Kitchen and Rail Expands to Golden Valley, Honoring Mort’s Deli Legacy

Golden Valley is set to welcome a new dining destination with a familiar touch of nostalgia. Kitchen and Rail, a fast-growing restaurant group based in Eagan, has announced plans to open its second location at 525 Winnetka Ave. N., the former home of Mort’s Deli.

A Legendary Location Gets New Life

Mort’s Deli, a beloved Jewish deli that operated in Golden Valley for 14 years, closed its doors in 2022. The space has sat vacant ever since—until now. Kitchen and Rail co-owner Victor Salamone saw an opportunity to expand into what he calls an “underserved” dining market. With Honeywell, Polaris, and General Mills nearby, the restaurant is positioned to attract both locals and corporate crowds.

A Menu That Honors the Past

To pay homage to the deli’s legacy, Kitchen and Rail introduced The Mort—a half-pound, New York–style pastrami sandwich on caraway rye with stone-ground mustard and house pickles. Since launching, it’s quickly become the restaurant’s top seller. The menu doesn’t stop there. Guests can expect everything from pork belly sliders to pasta dishes, burgers, and even the famous “brontosaurus ribs,” which pack in 25 ounces of smoked meat.

Craft Drinks and Elevated Dining

Kitchen and Rail isn’t just about the food. The restaurant prides itself on a robust craft cocktail program and offers proprietary wines sourced from Center of Effort winery in California. With a larger footprint than the original Eagan location, the Golden Valley site will also host private events, making it a versatile option for the community.

Growth Plans Across the Metro

Salamone, a former Famous Dave’s executive with decades of restaurant experience, and his partner Joe Newhouse aren’t stopping at two locations. Their goal is to have four Kitchen and Rail restaurants across the Twin Cities by 2028, strategically placed in underserved suburban markets.

For Golden Valley residents and beyond, the opening represents both a chance to remember a neighborhood staple and embrace a fresh dining experience.

Final Thoughts

Golden Valley’s food scene is about to heat up with Kitchen and Rail bringing bold flavors, craft drinks, and a nod to Mort’s Deli. Whether you’re after The Mort pastrami sandwich or something from their modern menu, this is a spot to watch.

If you’re considering making a move in the Twin Cities and want to live close to the area’s best restaurants, neighborhoods, and amenities, I’d love to help you find your next home.