Patio of the day: Root Down

During the summer (and even on warm days in winter), you'll find Root Down's two outdoor patios packed with an eating (and drinking) set that lingers for hours, leisurely sipping on cocktails from the thoughtful bar program, sampling tastes from the locavore-inspired menu and, of course, soaking up all the...

By Samantha Alviani

July 10, 2013

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During the summer (and even on warm days in winter), you'll find Root Down's two outdoor patios packed with an eating (and drinking) set that lingers for hours, leisurely sipping on cocktails from the thoughtful bar program, sampling tastes from the locavore-inspired menu and, of course, soaking up all the urban cool that Root Down's celebrated atmosphere has to offer.

Step through the doors of Root Down, which was created out of an old garage, and you feel it immediately: that perfect melding of all things effortlessly cool. Step outside to the front or side patio, and you won't want to leave. These outdoor spaces have incredible views of Highland and downtown Denver, along with great people-watching.

The wine and spirits list matches Root Down's food philosophy, with a focus on locally brewed beers and season-centric cocktails created by house mixologist Mike Henderson. "Big Trouble in Little China," for example, blends sake with Dimmi Liqueur, Green Chartreuse, cucumber, lime and sparkling water for an interesting twist on a classic summer refresher. The "Beet Down" takes an earthy turn with gin, aperol, Canton Ginger Liqueur, lemon, beets and mint, served over a beet cube. If you're sitting down for food, the regular menu is available on the patio, and includes options for everything from small bites to an all-out meal. On the first Tuesday of every month, there's a four-course raw-vegan dinner; every Sunday, Root Down offers a changing three-course dinner for $26.40, which is available outside if nature is what you desire.

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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