Dear Food Diary:
Tourists and theater goers have it better than ever when it comes to food around Times Square. From Gyu Kaku to food stands along Broadway, there’s never been these many choices. Just for burgers alone you got Shake Shack, Five Guys and now The Counter, the gourmet burger chain where you can seriously build your burger your way (take that Burger King! take that!).

This modern diner offers an array of adult beverages and for the less creative ones, the menu offers tons burger combinations to choose from. The build your own burger sheet has 6 steps, everything from the type of patty to a long list of toppings, sauces and buns, plus the option to have it on a salad. If you are indecisive like me, this might take a while. Plus there’s the danger of building a giant monster with EVERYTHING.

StalkerBoy’s creation had a 2/3 Sausage Patty that was a bit spicy like Italian sausage with a really nice chard. Juicy and very flavorful. This was better than their regular beef patties, but it was their Market Selection (which changes). The Swiss Cheese was nicely melted and sweet Sauteed Onions to top it off. Of course, some Applewood Smoked Bacon had to join this tower. For an extra $1.95, the Gluten-Free Bun was a big mistake! But I guess great for those who can’t have the real thing.

I went a little mad (get it? “mad” cow!? as in beef patty?!… ok, nevermind). 1/3 Beef Patty on a bed of Organic Mixed Greens, how awesome is that?! having a burger without all the guilt, psychologically at least. I topped it off with Jalepeno Jack Cheese, Sauteed Peppers and Onions, Pickles Applewood Smoked Bacon and a Fried Egg. Plus some Chipotle Aioli on the side. 
It was a total mess on a plate. And though their beef patty tasted like a pretty decent quality meat, it lacked salt. Bacon and fried eggs of course make everything better and this was no exception, though all the juices and oils drenched the green leafs, to the point where they wilted in a sad manner. This was quite big and I failed to conquer it.

If you’re less adventurous, you can always go for the classic burger like my buddy F. No fancy toppings, just all American. And wash it all down with their old fashioned thick and creamy shakes. I happily slurped  down a Strawberry Shake while StalkerBoy wouldn’t share his Peanut Butter one.

I loved their side choices of  fried pickle chips, onion strings, sweet potato fries, chili fries and even parmesan french fries. We got The Fifty-Fifty with Sweet Potato Fries (my favorite) and Crispy Onion Strings. Deep fried goodness.

Overall, I liked the concept. I would go back if I was in the area and in the mood to splurge my calories on a big comfort meal. This time, maybe skip the salad or just pick less toppings. Regardless, it should be fun to create something new each time.

P.S. Chubby’s Rating:

www.thecounterburger.com/NYC-TimesSquare
7 Times Square (btwn 41st and Broadway)
212.997.6801