Controlling coherent interaction between optical fields and quantum systems in scalable, integrated platforms is essential for quantum technologies. A German-British research team has developed an on-chip hollow-core light cage that could provide a platform for quantum-storage and quantum-nonlinear applications. Showing stable non-degrading performance and extreme versatility, the laterally accessible light cage could be a compelling candidate for all-on-chip, integrable, low-cost, vapor-based photon delay.