About Us

A city street with a cannon 's sign on the side of a building

Rooted in Tradition

Authentic Flavors Served with Pride Since 1963

Dino’s was opened in 1963 by Dino Senesi. He brought the first “authentic” Italian food to Elizabethton, TN as it was notarized by Carter County officials. He continued serving the Tri Cities for more than 30 years. The tradition continues this day with Kevin and Merlie Cole, along with their partner Lydia Depew. Kevin has been a native of the area for more than 25 years. Kevin is an honorably discharged disabled veteran and is very involved in many veteran organizations and fund raisers. They offer a discount for all veterans, law enforcement and firefighters. He also is a partner with Evolv, a credit card processing ISO and VIV a very successful digital marketing company. Kevin is also an ordained minister and devouted Christian. Merlie has owned her own restaurant and is one of the best chefs and cooks in the area. She and Kevin were married in 2017 and she relocated to the area then. They have four adult children and then, “surprise” along came DiDi in 2018. They attend Grace Meadows Church in Johnson City. Lydia grew up in Elizabethton and her family has always been a part of the area, with her dad being Chief of Police for Bluff City, TN and her papaw a well known lifelong minister at Brick Christian church. Lydia also runs “Duck Donuts” at the Pinnacle in Bristol, TN. She and Kevin are partners in that venture as well. In meeting with Dino Senesi, Jr., in June this year, it was an overwhelming feeling of “doing the right thing” when Dino Jr said the Italian food was the best thing he’s eaten since his dad’s cooking. They take deep pride in wanting to carry the tradition of quality Italian food in Elizabethton. All of them have invested in this little restaurant with their hearts and finances to bring back the high quality Dino Sr instilled in the community. “For this restaurant to succeed, it will take the support of the community to make it happen.” Said Kevin on his first day as new owner. They know that without local residents help of Elizabethton the restaurant will not succeed. While they know they can’t please everyone, they are going to try! it is their hearts desire to carry on the Dino’s tradition in helping with the Boys and Girls Club of Elizabethton that Dino himself was so involved in. Kevin has also helped the Elizabethton Battered Woman’s Shelter for many years.