“I could fall in love with this restaurant” a guest explained as she basked in the welcoming ambiance of Agave the beautifully crafted, hot new dining spot on Vanderbilt Beach Road in Naples.

Its elegantly bold décor with earthy yellow, orange and green Southwestern colors, stone walls , hand-hewn soffits and hundreds of live cacti and succulent plants create both an upscale and homey feel.

Don and Angela Smith, creators of Bonita Springs’ lovely Angelina’s Ristorante, have now given Naples its own unique gem. Every detail has been artistically addressed from the handsomely clothed, friendly and attentive servers to the one-of-a-kind art on the walls.

Savor one of more than 150 top tequilas. Splurge on a shot of  Cuestión Anejo or 1800 Colección at your table or in the privacy of the tequila room. The stone and wood bar is a great spot to be with friends.

Most dishes are priced under $20. Order grouper, rock shrimp, calamari, scallop or salmon from the ceviche station, located next to the tortilla makers.  Enjoy a fiery platos en fuegos—your choice of filet mignon, rock shrimp and prawns or seared chicken breast is served tableside, blazingly flamed with tequila. Guacamole is deliciously fresh, made to order and served tableside.

The smoked brisket and hamburgers are some my favorites, bursting with flavor. Quite a few dishes are cooked over the wood-burning grill, for more than a hint of smoke.

2380 Vanderbilt Beach Road, Naples, 598-3473, agavenaples.com