Review
The Counter Fries – Revisited
The fries still arrive in a neat, golden mound—thin, crisp, and beautifully uniform. Visually, they remain impressive, glowing under natural light with the same inviting look that first earned them high marks. But the moment they hit the palate, the change becomes clear. The flavor feels flatter and lighter, lacking that savory edge that once made these fries stand out. The likely reason is the switch from canola oil to a generic vegetable blend, which has dulled both the aroma and the clean, crisp finish. The texture is still firm and crunchy, but the overall experience leans toward dryness, and the reduced salting leaves them underwhelming.
These are still well-made fries—consistent in cut and evenly fried—but they’ve lost the vibrant character that defined the first visit. The difference isn’t visual; it’s sensory. Less depth, less salt, less satisfaction.
| Category | Score | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Coating & Color | ★★★★☆ | Golden evenly, though slightly paler than before. |
| Crispiness | ★★★★☆ | Still crisp, but missing the lively “snap” from canola frying. |
| Creaminess | ★★★★☆ | Light and fluffy, though slightly drier on the tongue. |
| Cut | ★★★★★ | Uniform thin shoestring cut, unchanged and precise. |
| Consistency | ★★★☆☆ | Cooking remains steady, but flavor consistency declined. |
Total Score: 20/25
Previous Score : 22/25
You can find them at The Counter.
27742 Antonio Pkwy, Suite K-7, Ladera Ranch, CA 92694.