West Town restaurant Split-Rail to close

• The last brunch will be served this Sunday.

What they're saying: "It's no secret that this industry — while wholly beautiful in the core of gathering, drinking and dining — is challenging," chef Zoe Schor and Whitney LaMora wrote in the email.

Context: The restaurant owners are also social activists, contributing to a reparations fund. They were also pioneers in doing away with tips to help pay better wages for staff, instead adding a 20% service fee to the bill.

Zoom out: The restaurant also owns the private space next door called The Martin, which will also be closing.

Yes, but: Their cocktail bar Dorothy, which is located below the restaurant, will continue to operate.

• "We are not leaving the hospitality industry and are looking forward to continuing to hold space in this neighborhood and in this bar that so many of you have gratefully embraced," Schor and LaMora said.