Review Split-rail - Chicago

Split-Rail had some very good fried chicken. The pieces are pretty small which is my biggest complaint about the dish. My wife got the salmon and it was pretty amazing. Don't bother getting the fried black eyed peas because both of us thought they were pretty bland. The cocktails are great!

Sad this place is closing! We had the fried chicken and risotto, and I cannot believe the party that happened in my mouth. We had three different interactions with three different employees/servers and they were all genuine, kind, and I wanted to be friends with them. We also stopped by prints prints prints gallery next door! I love how easy it was to enter from the restaurant. Split-Rail, you’ll be missed!

So so so good. Finally someone knows how to make fried chicken with a scrumptious biscuit. I was also pleasantly surprised how good the Caesar salad tasted and was a great compliment to the chicken and biscuits. Can’t wait to come back when it’s time for comfort food.

We will miss you, Split-Rail 💘 The vegetarian latkes and Brussels sprouts were incredible!!! I never get tired of eating the food at Split Rail. The vegetarian chicken is sooo good. I love love love the hot sauce! The seasonal menu is always changing and always delicious. The spicy Caesar salad is amazing. Last time I was there I ordered dessert, and the basque cheesecake was dreamy and perfect. Yum. 😋😋😋

I visited Split Rail on a Saturday, October 28th, 2023, around 11 am for brunch, and it was an experience worth sharing. Despite frequently passing by this place, I had never stopped in until now, primarily drawn in by the allure of their renowned fried chicken. The first impression wasn't ideal as the restaurant was relatively quiet, and the host's instructions to order at the host stand before being seated felt slightly inconvenient. Notably, I was disappointed to find out that to receive full service, I had to sit at the bar due to my recent decision to quit drinking. However, the food quickly turned my mood around. We ordered the chicken wrap, latkes, and two over-hard eggs. The chicken wrap was a standout, surprisingly excellent despite its simplicity. The latkes, although initially appearing overcooked, surprised me with their perfect taste and texture – a crispy delight that exceeded my expectations. Two pieces of the fried chicken were a definite highlight, with a crunchy breading and juicy chicken. I must give a shout-out to the staff, particularly the person who brought our food. They exuded positive vibes and seemed genuinely happy with their job, making the dining experience more enjoyable. Even when I commented on the latkes' appearance, a server who wasn't assigned to our table proactively offered to make it right, a heartwarming gesture. Although I couldn't catch her name, she had a short haircut, dark hair, and was mixing drinks for other customers. The team at Split Rail clearly consists of individuals who care about their customers' experience, and this is what sets this place apart. Unfortunately, my only gripe was the absence of our assigned server. I had to request drinks several times, and their attentiveness was lacking. This detracted from an otherwise fantastic experience. In summary, Split Rail is a hidden gem with exceptional food and a staff that genuinely cares about your dining experience. I can't wait to return for dinner. To the owners, please ensure that the two exceptional employees who went above and beyond get the recognition they deserve. It's a testament to how you run a successful establishment. While I would love to give it five stars, the absent server prevents me from doing so.

The fried chicken was pretty good - very crispy exterior, you could taste the buttermilk brine. The white meat was great, and paired well with the gravy. I liked the biscuit with maple butter too. The pineapple habanero reminded me of a hot sauce bottle I’ve had. I didn’t think it paired that well with the chicken. My biggest issue was the size of the chicken was pretty small. One dish didn’t fill me up. Wish they served 3 portions and made the price a bit more expensive to accommodate that.

My friend saw Chef Zoe Schor compete on Alex vs. America. He wanted to try her famous fried chicken. The food was delicious. The crisp of yhe chicken and it was seasoned well. My favorite were the tender fluffy biscuits with the maple butter. The mac and cheese was delicious too. Well worth the trip from the Southside. Chef Zoe was gracious enough to take time to not only come and meet us, but she brought our food to the table. Chef Zoe you made his day!

