most of us recognize as symbolic of changing seasons. As we welcome spring, people south of the equator, like my brother John who is in Australia,  are actually gearing up for the cooler temperatures and changing seasons of fall. On this day, the sun will cross directly over the Earth’s equator. This moment is known as the “vernal equinox” in the Northern Hemisphere. Translated literally, equinox means “equal night.” Because the sun is positioned above the equator, day and night are about equal in length all over the world during the equinox. In Southern California,  the longer days, the crisp cool mornings and evenings mixed with the fragrant smells of citrus, night blooming jasmine and stunning blooms are a sure sign of spring. Let’s celebrate spring with this yummy cocktail!

Use edible flowers to garnish spring cocktails.

The Spring Equinox

4 ounces dry Gin

2 ounces Green Chartreuse

2 ounces fresh lemon juice

Edible flowers for garnish

Mix all ingredients in a iced cocktail shaker, mix well and pour into two martini glasses. Add edible flowers to create a great specialty drink from an easy to make recipe! There is no real nonalcoholic version so I would mix lemonade in a iced shaker, pour into two martini glasses and serve with edible flowers.

Gwen Kenneally is the owner of Back to the Kitchen, Full Service Catering and Party Planning. Check out her website and blog www.Backtothekitchen.net

There’s some great sales this weekend. Get there early and be prepared to wait in line, but the prices may just be worth it — and you might just meet some new friends. Get a new haircut to go with those duds at the Paul Mitchell Cut-A-Thon. Thirsty and in need of a little nourishment? Be sure and download the $1 discount coupon for Jamba Juice. Or just craving ice cream? Get to Ben and Jerry’s for their FREE cone day!

M.Fredric Warehouse Sale in Agoura this Saturday from 8-11am.

Attention Men, Women and Kids! M. Fredric is having their big warehouse sale in Agoura on March 20 from 8-11 am only. Check out such designers as 1921, Hale Bob, Splendid, Hard Tail, Billy Blues, Arnold Zimberg, Flowers by Zoe, Soul Revival, 7 Diamonds, T2 Love, Baby LuLu, Project E and more. 28024 Dorothy Dr. Agoura Hills, Ca 91301 www.mfredric.com

Three day LA Kids Consignment Sale.

The LA Kids Consignment Sale is back this weekend on March 19, 20 (9am-5pm) and March 21 from 9am-2pm. Over 450 vendors will be selling goods at 40-90% off. Take an additional 50% off many items on Sunday. New and gently used items include: clothing, strollers, cribs, costumes, furniture, toys and more. 7753 Hayvenhurst Avenue, Van Nuys 91405 Cash and Credit Cards only. No checks. www.lakidsconsignment.com

Paul Mitchell the School Cut-A-Thon March 21

GIVE BACK IN STYLE: The Paul Mitchell the School Cut-A-Thon is happening on Sunday, March 21 from 11am-4pm at the Sherman Oaks Galleria. Get a haircut from an Expert Licensed Professional for $20 or from a Paul Mitchell Future Professional for $10. All proceeds will go to the following charities: Andrew Gomez Dream Foundation, Larry King Cardiac Foundation,Children’s Miracle Network, Leeza Gibbons Memory Foundation, Food 4 Africa. Sherman Oaks Galleria 15301 Ventura Boulevard, Sherman Oaks, CA 91403 (818) 380-8120  www.pmtsshermanoaks.com

$1 off coupon!

Jamba Juice is offering $1 discount coupons for the Five Fruit Frenzy Smoothie. It’s all fruit and nothing but fruit! http://www.jambajuice.com/eb/ff/jmff.html. The coupon is good at all participating Jamba Juice locations through April 10.

March 23 from noon to 8 pm.

