Water’s Edge (CLOSED)

Since 1983, this destination restaurant, cinematically perched on the East River, has hosted countless celebratory occasions—and more than a few on-bended-knee proposals. Reserve a window or a deck table well in advance, then hop the free ferry from East 34th Street. Dress nicely; Water’s Edge occupies the “fancy” end of upscale. Still, chef Ari Nieminen’s cuisine is anything but fusty. Try such inventively prepared seafood as the peppered ahi-tuna crackling roll, or fare “from the farm”—steak, duckling and a “five-napkin hamburger.” Another highlight is the tuna tempura wrapped in nori, dipped in beer batter and served in a martini glass. Linger over dessert, and let requests to the crooning piano player extend the romance.