Our holiday bills are paid, our pants have shrunk back to their original size and we're ready to go back out and stimulate the economy. The Greenhouse at the Ritz-Carlton Chicago offers a FABULOUS buffet spread that can't be missed - it took up two rooms the last time I was there. While I don't know exactly what will be on the menu in February, some of the offerings you might find include cold shrimp and rock crab claws, beef wellington, imported cheese trays, build-your-own omelette stations, ham on the bone, souffles, breakfast pastries, smoked salmon, salads and fresh fruit.

The Sunday buffet will cost $55, excluding beverages, tax and tip. They will give us seperate checks, so you are welcome to pay with a credit card - THIS time! :)

Public Transportation: CTA bus: 125-Water Tower Exp., 151-Sheridan, 145-Wilson/Michigan, 146-Marine/Michigan, 147-Outer Drive Express, 157-Streeterville. Red Line train: Chicago stop. Taxi cabs plentiful.

Parking: Paid Lot, Street Parking Difficult, and Valet. Paid lot: Reduced parking with validation. Street parking difficult. Valet parking.

Pre-payment of $2 will be required to RSVP yes to this event, which helps me pay for monthly charges by meetup.com. Cancellations must be received more than 24 hours in advance for a refund.