The food and restaurant scene has seen an immense growth over the past few years. The cities are bustling with mouth-watering options to eat out or dine in. However, with so many options at hand, choosing a restaurant to go to can be overwhelming. To make it easier for you, we have compiled a list of the hottest of 2017 that you must visit. 1. Lilia, New York City If you're in the mood for Italian, Lilia is the spot to be. The Brooklyn-based restaurant serves up classic Italian dishes that are simply delicious. The unique ambiance, the attentive service and the handmade pastas are the highlights of the restaurant. MUST try- Malfatti with Pink Peppercorns and Parmigiano Reggiano. 2. Emily, Brooklyn Emily is the perfect spot for an intimate dinner with a cozy ambiance and fantastic drinks. However, the real star of the restaurant is the burgers. These burgers are made with high-quality beef, great condiments and beautiful buns that make it stand out from the crowd. MUST try - Emmy Burger with Side Salad. 3. The Lost Kitchen, Maine Found in an old mill in Freedom, Maine, the Lost Kitchen brings two things to the table you so rarely see - simplicity and seasonality. The restaurant's menu changes monthly, and the ingredients used are all sourced locally from the area. Moreover, the restaurant even provides its own vegetable garden! The atmosphere is cozy and inviting, and the food is packed with flavor. MUST try - Hake Wrapped in Kale with Soubise and Potato. 4. Strawberry Fields, Chicago If you're looking for a change from the usual American-style dishes, Strawberry Fields has so much to offer. The dishes are made with fresh and healthy ingredients that are put together creatively. The ambiance and vibe of the restaurant are magical. A MUST try is the eggplant parmesan. 5. Momotaro, Chicago Momtokaro is a spacious and elegant restaurant in Chicago that is the one to visit for Japanese cuisine. The sushi served here is high-quality and fresh, and even the non-sushi dishes are absolutely stunning. MUST try - Chef's Selection of Sashimi or Tuna Belly Nigiri. 6. Tuome, New York City Tuome is a modern American restaurant with an Asian twist. The restaurant balances flavors and textures to deliver an exceptional culinary experience. The menu is impeccable with some ideal dishes like octopus and steak. MUST try- Crispy Pig's Head with Deviled Egg Sauce and Watermelon Radish. 7. La Mercerie, New York City For an extravagant brunch that leaves you feeling energized for the day, La Mercerie is the spot to be. The bakery and café flaunt Parisienne vibes. The decor is beautiful and the food is decadent. The unique part is that you can buy their tableware which is exclusively bespoke for the restaurant. MUST try- Chef Mini Croissant Sandwiches. 8. Chef's Table at Brooklyn Fare, New York City Chef's Table at Brooklyn Fare is a luxurious dining experience focused on Tomoe Takashi's irresistible cuisine. The restaurant has a private dining atmosphere as meals are typically served directly by the chef. The dishes showcase some out-of-the-box culinary skills and creativity. MUST try - Grilled Scallop with Vinaigrette and Petite Toast. Conclusion: Whether you're looking for a luxurious romantic meal, comfort food or simply a good brunch, these restaurants have it all. So, don't wait and add these must-visit restaurants to your list whenever you're around these areas. Happy eating!