Even though I was born and raised in Chicago, I need help with a hotel since I moved away 15 years ago. I am looking at the Four seasons(stayed there once but wasn't impressed), the Ritz Carlton(I know it's a FS, and I sort of feel like a traitor if I don't stay there since I got married there but it seemed sort of worn lately) or The Pennisula(seems to be Chicago's hot hotel). Which would you choose?

Definately the Pennisula. It was just rated top 3 in the U.S. but T & L magazine. (The other 2 were top 10.)

Pennisula hands down - one of the best in world, easily the best in chicago

Right now it's the Peninsula.
I've stayed there several times since it opened and couldn't be happier with it, but I've almost always stayed in an executive suite which is a nice upgrade over standard (and well worth it IMO--website sometimes has some 'good' deals (it's all relative)).

When the FS was new it was stellar. Started to get a bit worn by 2000. I haven't stayed there since the Pen opened a couple years ago.

I've had some downright substandard (for a Four Seasons property) rooms at the RC. I've really grown to dislike those old 1980's style white/gray marble baths with the small tub/shower and cloth shower curtain. Just doesn't cut it for me any more.

Thanks for all your advice. I booked the grand suite at the Penn(need the room for two kids). The only thing I'm going to miss is a view of the lake!

Any one can chime in if they think I've made a mistake!

If I am not mistaken, the Grand Suites at the Penninsula in Chicago do indeed have a view of the lake. After bouncing between the FS and RC for years, I think this is probably the best hotel in Chicago today.