Date Night Spots in Kingsport (Outside Downtown)

When you want to escape the downtown crowd and explore date night spots in Kingsport that feel a little more spread out but just as memorable, I’ve got you covered. The Tri-Cities area has some surprisingly great dinner options beyond the center of town, plus cool ways to keep the night going. These are the spots I’d suggest because they're reliable, fun, and perfect for a night that feels like an actual date.

Here are a few dinner and after-dinner combos that go great together when you want to explore Kingsport outside of downtown.

Riverfront Seafood Co

Dinner Vibe

Start your night with fresh, flavorful seafood and a relaxed yet polished atmosphere at Riverfront Seafood Co. It’s well-rated, comfortable, and the kind of place where the food feels special without the pretense — perfect for casual date night or something a bit nicer. Great for seafood lovers and folks who appreciate a solid entrée with a scenic vibe.

After-Dinner Idea

After dinner, take a short stroll to The Kingsport Greenbelt for sunset views or a quiet walk on a trail near the Holston River. It’s not dinner entertainment per se, but it's one of those things that makes a date feel intentional and memorable. 

Giuseppe’s Italian Restaurant

Dinner Vibe

If you’re craving classic Italian flavors with cozy vibes, Giuseppe's hits the spot. Think pasta, great wine pairings, and that warm, easy pace where conversation flows. It’s a little outside the core buzz, but that’s part of its charm — you’re settling in for a relaxed meal with real flavor.

After-Dinner Idea

Lean into the laid-back vibe and keep things simple. Grab ice cream, take a drive, or head home and put on a favorite show. Not every date night needs a big finale to be a good one.

The Chop House

Dinner Vibe

For a more classic, slightly elevated dinner without downtown crowds, The Chop House delivers steak and seafood in a refined but not intimidating setting. There’s a timeless feel here — great choice for anniversaries, date nights, or those evenings when you want food that feels worth it.

After-Dinner Idea

Drive over to Warriors’ Path State Park and grab dessert to-go. A picnic blanket near the water or stargazing from a scenic overlook can turn into one of those quiet, unforgettable moments. 

Nick’s Restaurant

Dinner Vibe

Nick’s Restaurant  is one of those local staples that people quietly love. It’s casual, comfortable, and consistently good, making it an excellent choice for a low-pressure date night. This is the kind of place where you don’t overthink the menu, you just enjoy being there together.

After-Dinner Idea

Swing by Gypsy Circus for cider or a cocktail afterward. They often have fun events like trivia and live music, which are perfect when you want to keep the night going with something lighthearted and social.

Thai Riverside

Dinner Vibe

For a date night that feels a little off the beaten path, Thai Riverside is a killer choice. Authentic Thai flavors and a cozy setup make it a great way to break out of “pizza or burgers” mode without straying too far. Great for adventurous eaters.

After-Dinner Idea

After dinner, hit up Gypsy Circus just a few minutes away for cider flights and board games on the patio. It’s relaxed, fun, and instantly makes any date feel more like a proper night out.

Fusion at Ridgefields

Dinner Vibe

If you’re into Italian or Tex-Mex with good margaritas and a lively atmosphere, Fusion hits that sweet spot. It’s a little more off the main drag, which makes it feel like you made a decision for a date night that’s not downtown.

After-Dinner Idea

Pop over to a local dessert spot or grab something to-go and take a drive down scenic roads near Kingsport. Sometimes the best conversation happens when you’re just cruising with the windows down.

Italiano’s of Kingsport (Personal Take-Home Favorite)

Dinner Vibe

Italiano’s is a fantastic take-home option when you want a cozy, no-frills night in that still feels special. Their Greek pizza is a standout and absolutely worth building a date night around.

After-Dinner Idea

Take the pizza home, light a candle, pour a drink, and settle in. Movie night, board games, or just talking at the kitchen counter totally counts as date night. Sometimes staying in is the move, especially when the food is this good.

Kingsport may be spread out, but that just means more great date night options once you venture beyond downtown. Whether you’re in the mood for a sit-down dinner, something casual, or pizza at home that still feels special, these spots make it easy to plan a night that actually fits your vibe. And if you have a favorite outside-downtown spot we missed, definitely share it. I’m always adding to the list.

Interested in Downtown Kingsport options? You'll find those here!