The best place to see a dramatic sunset is right by Valentino Pier in my neighborhood of Red Hook, Brooklyn. This was right after a storm. It's wild and brilliant and peaceful all at once.
Chavela's makes delicious authentic Mexican food and its around the corner from my house, so I come here a lot. They make a mean margarita, and you can't beat their happy hour prices. $2 tacos? Yes, please. The decor is bright and lively, and the bar is made of beautiful Mexican tiles.