The saying goes “If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it”. The Vine restaurant didn’t seem to heed this advice when it moved its South Bend location a few years ago. Its last location next to the Chocolate Cafewas warm, quaint, inviting and had a great outdoor seating area. Unfortunately, during its move to a spot near the Morris Civic Theater it managed to lose every bit of its charm.
The interior is cold with lots of metal and high ceilings that seem to magnify and ricochet even the quietest of conversations all around the room. Patrons talk louder and louder in attempt to be heard. And forget important conversation. I once attempted a business dinner there. It was so loud that we chose to scarf down our food in silence then leave and continue our meeting outside.
The Vine does still offer outdoor seating. However, the tables are squeezed onto a sidewalk at a fairly busy intersection and fail to offer a peaceful alternative to the dining room.
On a positive note, the food is still delicious and the wine list is extensive! A large and diverse menu of items promises a healthy size portion with lots of flavor. Mary’s Garbage Salad is my all time favorite. Its name is telling of what’s in it “ everything but the kitchen sink.”
Yummy down to the last bite! I’d also highly recommend Mike’s Hot Crab Dip and the Baked Brie for an appetizer and the Fra Diablo is a delicious spicy pasta choice.
So, while The Vine has lost the warm decor, the charm and the great outdoor seating, it’s still worth a visit for food. Just don’t expect to hear the people you’re dining with. Better yet, order takeout.
Address
103 W. Colfax
South Bend, IN 46601
574-234-WINE
www.thevinesb.com
Hours
Mon: 11 am – 9 pm
Tue: 11 am – 9 pm
Wed: 11 am – 9 pm
Thu: 11 am – 10 pm
Fri: 11 am – 12 am
Sat: 11 am – 12 am
I could not agree more. I used to go to the Vine at least once a month and usually sit outside. Since they moved I’ve been one time and that was enough. What a waste of what used to be a great restaurant.
The Vine now has two additional restaurants. The one on Main Street in Elkhart is absolutely fabulous; New York atmosphere great outdoor seating during the warm season. The food is the best and service second to none. Try it you will love it, it’s best to make a reservation on Thurs. Friday & Sat. they are usually very busy. Also have an upscale restaurant in Plymouth I haven’t been over that way but hear atmosphere is also great and of course the same great food.