In the last few years or so, boutique cupcake shops have sprung up on every corner of any neighborhood that’s hip or about-to-be hip. I didn’t really catch onto the whole craze until about two years ago, when my friend Stephanie convinced me to visit Swirlz in Lincoln Park. We shared chocolate and vanilla cupcakes. My first reaction was, “Very good cake in a smaller portion than a normal-size cake.” I probably wouldn’t have gone searching the city for the best cupcake.

And now, here I am. Writing about them. Rating them. Scouring the city for them. What changed? I was around enough cute, stylish girls that love cupcakes and through osmosis I, too, learned to love them. I get it now. Cupcakes are awesome because they come in all sorts of flavors, are indulgent, but small enough to save you from the guilt usually associated with all-things-delicious. They are the ideal treat.

I’ll judge all cupcake sports on five important attributes and each attribute will be rated on a scale of 1-5, with five being the best.

1. Flavor
2. Moistness
3. Frosting
4. Uniqueness
5. Ambiance/Service

Stay tuned for the first review.