Ben and Jerry’s FREE Cone Day is back — Tuesday, March 23 from noon to 8 pm. Check out the new flavors: Maple Blondie, Milk and Cookies and Peanut Brittle. www.benjerry.com

OVER THE HILL AND WORTH THE DRIVE: One of the biggest sales of the year is happening this weekend and it might just be worth the drive from the 818. Save 50%-80% on designer jeans and apparel for men and women at The Warehouse Sale. It’s mostly denim, but there is also a selection of tops, jackets, sweaters, blouses, dresses, hoodies, sunglasses, shoes and hats. Choice designers include: True Religion, Ed Hardy,Monarchy, Taverniti, BCBG, Kasil, Denim of Virtue, Citizens of Humanity, Junk Food. It’s all happening Smash Box Studios Stage #1, 1011 N. Fuller Ave., West Hollywood 90046. Go to the website and RSVP to get in free or pay $5 admission at the door. March 20 and 21 (10 am -4 pm). Community dressing rooms. Cash and credit cards only. www.thewarehousesale.com

The Warehouse Sale is one of the biggest sales of the year.

In a world that is progressively becoming environmentally conscious, it is important to have outlets that allow for us to seek knowledge and practice our awareness. All Green Things, an eco-friendly boutique and online company, and its space partner, Green Graphics and Printing, offers just that – and more.

All Green Things owner, Tanya Peel with her dog Otis. Photos: Sarah K. Tohl

All Green Things, located on Topanga Canyon Blvd., in Woodland Hills, was founded by  Tanya Peel  in 2009 with the goal of educating the public and bettering the environment Her space-partner, Renee Delgado, who owns Green Graphics and Printing, found that she and Tanya shared a vision, and thought, why not share a store too.

Both Peel and Delgado had successful web-based businesses before looking into opening locations. After a little feng-shui guided reorganizing of Peel’s shop, the synergy of Delgado’s Green Graphics and Printing and Peel’s All Green Things was born. Peel and  Delgado are two determined women with a mission to educate the public and better our environment.

For Peel, her inspiration came about after viewing Al Gore’s 2006 documentary An Inconvenient Truth, which focuses on the effects of global warming.

Resource Revival bottle openers made from reclaimed bike chains, (from $10.99 - $14).

“It was a pivotal moment for me,” says Peel. “I thought about how I lived my life and how my actions affected the environment negatively, and I wanted to provide that inspiration to  other people through education and resources.”

It was only a matter of time before her website launched in 2008, and the store opened in February of 2009. According to Peel, All Green Things offers a number of different categories in products: reusable bags, reusable bottles, waste free products, biodegradable cleaning products, healthy organic baby products, and personal products.

“I think its important to go green for many reasons,” says Peel. “As our population continues to grow we are putting a strain on our natural resources. We need to be conscious of what we’re doing and how we’re living.”

Left: Reusable Bamboo Utensils Set ($11.95). Right: Flip and Tumble Bags, designed in California, ($9).

In addition to Peel’s supply of eco-friendly products, Renee Delgado’s Green Graphics and Printing services complements the space at the back of the store.

Delgado’s inspiration for launching her eco-friendly printng business came from  the daily headaches she had from working at a printshop .

Green Graphics and Printing owner, Renee Delgado with her dog Maggy.

“I used to go home everyday with headaches from the fumes in the room,” says Delgado. “Then I started doing a lot of research on alternatives for the chemicals and products that were being used.”

From there, Delgado wanted to start a movement to allow companies to go green with their marketing materials at an economically feasable price. Delgado’s Green Graphics and Printing services offers all types of percentages in recycled paper from 30% to 100%, all of which is FSC certified (Forest Stewardship Council). Colored business cards run around $65, postcards start at $90, and brochures start at $150, all depending on the amount you choose to purchase.

As for printing, Delgado uses soy ink as opposed to regular ink, which is petroleum based, and contains up to six different metals.

“Kenana Knitter Critters” dolls (from $26 - $32). According to Peel, each doll is hand-made, and includes the name of each woman on the doll which they crafted. “I like products that tell a story,”says Peel.

“Soy ink is made from a soy oil base and contains no metals,” says Delgado. “It also has very little to zero VOC’S (Volatile Organic Compound), which is a combination of toxic fumes.”

On top of all eco-friendly products and services provided by Peel and Delgado, All Green Things is a national drop-off point for cell-phones and ink cartridges, where the cell phones are donated to “Cell Phones For Soliders.” And most importantly, All Green Things helps our community by generating Green Power in the building through the city of Los Angeles.

