Patty Time - Craving gourmet burgers and shakes? Just say mmm ...

When Mag Mile restaurant Tru converted its private kitchen dining area into a quick-service take-out joint, locals couldn't wait to see what the fine dining temple known for its caviar "staircase" appetizer had planned. The results was M Burger, a blink-and-you'll-miss-it spot with a miniscule menu of burgers, fries and shakes all under $5. All-beef patties have a few iterations: the Hurt Burger (a secret off-the-menu item) is slathered with house-made barbecue sauce and pepperjack cheese; the Third Degree (also off-the-menu) is layered with green chiles for a super spicy kick; the Nurse Betty appeases vegetarians with beefsteak tomatoes, cheese and a special sauce; the signature M Burger sates carnivores with a beef patty, bacon, cheese and a secret sauce. But everyone will collectively drool over the milkshakes-strawberry, chocolate and vanilla are always on tap, while hush-hush monthly flavors, from butterscotch to "snozberry," are available for those in the know (just ask). If they don't cool you off during Chicago's hot summer days, fresh-squeezed lemonade and house-made peach ice tea will.