VIBE

Though named after Madame Ning, a fictional Shanghai socialite of the ’30s, this stylish Midtown bar and lounge on the roof of the Peninsula Hotel attracts more of a polished exec type than sexy scenester (there’s no party to be seen here, unless that party consists of high-altitude winds and exorbitantly expensive cocktails). Instead, velvet ropes have been traded in for private terraces tricked out with luxurious oriental daybeds and stunning views of Fifth Avenue, Manhattan’s city skyline, and the Hudson River. A much warmer scene is found inside, where glowing lanterns illuminate tiny tables crowned with Asian-inspired small plates.

WHAT WE WOULD WEAR

The business crowd looms large here, so opt for a sleek top and blazer with pencil skirt and appropriate heels.

GO HERE WITH

A mature date; significant other; after-hours coworkers

CROWD

Mostly business professionals and expense accounters who can foot the hefty bills plus a handful of wealthy European tourists and hotel guests.

WHY WE LIKE IT

From this 23rd-story perch, the panoramic views of Fifth Avenue and the Hudson are just breathtaking. It’s a beautiful space for private parties, and the intimate indoor lounge is quite the elegant spot to take a romantic interest.

WHAT WE WOULD CHANGE

The prices are pretty outrageous. (USD 28 for that shrimp cocktail is pushing it, but USD 16 for a beer is absurd.) Keep close tabs on that complimentary bowl of mixed nuts–apart from the views, it’ll be the only thing that comes free!

GOOD TO KNOW

The space was inspired by Republican Era Shanghai, when the city was known as “the Paris of the East.” There are two outdoor lounges as well as the inside bar.

OTHER LOCATIONS

Hong Kong; Shanghai; Manilla

CLOSEST COMPS

MObar (New York); XIU (Beijing)

Click here for our full-form mobile travel guide, The Purple Passport to New York City.