The Best Local Burger Spots in Kingsport

If you live here, you already know food opinions in the Tri-Cities are basically a sport. When it comes to the best local burgers around Kingsport, locals don’t mess around. Whether you want something smashed and crispy, stacked and indulgent, or nostalgic enough to taste like high school weekends, Kingsport delivers way above its weight class. Consider this your insider guide from a local who has absolutely planned entire days around a good burger.
What Makes a Great Burger in Kingsport
Around here, a great burger is less about trends and more about execution. We care about beef quality, seasoning that actually exists, and buns that don’t disintegrate halfway through. Bonus points if the place has personality, remembers your order, or sparks a heated “best burger in town” debate at the table. Here are the best places to get a burger worth talking about in Kingsport, in no particular order:
Backwoods Burger Bar
Backwoods is what happens when a burger joint decides to take flavor seriously without becoming pretentious. Their burgers are thick, juicy, and unapologetically indulgent, with creative toppings that actually make sense. It’s a downtown staple for a reason and usually the first place locals recommend when friends visit from out of town.
Mid City Grill
Mid City Grill has earned its reputation the old-fashioned way: consistency. Their Angus beef burgers are well-seasoned, cooked right, and reliable every single time. This is a go-to lunch spot for locals who want a great burger without overthinking it. Casual, comfortable, and quietly excellent.
Sloopy's Diner
Sloopy’s is pure Kingsport nostalgia wrapped in a diner booth. The burgers are hearty, classic, and generous enough to question your life choices in the best way. This is the kind of place where the menu is laminated, the portions are serious, and nobody’s pretending calories matter today.
The Corner Kingsport
The Corner feels like that neighborhood hangout that somehow nails food and atmosphere at the same time. Their burgers are flavorful, satisfying, and pair dangerously well with a cold drink. It’s a solid option for casual nights out, game watching, or when you want a burger in a relaxed, social setting.
Pal’s Sudden Service
You cannot write a Kingsport burger list without Pal’s. The SauceBurger and Big Pal aren’t just food, they’re part of the local identity. Fast, consistent, and oddly comforting, Pal’s proves you don’t need fancy toppings to earn lifelong loyalty. It’s nostalgia that still holds up.
Purple Cow
Purple Cow is the definition of a local secret hiding in plain sight. Drive-thru only, no frills, and shockingly good burgers. The Intimidator has a cult following for a reason. If you know, you know. If you don’t, now you do.
The Shack BBQ & Grill
While known for barbecue, The Shack quietly turns out solid, fresh-ground burgers that hit the comfort-food sweet spot. Nothing fancy, just dependable flavor and portions that won’t leave you hungry. It’s a great wildcard option when you want classic Southern comfort with your burger.
Smashed at Midway Social
If crispy edges and smash-style burgers are your love language, this one’s for you. Smashed brings thin, griddled patties with serious flavor and that perfect caramelized crust. Add in the lively Midway Social atmosphere and this spot quickly becomes a favorite for casual nights, group outings, or when you want a burger with a side of fun.
How to Choose the Right Burger Spot
For craft burgers and downtown vibes, Backwoods is the easy win. Mid City Grill is perfect for a reliable, no-nonsense lunch. Sloopy’s delivers nostalgia by the plateful. Pal’s is unbeatable for speed and sentiment. Want smash burgers and energy? Smashed is your move. And when locals whisper about a drive-thru burger that “hits different,” they mean Purple Cow.
Final Bite
Kingsport’s burger scene is proof that you don’t need a big city to eat well. From iconic local institutions to newer spots doing smash burgers right, there’s something here for every craving and every mood. Try a few, pick a favorite, and then prepare to defend it passionately. That’s how you know you’re eating like a local.

