Editor’s Note: This is part of The Nose series, Staff Favorites. Each week, we’ll offer our opinions on what are the best places to visit in Colorado for dining, shopping, entertainment, outdoor activities, and more.
Outdoor dining is 2021. Now that Sooraj has put most of the restrictions on eating out, though, I’m excited to eat out for it, not because I need to. These are three restaurant patios that I would recommend to friends and visitors. They offer views of the Flatiron and the entire Front Range from the Denver skyline. And they’re great for family, friends or dates.
Provided by Acreage
The Acreage Front in Lafayette offers sweeping views across the range.
acreage (Lafayette)
Three outdoor dining areas give you 360-degree views of the Front Range from this hilltop cider house located between Boulder and Denver. The deck (pictured) offers a rooftop terrace with direct access to the bar and restaurant; The Cider Garden offers dog-friendly seating; And the “back forty” has room for the whole family to run around, with drinks (ciders starting at $6) served casually from twice.
1380 Horizon Ave., Lafayette, acreageco.com
Corida (Boulder)
This downtown Boulder Spanish spot serves up a perfect backdrop for a tapas date or festive dinner. The flatirons are close enough that you can practically touch them to the ceiling. You can sit around the fire pit and toast with an oversized gin tonic ($16), order small plates ($3-$32), happy-hour style in the afternoon, or have dinner during the sunset. Can stick to eat.
1023 Walnut St., Boulder, corridaboulder.com
Red Barber (Denver)
Like a backyard party, the Catbird Hotel’s Rooftop Lounge adds an indoor-outdoor bar with amphitheater seating, a lawn area, fire pit, and an open deck overlooking downtown Denver. Revelers can order cocktails, beer or wine, along with a small selection of snacks. Groups will go for “Bucket O’ Cocktails” ($60 for 6) or “Party Packs” ($100 each for beer, wine, and cocktails).
3770 Walnut St., Denver, theredbarber.com
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