Richmond Kid

Oh man, Dinner Bell takes me back. I ate there at least once a week about 40 years ago when I was working at a refinery on the Ship Channel. Of course, I remember eating at the Cleburne Cafeteria when it was on Cleburne (next to Sears on Main and near St. Agnes Academy when it was on Fannin).

It's a great place that specializes in pecan-smoked BBQ. Limited menu, but it's all good. Especially good are the ribs. They have started serving dirty rice as one of the sides and that is a don't-miss dish. You may not like the sauce, so have them serve it on the side until you are sure. I like it, but it may be an acquired taste. They only have shows in the "dance hall" every once in a while now. Periodically they will have a comedy showcase and that's fun. The Swinging Door has been around for over 30 years and is an institution. Closed on Monday and Tuesday. The owner, Steve Onstad (no relation to the Randall's folks), is a character. Just look for the Hawaiian shirt.