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It’s rarely a good sign when the entrance to a restaurant is in the food court of a mall. But if you’re heading to Harbour Lights in the South Street Seaport, don’t lose faith: This is a surf-and-turf destination. The long, ship-like interior—which extends straight out over the East River, directly south of the Brooklyn Bridge—offers a close-up of the landmark suspension bridge that’s worthy of a documentary. If you’re in adventuresome company, the glisteningly fresh Seafood Royal platter is a bonanza of clams, oysters, shrimp, lobster, tuna tartar, and smoked salmon. The tuna steak entrée (brushed with a honey-soy sauce then grilled) is thicker than Moby Dick, while the two-pound Maine lobsters are beautifully succulent. Surprisingly, it’s steak—the landlubber’s pride—that’s the biggest draw. The portions of the filet mignon, New York sirloin, and rack of lamb are bounteous and expertly cooked. The daily specials, from shrimp risotto to thick-cut lamb chops to salmon steak Wellington, are unassailable crowd-pleasers that will leave the Wall Street and tourist clientele relaxed and satisfied (if partially immobile). — Nina Mehta

The restaurant can also accommodate up to 350 people for corporate functions, weddings, bar/bat mitzvahs, christenings, and other events.

Roasted portabello and mozzarella ravioli, $16; grilled tuna steak, $33.95; filet mignon and lobster tail, $47; seafood royal, $85