My mother makes it a point to stop in (at least twice a visit) whenever she’s in town. In fact, the owner, Cristina, has come to know her well, as she does me. A friendly greeting is always in store. However, it took a few years before my mother and I finally visited the store together and it was only then that Cristina realized that two of her most loyal customers were related.

When you enter the store you’re greeted by the sight of display table upon display table laden with affordable costume jewelry of literally every description – gold, silver, diamond, jewels, abstract designs, traditional settings, etc., etc., etc. The walls are lined with displays of handbags of every type – casual, evening, designer inspired . . . are you getting the picture?

Honestly, I’ve never seen a place like the Best of Everything anywhere else. It’s like a candy store for grown up girls. It’s always fun to take out-of-towners to the store and to watch their faces as they walk through the door for the first time and take a gander at all that’s on offer. The Best of Everything has grown in the years since they first opened, now carrying hand-decorated denim jackets, one-of-a-kind sweaters, luggage, shawls and wraps. I’m sure I’m forgetting at least half of what’s on offer, but no matter, it’s definitely worth the trip.

A few years ago, Cristina opened a sister store in Bonita Springs and added a separate home décor store just steps away from the Naples location, at the end of the plaza the jewelry store occupies. Here, you’ll find serving trays, wine glasses, trinket boxes, placemats and a children’s section that features hair decorations, tiaras and other dress up items. There’s also a plush animal section that has visitors ooohing and aaahing when they see it.

Next door is a restaurant that has to be Naples’ best kept secret – The French Deli. A finalist in Gulfshore Life Magazines’ 2006 Best French Food, the French Deli is a bijoux café that mimics a Gaelic bistro, with charming tables and glass cases filled with breads and pastries such as Napoleons, fruit tarts and crème brulee. Dinner specials are offered nightly, but you’ll also want to try their lunches, which include lots of alternatives to a club sandwich or burger. Here, the delectable offerings include a variety of homemade quiche and soups, crepes, salads, stuffed croissants, pate, fois gras and creative sandwiches served on French baguettes that include pate, smoked salmon and even an omelet sandwich. In addition to the usual drinks, you’ll find espresso, cappuccino and café latte on the menu. They also offer a wine list.  

The Best of Everything, 3754 Tamiami Trl N, Naples FL (239) 403-8771  - in Bonita at 28194 S Tamiami Trail, (239) 948-5828  

The French Deli, 3756 Tamiami Trail N, Naples, FL 34103 (239) 261-0977