When the sun’s out and the skies are clear, there’s no better way to enjoy Denver’s vibrant food scene than on one of the city’s many patios. From scenic rooftops to shaded courtyards and bustling beer gardens, summer dining in the Mile High City is all about soaking in the views, sipping something cold, and sharing great food with even better company. Whether you’re in the mood for elevated eats or casual cocktails, these Denver patios deliver on ambiance, flavor, and sunshine.
El Five
Where? 2930 Umatilla St Unit #500
Perched on the fifth floor above Denver’s trendy Lower Highlands (LoHi) neighborhood, El Five is a showstopper in every sense. From the moment you step onto its wraparound patio, the sweeping views of the downtown skyline and Rocky Mountains set the stage for an unforgettable evening. The interior is moody and artfully eclectic, but the patio steals the spotlight – especially as the sun dips behind the Front Range and the city lights begin to sparkle.
El Five’s menu features bold, imaginative Mediterranean tapas with influences from Spain, the Middle East, and North Africa. Signature dishes such as European sea bass with ‘nduja, harissa eggplant fries, and patatas bravas are perfect for sharing and pair beautifully with the bar’s inventive cocktail list. Whether you’re here for a celebratory dinner or just drinks with a view, the energy is vibrant, and the experience is elevated, both literally and figuratively.
PRO Tip: Arrive just before sunset and request a seat along the edge of the patio for golden-hour photo ops. Be sure to make a reservation well in advance, as this spot fills up fast.
Avanti Food & Beverage
Where? 3200 N Pecos St
Another restaurant in the heart of Denver’s trendy Lower Highland (LoHi) neighborhood, Avanti Food & Beverage has earned its spot as one of the city’s most dynamic and beloved patios. Set in a modern, multi-level space that once housed a printing press, Avanti is part upscale food hall, part community hangout. The rooftop patio is the true showstopper – offering stunning views of the downtown skyline, twinkling string lights, cozy fire pits, and a lively yet relaxed crowd that gathers here for sunset drinks and casual bites.
What makes Avanti so unique is its rotating lineup of restaurant concepts, all operating out of stylish food stalls. You can build your meal from a global menu of options – think Venezuelan arepas, Korean fried chicken, pizza, tacos, or vegan grain bowls – and enjoy it with a cocktail, local beer, or glass of wine from the full-service bar. Whether you’re out with friends, flying solo, or showing off the city to visitors, the mix-and-match options and unbeatable views make Avanti a go-to for summer dining. Bonus: there’s ample indoor space in case those Colorado afternoon storms roll through.
PRO Tip: Head up just before sunset for golden hour views of the city skyline and snag a spot near the edge of the rooftop. If you’re visiting with a group, let everyone grab food from different vendors and share family-style to try it all.
Postino LoHi
Where? 2715 17th St
Nestled on a charming corner in Denver’s bustling LoHi neighborhood, Postino pairs European café vibes with a stylish, laid-back energy that feels quintessentially Colorado. This wine bar and eatery has one of the most inviting patios in the city – complete with colorful umbrellas, cozy banquette seating, and lush greenery that creates a perfect oasis for brunch, lunch, or happy hour. Whether you’re basking in the afternoon sun or sipping under the glow of patio string lights, Postino’s outdoor space is the kind of place where conversations stretch for hours.
Known for its crave-worthy bruschetta boards, paninis, and thoughtful wine list, Postino also shines with its generous happy hour deals – $6 glasses of wine and pitchers of beer until 5 p.m. daily. The menu leans Mediterranean with fresh, shareable bites that make it ideal for groups or low-key date nights. Plus, the LoHi location offers great people-watching, perched above bustling 16th Street with views of both the skyline and nearby Highland homes. With attentive service and a stylish yet casual crowd, it’s no surprise that Postino is a local favorite for al fresco dining.
PRO Tip: Go for the “Bruschetta Board & Bottle” special on Monday or Tuesday nights – $25 gets you a bottle of wine and a bruschetta board with your choice of four toppings. It’s one of the best deals in town and perfect for patio dining at sunset.
Recess Beer Garden
Where? 2715 17th St #103
If you’re looking for a vibrant, social patio scene that feels like an adult playground, Recess Beer Garden in LoHi is your go-to summer hangout. With one of the largest patios in Denver, this laid-back spot features communal picnic tables, string lights, shade sails, and plenty of greenery, creating a festive outdoor vibe that feels both urban and relaxed. It’s especially popular with young professionals, dog owners (yep, it’s pup-friendly), and anyone seeking cold drinks, sunshine, and great company.
Recess offers an impressive lineup of local craft beers, seasonal cocktails, and casual comfort food with elevated twists – think green chile cheeseburgers, crispy chicken sandwiches, and shareable apps like loaded tots and queso with chips. The outdoor TVs make it a hotspot on game days, while the weekend brunch scene comes alive with mimosas and breakfast burritos. There’s a distinctly Colorado spirit here: unfussy, friendly, and fueled by sunshine and social energy. Whether you’re stopping by for a mid-afternoon break or settling in for an evening with friends, Recess brings the summer fun.
PRO Tip: Visit during “Power Hour” from 3-6 p.m. on weekdays for $2 off drafts and wells, plus discounted bites. And don’t forget your furry friend – Recess even has a special dog-friendly menu, so everyone gets to enjoy the patio!
Linger
Where? 2030 W 30th Ave
Housed in a former mortuary (yes, really), Linger has transformed its quirky past into one of Denver’s most iconic and atmospheric rooftop patios. Perched above the bustling streets of the LoHi neighborhood, this globally inspired eatery offers rooftop views of the neighborhood and a menu that’s anything but ordinary. The rooftop space is energetic and inviting, complete with string lights, colorful decor, and a vibrant crowd. It’s a favorite for date nights, girls’ nights, and anyone looking to sip and snack with a view.
