The Linebacker Lounge, Between the Buns sports bar, and Main Street Pub are all right there by campus on South bend Ave. If you want Italian there is Parisi's on South Bend Ave. and a Granite City Brewery (chain micro) at University Park Mall. Also, Belmont Beverage, right next to The...
Fiddler's Hearth downtown will be your best bet for the best selection of beers on tap. As far as tailgating, just walk around the stadium parking lot and have fun. Good food and beer are everywhere. There is a restaurant/bar/club on the campus called Legends of Notre Dame. They can have a...