Meet Chef Rob Masone
If you've ever strolled down Main Street in Rock Hill, chances are, you've passed Kounter. And if you've had the privilege of dining at Kounter, you've definitely encountered Chef Rob Masone. A York County native, Chef Masone was born and raised right here in Rock Hill. Following many successful years as an Executive Chef throughout the Carolinas, Chef Masone ultimately planted roots in Rock Hill with the opening of Kounter. In addition to Kounter, Chef Masone owns and operates Kre8 Xperiences, a funky, full-service events and catering company. Kre8 Xperiences continues to flourish with a highly successful food truck, Twisted Eats.
At a very young age, Chef Masone was certain of his culinary career ahead. In fact, some of his earliest memories include being in the kitchen with his mother and grandmother.
"I was raised in the kitchen, cooking with my mother and grandmother. Food has always been such an important part of my life – it just made sense to share my gift with everyone."
When it comes to Kounter, Chef Masone aims to not only create a place to grab a bite, but also an immersive dining experience.
"Everyday we strive to Kre8 an interactive and unforgettable dining Xperience for our guest! It starts and ends at the front door and we have to nail everything in between."
Commitment to Honoring Civil Rights History
Kounter occupies the former McCrory’s Five & Dime site, where activists staged a peaceful sit-in protest at the segregated lunch counter in 1961. Committed to preserving and sharing the story of the Friendship 9, Chef Masone restored the building’s history including the original lunch counter. Not on the menu, but served with every dish: a side of history. Chef Masone was also an integral leader involved in the opening of the “Jail, No Bail” exhibit located in the vestibule and hallway outside of the restaurant to honor the Friendship 9’s efforts. The exhibit serves as a permanent, educational attraction, bringing visitors to Rock Hill from around the country.
South Carolina Chef Ambassador Program
The South Carolina Chef Ambassador Program was started in 2014 by Gov. Nikki Haley to highlight the state’s talented chefs, creative recipes, authentic cuisines, locally grown produce, and unique products. Tourism and agriculture both have a significant impact on the state, contributing tens of billions of dollars to the state’s economy each year and accounting for hundreds of thousands of jobs statewide, according to South Carolina Parks, Recreation & Tourism. The program was created to unite these two major industries while promoting South Carolina as a top culinary destination. As a South Carolina Chef Ambassador, Chef Masone hopes to inspire and motivate people to eat and spend local and to serve as an inspiration to other culinary hopefuls to pursue their passion.
Kounter Hours:
Monday - Closed
Tuesday - Thursday 11am - 9pm
Friday - Saturday 11am - 10pm
Sunday 11am - 8pm