The menu at Linger is a culinary world tour – expect small plates inspired by street food from around the globe. Highlights include bao buns with pork belly, sweet potato waffle fries with chipotle ketchup, and masala dosa with spiced potatoes. The drink list is just as eclectic, featuring craft cocktails with exotic ingredients, eclectic wines, and local beers. Whether you’re there for brunch (don’t miss the churro french toast) or catching sunset over the city with a spicy margarita in hand, Linger delivers a memorable experience that balances cool factor with culinary flair.
PRO Tip: Head upstairs early to snag a prime patio seat at golden hour, and check out the retrofitted RV parked on the roof, which now serves as an outdoor bar. It’s a quirky, photo-worthy touch that sums up Linger’s playful charm.
Forest Room 5
Where? 2532 15th St
Forest Room 5 offers a unique and immersive outdoor experience in Denver’s Highland neighborhood. This eclectic bar blends rustic charm with urban flair, featuring a spacious patio that transports guests into a woodland setting. The patio is adorned with a babbling brook, fire pits, and cozy seating, creating an atmosphere reminiscent of a mountain retreat.
The menu at Forest Room 5 includes a variety of tapas-style dishes, such as the Forest Room Slider, Crispy Calamari, and Herbed Truffled French Fries. The bar offers a selection of creative cocktails, providing a perfect pairing for the outdoor ambiance.
PRO Tip: Due to its popularity, especially on weekends, it’s advisable to arrive early to secure a spot on the patio. The venue operates on a first-come, first-served basis, and the cozy setting can fill up quickly.
Lowry Beer Garden
Where? 7577 E Academy Blvd
Nestled in the historic Lowry neighborhood, Lowry Beer Garden offers an expansive outdoor space that perfectly captures the laid-back, community-focused vibe of Denver’s beer scene. With its long communal picnic tables, festive string lights, and ample shade from mature trees, this patio feels like an ideal backyard hangout, except with an impressive lineup of craft beers on tap. Whether you’re meeting friends after work or spending a sunny weekend afternoon here, the relaxed atmosphere encourages lingering over a cold one.
Lowry Beer Garden is known for its rotating selection of local and regional brews, with an emphasis on fresh, small-batch offerings from Denver’s thriving craft breweries. The beer list changes regularly, so there’s always something new to try, from crisp lagers and hoppy IPAs to rich stouts and seasonal specials. Beyond the beer, the venue hosts food trucks that bring a diverse range of culinary options – from wood-fired pizzas and gourmet tacos to vegan-friendly fare – making it easy to pair your pint with something tasty. The spacious lawn area is perfect for casual games like cornhole or frisbee, and the venue often features live music and community events that add to its welcoming vibe.
PRO Tip: Visit during one of their popular weekend brunches or seasonal beer festivals to enjoy special releases and lively community gatherings. If you’re bringing a group, arrive early to claim a big picnic table or snag a spot near the lawn for lawn games and ultimate relaxation.
Tamayo
Where? 1400 Larimer St
Located in the heart of Denver’s vibrant Larimer Square, Tamayo offers a stunning rooftop patio that combines breathtaking city views with authentic Mexican cuisine and creative cocktails. The sophisticated yet welcoming atmosphere makes it a go-to spot for both locals and visitors looking to elevate their summer dining experience. With the iconic Larimer Square lights twinkling above and the Rocky Mountains silhouetted in the distance, dining here feels like a celebration of everything that makes Denver special.
Tamayo’s rooftop patio is spacious and thoughtfully designed, featuring cozy seating areas, shaded tables, and fire pits for cooler evenings, allowing guests to enjoy the outdoors comfortably well into the night. The menu highlights bold flavors and fresh ingredients, with standout dishes like their guacamole prepared tableside, flavorful street-style tacos, and a variety of ceviches and small plates perfect for sharing. The bar serves expertly crafted cocktails that showcase Mexican spirits such as tequila and mezcal, including unique twists on classics like margaritas and palomas. The lively yet relaxed vibe, paired with attentive service, ensures every visit feels special.
PRO Tip: For the best experience, reserve a table in advance, especially on weekends when the rooftop fills up quickly. Time your visit for sunset to watch the city skyline glow as you sip on one of their signature cocktails – it’s a picture-perfect moment you won’t want to miss.
54thirty Rooftop
Where? Le Méridien Denver Downtown, 1475 California St
54thirty Rooftop is Denver’s highest open-air rooftop bar, perched on the 20th floor of Le Méridien Hotel. With stunning 360-degree views of the Denver skyline and the Rocky Mountains, this chic venue offers a stylish atmosphere perfect for summer evenings. Comfortable lounge seating, cozy fire pits, and shaded pergolas create an inviting space to relax and enjoy the scenery.
The menu features creative cocktails like the Hibiscus Sunrise and Cold Brew Sunset, alongside shareable plates such as Wagyu short rib tacos and fresh guacamole. Weekly events include live music and DJ nights that elevate the vibe.
PRO Tip: 54thirty fills up quickly at sunset – arrive early or check in at the hotel lobby to join the waitlist for the best seats.
Ready to Dine Al Fresco in the Mile High City?
From sunny rooftop lounges to shady garden courtyards, Denver’s summer patio scene is as vibrant and varied as the city itself. Whether you’re sipping craft cocktails with mountain views, sharing tapas under twinkle lights, or lounging with friends by a fire pit, these patios make the most of Colorado’s golden hours and blue-sky days.
As the weather stays warm well into the fall, there’s still plenty of time to explore new outdoor dining spots and revisit your favorites. So grab your sunglasses, rally your crew, and toast to fresh air, great flavors, and unforgettable patio vibes across the Mile High City. Cheers to soaking up every last moment of summer.