Counterpoint: Burger Counter in Gulou

Burger Counter knows how to set expectations. It really is just a counter that serves mostly burgers. The seating might be a bit cramped, but the burgers are good and the prices are fair.

The standard big boy cheeseburger runs RMB 38, though the bacon version costs the same. I've heard comparisons to California's In-n-Out, but it didn't really register for me. Still, it's a delicious, juicy burger. Fancier burgers like a bleu cheese, firehouse chili, or mushroom Swiss cost RMB 42.

The Reuben sandwich (RMB 38) was excellent, though the portion was disappointingly small. The owners claim they make their own corned beef. However they do it, the result is a thing of beauty. I wolfed down the sandwich, but found myself still hungry after.

Burgers and sandwiches come with fries, but, sadly, it's really only a handful. A roast potato soup (RMB 15) was yummy with a generous dose of crispy bacon swirled in.

Beers are competitively priced. Stella costs RMB 16, while Brooklyn Lager and Blue Star Wheat cost RMB 25. You can also get a lemonade, starting at RMB 8 for a glass.

I can't really recommend that you all go running out to Burger Counter if you're not already in the Gulou area, as there are other better burgers around town, but you should definitely keep it in mind for a snack the next time you're headed to MAO Livehouse or something else nearby.

Burger Counter
Daily 11am-11pm. 271 Gulou Dongdajie, Dongcheng District (8400 1857)
东城区鼓楼东大街271号