WICKER PARK. Take a seat in one of Parlor's charming, corduroy-upholstered booths and prepare for a morning treat. Exhibiting the same innovation and flair that characterizes the dinner menu, brunch doesn't disappoint. Fluffy brioche French toast topped with peaches and cream cheese, hot sage and buttermilk biscuits smothered in rich sausage gravy, and sweet malted waffles with tart cherries are a sampling of the sinfully good menu. Savory lunch items like a brioche BLT also make an appearance.

GOLD COAST. For a classic brunch, this extravagant buffet can't be beat. Six themed stations offer standards like eggs and sausage as well as specialties like whitefish, pot roast, baked potatoes, Peking duck, pot stickers, and blintzes. Themed stations feature Oriental and Midwestern dishes, and most elaborate of all, the dessert station offers chocolate-dipped strawberries, mousses, and goodie-filled crepes. The dining room provides a posh backdrop for the feast. Reservations required for brunch. Business casual attire.

STREETERVILLE. The spread laid out at the Ritz's Sunday brunch is indicative of the quality and service you'll find anytime you dine at this hotel. In the elegant restaurant, refined service and upscale specialties like caviar and duck lend a formal air. As diners eagerly anticipate mouthwatering fare, chefs line up behind stations to serve pastries, cheeses, fruit, fish, waffles, omelets, and roasted meats. Luxurious surroundings include oak-paneled walls, mirrors, crystal chandeliers, and cobalt accents. Contemporary French dining at its best. Reservations strongly recommended. Business attire.

ROSCOE VILLAGE. Watch passers-by through large plate-glass windows in this bright, cheery brunch nook. The fare is vegetarian, but with ingredients like soy sausage, veggie bacon, and marinated tofu, you won't miss the meat. Omelets and frittatas contain tasty add-ins like feta, goat cheese, pesto, spinach, and sun-dried tomatoes. French toast is dressed up with peach butter and maple syrup or with raspberries and whipped cream. A delicious variety of pancakes, cereals, and granola rounds out the offerings. This eclectic eatery changes up traditional brunch fare by serving their savory, filling breakfast menu into the afternoon.

WEST SIDE. Don't come here for health food! Come for Southern-style soul food, full of flavor and served in a casual, relaxed environment. The quirky, funky warehouse-style space (abstract paintings of chickens and eggs adorn the walls) offers breakfast on weekdays and a popular weekend brunch. Try fluffy biscuits, French toast, salmon cakes with hollandaise, or a house specialty called Red Eggs, which consists of two eggs on corn tortillas with black beans, cheese, hot sauce, sour cream, and salsa. Something for everyone, including vegetarians. Buy a cool t-shirt on your way out. Casual attire.