East Bank village

The East Bank Village runs alongside the East Race Waterway.

The East Side of Downtown South Bend is rich with local food destinations, boutique shops and unique experiences all within walking distance of the the heart of the city, and the University of Notre Dame.

East Bank Eats

Carmela's at Macri's

Macri's Italian Bakery

Island Eleven

Dena's Kitchen LLC

The General Deli & Cafe

Yellow Cat Cafe

Rocco's Restaurant

Cascade Prime Steak & Seafood

The Lauber Kitchen & Bar

Carmela's at Macri's

Our authentic Italian bistro is full of Italian classics. Enjoy rich Italian favorites like homemade lasagna, chicken marsala and pan seared talapia. Relax over a hearty meal of spaghetti and arancini or enjoy osso…

Macri's Italian Bakery

Our authentic Italian bakery offers up fresh pastas, imported specialty foods, hearty meats and cheeses, sweet pastries, special-order cakes, and more.

Island Eleven

A micro-restaurant that combines flavors of Jamaica with the culinary traditions of Trinidad & Tobago. From fiery jerk chicken to succulent oxtail stew, each bite at Island Fusion is a celebration of the islands'…

Dena's Kitchen LLC

"Good mood food" soul food located in The Commerce Center in Downtown South Bend.

The General Deli & Cafe

Located on the East Bank in the old General Store, the General Deli & Cafe is a comfy and casual venue serving up your basic favorites with a local flare. Our simple but carefully…

Yellow Cat Cafe

Yellow Cat Cafe serves up all your diner favorites made just the way you like. From omelets to burgers, waffles to meatloaf, real food in a comfy, friendly atmosphere will turn you into a…

Rocco's Restaurant

From every corner of the US and beyond, people have found their way to Rocco's. And with good reason. Rocco's features the best Italian food this side of the Appian Way. Nothing fancy. Nothing…

Cascade Prime Steak & Seafood

Cascade presents a modern steakhouse experience with classic steakhouse fare. The chef-driven menu includes traditional cuts of prime beef as well as premium, fresh seafood. The restaurant’s Aqua Bar features signature cocktails, craft beer…

The Lauber Kitchen & Bar

A modern restaurant in the East Bank neighborhood that combines South Bend's rich history with a hand-crafted dining experience. Offers gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian options.

Heart-Pumping Fun in the Heart of Downtown

Get ready for an urban adventure in the heart of downtown South Bend! The East Race Waterway, North America's first artificial white water course, offers thrills that rival the Colorado River. With rapids capable of generating waves up to six feet high, this 2,000-foot-long waterway promises an exhilerating experience for everyone, from novices to pros. Beyond the rapids, enjoy over five miles of scenic, paved paths along the St. Joseph River for walking or running. Perfect for a weekend outing. Don't miss this unique blend of excitement and natural beauty right in the city.

RELATED CONTENT: Outdoors & Recreation

The Commerce Center

A historic building in Downtown South Bend turned multipurpose business building is nestled in the heart of the East Bank Village. At the Commerce Center you can enjoy being in the company adorable, adoptable cats while you sip on a coffee at the Cat Lady Cafe, listen to live jazz at Merriman's Playhouse, shop local vendors at the River Valley Market, try out a special charcuterie board by Boardgasm and delight your tastebuds with some soul food from Dena's Kitchen.

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Grab a Drink

Corby's Irish Pub

The Hammer & Quill

The Bend Lounge

The Lauber Kitchen & Bar

The View Tavern

The Cellar Wine Bar and Kitchen

Howard Park Public House

Corby's Irish Pub

Corby's is a local institution popular with residents, students and visitors here for the big game or just looking for a friendly neighborhood place to grab a drink and a pizza.

The Hammer & Quill

Hammer & Quill is a relaxed local bar focusing on creative cocktails, craft beer, unique spirits, and fine wine.

The Bend Lounge

Enjoy tasteful food, soulful music, and live entertainment. Dress Code: - Casual on Thursday’s - Dress Stylishly on Fridays & Saturdays to gain entrance by the door keeper.

The Lauber Kitchen & Bar

A modern restaurant in the East Bank neighborhood that combines South Bend's rich history with a hand-crafted dining experience. Offers gluten-free, dairy-free, and vegetarian options.

The View Tavern

Voted as having the Best Burger in Northern Indiana, The View Tavern is a 21 and over establishment that has been a part of South Bend since 1954. At The View you can expect…

The Cellar Wine Bar and Kitchen

The Cellar is sharing its passion for great wines and shareable plates in a cozy atmosphere that is great for connecting with friends and family. We take pride in our service, inviting bar, and…

Howard Park Public House

The Howard Park Public House is a destination for simple, seasonal, and healthy food. Where food comes from, how it's prepared, and who makes it has an impact on the health of people, our…

Howard Park

Howard Park is a vibrant destination for locals and visitors alike. It’s a gathering place and an area for outdoor exploration. It’s fun, family-friendly and accessible. There’s something for every season.The centerpiece at Howard Park is a 16,000-square-foot ice trail and pond. It features rolling hills and soft curves as skaters glide around the loop. The bridge overlooks the ADA-accessible, state-of-the-art playground with innovative and traditional playground equipment.

During the summer you can enjoy Howard Park's Free Summer Concert Series. Check our event listings. They also have a Community Center on site offering year-round programming and a rental space.

The park’s west edge butts up against the St. Joseph River. There’s a trail for walkers, runners and cyclists. The trail connects to a larger network of trails encompassing other downtown parks. Howard Park is also the location of Howard Park Public House and other amazing local restaurants nearby.

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The Link Trail

The Link, which opened in late October 2024, connects the heart of Downtown South Bend to the University of Notre Dame.

Art Scene

There are many places to see public art as you explore Downtown South Bend's East Side. There are also art galleries and hands on experiences. At Circa Arts Gallery you can find a gallery featuring artisans and crafts from local artists, as well as the South Bend Locals shop. Stop into Fire Arts for their gallery as well as an education center offering classes to create pottery, jewelry and sculpture. Experiencing the River Lights at night is a must!

East Bank Shopping

Ali on the Boulevard

E Jefferson Blvd South Bend, Indiana 46617 (574) 274-3110

Inspire Me

528 E Colfax Ave South Bend, Indiana 46617 (574) 232-1798

Purple Porch Co-op

123 N Hill St South Bend, Indiana 46617 (574) 287-6724