South Bend Dining
What About Lunch & Dinner?
Brickhaven’s innkeepers will start your day with a substantial breakfast, but what about the rest of the day? No vacation or getaway is complete without experiencing great food! South Bend may surprise you with its impressive selection of local eateries, cozy cafes, and craft breweries. Whether you’re looking for a casual coffee spot or a memorable dining experience, the city’s culinary scene has something for everyone.
Below are some of our favorite places to eat in South Bend and Mishawaka.
Downtown Restaurants
The Lauber
Probably SB’s busiest restaurant, The Lauber is an excellent option for lunch or dinner, especially paired with a cocktail or beer. The building was originally built in 1890 and was operated by J.C. Lauber & Co.
Ciao’s Restaurant
This Italian spot is only open for dinner Wednesday-Saturday but is a charming place and an easy walk from Brickhaven Inn. Everything is tasty, but we recommend trying the weekly special pasta prepared in a giant parmesan wheel tableside.
Cinco 5 International
This Mexican and Thai fusion restaurant serves elevated food in a casual atmosphere. Cinco is an easy walk from Brickhaven Inn.
No. 6 Scratch Kitchen
Looking for a culinary experience that you wouldn’t expect in South Bend? This restaurant evolves daily with a new menu posted every afternoon on Instagram that is never repeated. The restaurant is housed in a historic building that was originally Fire Station No. 6.
Cascade Prime Steak & Seafood
South Bend’s premier fine dining establishment. This upscale restaurant also provides a gorgeous view of the St. Joseph River. Perfect for special occasions or when you just want to treat yourself. Cascade has a large lot, so parking is easy.
Fiddler’s Hearth
Looking for a classic Irish Pub to complete your Notre Dame weekend? You won’t be disappointed by the drinks, fare, or Irish spirit. Fiddler’s Hearth is easily walkable from Brickhaven Inn.
Howard Park Public House
This casual spot is located at the entrance to Howard Park and offers delicious food and drinks at reasonable prices.
Mishawaka / Granger Restaurants
Cambodian Thai
One of our favorites that just moved into a new location in downtown Mishawaka. Other menu items are good too, but we go just for the Cambodian Egg Rolls – they are amazing.
Villa Macri
This sprawling restaurant offers a variety of Italian classics and sandwiches. If you are looking for a place that can fit a large group, this is your place.
Portillo’s
Yes, this is a chain restaurant that is barely a step up from fast food, but if you are looking to experience a Chicago style hot dog or an Italian Beef Sandwich, this is your place Pair your meal with a famous chocolate cake shake and then come back and lounge at Brickhaven Inn.
Corndance Tavern
One of only a few non-chain restaurants on Grape Rd, this new American steakhouse has something for everyone including steaks that have been dry aged for up to 75 days as well as sushi.
Brewery & Bar Options
Evil Czech Brewery and Public House
Large brewpub in Mishawaka that features a ton of craft beers on tap or cans to go. They have a diverse menu and even have cake served in beer cans.
Ivy Alley Social House
Downtown’s newest and closest bar to Brickhaven Inn. Ivy Alley is in a restored historic garage and features a large bar and Duckpin bowling lanes.
Linebacker Lounge
No pilgrimage to Notre Dame is complete without experiencing The Linebacker Lounge – it is an ND tradition.
Corby’s Irish Pub
Want to get a drink where Rudy did in the movie? This Notre Dame bar is located downtown.
South Bend Brew Werks
South Bend’s first brewpub is walkable from Brickhaven Inn and an awesome place to get craft beer and a burger.
The Exchange
Looking for a more upscale place to get a whisky or craft cocktail? The Exchange is located inside a historic old bank and is easily walkable from Brickhaven Inn.
Cafes and Coffee Shops
Chicory Café
Large coffee shop with a New Orleans vibe that includes a spacious area with tables or couches to relax. They have live music and numerous events. Downtown SB shop is walkable. There is a second location in Mishawaka.
South Bend Chocolate Café
If you are looking for a hot chocolate, coffee, or a cozy place to hang out and work or read, check out the Chocolate Café. The shop has tons of space and multiple fireplaces both inside and outside with comfortable seating and friendly staff.
Counterspell Café
Located in South Bend’s Near Northwest Neighborhood in Portage Place, this mystical coffee shop offers a variety of custom magical drinks.
La Belle Vie Charcuterie Café
Vibrant coffee shop that also serves a delicious chicken salad sandwich and offers charcuterie plates on demand.
Cat Lady Café
Do you miss your cat while traveling? Want to just hang out with adorable adoptable cats while drinking some coffee, tea, or lemonade, the Cat Lady Café is for you!
