In Bloomington there are many non-chain restaurants. For a greasy spoon with burgers, fries, chili, etc. you need to go to Hinkle's Hamburgers also across the street is the Crescent Donut if you need some dessert.
Hinkle's Hamburgers
206 South Adams Street
Bloomington, IN 47404-5069
(812) 339-3335
For something a little fancier I would recommend Farm restaurant. One of my favorite places to eat...anywhere. The chef/owner has worked in New York, Paris, served the president, etc. He tries to use local and even wild local food when possible. Some fancy items on the menu but they also have an awesome burger and the garlic chili fries are great.
FARM-Bloomington
www.farm-bloomington.com
108 East Kirkwood Avenue
Bloomington, IN 47408
(812) 323-0002
here are a few other great places to eat.
For wings and sandwiches:
Buffa Louie's
www.buffalouies.com
114 South Indiana Avenue
Bloomington, IN 47408-4043
For a bar with great food:
Nick's English Hut
www.nicksenglishhut.com
423 East Kirkwood Avenue
Bloomington, IN 47408
(812) 332-4040
(812) 333-3030
4th Street which is 1 block south of Kirkwood Ave has many ethnic restaurants. There are other good places to eat along Kirkwood Ave and around the town square. Everything within a few blocks and right next to the university. It's a nice place to walk around and kill some time.