All Green Things (818) 346-7763. Green Graphics and Printing (818) 818-854-6551  5321 Topanga Canyon Blvd Woodland Hills, CA 91364

Sarah K. Tohl is a life-long Valley resident. She graduated Pitzer College in 2009 with a special major that combined the fields of writing and media studies, titled: “Verbal and Visual Languages.”

Left: BioBag ($5.25 for 50 bags). Right: English Retreads bags, made from the inner tube of an 18” wheel tire, (fom $85 - $148).

If you’re looking for that new sleeper couch, dining room table, hand carved chair, six-foot armoire, or even a desk lamp, before you go anywhere else, stop in to Hotel Surplus Outlet and check out what they have. This warehouse store located in Van Nuys has all types of new and gently used high-quality, one-of-a-kind and designer-like furniture at deep discounts.

This family-run business has supplied furniture for “CSI”, “The Jay Leno Show” and many HGTV shows including “Design on a Dime.”Photos: Carole Rosner

Hotel Surplus Outlet has been offering liquidated furniture from four and five star hotels across the country for thirteen years. Hotels constantly renovate and remodel their rooms and Hotel Surplus Outlet negotiates the best prices for their inventory. Anything you’d see in a luxury hotel or timeshare can arrive in the warehouse at Hotel Surplus Outlet.

Contemporary to conservative designs.

Recently goods were delivered from the Beverly Hills Hotel, Hotel Oceana Santa Monica, Pebble Beach Resorts, and Casa del Mar Laguna. Sometimes there are many pieces from one hotel and sometimes there are just one or two items. Furniture can be super contemporary (from the Mondrian Hotel) or ultra conservative (from the Regent Beverly Wilshire).

Recently goods were delivered from the Beverly Hills Hotel, Hotel Oceana Santa Monica, Pebble Beach Resorts, and Casa del Mar Laguna.

On my last visit I found a six-piece dining room set by Urban Styles for $699.95, a Queen size sofa bed for $599.95 (with two pillows) and a new seven-piece bedroom set for $799.95. There were also gently used Hamilton Beach mini coffee makers for $12.95 and dishes for $1 each.

In addition to interior designers, many television shows and movie studios shop at Hotel Surplus Outlet, especially now that most of the prop shops in town have closed their doors. This family-run business has supplied furniture for “CSI”, “The Jay Leno Show” and many HGTV shows including “Design on a Dime.”

Dressers.

You might not initially consider “gently used” hotel furniture to decorate your home, but keep in mind that these are “hospitality” grade pieces that require higher quality fabric and fittings than “consumer” grade furniture. Although Hotel Surplus Outlet doesn’t offer delivery of their merchandise (they  do have recommendations), the staff is always willing to work with you on prices.

Hotel Surplus Outlet 6843 Valjean Ave. Van Nuys, CA 91406 818.787.7807 www.hotelsurplus.com Free parking in lot Hours: Monday-Friday: 9am-6pm Saturday and Sunday: 10am-5pm.

“Hospitality” grade pieces that require higher quality fabric and fittings than “consumer” grade furniture.

Carole Rosner is a native Valley Girl who took the school bus with Michael and Janet Jackson and worked at the Sherman Oaks Galleria in its heyday. She likes to spend her free time finding bargains at Crossroads Trading Company, eating Chinese chicken salad at Stanley’s and admiring the view from Fryman Canyon. Check out her new blog: www.anythinggoodlately.blogspot.com – reading, watching and eating.

There’s plenty o’ pubs to get your green on this Wednesday for St. Patrick’s Day.  Here’s some key places that stretch across the San Fernando Valley.  Remember — if you intend to imbibe on one too many pints — cab it, hire a car service, designate a sober driver, or call a friend.

