By David Shoulberg, Assistant EditorAs Wall Street frowns on the overburdened category of theme restaurants, there are still some people who feel that their concept is worth the risk. Sure, the Hard Rock chain has proven the test of time, but does anyone know the future of The Rainforest Cafe or the soul on a roll Motown Cafe? Even as Arnold and Sly are crying over Planet Hollywood's financial woes, and Claudia pulls her ta-ta's out of the Fashion Cafe, a brave new competitor ignores logic and jumps into the fray.

Well...more like bouncing into the fray. Soon in Orlando, diners can take refuge in the un-air-conditioned splendor of ''Bob Marley: A Tribute To Freedom.'' According to the latest issue of Rolling Stone, the new restaurant will feature all things Bob, with one glaring exception, the ganja (ATTN: Amsterdam Investors!).

The building is fashioned to look like Marley's actual Kingston, Jamaica home, which is more shack than sumptuous. Inside, visitors are surrounded by pictures and artifacts from Bob's actual life! Display cases are peppered with Marley's favorite items like tambourines or soccer balls. In fact, Bob Marley soccer balls, and one must assume a million other items, are for sale at the requisite souvenir shop. Somebody better call Rod Stewart and tell him that his soccer ball monopoly is challenged.

While the restaurant's location, at Universal Studios Citywalk in Florida, helps to guarantee a steady stream of new suckers looking for jerk chicken, the question of financial stability still looms. None the less, eager suitors line up looking to hit the next big themed-franchise lottery. For that reason, I propose a few ideas of my own. I'll admit that they're not all very well thought out, but if Jimmy Buffett can put a shingle out front that says Margaritaville and make money, I'll have a dance at it.

Here are my top 5 contenders for new music themed restaurants...

The Marilyn Manson Chophouse - This is a great place...if you can stomach it. Waiters with breasts serve the finest steaks in a haunted house atmosphere. Signature Dish: Angus beef, cut fresh daily. Signature Gimmick: For the floorshow, the cows are butchered on a platform above diners by a Manson look- a-like twice nightly. Signature drink: Cow's Bloodymary (only available if seated near butchering).

2Pac and B.I.G.'s Good Time Emporium - What better way to remember two murdered rappers! Designed to honor the media driven east coast, west coast rap wars, 2Pac and B.I.G.'s is covered with memorabilia and news clippings detailing the rise and fall of hip-hop's biggest stars. Signature Gimmick: Tables are divided into east and west coast sides, forcing diners to confront their fears. Signature Dish: Biggie's favorite, a cheeseburger with bacon, bbq sauce, onion rings and pork chops on a Twinkie bun sprinkled with Red Lobster's world famous popcorn shrimp. Signature Drink: Actually, the only drink, assorted 40 ounces.

Korn Kafe - For all the hard core diners! This is the place to go if you're passionate enough to kick ass for a meal. Signature Dish: What more can I say, the food goes in and comes out, looking the same way! Signature Gimmick: You have to mosh to your table, and if you knock the bouncer down, your dinner is free. Signature Drink: The Pina Kolada, with real korn garnish.

The Lillith Fair Brasserie - Don't let the name fool you, there's not a bra in sight. Just plenty of earthy waitresses who thankfully don't carry their trays above their heads. Signature Gimmick: Aside from the insipid folk music, and head hostess Tracy Chapman, every Wednesday is the hairiest legs contest. Signature Dish: Don't let anyone fool you, it's all about dessert. Signature Drink: The Birkenstock (two parts wheat grass, one part Bailey's).

Garth Brooks Bar & Grill - Covered with Garth paraphernalia, including the actual head of the former president of Capitol Nashville, this eatery is out to break every record in the land. Signature Gimmick: Every single item in the place has five versions, to make it collectable! Signature Dish: Cheeseburgers come with different limited edition Garth napkins, ordering five burgers gets them all! Signature Drink: There's nothing special about the drinks, but there are five dazzling Garth swizzle sticks, you get one with every alcohol purchase. After your fifth drink we send you to the souvenir stand, where you'll see ten of everything!

For franchise information, please submit proof of liquid assets of at least $250,000 and your name and address to me via the link below.