I have a long list of standard Chicago experiences handy for when tourists visit: the Magnificent Mile, Navy Pier, deep dish pizza, and a visit to the Bleeding Heart Bakery (1955 W. Belmont; 773-327-6934). The organic bakery boasts an overwhelming array of vegan and gluten-free treats, but fear not, stubborn carbovores — there are plenty of scrumptious traditional goodies for you, too. More punk rock than crunchy hippie, BHB features an extravagant array of cupcakes painted with neon frosting in decadent flavors like Mexican hot chocolate, mango chile, dulce de leche, red velvet, and peanut butter bacon. Their cakes have gained some notoriety, too — co-owner Michelle Garcia has appeared on the Food Network’s Extreme Cakes (dummy reproductions of their winning cakes and their medals sit above the door). Visit their website for more information, the latest cupcake flavors, or just to drool. — Katie D.