Buzzer beaters, upsets, Cinderella stories, busted brackets — there's nothing quite like March hoops.
Do you stash away a couple vacation days to catch the first round of games? We don't blame you. Here are some good spots in The Bend if you're trying to find a place with wall-to-wall televisions, good grub and cold drinks for a day (or days) of watching games.
Bar Louie
A popular spot near the Mishawaka retail district, Bar Louie offers multiple levels (including a rooftop deck). There are plenty of televisions, a long tap list and great food to munch on during the day.
Brothers Bar + Grill
Right across the street from the University of Notre Dame in Eddy Street Commons, Brothers Bar and Grill is a favorite of locals and students. Televisions ring the bar, which has an extensive draft beer list. There are daily drink specials plus a menu that includes juicy burgers, wraps and an extensive list of appetizers. If the games turn into blowouts, play some pool or team up with your buddy for some shuffleboard.
CJ's Pub
Make sure to come to CJ’s hungry, although there’s no requirement that you must order the 20-ounce burger. We’re just saying it’s an option. CJ's is one of the best places in downtown South Bend to catch a game and specializes in those burgers. Locals and visitors voted it one of the best burger spots in The Bend. It specializes in a laid-back atmosphere with several televisions.
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Corby's Irish Pub
Corby's Irish Pub part of The Bend's DNA. Featured in the 1993 film "Rudy," there are four different pieces that make up Corby's. Upon entry, there is a full service bar area with multiple televisions. Pizza is a staple here as they churn out pies late into the night. Staying out after all the games are wrapped up? Corby's has pool tables, dart boards. If it's warm outside, cornhole is a staple on the patio.
Kankakee Grille
Situated inside Four Winds Casino South Bend, Kankakee Grille has all the requirements for a great night of watching hoops — large bar top with multiple TVs, long craft beer list, an intriguing menu and regular specials. And if you're done watching games, you can head out to the gaming floor for a different kind of action.
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O'Rourke's Public House
O'Rourke's Public House is another top stop in Eddy Street Commons. This Irish pub is a great spot to watch Notre Dame if they're in the tournament field. There is a full-service bar on either side of the pub, along with several televisions. When hunger hits order the Golden Dome burger. Just know it's not for the faint of heart. It's a prime rib burger served with rashers, cheddar, Swiss cheese and a fried egg on a grilled pretzel bun.
Taphouse on the Edge
Right on the edge of Notre Dame's campus, Taphouse on the Edge is built around being a Fighting Irish-themed sports bar with televisions at every turn. You can find plenty to munch on (like nachos) or dive into one of the famous burgers. Taphouse also features one of The Bend's best craft beer lists.
The View Tavern
Although not a sports bar in the purest sense, local favorite the View Tavern is home to The Bend's best burger. Locals and visitors voted the "Becky Burger" as champion of burgers in The Bend. There's a full-service bar with extensive craft beer list, plus daily specials.
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