A well selected, individualized card with a food certificate (Publix is my choice) seems impersonal, but in my world is the most appreciated. Other gifts are usually saved for regifting next year.
Now if it's a "female friend" you can't go wrong with Vermont Teddy Bears:
www.Vermontteddybear.com
Just about anyone will save this present for the balance of their lives, if properly done. You can give these for hospital stays and you'd be surprised at the reaction. I've actually had people call me from intensive care to thank me for these. They're totally customizeable, cute as hell and come with their own little home.
SP's love them and a few of Montreal's finest have these bears...LOL