The Bend

This was my first visit to this establishment, and I am unsure why I waited so long.We arrived just as the Saturday dinner hours commenced. Our server, despite being only on her third day, performed admirably.My wife ordered a Shiner Bock draft, while I opted for unsweetened iced tea. After reviewing the menu, she selected the chicken fried steak with a side of okra and a side salad with blue cheese dressing. I chose the hamburger steak, accompanied by brown gravy and grilled onions, with red beans and a side salad with ranch dressing. Both entrees included Texas toast, although it seemed thinner than I remembered, possibly due to changes in grocery store offerings.The venue is spacious, with ample seating and a patio area. Televisions displaying college football games were strategically placed for patrons' viewing pleasure. Outside, I observed Cornhole games in progress, and a children's birthday party on the patio appeared to be enjoying themselves.Our side salads arrived on small plates, featuring a good mix of greens, tomatoes, cheese, and onions. Shortly after finishing our salads, our entrees were served. The protein portions were generous, and the sides were presented in small serving bowls. We also ordered a side of mashed potatoes, as they are a classic accompaniment to both chicken fried steak and hamburger steak.The hamburger steak was cooked to perfection and had a pleasant flavor. The brown gravy was not overly salty, unlike versions I have encountered elsewhere. The onions were grilled to the right degree, avoiding overcooking. However, the red beans were slightly overcooked for my preference, resulting in a mushier texture than I typically enjoy. Despite this, the flavor profile was good, although the individual beans were not as distinct as those I have previously prepared or consumed.My wife's chicken fried steak looked fantastic, though I didn't sample it as my own meal was quite filling. However, I did try a piece of okra, which was delicious. Regarding the chicken fried steak, the leftovers are in the fridge, and I plan to enjoy them for breakfast tomorrow.Overall, the food was excellent, the service was above average, and the prices were quite reasonable, especially considering the current economic climate.If you are in the area, I highly recommend giving this place a try. I am already looking forward to trying the green chile bacon cheeseburger on my next visit.

We ordered and it took awhile for the food to get to the table but they made up for it. I'll come back again

Recently opened restaurant in South Bend. Arrived on a Friday evening. The restaurant is very nice and very open with several 4-chair tables, and an outdoor dining area for cooler weather days. Several flat screen tvs throughout with country music playing over their speakers. A pool table, shuffle board and a couple of miscellaneous games are present, as well as a juke box. Our server was friendly and very attentive. Ambiance was more of a sports bar feeling, and there is a long bar at one end of the room/building. My wife & I ordered the fried pickles, nachos, and a 12" bbq chicken pizza. The pickles were good, but I felt a little overpriced ($7.95) for about 12 pieces. The nachos were a decent portion with plenty of topping, but their salsa was lacking any spiciness. My wife really liked the bbq chicken pizza. $3 for Coors Light on draft wasn't bad. They only serve unsweet tea, so expect to add your own sugar from packets if you prefer it sweet. Only 12 minutes outside of Graham, so we'll return and try other items on their decent sized menu. Parking is plentiful on a gravel parking lot.

Service is a little slow. Come like you are here to relax and sit awhile. We ordered chicken fried steak. Cheese burger , cheese curds and fish. We enjoyed all of. Staff was kind and attentive.