Nestled in the heart of Fort Mill, South Carolina, Kingsley Town Center beckons with its quaint charm and many dining options that promise an evening of discovery and delight. My daughter and I set out on a progressive dinner, leading us through various flavors, nostalgia, and the simple joy of mother-daughter bonding.
Our journey began at Replay Brewing, which defies expectations with its eclectic mix of brewery vibes and arcade thrills. As we stepped inside, we were greeted by the familiar and comforting sounds of pinball machines and video games, a nostalgic nod to a bygone era. It was a playful start to our evening, and as we settled in, the staff presented us with a bowl of warm popcorn, a clutch move that set the tone for the hospitality we would experience throughout the night. While I sipped on their signature hard seltzer, reminiscent of an orange crush soda, my daughter enjoyed a crafted mocktail made just for her. Between conversations about her school year and rounds of pinball, we shared a delicious soft pretzel, savoring each bite as the sun began to set.
With the evening air growing cooler, we strolled to our next destination, Spice Asian Kitchen. The discovery of their rooftop patio was a delightful surprise, offering us a serene spot overlooking the entire area. Here, we indulged in a symphony of flavors: edamame, roti canai, and the most exquisite spicy tuna rice crisps that left us exclaiming, "Wowzers!" My cocktail, aptly named 'Breakfast at Tiffany's,' was a visual and sensory pleasure, its blue hue and blend of vanilla and coconut encapsulating the essence of summer in a glass. As we walked down the stairs, I grew envious of the diners enjoying a proper dinner here. I’ve already scheduled another visit to taste their entree menu offerings.
Our final stop was Taco Molino, which concealed its true allure behind a modest façade. The expansive back and side patio, with its view over the water and the unexpected pleasure of live music, was a midweek treat we hadn't anticipated. The chips, thin and crispy, the salsa perfectly spiced, and the guacamole rich and flavorful were a testament to the authentic cuisine we had come to enjoy. My daughter's burrito was generously portioned, ensuring leftovers for lunch, while I savored the salmon fajitas, a unique twist on a beloved classic. There is nothing like the smell of fajitas wafting towards your table. A last-minute decision to order a side of pineapple Brussels sprouts was, without a doubt, a significant win. They were the chef's kiss of the evening, sweet yet balanced and charred to perfection.
Our culinary adventure left no room for dessert, but that only gave us a reason to return. With its warm hospitality and diverse dining experiences, Kingsley provided us with the perfect backdrop for a mother-daughter evening filled with laughter, conversation, and the simple pleasure of good food. We'll be back, Kingsley, and next time, we'll save room for dessert.
