"The Counter, a low-lit, moody spot, does Turkish food with exciting twists that work, like white chocolate babaganoush and tzatziki with tangy pickles. While you’ll find dishes like spiced lamb liver and adana kebab on the menu, we think the starters and small plates are the best part. Bring a date who’s down to split a bunch of dishes, and request the lower seating area where it feels like you’re part of the action without it being chaotic." - heidi lauth beasley, jake missing, rianne shlebak, sinead cranna