Rudy's Country Store & Bar-B-Q   

What started out as an early 20th-century gas station and feed store has evolved over the years into a highly successful barbecue joint with several locations throughout Texas. You can still stop at Rudy's for a tank of gas and directions, but it's the restaurant's universally acclaimed barbecue sauce -- now distributed all over the country -- that really brings in the customers. Try it on one of dozens of meaty entrees, such as the St. Louis pork ribs, jalapeno sausage, turkey breast or chopped beef. Generously portioned sides include new potatoes, coleslaw and green bean salad. The general setup is conducive to casualness of the first degree -- enter through the front door, follow the yellow line to the counter and place your order. You'll be given a tub filled with white bread slices, pickles, napkins and piping hot meat. Then you sit at the picnic tables that make up the restaurant's seating and let the feasting begin. -- Barrett Brown