"Ninja New York is a $3.5 million dollar, 6,000-square-foot recreation of two 18th-century, mountainside Japanese villages, Iga and Kouga, the birthplace of Ninja warrior lore. Ninja New York's sister restaurant, Ninja Akasaka, located in Tokyo, is extremely successful, and this Manhattan follower promises to duplicate that popularity. For its novelty alone, it will score big here. "Ninja New York is a one-of-a-kind, Japanese dining experience in New York. The restaurant took two years to complete," says Toshio Kabe, general manager. "In Japan, sister restaurant Ninja Akasaka is one of the hardest restaurants to be seated in, and we're sure that Ninja New York will be just as successful with the excellent quality of food, amazing service, and unique atmosphere."

The exterior of Ninja New York offers just a taste of its unique ambience
It is quite clear from the get-go that this enchanting restaurant, which opened in mid-September, is definitely not your classic New York eatery. It's an inventive theatrical experience to be sure, more Disneyland than Ducasse, at first sight. But wait … you've had only your sight tickled thus far; your palate has not yet been seduced.

The elaborate menu, handsomely presented on a ceremonial scroll, reveals delights for the daring as well as traditional fare for the less adventuresome. The contemporary Japanese fusion cuisine is prepared under the whisk of Executive Chef Michinobu Okamoto, who apprenticed under Kihachi Kumagai, owner/chef of the renowned Kihachi in Aoyama, Tokyo. When you unroll the menu and spread it out, it will cascade off your table. You'll see a note telling you that the menu has been prepared based on the "Ninja Recipe Bible," the secrets of which are described throughout the menu.

There are tasting menus at various price points, from $80 and up -- topping off at a lavish ten-course meal. At $200 per person, this lush sampling features courses laden with caviar and the riches of sea and earth. Watching each course arrive is a treat, too, because the serving platters and bowls are just as carefully selected as are the ingredients of the dishes. And, of course, there is sushi galore, artfully presented on driftwood.

Because there's a touch of theme park in all aspects of the dining experience, expect the unexpected. Think Orlando carnival, not Big Apple boîte. So, when your waiter arrives to take your order and opens his "wallet," steel yourself for a display of fireworks, as stupefying flames ignite seemingly from nowhere. We don't want to give away too many secrets about the magic that awaits you, because surprise is part of the experience and fun." [Via lowermanhattan.info/]

The PimpWiz.com Bottom Line: Who doesn't want to be down the ninjas?