Connecticut’s Best Local Secrets 2011

BEST ART ON A HILL Sculpture Barn, New Fairfield Dynamic in feeling, diverse in media, this atelier’s contemporary works reside in natural spaces both inside and out. The changing exhibit gallery was once owned by Louise Nevelson’s son. 3 Milltown Road. 203-746-6101; sculpturebarn.com

BEST PEACEFUL RETREAT St. Edmund’s retreat, Enders Island, Mystic This retreat house and sacred-art school, located on a private island accessible by causeway, welcomes picnickers to its gardens. Overnight guests may stay in its Arts & Crafts-style house and enjoy excellent communal meals. Call or visit the Web site for information on rates, accommodations, and retreat offerings. 860-536-0565; endersisland.com

BEST ITALIAN DELI Liuzzi Gourmet Market, North Haven Benvenuto! Liuzzi’s Italian cheese masters also stock their shelves with imported pastas, olive oils, and other Mediterranean fare, as well as processed and fresh meats. Can’t wait to eat? Order sandwiches stuffed with capicola, prosciutto, or mortadella; then add homemade mozzarella. Sandwiches: from $6.50. 322 State St. 203-248-4356; liuzzicheese.com

BEST CAFE Sweet Harmony Cafe & Bakery, Middletown Lovely lunches and dinners, but save room for cake–in varieties from apple to Mississippi mud to walnut. Chilled Vietnamese coffee or chai tea with cream enlivens the flavor symphony. Entrees: from $8.95. 158 Broad St. 860-344-9646; sweetharmonycafebakery.com

BEST GIFT SHOP Tapestry Rose, Rocky Hill Food, art, handmade journals, home accessories, clothing, garden-related goods, fine art, toys, and locally and internationally crafted jewelry in many different styles are tucked into a restored train station turned gallery just steps from a historic Connecticut River ferry. 240 Meadow Road. 860-529-4111; tapestry-rose.com