A Knife Forged in Fire
The author wanted a Japanese-style kitchen blade made for him by hand. What he witnessed was a combination of artistry and atomic magic.
Custom Placements: City Life Lead
Why the Polar Vortex May Return Soon
Don’t be surprised if our old friend returns this winter, bringing tundra temperatures.
Why Are There So Many Amish People in Union Station?
The answer is part belief system, part geography.
Our Most Popular Stories of 2023
This year, we were transfixed by the story of a mobster-turned-informant, a mystery millionaire in Gage Park, and memories of the Highland Park shooting.
Photo Gallery: 2023 Chicagoans of the Year Celebration
On Monday, Chicago honored its 2023 Chicagoans of the Year at The Dalcy in the Fulton Market District. The event — sponsored by Mariano’s and Dottie May’s — was MC’d by Phil Ponce, the former longtime host of WTTW’s Chicago Tonight. Honorees Andrew Glatt, Nicole Novotny, Christina Whitehouse, Amanda Williams, and Evelyn Figueroa accepted their … Read more
Looking for Mr. Mr. Fungi
The distinctive graffiti tag seemed to be plastered all over the city. But who was responsible? The answer to that was not so easy to find.
Some of the Best Pro Athletes to Hail From the Chicago Area
The Chicago area has produced more professional athletes than any city in the U.S. — a total of 1,061. That’s 494 football players, 387 baseball players, 155 basketball players, and 25 hockey players. Los Angeles only has 818, New York 546. We don’t have an explanation for why Chicago is the most athletic city in … Read more