UPTOWN. This local barbecue chain serves some of the best ribs, burgers, and chops in the Twin Cities. The place may seem a little upscale for a barbecue joint, but there's something to be said for enjoying a rack of ribs and a few cornbread muffins while surrounded by antiques. A popular lunch destination, especially with the business crowd. Sunday brunch is served 10am till 2pm.

DOWNTOWN. The image of a smiling pig leads the way to this charming downtown barbecue pit. In operation since 1946, Market is just as popular today as it was when the jukebox was new and autographed pictures on the wall were current. Try Market's famous barbecued spareribs ­ sauce comes on the side, because they trust the quality of the meat and the smoking ­ and then chase them down with tasty onion rings and a house brew. That's good eating!

UPTOWN. Located just east of Lake of the Isles, Rudolphs is uptown in more ways than one. The upscale place features linen tablecloths and some of the area's best home-style barbecue. Many menu items pay tribute to Hollywood, from the Sheik sirloin and Rhett Butler chicken-and-ribs combo to the Rudy or Bogie spare ribs plates. Be sure to sample their famous cole slaw, slightly sweet with accents of parsley and carrot.

SOUTH MINNEAPOLIS. Cozy Scott Ja-Mamas enjoys fine status as one of the area's best barbecue dives, and identifying two or three standouts on the menu is impossible since everything tastes so good! Follow the "Hot Barbecue" neon sign, and you'll find finger-licking spare ribs, barbecued chicken, and shredded pork, along with a selection of sauces: mild, medium, or hot (and they do mean HOT!). Consider throwing a twice-baked potato into the mix, too. Come early for lunch, because seating is often limited. If you do have to wait, check out the eclectic decor, which includes poker-playing dog art and newspaper clippings.