First off, any visitor to Mic Duck's Drive In will be surely confused to find that this is not, in fact, a drive-in joint, a certainly curious development that will henceforth go unmentioned, because it's really not that big of a deal. Mic Duck's neon lights, persistently moving ceiling fans, and a single television playing some melodramatic Fox drama all contribute to forging a standard Chicago hamburger dive. A sign in front of the counter tells people, "do not ask for change," then says below in bolder, larger letters, "DO NOT ASK FOR CHANGE." Ask if the sign mumbled it the first time.

The classic hamburger-fries-drink combo runs you $4.30, with the burger somewhat resembling a Burger King Whopper – a grilled patty with a monstrous circumference (at least eating at an independent stand lets you enjoy the beef without the guilt of contributing to "the man"). Other familiar entrees on the menu are certainly worth a shot, but don't judge the place before indulging in their patty melt, featuring perfectly caramelized onions and a fresh heaping of fried mushrooms. Located right across from the Belmont blue line station, Mic Duck's capitalizes with the morning commuter crowd by offering a fairly affordable breakfast menu – a Denver or feta cheese omelet comes as low as $3.99, and grapefruit juice (quite a rarity at hot dog dives) makes a fine decaf alternative to coffee.

While it's by no means an institution, Mic Duck's makes sense for anyone passing through Avondale or stranded outside of the Belmont train without correct change. And yes, within 10 minutes of this reviewer's visit, someone actually came in and asked for change. C'mon, people, don't force the unfortunate owners to make an even bolder sign.

Average cost: <$10

Centerstage Reviewer: Andy Seifert