The Counter Finally Opens in Studio City

The Counter, known for letting customers customize their own burgers anyway they want, finally made its arrival yesterday in Studio City (Ventura Blvd. near Laurel Canyon). The long-awaited restaurant adds to the commercial district's gamut of quality eateries to choose from, including the nearby Artisan Cheese Gallery, Arb Pizza, Vegan Plate and Laurel Tavern.

Because each Counter is a franchise, beer choices differ from the flagship Santa Monica location. Studio City carries Arrogant Bastard, Fat Tire, Hoegaarden, Leffe Brown, Stone Pale Ale and Stella Artois on draft ($5.50) and includes numerous wines and bottled beers on their menu.

The restaurant gives you a clipboard to fill out. First you choose your protein (beef, turkey, veggie burger or grilled chicken) and then add cheeses, toppings (from regular to premium options like honey cured ham, fried eggs and sun-dried tomatos), sauces (garlic aioli, peanut sauce, ginger soy glaze?) and a bun (note that the veggie burger is actually vegan, but buns are not). Prices range from $8.50 and up, depending on how you design your burger.

Next up for The Counter is Pasadena, so watch out!