Yam Yam's Southern Bar   

Once a gas station and now a colorful local hangout, Yam Yam's is the place to go if you want good, rich Southern fare. The modest, somewhat fast food interior is offset by homey touches such as sprigged wallpaper, glass-covered white tablecloths, fabric on the lampshades and a community bulletin board. But folks don't come here for the looks (or for cheery service); peek outside the front window to see the secret to Yam Yam's success -- a huge, take-no-prisoners barbecue oven, stoked and glowing. Out of that yawning maw come some of the tastiest eats this side of Alabama. Yam Yam's offers the traditional variety of ribs, sandwiches, chicken baskets and seafood dinners, complemented by a great range of sides. If you really want to show your aorta who's boss, come for the Sunday all-you-can-eat buffet; it's guaranteed to leave you groaning. -- Carla Mortensen