Stories by Jennifer Billock

Chicago is an outstanding food city—but you don’t have to eat at Michelin-star restaurants to enjoy the exceptional dining culture. The city’s (and suburbs’) diners are where Chicagoans of all types congregate for some quick, hearty food and hot coffee.

Have you heard of atomic cake? If you're on the South Side, the answer is probably yes. Explore the curious and sometimes mysterious history of the colorful layered cake, and make it yourself with a recipe adapted from La Petite Pastry.