It's nearly impossible to tear your eyes away from the view outside The Penthouse LIC, the majestic ironwork of the Queensboro Bridge practically stretching over this lounge atop the Ravel Hotel. That is, of course, until a three-foot sword is brought down onto your table.

The aptly named Game of Prawns is just one of the dishes nearly as dramatic as the surroundings, a spread of chili-marinated shrimp and fresh veggies served upon a samurai sword. The sushi boat is served in an actual carved wooden boat. These dishes reflect the menu's Pacific-Rim influences, also seen in signatures such as a Hawaiian skirt steak with grilled pineapple.

In the summer, servers whisk plates and cocktails out to patrons taking in the view from the rooftop's plush cabana seats. But even in the winter months, a 112-foot retractable glass wall ensures diners always see the Manhattan skyline and any superheroes flying by. After dinner, the 8,000-square-foot Penthouse transforms into a dance club with live DJs and bottle service.