As restaurants are getting the green light to reopen for in-person service, many popular areas downtown are closing their streets to allow for more socially distanced outdoor dining. In fact, currently, 85 restaurants have now been approved to expand their outdoor patios into the street.

On June 19 Larimer Square became one of the first streets to shut down in favor of an expanded and pedestrian-friendly outdoor dining area. To maintain social distancing protocols, these restaurants are turning to sidewalks, streets, and other outdoor spaces to give returning guests at a six-foot distance.

After receiving approval from the City of Denver, Larimer Square will now have dining for many restaurants under the popular twinkling lights that line the street. Some of the restaurants participating in the expanded street dining experience include Rioja, Bistro Vendome, TAG, and Capital Grille.

Urban Villages is the developer for Larimer Square and their Chief Development Officer, Jon Buerge, said the company is excited about the possibilities this opens up for their tenants and visitors. Given that small businesses were hit hard by the COVID-19 pandemic - especially restaurants - opening Larimer Square is one way we can come together to support them, he said.

The city’s transportation department will also close to cars on Glenarm between 15th and 17th streets near the Denver Pavilions.

It’s promising to see many of Denver’s popular restaurants returning, even if in a more limited capacity. Interested in checking out what these vibrant areas have to offer? Contact Metrowest – we’d love to show you around!