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I’ve always loved dishes that encourage me to play with my food–it’s one of the reasons I enjoy L’Asie’s rice paper wraps and Vesta Dipping Grill‘s 30-some sauces. This month, though, I’ve hit upon a project that takes playfulness to an extreme.

The program is called Delicious Designs, and during the month of April–Colorado Architecture Month–the American Institute of Architects pairs local architects with chefs to create desserts reminiscent of memorable Colorado landmarks. Participating restaurants include Root Down, Cucina Colore, Steuben’s, Carelli’s in Boulder, and Baron’s at Hotel Colorado in Glenwood Springs.

At Cucina Colore, dine on a lemon semifreddo with fresh strawberries, whipped cream, and blackberry sauce that evokes DIA’s iconic peaked roof. Across town, treat yourself to Root Down’s play on Valley Curtain (Christo and Jeanne-Claude’s 1970 art installation in Rifle, CO) with cinnamon-scented chocolate panna cotta, blood orange and mango sauces, and almond caramel craquant.

Delicious Designs desserts are available through the end of April.

Amanda M. Faison
Amanda M. Faison
Freelance writer Amanda M. Faison spent 20 years at 5280 Magazine, 12 of those as Food Editor.