For that's what she is all about—a caring interest in her customers and the energy to make her world right for them.

"It's nice. It's like a family," she smiles. "And all of my customers are great."

Nezarati, a Los Gatan for 26 years, has reflected the changing times in her comfortable shop. The décor has evolved from the all-white interior typical of an '80s yogurt shop, when the craze for the healthful food reached its height, to that of a relaxing coffee house. There are plush, blue easy chairs, soft yellow walls, wine-colored wood trim, lots of leafy plants and, of course, an espresso machine.

While yogurt has become mainstream and remains the major part of her business, Nezarati has not ignored the latest eating demands of her patrons. For the low-carbohydrate fanciers, there's a low-carb frozen yogurt. There are also nonfat and sugar-free flavors. For those on the Atkins diet, there's yogurt sweetened with Splenda.

"There are lots of locals on diets," she says. Many of them come in every day. "Some of them worry they are the only ones here every day. It's so cute, they feel guilty, but actually there are so many."

Flavors change every day, "so people don't get bored," Nezarati notes. Besides the ever-popular chocolate and vanilla, there are roasted almond, Hawaiian delight, Snickers, Heath Bar and peanut butter. Prices run from $2.25 for a child up to $6.50 for a full quart. "My prices have not changed in three years," she says.

Each morning, Nezarati pours fresh cartons of the yogurt liquid delivered by a Palo Alto vendor into the big freezer machines. Some of the special mixes she makes herself. Fresh pastries from the Saratoga Bakery, biscotti from Shelley's of Santa Cruz and doughnuts from Maple Leaf in Los Gatos are delivered before the doors open. Then the day begins, and the regulars trail in.

"Hi!" she calls to a tall young man as she heads to the espresso machine. "The usual?" He nods slowly. "You're early today. Is the baby still awake at night?"

"Hello, sweetie," she nods to an elderly man, as she scoops some chocolate yogurt. "Is your wife doing any better?"

"Hello," she smiles to a newcomer. "What is the orange berry like? Here. Try some." The newcomer swoons.

Another woman asks for a small, double chocolate with banana and almonds smoothie. "It's my little lunch," she says, a little sheepishly.

Nezarati specializes in smoothies. Additives like protein powder and vitamin C can be mixed with the fresh fruit and juice in nonfat yogurt for a healthful and low-calorie meal.

But there is another side of the house for those who love to splurge. It's a counter devoted solely to Marianne's Ice Cream, from the famous old-time creamery in Santa Cruz. Real cream, rich chocolates, macadamia chunks and thick caramels are the highlights of up to 12 flavors the shop offers.

She maintains a constant presence in her store, firmly believing that an owner can be successful only if she or he is there to make things right for the customer and to make sure employees are doing their jobs.

Yogurt Delite, located at 464 N. Santa Cruz Ave. in Los Gatos, is open Monday through Friday, 8:30 a.m. to 9 p.m., and Saturday and Sunday, 10 a.m. to 9 p.m. Call 408.395.1150.