The Fox and the Hounds — Studio City

This is a favorite place for British ex-pats mixed with locals. Traditional pub fare includes fish and chips, shepherd’s pie, banger’s and mash and a special for St. Patrick’s Day — Corned Beef and Cabbage. Live music by the King Mixers starting at about 9 pm. Breakfast is also served all day here, including the English version of the Irish breakfast called The Full Monty. Sixteen beers on tap and more in bottles and cans. No cover charge.  11100 Ventura Boulevard Studio City  (818) 763-7837 www.thefoxandhounds.com

Irelands 32 — Van Nuys

The festivities run from 8 am to 1:30 am at this valley landmark. Start off the day with a traditional Irish breakfast served until noon– bacon, sausage, grilled tomatoes, wheaten bread, eggs, baked beans, black and white pudding. Chow down on Corned Beef & Cabbage , Irish Stew and Sandwiches. Guiness, Smithwicks and more are on tap. This pub is a fave with Irish ex-pats and there’s a real Irishman manning the bar. Live music starts at 9 am with bands continuing 1:30 pm, 5 pm and 9:30 pm. $10 cover charge after 10 am. 13721 Burbank Blvd, Van Nuys 818-785-4031 www.irelands32pub.com

McG’s Irish Pub & Grill — Chatsworth

This traditional Irish Pub is running their party from 9 am to 2 am. They’ll be serving Corned Beef and Cabbage and an Irish Reuben (Corned Beef, sauerkraut, swiss cheese and thousand island on rye bread) all day long. Special beers and whiskeys are being specially brought in for the occasion. Emerald City will perform live starting at 6 pm. Music will be playing all day. No cover.  21356 Devonshire St. Chatsworth  (SE Corner of Canoga) Phone: (818) 734-7056 www.mcgspubandgrill.com

Pickwicks Pub — Woodland Hills

This Woodland Hills mainstay has been a West Valley favorite since 1974 and didn’t lose its allure upon being rebuilt in 2005 after a fire. Open at 11 am on St. Patrick’s Day, this cozy British pub will be serving Corned beef and Cabbage and Corned Beef sandwiches served all day long. Gin and drink specials. 14 ales on tap. Live music: 3pm – 8pm with Bob Cowsill; 8 pm The Shenanigans. $4 cover charge after 4 pm.  21010 Ventura Blvd Woodland Hills, CA 91364 (818) 340-9673 www.pickwickspub.org

Timmy Nolan’s — Toluca Lake

There’s an all-day party starting at 8 am at this two level Irish pub and sports bar with two full service bars and dozens of beers on Riverside Drive. They’re serving two dishes only — Corned Beef and Cabbage and Irish Stew. Bagpipers will be entertaining at night. The juke box will be playing all day long. $5 cover charge after 5 pm. 10111 Riverside Drive Toluca Lake, CA (818) 985-3359 www.timmynolans.net

Karen Young is the Editor/Publisher of My Daily Find.

Being from a large Irish- Italian family we always had a family bash on St. Patrick’s Day. It was one of the few meals my dad loved to cook. We would come home from school and watch him prepare this amazing meal. The way my dad cooked was by using every bowl, spoon and gadget in the kitchen playfully annoying my mother since he cooked and did not clean! Okay, so it is not the kind of holiday that the masses celebrate, but you can come up with fun things to do with your family. One year we had a potato hunt and the person that found the most got a gold coin. My friend Zelma started the traditional game of hiding the cabbage. Not being a fan of that vegetable she would hide it in the hopes that I would forget about it! (I did once, nobody seemed to mind!) My daughter’s kindergarten and first grade teacher had a naughty little leprechaun named Liam that appeared in her classroom starting the first of March. He left little messes and problems to solve, and told the kids that if they could catch him on St Patrick’s Day they would get the pot of gold. The kids spent so much time creating elaborate traps. But alas, Liam always managed to escape, but not without totally reeking havoc in the classroom and leaving cupcakes. (Kind of like my daddy in the kitchen!) Some older Irish folks I know believe in reading the eyes of potatoes for fortunes. Soda bread is super easy to make and a great activity for older kids. For me the best part is hanging with friends and family and spreading a little luck of the Irish to all those I love.

Corned Beef

In college and in my first few years living in L.A. while many of my peers were chugging green beer, I was cooking a traditional Irish-American dinner. On year I made  35 pounds of Corned Beef and there was not a scrap left for sandwiches.

The best part of this meal is that it is done in one pot! Even though I give you a couple of recipes for bread, you can always buy some if you are pressed for time. The flavor of the beef in the boiling water gives the veggies an amazing flavor. This menu is based on 8 people. I recommend that as you add people you add pots. Do half of the beef in each so you can still cook all the veggies in the meat water. I simply serve it with assorted mustards and assorted breads.

