Split-Rail, Opening Today, Brings Loaded Baked Potato Gnocchi & More to West Town

This is no childish prank: Split-Rail, Zoë Schor’s new West Town restaurant, is stealth opening tonight. Schor, the former chef at Ada Street debuts a playful menu putting modern spins on nostalgic childhood foods like chicken nuggets, green bean casserole, and chips and dip made with caviar.

Schor wants to be more whimsical and less cynical. Adults should celebrate those simpler times they experienced as children, she says. “It’s a sense of nostalgia—akin to being outdoors—it’s being connected to a planet we’re all a part of,” Schor added. “I think we lose that as we become adults.”

This was to be a secret opening for Friday and Saturday. But the Tribune caught a since-deleted Tweet revealing the plan.

Even the items on Schor’s menu (see below) have fun names. Those include the “Duck in Three Acts” (roasted duck breast, crispy leg scrumpets, sunny side egg) and “Perfectly Cooked Shellfish” served with saffron broth. The loaded baked potato gnocchi could become a cult favorite.

West Town has been eagerly awaiting Schor’s arrival, and it’s finally here. Start sampling Schor’s “New Americana” cuisine today. Read the menu below.

Split-Rail, 2500 W. Chicago Ave., (773) 697-4413, open 3 p.m. to 11 p.m. on weekdays; 5 p.m. to 11 p.m. on Saturday and Sunday.