Forbes’ list of America’s Most Promising companies features a handful of successful privately held, high-growth American companies that surfaced as power players in their industry. While tech companies ranked high on the list this year, The Counter was among one of the 14 non-tech companies that made the cut.

 

As the only restaurant group and burger chain on Forbes’ Top 100 list, The Counter is a popular build-your-own burger restaurant that offers a fresh, unconventional approach to creating the ultimate burger with millions of possible combinations. Roasted corn & black bean salsa, carrot strings, dried cranberries, fried egg, grilled pineapple, herb goat cheese, basil pesto, chipotle aioli, tzatziki sauce, and dill pickle chips are just a few of the many toppings available. The Counter opened its original Santa Monica, California location in 2003 as the first build-your-own concept in the premium burger category.

 

“Given the burst of newcomers on the national burger scene in recent years, it’s a thrill to receive the recognition by Forbes and to be the only restaurant company on the list this year,” says Jeff Weinstein and Craig Albert Co-CEOs of The Counter in a joint statement. “Thanks to Forbes for the honor and to our outstanding team, franchise partners, and guests for their continued loyalty, support, and making this accolade possible.”

 

There are currently 33 locations in the United States and four international locations with additional 12-15 planned for 2013 through domestic and international franchisees, airport, and university partnerships and company stores.