I can’t say enough good things about this spot. It is always consistent, perfectly seasoned and cooked food, amazing service, and creative (without being annoying) cocktail program. I’ve tried a ton of things on the menu, but make sure you always get the fried chicken dinner. The chicken is perfection and the biscuits are just as good. I recently tried their spring pasta and it’s maybe the best thing I’ve eaten all year. Their spicy Caesar is also a classic and favorite dish of mine, it’s not very spicy so don’t be scared if you don’t typically like heat.

Probably the best fried chicken we’ve ever had. The gluten free option was a game changer for us with sensitivities. Brussels sprout casserole 10/10, matzo ball soup 10/10…oh and that biscuit. Let’s just say I’ll be dreaming about that for the next week. Service and atmosphere was friendly and inviting. Fun cocktail selection too. We will be back!

Came here for the summer kick-off, and I had a ball. Staff is amazing. Food and drinks were amazing. Can't wait to go back to enjoy the full menu. Great people, family friendly. Love this community gem.

We tried 4 food items chickpea fritters, fingerling potatoes, chicken nuggets and gnocchi. The food was ridiculously salty. The only item that wasn’t over salted was the gnocchi. Items were also over priced. $15 for an appetizer portion of gnocchi. The $1 nuggets are not real chicken nuggets but some kind of pot sticker filling that was deep fried and overly salty. Drinks were fine but stay away from the food unless you love super salty overly priced food.

Great, fun staff that makes you feel like your eating at a friend's house for dinner. I've had everything on the menu over multiple visits. Not a bad dish on the menu. I recommend the Hot Child in the City for a cocktail as well as their non alcoholic drinks, Purple Rain and the Renter with a shot of vodka added to it. The linguine and clams are the best in the city. The octopus salad and the tomahawk are must haves as well with a side of green bean casserole and grilled potato salad. You can't go wrong with the chips and dip, chicken nuggets, lamb tartare, and/or the loaded baked potato gnocchi. I didn't have the desserts. I prefer the cocktails for dessert, but everyone else at the table raved about them. Basically, try everything.

I felt so relaxed and cared for the moment I walked into this place! The "childhood in New England" dessert is something special. Service and hospitality were amazing, and the Monday "artist" industry night is a wonderful and beautiful value. Put this place at the top of your list of hot spots in Chicago!

Split rail has the best service staff and absolutely delicious food! If you get a chance to meet the chef, Zoe, she is pure delight!

Amazing food. Amazing staff. Amazing drinks. This is officially my new neighborhood place to hang out. The chocolate tart is beyond good and the “deconstructed” fajita was pretty impressive. I could go on and on.

Four words: Loaded. Baked. Potato. Gnocchi. Cocktails were amazing, lots of options with floral and spice notes. Coolest music, all on vinyl!

I went twice last week and tried several dishes, they're all so great. The fajita reimagined and the duck are just amazing. The gnocchi so crunchy and delicious, and the green leafy salad is one of my favorites. Drinks and wine sooooooo good. I'm definitely going back soon.

My new favorite restaurant in the area. Friendly wait staff, perfect suggestions on everything from beverages to desserts. They were spot on! Every dish was better than the next. Perfect portions. Second time there since the inauguaral night last week! Love it. We will see you again soon!!!!

Great service amazing food! Loved the French toast bread pudding, adored the fingerling potatoes!

Had the Friends and Seinfeld restaurant week menu with paired drinks. It was great

Thoroughly enjoyed my first dip here. Friendly and energetic staff, surprising twists and turns in cocktails and in the cuisine made for a memorable night with framily! Thank you! Hats off to the Chef!

Exceptional service - seriously next level - accompanied by creative takes on classics in the food and beverage department. You will not be disappointed.

The atmosphere is relaxed. The food is definitely new Americana! It's hearty, but not overwhelming. I loved the baked potato gnocchi.

Baked. Potato. Gnocchi. Still drooling over that!!