Looking for a refreshing break from the hustle of Charlotte? Why not take a small journey to the heart of the Palmetto State, our quaint city of Rock Hill. Fear not. We’re about to embark on a culinary adventure together.
We started off our evening at Old Town Kitchen and Cocktails. A cozy haven tucked away just a few blocks off Main Street. The moment we set foot inside, the warm embrace of Edison bulbs illuminating the rustic brick walls welcomed us. It was inviting, a sanctuary of sorts for any foodie at heart.
First Stop: Old Town Kitchen and Cocktails
Our taste buds were eager, and Old Town Kitchen didn’t disappoint. Their menu showcases a gamut of creative libations- from classic martinis to innovative experiments. A particular favorite? We indulged in a spirited drink paired with crispy French fries bathed in a delightful Cheerwine BBQ sauce. Yum!
Spirits uplifted, taste buds awakened, we were ready for the next stop. Enter Kounter. This unassuming downtown gem promises so much more than what meets the eye!
Kounter: Where History Adds Flavor
The moment we walked into Kounter, we were greeted by the comforting hum of conversations and the soft glow of pendant lights. The urban charm whisked us away into a cozy state, one that’d soon be interrupted by the excellent food heading our way.
The best part of dining at Kounter? The story they serve. We found ourselves seated at the very counter where the Friendship 9, young African American students, bravely staged a sit-in in 1961 protesting segregation. The history so potent, it added depth to our experience.
The Star of The Night: The Food
At Kounter, Chef Rob Masone conjures up magic with every dish he whips up. With delectable flavors that celebrate farm-to-table ingredients, we felt like judges on a culinary show. We enjoyed an eclectic roster of dishes like the Smoking Tuna Poke, a wonderful play of textures and taste. Words hardly do justice to that masterpiece!
Next up was Chicken and Waffle Sushi. Quirky name, excellent taste! This whimsical creation beautifully combines the best of Southern and Japanese cuisine. A drizzle of maple-horseradish glaze over tender fried chicken snuggled in a fluffy waffle- the result was nothing short of a flavor carnival in our mouths.
A Grand Finale: The Desserts
The grand wrap-up of the evening arrived in the form of Mom’s Chocolate Pie followed by PB&J wontons. These were the showstoppers, their flavors an embodiment of nostalgia and love.
The chocolate pie was a rich, creamy wonder encased in a flaky crust. What caught our attention though, was the unusual twist: Food Lion Cool Whip, the only item they didn’t make in-house. A nostalgic nod to Rob’s mother’s original recipe. Every bite a spoonful of love and a testament of tradition. And the PB&J wontons? An irresistible concoction of crunch, gooeyness, and flavor that transcends you back to your childhood.
A Toast to Rock Hill!
Despite the fantastic dishes and shared moments, the heart of our evening was anchored at Old Town Kitchen and Cocktails and Kounter. The very spots where we swapped stories with Chef Rob, delved into the rich history of the building and most of all, indulged in an exquisite dining experience built on culinary creativity and classic dishes.
As we vowed to come back soon, we raised a toast to Rock Hill, the small town brewing a vibrant blend of flavor, history, and innovation.
