Denver's ten best restaurant patios

Domo, 1365 Osage Street
Dining at Domo is a little like dining in Epcot's version of Japan: The dining room is like a house in a dark, enchanted forest with tables made from stone slabs and seats cut from tree stumps. But the real place to relax is in the garden out back, which the restaurant keeps lush with trees and flowers that lend a zen note to a meal of Japanese country food. It's an ideal place to soak up the sun over a quiet lunch.

El Noa Noa Mexican Restaurant, 722 Santa Fe Drive
The margarita may be our very favorite patio sipper, and it's even better when paired to a basket full of chips and a little salsa. And when we're craving that kind of afternoon, we head straight for El Noa Noa, a Santa Fe Arts District restaurant with a vast, shady garden in its back yard. It's a great place to kick back with a drink and gaze at the waterfall while the sweet sounds of a mariachi band roll over you.

Indulge Wine Bar

Indulge Wine Bar, 1601 Mayberry, Highlands Ranch
You'll have to head deep into the southern suburbs to find this restaurant tucked deep in the heart of Highlands Ranch. But if it's outdoor dining you're after, Indulge is worth it. The spot features a long wine list and typical wine bar-tapas fare, all consumable on a deck with unadulterated views of the front range, fire pits and ample, comfortable seating. And best of all, you won't have to fight crowds to relax and enjoy it, glass of bubbly in hand.

Lola, 1575 Boulder Street
Illuminated with strands of lights and emanating Latin rhythms, Lola's covered patio is a worthy competitor for outdoor dining digs in a neighborhood that features a lot of decks. But the reason why we're regulars is because it's an ideal spot for people-watching, flirting, socializing and meeting your neighbors over margaritas, beers and items from the raw bar, which also features a couple of patio-side seats.