South Bend International Airport (SBN) has significantly enhanced its food and drink landscape with the official opening of three new concession locations: Dunkin', Jimmy John's, and The Lauber Overlook. These additions, celebrated with a ribbon-cutting ceremony on September 29, 2026, offer travelers more diverse options both before and after security, strategically timed for the Notre Dame football travel season.
This expansion is part of a broader initiative by SkyDine, SBN's master concessionaire since June 1, 2026, aimed at upgrading and expanding dining services. Austin Sejnoha, SkyDine's executive vice president, noted that the project has already boosted local employment, increasing the workforce from approximately 30 to over 70 individuals, with plans to exceed 100 jobs upon completion of Phase Two.
Dunkin' Expands Coffee and Breakfast Choices
Travelers now have two Dunkin' locations to choose from at SBN. One is situated post-security, offering convenient access for those past the checkpoint. A second Dunkin' is available pre-security, located near the South Shore Line, catering to passengers and visitors before they enter the secure area. Both locations provide a range of coffee and breakfast items, ensuring a quick start to the day or a refreshing break.
Jimmy John's Offers Gourmet Sandwiches and Airport-Exclusive Breakfast
Jimmy John's has opened its doors post-security, directly across from Gate 8. This new establishment provides gourmet sandwiches and wraps, crafted with premium meats, freshly baked bread, and hand-sliced vegetables. Uniquely for airport locations, Jimmy John's at SBN also features breakfast sandwiches, offering an exclusive morning meal option for travelers.
The Lauber Overlook: A New Bar Experience
Marking a significant addition, The Lauber Overlook is SBN's first bar, located post-security between Gates 6 and 7. It offers patrons a full bar experience with views of both the airfield and the gates. The menu includes signature cocktails such as the Gettin’ Figgy With It, Lauber Margarita, and Lauber Old Fashioned. Additionally, the bar serves Notre Dame football-themed cocktails like Wake Up the Echoes and the Blue and Gold Rush. The Lauber Overlook operates daily from 7 a.m. until the last departure.
New Dining Options at South Bend International Airport
To help you navigate the new offerings, here is a concise summary of the recently opened food and drink establishments, their locations, and what you can expect:
| Establishment Name | Location (Pre/Post-Security, Gate) | Offerings |
|---|---|---|
| Dunkin' | Post-Security (specific gate not provided) and Pre-Security near the South Shore Line | Coffee and breakfast items |
| Jimmy John's | Post-Security across from Gate 8 | Gourmet sandwiches and wraps made with premium meats, fresh baked bread, and hand-sliced veggies; also features breakfast sandwiches unique to airport locations |
| The Lauber Overlook | Post-Security between Gates 6 and 7 | Full bar featuring The Lauber's cocktails (e.g., Gettin’ Figgy With It, Lauber Margarita, Lauber Old Fashioned, Notre Dame football cocktails like Wake Up the Echoes and Blue and Gold Rush) and light bites, with views of the airfield. Open daily from 7 a.m. until the last departure. |
Ongoing Concession Expansion and Future Plans
The recent openings are a key part of South Bend International Airport's broader concession expansion project. Mike Daigle, SBN's CEO and executive director, emphasized that the goal of the renewed partnership with SkyDine was to broaden the offerings available to the traveling public. The intentional timing of these openings to coincide with the Notre Dame football season aims to enhance the traveler experience during peak periods.
Looking ahead, the airport has further developments planned for 2027 as part of Phase Two. This next phase will include an expansion of the largest restaurant space, promising additional seating, full-service dining, and more diverse options. Specifically, a full-service Lauber restaurant is anticipated near Gate 4, alongside new grab-and-go and self-checkout choices. Additionally, Bend Market & Brews is expected to open pre-security in Fall 2026.
What's Next for South Bend International Airport Dining
Travelers should anticipate further expansion of dining options in 2027, including a full-service Lauber restaurant and additional grab-and-go choices. Monitor airport announcements and signage for the opening of Bend Market & Brews in Fall 2026 and Phase Two developments in 2027.
