Bubs Burgers, originally from the neighbouring town of Carmel, has a South Bend outpost that is popular with the Notre Dame crowd and locals alike. The burgers are large and straightforwardly good; the Big Ugly — a pound of beef — has become something of a local institution and features a challenge finish for anyone ambitious enough to try. No frills, high quality.
The place is busy on game days and weekends. It is the kind of reliable, unfussy burger spot that every college town should have. Order at the counter and expect a wait on busy nights.