Eating Outside the Box: The Counter Culture

While living in Barcelona for almost four months, there were certain foods I began to crave. Soon included hamburgers and onion rings. Of course I seemed only fitting to pick one up when I got home. Thankfully in California we have more options than I can possibly imagine - the all so favorite In 'n Out, Islands, Tommy's, Johnny Rockets, Ruby's, the Habit, etc. But what I was craving was the Counter.

If you have ever heard of the COUNTER, you will know what I am talking about. It is not the normal diner style burger joint, instead they call it the "Counter Culture." Instead of normal menus, they have clipboards with the different levels of the burger, each with a wide selection of additions or substitutions. You simply check the box of the type of meal you want and the waiters will have it ready in no time.

Burger or bowl? Regular lettuce or mixed greens? What type of bun? Normal, wheat, English muffin, pretzel bread? Classic beef, turkey, chicken or veggie patty? Toppings? So many to choose from: grilled onions, tomatoes, pineapple, eggs, coleslaw, cranberries. Gourmet toppings such as bacon, cheeses galore, and finally every type of sauce imaginable. Each burger comes with a choice of 4 toppings and 1 cheese, but ordering over that isn't too pricey, so let your dream burger come true.

Then every few weeks or months, they create a "Market Selection" suggestion list. This has different buns, toppings, and sauces that are a little out of the ordinary. Example from last night: bison burger, smoked gouda, artichokes, garlic-petso aioli sauce, and a holiday-themed eggnog milkshake.

If you are unsure where to begin, they also have some classic combinations, however these can't always be substituted. Moving onto the sides, have you ever had sweet potato fries? Ah, delicious and hey, sweet potatoes have some good health benefits to them. Ok, maybe not in the fry form, but they sure are tasty. Not sure if you want regular, sweet potato fries, or onion strings? Order the "50-50" for a combination of two types.

I usually have a set burger order, but decided to try some different things. Why not?

Chicken patty on mixed greens, artichokes, sweet BBQ sauce, pineapple, coleslaw, tomato and smoked gouda. Might have also added some more sauce (BBQ and ranch from the fries).