6 pound corned beef brisket

6 garlic cloves

12 peppercorns

6 whole cloves

2 bay leaves

2 teaspoon each: thyme, sage, oregano (Must have been added from one of my Italian relatives.)

1 teaspoon crushed red pepper

3 red onions, sliced

10 medium carrots cut into one-inch pieces

16 red new potatoes, scrubbed

2 small heads of green cabbage, cut into 8 wedges each

In a large soup pot cover corned beef with cold water. Add onions, garlic peppercorns, cloves, bay leaves,red pepper and seasoning. Over medium-high heat bring to a boil. Carefully remove foam with out removing and spices. Reduce heat and cook covered until almost fork tender about 3 hours. Add carrots and potatoes; cook 15 minutes. Add cabbage cook 15 minutes longer until vegetables and brisket are tender. Remove brisket. Slice brisket and arrange on a large platter. Drain vegetables in a colander and return to pot. Toss with butter and place on platter.

Irish Soda Bread

2 cups flour

2 tablespoons sugar

1 teaspoon each baking soda-baking powder

1/2-teaspoon salt

3 tablespoons butter

1-cup buttermilk

1/2-cup seedless, dark raisins

Spray a cookie sheet with baker’s joy. Preheat oven to 375. In a large bowl mix all dry ingredients. With a pastry blade cut in butter until mixture resembles a coarse crumbs. Add raisins. Add buttermilk and stir until dry ingredients are just moistened. Turn out on lightly floured board. Gently knead for about 1 minute until smooth. Shape into a ball and then press down until you get a 6-inch circle. With a sharp knife cut a quarter inch cross in the top of the bread. Bake for 40 minutes until top is golden and you hear a hollow sound when lightly tapped. Let cool on rack.

Irish Soda Bread with Fresh Dill

4 cups flour

1 teaspoon each baking powder, baking soda, salt

1/2 cup fresh dill, finely chopped

6 tablespoons butter

1 1/2 cups buttermilk

Pre-heat oven to 350. In a large bowl combine all dry ingredients. Cut butter in with a pastry blade until it resembles coarse crumbs. With a fork add the dill. Add buttermilk and mix until lightly moistened. Turn out to lightly floured board and knead until smooth about 5 minutes. Divide the dough in half and make two smooth balls. Place the balls on a large increased cookie sheet. .Bake for 40 minutes until top is golden and you hear a hollow sound when lightly tapped. Let cool on rack.

Onion- Corn Rye Bread

2 packages yeast

2 cups warm water

3 tablespoons sugar

1/2-cup warm milk

1-teaspoon salt

2-tablespoon caraway seeds

1 medium onion, finely chopped

2 tablespoons corn oil

4 cups flour

1/2 cup yellow cornmeal

2 cups rye flour

1 egg white, beaten

Kosher Salt

In the bowl of an electric mixer; soften yeast in 1/2-cup water and 1-teaspoon sugar for about 5 minutes. Add remaining water, milk, sugar, salt, caraway seeds, oil and onion. Add three cups flour. Mix to blend then beat at medium speed until smooth and elastic about 5 minutes. Cover with plastic wrap and a towel and let rest in a warm place for about 30 minutes. Set aside 3 tablespoons of cornmeal for topping. Mix in to dough the remaining cornmeal the rye flour and 1/2-cup flour to make soft dough. Turn out onto a floured board and knead until dough is elastic and smooth and small bubbles form under the surface adding a little flour so the dough is not sticky for about 20 minutes. Turn dough into a greased bowl and cover with plastic and a towel and let rise in a warm place for one hour. Punch dough down and let rest for 15 minutes. Divide dough into two equal parts and roll into balls. Place on two greased cookie sheets sprinkled with a little cornmeal. Brush generously with egg white and sprinkle with remaining cornmeal and some kosher salt. Bake for 40 minutes in a pre-heated 350 oven until top is golden and you hear a hollow sound when lightly tapped. Let cool on rack.

Irish Cream Cheesecake

Can you imagine the decadence of mixing cheesecake with Irish Cream? I’m usually way to stuffed from the meal so I have it the next day with my morning coffee!

