Dinner & A Movie

For those readers convinced that top rocking or a six-step — street vernacular for fundamental break-dance moves — went the way of other 1980s staples such as vinyl and leg warmers, Benson Lee's new documentary, "Planet B-Boy," proves otherwise. Those gravity-defying moves can be seen in Mr. Lee's film, which follows four dance crews — from Japan, South Korea, France, and Las Vegas — as they perform in their native countries, and then travel to compete in an international contest. Dinner & A Movie suggests novice dancers inspired by the film abstain from any attempt at a dolphin, a drop kick, or a flare. Instead, head downtown to Kenka, an East Village restaurant that embraces culture's edge.

DINNER

Kenka is technically an izakaya, a traditional Japanese restaurant specializing in small dishes. But that's really where tradition ends at this eatery: For one, a cotton candy machine sits outside, available to patrons who want to spin a free treat. Inside, long benches are positioned at the center of the room and surrounded by walls covered in cartoon drawings (the extensive menu features doodles as well). East Village residents know Kenka to be a premium late-night spot, with plenty of rich (think greasy) dishes to scarf down after a few drinks. Broiled cod or yellowfin tuna collar are some of the healthier options, while takoyaki — tempura-battered balls of chopped octopus, topped with mayonnaise and brown okonomiyaki sauce, similar to Worcestershire sauce — takes fish to a heavier level. Okonomiyaki itself is often referred to as a "Japanese pancake." It is prepared with vegetables and meats that are mixed into a batter and then griddle-cooked into a pancake. Like the takoyaki, the pancake is topped with mayo and okonomiyaki sauce. And although truly daring options include a range of animal gonads, the cotton candy is probably a safer bet. (25 St. Mark's Place, between Second and Third avenues, 212-254-6363)

MOVIE

A pioneer of hip-hop culture in the Bronx in the 1970s, DJ Kool Herc, coined the term "b-boy." His original contribution to hip-hop, breakbeat DJ-ing, inspired a popular form of floor-and-jump dancing by talented "b-boys" and "b-girls." Break dancing has since evolved into a global movement, and Mr. Lee captures this on film in "Planet B-Boy." Members of the diverse crews he profiles wrestle with personal issues even as they compete: A Korean dancer discovers a bond with his flag-selling father, while a French b-boy stands up to his mother's racism. The film culminates in Germany, at the "Battle of the Year" competition, where 18 crews duke it out on the dance floor — and in the air, upside down, twisting, kicking, and more. The director is on hand to discuss the film at this weekend's screenings. (Friday, 7 and 9:30 p.m., Landmark Sunshine Cinemas, 143 E. Houston St., between Eldridge and Forsyth streets, 212-358-7709, $11.50 general, $8 children and seniors)