Rudolph's Bar-B-Que   

Jimmy Theros is one of a few Greek restaurateurs who helped put Minneapolis on the dining map over a half century ago. Following other successes, he opened Rudolph's (as in ''Valentino'') in 1975 amid public excitement over a great barbecue restaurant with a Hollywood theme, before theme restaurants were common. He envisioned a rib place without the usual sauce-spattered, stack-o'-napkins atmosphere -- and in fact, the sauce here is served on the side because the food, especially the spare ribs, is the headliner. Cinematic murals and menu names add fun to your experience because it's not overstated. It's like a finger-food picnic in a well-adorned dining room. The restaurant's success can be measured in the tons of ribs and chicken it has served, as well as a bunch of local and national awards. This barbecue is among the best north of Kansas City, and served in portions too large to be dainty about. All burger and sandwich platters are less than $10 and dinner prices, including combos and entrees served with potatoes and slaw or salad, seldom reach $20. ''Bone'' appetit!