The Counter

It’s purposefully unclear whether the name of this California-based chain refers to the long, bright-white counter that runs along one side of the room or the tally of possible burger combinations you’ll start keeping the minute you look at the menu. There are about 50 choices of ingredients to dress the burgers with, and all of them work, mainly because the patties themselves are well-cooked and juicy (even the turkey burger, amazingly). When it comes to sides and drinks, decision making becomes much easier: Sweet-potato fries, onion strings and milk shakes are a no-brainer.