2 cups graham cracker crumbs

1 stick butter, melted

3 -8 ounce packages cream cheese

4 eggs, lightly beaten

1/2-cup sugar

1 cup Baileys Irish Cream

1-teaspoon vanilla

Preheat oven to 350. Combine melted butter and crumbs. Press into a sprayed 9-inch spring form pan. In the bowl of an electric mixer beat the cream cheese. Add remaining ingredients and beat until smooth. Pour mixture into pan. Bake one hour and 15 minutes, until firm in the middle. Cool completely before removing from the pan. Chill for a few hours (overnight) before serving.

Gwen Kenneally is the owner of Back to the Kitchen, Full Service Catering and Party Planning. Check out her website and blog www.Backtothekitchen.net

A great meal is more than the sum of its parts. Yes, you want great food, great service and great ambiance. Yet, to have a really satisfying meal all these things have to come together in way that can’t totally be explained in words. It’s just kismet.

Le Petit Restaurant in Sherman Oaks manages to accomplish this little feat of magic. The food is simple and well prepared, if not Michelin quality, the ambiance, very Left Bank and the service brusque yet attentive. All and all each piece by itself would perhaps, above average, nothing more. But put them all together and each dining experience I’ve had at the restaurant just has a certain, je ne sais quoi.

The menu is straightforward French fare mixed with an interesting smattering of Mediterranean dishes and influences. The wine list is small, featuring French and Domestic wines by the glass and bottle.

Every time I go I start with the Baked Brie on Croute ($6.95). It’s a generous portion of brie encased in a flaky shell. It’s served with a tangy champagne sauce that cuts through the richness of the cheese. This could seriously be a meal in and of itself.

I also love into the Black Mussels Poulette ($9.50). The mussels are tender and not at all chewy. The white wine and shallot sauce rich and creamy – the kind you want to sop up every last bit of.

The Goat Cheese and Crostini Salad ($8.95), is simple, but the flavors nice and bright. The vinaigrette’s light and the dried pears add a nice texture,

I have an ongoing love affair with the Baked Lamb Shank ($17.95). Or maybe it’s really a love hate relationship.

The first time it was so good I ate every bite, the meat fell off the bone and the sauce was velvety. They serve it with couscous and carrots – a bit of that Mediterranean influence I mentioned earlier. Sadly, the second time I ordered it, I sent it back. The lamb was bland and the sauce tasted like canned beef broth. The third time was a charm, so I’ll just chalk the unpleasant experience up to a bad night.

Equally simple yet tasty is their Grilled Entrecote or Rib Eye Steak ($23.95) I’ve only tried it once and it was cooked a perfect medium rare and the crispy Pomme Frites to die for. I added the mushrooms, which I sort of regretted because they were a bit too salty.

They also offer the French classic, Coq Au Vin but let me warn you, as our waiter did, that you might not recognize their version, which I was told is very traditional. Whatever version it was, the dish was delicious. It had a stew-like consistency with the chicken falling off the bone and the petite pearl onions had the perfect firmness.

On Monday and Tuesday nights, they offer a special Lobster Night (1 1/2 pounds) served with a choice of soup or salad for $24.95.

I usually wrap up the meal with a little espresso or café macchiato. The service is never rushed – very European.

Walking out onto Ventura Boulevard after the meal, it’s always a bit of a culture shock because for just a moment you could relax and fool yourself into thinking your actually are in Paris, just for a moment. Maybe that’s the magic of this place.

Le Petit Restaurant is located at 13360 Ventura Blvd., Sherman Oaks. Open for dinner only Sun-Thurs, 5-11pm; Fri-Sat, 5-11:30pm. Call (818) 501-7999 .

Erinn Eichinger is a lifestyle writer for print and television who’s worked and lived in the Valley for close to 20 years. She was a contributing writer for Sun Community Newspapers, as well as Fox News, KCBS News, Food Network, Discovery Health, A&E, Fine Living and The History Channel. You can check out more of her writing at www.Sundaydish.typepad.com

This Sunday, March 14th, over 150 dogs and cats will be at Roxbury Park in Beverly Hills looking for their forever home. Join all 6 LA City Animal Shelters and Carson Shelter for WoofStock 90210, an event not to be missed. The corner of Roxbury and Olympic Blvd from 11 am – 3 pm will be four-legged finds waiting for you to take them home. Visit http://www.laanimalservices.com/events/woofstock.pdf for more information.

