Baked potato ghost kitchen opens in downtown Cedar Rapids restaurant

CEDAR RAPIDS — There’s a new spud in town.

The Chunky Potato, a new ghost kitchen specializing in dressed-up baked potatoes, opened Monday in downtown Cedar Rapids.

The new restaurant, open for carryout and delivery, operates out of the kitchen of Fork With It, another full-service restaurant and bar at 415 Third St. SE. Fork With It opened there in June as a rebrand from The District CR, a former Cajun and Creole fusion.

Desiree DeMaria, owner of Fork With It, has partnered with Steve Wing to open The Chunky Potato.

Their new menu includes eight options ranging from a loaded classic and broccoli cheese to a New Mexico with pork green chile sauce and the Southern Comfort sweet potato topped with toasted marshmallows and warm spices.

Potatoes, which are 17 to 19 ounces, can be custom built with unique toppings like spam, Andouille sausage, and jerk chicken. Each Russet can be made into a meal with a selection of salads and drinks, as well.

Potato orders can be placed through thechunkypotato.com, and soon DoorDash or Uber Eats. Carryout orders can also be placed by calling (319) 205-6290.

Orders are accepted 11 a.m. to 8 p.m. on Monday, and 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. Tuesday through Friday. Fork With It will remain open for diners during its regular business hours.

Eventually, the owners hope to offer service through a food truck, as well.