[ Note: Patty Burger closed Aug. 21 due to building-related issues. It hopes to open in a different location soon. ]
Right across from the Art Institute of Chicago is a place that's a bit more downscale, some might saybut it's a lot of fun.
Reminding me of Johnny Rockets but definitely with its own vibe, the '50s-style diner Patty Burger features a plethora of sandwiches that can be made to order.
Manager Rich told Savor that the most popular burger is the Hollywood ( a burger with fresh sliced avocado, crispy bacon and melted provolone cheese ) . Other burgers include The Boys in Bleu ( burger topped with bacon and bleu cheese crumbles ) , the Cowboy ( with crispy bacon, ranch dressing and melted provolone cheese ) and the Chicago Fire ( which comes with jalapenos and jalapeno cheese ) . Burgers come in single ( 1/3-lb. ) and double ( 2/3-lb. ) sizes, and people can also order chicken sandwiches with the toppings featured on the burgers.
Even vegetarians can enjoy themselves here thanks to sandwiches such as the Vegilectible ( a portobello mushroom cap topped with sauteed onions and avocado slices ) .
One of the things to love about this place is the versatility. All burgers come with fresh lettuce, tomato and red onion, but you can ask for items to not have certain toppings. In addition, the restaurant was even able to satisfy my request for mayo ( which isn't on the condiment table ) .
Of course, there was the taste testand Patty Burger had no problem passing. The patty melt I had was the best I've eaten in ages. ( Also, if the sizeable sandwiches aren't enough, there are frieswhich you can get with cheeseand some thick milkshakes.
Also, Patty Burger delivers. However, the bad news is that its delivery area encompasses five blocksso if you work in the Loop, you may be in luck.
By the way, Rich added that owner Greg Majewski may add more Patty Burgers throughout the city. We can only hope.
Patty Burger is at 72 E. Adams. See www.pattyburger.com .