We're planning a trip to chicago and are looking for a recommendation for a hotel. We're considering the 4 Seasons, Dana, Ritz Carlton... Any ideas? Also, where can you get authentic Chicago style pizza in town?

Never stayed at the Dana. My favorite is the Penninsula but it isn't on your list. So, I guess I would go with the Four Seasons.

I highly recommend The Four Seasons. We stayed there the last time we visited Chicago and it was wonderful. We checked out the Ritz, but their rooms seemed a little dated. We were told the Ritz was going to remodel - not sure if that has happened yet.

For pizza, we love Gino's East (162 E Superior Street).

The Four Seasons and the Ritz-Carlton (which is also a Four Seasons hotel) are two of the best in Chicago - see Travel & Leisure's new list of the top 10 hotels in the U.S. If you want to stay there, your best deal is through a Four Seasons Preferred Partner — same rates, same Experience More free night packages, etc. — but you also get complimentary Full American Breakfast daily for two (via room service if you want or any of the buffets), an upgrade upon arrival if available, and an $85 lunch credit. Google "four seasons preferred partner travel consultant" - most will make the booking free of charge for you.

I would rate the best Chicago luxury hotels as The Peninsula, the Four Seasons, and The Ritz Carlton in that order. Lou Malnatis for deep dish pizza followed by Gino's.

Another vote for the Pennisula over the others. The deep dish pizza debate is heated and everyone has their favorite. Of the chains, I prefer Lou's.

If you want a local, old school place (and are willing to travel a bit), my favorite is Manzo's at 3210 W Irving Park Rd. If you happen to be in the Wrigleyville area, you can easily take the Irving bus (80) out that way.

I also loved The Peninsula when we stayed there. I haven't stayed at the Four Seasons but my sister-in-law has always loved staying there.

Another vote for the Peninsula. We've stayed in a few around the country, and always had a great stay. We finally got to stay at the Peninsula in our home city of Chicago while our condo was being painted. I would say it is hands down the best hotel in Chicago. The Four Seasons and Ritz here in Chicago seem dated to me. As for Pizza, the classic Chicago deep dish can be had at Unos', Due's and Gino's East, but expect long wait times at each. Our local preference is Lou Malnati's. Maybe not as "classic" - but I like it just as much!

If I could afford it, and could justify a hotel room in my home city, I'd probably try the Trump Towers and Hotels. The building is gorgeous and the views would be incredible.

I'm envious...

There is a rather long discussion about this on the flyertalk luxury hotel forum. Seems like each of the Penn, 4S and Ritz have their pros and cons. Trying the Ritz in October so we shall at least see one.