Daniel Dae Kim, D.K. Kodama pull out of burger franchise

“Hawaii Five-0” and “LOST” star Daniel Dae Kim and renown Honolulu restaurateur D.K. Kodama have sold their interest in the Kahala franchise of The Counter.

In what is described as a “buyback,” the sale by Kim and Kodama gives The Counter majority ownership of the restaurant, located at Kahala Mall. The remaining two co-owners, Ed Robles and Pablo Buckingham, will continue to be partners of the restaurant. Operations will continue as usual.

“The Counter is expanding as a company and we want to own more locations and continue to expand with more locations in Hawaii,” said Jeff Weinstein, founder of The Counter. “When D.K. came to us with this opportunity, we were pleased to continue our partnership with the co-owners. We will continue to grow and expand the ‘Custom Built Burger’ brand locals have come to know and love.”

“I believe in the interactive dining experience of The Counter and was honored to bring it to the people of Hawaii,” Kodama said. “However, we received an offer that could not be refused. I wish Ed and Pablo much continued success with the franchise.”

Daniel Dae Kim said: “Partnering with The Counter franchise here in Hawaii was a rewarding experience. I’m grateful to have had the opportunity to serve the community with a quality, family-friendly dining restaurant and I look forward to my next endeavor. Thanks to everyone who came in and supported us.”

The Counter opened at Kahala Mall in February 2009 serving build-your-own burgers, ice cream shakes, malts and floats, as well as a diverse selection of handcrafted beer and wine. Located at 4211 Waialae Avenue, restaurant hours are Sunday through Thursday from 11 a.m. to 9 p.m., and on Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 10 p.m. The restaurant can be reached directly at (808) 739-5100.

There are currently 26 locations in the United States and two international locations. Other company-owned locations include The Counter in El Segundo, Calif., and Reston, Virginia.