Sunny Italy Cafe: South Bend

When we recently attended a concert in South Bend, we made our way there a little early and brought a cooler so that we could do a Trader Joe's shopping trip. We got through the store quicker than expected and with some extra time before the show, hubby looked up some local restaurants to grab a bite. I told him to pick one and take me there. I wasn't in the mood for contemplating different types of cuisines and didn't have time to ponder. 

He pulled up to a place called Sunny Italy Cafe just as they were opening and we made our way inside. It turns out that it's South Bend's Oldest Restaurant, dating back to 1926. The place inside was such a fun throwback and like traveling a world away. We were greeted with Italian music, friendly faces and red checkered tablecloths.

I wasn't hungry for a big meal, so told hubby to pick what he wanted and I'd have the salad and "a couple bites." He always jokes that when I say I only want a bite or two, I end up eating half the meal. I am totally guilty of that. I didn't eat quite that much, but once I had a bite of his spaghetti and ravioli, I wanted more. It was a meal that arrived quickly and that we had enough time to savor without being rushed before our show, which was a Candlelight concert at the Scottish Rite just a few blocks away. 

I can't wait to revisit this quaint, cozy spot the next time we head out there. I think it may have to be a regular thing every couple months - a trip to South Bend to shop at Trader Joe's and have a meal at Sunny Italy Cafe.