East Valley Animal Care Center, Vanowen St., Van Nuys, CA 91405, 818-756-9323

Bailee

Impound # 1095720 Domestic Short Hair Tabby, 9 weeks, 2 lbs I’m Bailee, a beautiful, tiny girl who came to the shelter as a stray. The staff thinks I was abandoned outside for awhile because I was very skinny when they found me. I’m real friendly, loveable and have a great big heart of gold. I’m looking for a forever home. Could you be the one?

Layla

Impound # 1094657 Rabbit, 8 months, 3 lbs I’m Layla and my guardian dumped me and my littermate at the shelter because he had too many rabbits. We are the most adorable duo…very friendly and love to get attention. Have I mentioned how cute I am? Please adopt me. Rabbits make the greatest companions.

Buster

Impound # 1087703 Boxer Mix, 1 yr, 54 lbs I’m handsome Buster and came to the shelter as a stray. I LOVE walks, have a lot of energy, am super smart and just want to make you happy. The shelter volunteers say I’d be fun to work out with because I can keep up and keep you exercising! Because I’m a little goofy and need some basic training (hey, I’m a baby still and no one taught me) I am best with bigger dogs.

Copper

Impound # 1093314 Chihuahua, 9 months, 6 lbs I’m Copper and came to the shelter as a stray. I had a rough start of it because while on the streets I had parvo and almost died. Luckily, the shelter saved me!! (Thank you East Valley staff). Now I’m all well and can’t wait to be in a forever home. I’m good with dogs, cats and love everyone I meet. Won’t you take me home?

More great treasures…

West Valley Animal Care Center, 20655 Plummer St., Chatsworth, CA 91311, 818-756-9325

Ebony

Impound # 1094162 Domestic Short Hair Cat, 4 years, 9 lbs I’m Ebony, a beautiful sweet girl who lost my guardian! She passed away and her family dumped me in the shelter. How could they do that? I love all cats and really love people (well, except for the people that dumped me). I’m incredibly sweet and the volunteers say I’m very special. Won’t you love me? I’m sad and hope I find a forever home soon

Chiquita

Impound # 1091493 Rag Doll Long Hair mix, 6 years, 12 lbs I’m Chiquita, a beautiful girl who got dumped at the shelter twice at no fault of my own. I’m a shelter staff favorite and love all cats and love people! I’m super sweet and just want to find a good home. Won’t you save me? The volunteers say I’m the most beautiful girl on the block and just want to be loved. Please pick me!

Miley

Impound # 1089988 Domestic short hair rabbit, 1 year, 4 lbs I’m Miley and was dumped by my guardian because they had a baby…no fair! I’m not any trouble and don’t understand why I’m here. I’m very sad and scared at the shelter and am hoping you will read this and come adopt me. If you visit me I’ll jump in your lap and then I’ll be happy again!! I need companionship. Consider making me your new friend for life. You won’t regret it!

Holiday

Impound # 1092063 Chow mix, 11 mo, 38 lbs I’m Holiday and was found as a stray. I LOVE people and love to play! I’m really handsome, just need a good bath and some lovin’ and I’ll be as good as new. I’m super sweet and the shelter says I’m the “greatest dog!”  Won’t you adopt me? I have a lot of love to give.

Kylie

Impound # 1090845 Dachshund mix, 11 months, 20 lbs I’m Kylie, a pretty little girl who has the best personality. The staff says I’m incredibly sweet and am very funny. I LOVE love love people and need to find someone to adopt me. Won’t you take me? I’m a lover and just want to be your best friend.

Rachel Weil has established a successful 13-year reputation in publicity adept in a cross-section of public relation disciplines. She has published articles on behalf of her clients, and is a sought out speaker at events, conferences, community audiences and panel discussions relating to public relations. She is also committed to giving back to the community, supporting many charities through her business and as an individual. Animal welfare is her greatest cause. Weil Public Relations is located in Sherman Oaks, CA. Rachel can be contacted directly at rachel@weilpr.com