The front room at Takashimaya on Fifth Avenue could be a museum. The offerings are so exquisite and displayed with such artistic flair that you just know whatever you end up buying will be a treasured addition to your collection.

There are two glass cases on the wall holding jewelry from Bert and Dana Freed’s company, the Chicken and the Egg (left). There are necklaces, bracelets, earrings, and rings, each a work of art. (Read about Bert and Dana on the front page and under “Working Around—Business Superstars”). Don’t be content to just look. Ask to hold them and try them on.

Besides the jewelry (and there are some beautiful pieces by other designers), the front room is filled with gorgeous shawls, many embellished with jewels, seed pearls, and lavish three-dimensional embroidery. Whether tossed over an elegant gown or a pair of jeans, these shawls will make a statement.

There are also beautiful leather handbags and—get this—you can buy the handles separately to choose length, material, and color. What an innovative idea.

If you make it past the front room, the fabrics and designs of the clothing carried by Takashimaya, will grab your attention. The silks flow like water and the wools and cashmeres are lighter than air.

Dana Freed names The Tea Box as her favorite place to eat. We agree. There are soups, beautifully prepared sandwiches. We enjoyed one with rice, smoked salmon, and cucumber, and the special box lunch (left) with many different foods to sample. And, of course, the restaurant offers a large selection of teas. Stop in the shop after lunch to take something home.

Takashimaya
693 Fifth Avenue at 55th Street