seesaw’s quote:

“I always say it's important to figure out what your goals are for your dog and just work on that. Not every dog needs to be perfect on leash or have a 3 minute stay or perfect obedience. The dog needs to have whatever helps them fit in your life, that's all.”

That is so true.

eskieslover’s quote

“Cote is counter surfing for things he can play with even though he has many toys to play with. “
Difficult situation. I never had that problem. Miky was small and Perla is small. I’m wondering myself what I would do in that situation.
I’ve seen so many videos of César Millán that I can’t across now about other techniques.

I guess you have to be very patience and reinforce him to keep distance with the kitchen or an area of the kitchen. Short orders and award him when being calm and keep the distance. I think you already tried it, didn’t you? He will need a long time to associate but it’s worthy. Counters are very appealing. lol!