Patio of the day: MCA Cafe

The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver is known for its wide range of rotating exhibitions that promote creative expression and innovative art and ideas. But whether you're there to check out exhibits like the Electrical Room, an installation of tangled material, or to hang out in the bubble garden, you...

By Samantha Alviani

July 26, 2013

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The Museum of Contemporary Art Denver is known for its wide range of rotating exhibitions that promote creative expression and innovative art and ideas. But whether you're there to check out exhibits like the Electrical Room, an installation of tangled material, or to hang out in the bubble garden, you won't want to miss one of the MCA's most awe-inspiring sights: its rooftop deck, an idyllic spot to enjoy coffee, a cocktail or beer after getting your art fix.

You can take a stroll through a geometric, high-altitude garden, feast your eyes on the views of downtown and Highland...and then grab a set on the deck or in the rooftop cafe, and enjoy options from the sophisticated menu of food and beverage options. Sample something from the extensive beer list, or try the "Chai Caliente", a blend of sombra mezcal, bhakti chai, milk, orange bitters and a dash of cayenne. The "Bug Juice" is made with MCA's house-made agua fresca, then spiked with the spirit of your choice. Snacks include sweets from Sugar Bakery and WaterCourse, as well as charcuterie and cheese boards.

This summer, MCA introduced "Summer Camp," a celebration of summer with adult drinks made by beverage-counselors-in-residence that runs from 5 to 9 p.m. on Wednesdays; in August, bartender David Glasscock of Coohills will be your designated counselor. And on Fridays, which are billed as "Music Nights," Denver musicians join for a communal performance on the roof.

The cafe/deck is open from noon to 9 p.m. Tuesdays through Fridays during the summer, with happy hour from 5 to 7 p.m.; on Saturdays and Sundays, the rooftop is open from 10 a.m. until 5 p.m.

Denverites love their patios, and we'll be featuring many of them in Patio of the Day. Have a favorite outdoor eating/drinking area? Post your suggestions below, or e-mail [email protected].

For more, visit out Patio of the Day archive.

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