Inside: Hamburger Mary's

(Credit: Marilyn Chung, Special to Metromix)

When the temps outside start reaching three digits, I start thinking about summer foods. Frankly, thick juicy burgers topped with melted cheese, crispy french fries and thick frosty shakes work year round for me.

Hamburger Mary's in Palm Springs is known for its half-pound burgers made from 100 percent ground chuck. But if you'd like to take a walk on the wild side, Mary's is the only place in the desert where you can have a "burger" made from such exotic meats as buffalo, ostrich, wild boar and kangaroo. Counting calories? Be adventurous and try the Texas antelope burger. It has one third of the calories of beef and is served with lettuce, tomato and honey mustard dressing.

If you can't decide which to go for, try the four-ounce sliders and sample one of each. It's a fun way to try something new without breaking the bank.

Mary's has recently added some new items, including the turkey Reuben made with oven-roasted turkey, creamy cole slaw, Swiss cheese and piled high on rye bread.

Mary's also has a large assortment of salads, including the blackened fresh salmon. It's topped with tomatoes, avocado, shredded Jack cheese and tossed with chilled mixed greens and a wonderful balsamic vinaigrette dressing.

While you're lounging in the open-air bar and grille, beat the heat by sipping an Oreo cookie, Heath toffee, Hershey's chocolate or, of course, a famous date shake. If your sweet tooth is still screaming for more, then indulge in the deep-fried Twinkie or Snickers bar served up with ice cream, caramel and whipped cream.

For those of you looking for something a little stronger, be sure to take advantage of Mary's "Hard Times Happy Hour" from 3 to 7 p.m. daily.

If you haven't been to Mary's in a while, you will definitely notice the revamped bar area complete with funky lava lamps. The lighting is guaranteed to make you look marvelous while you perch on a bar stool and sip your favorite cocktails.

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