Denver is full of sun-drenched patios (prime examples are those at The Squeaky Bean [2] and Lola [3], our Top of the Town [4] winners). But these days, I'm smitten with Encore on Colfax [5]'s terrace. The urban space offers both sun and shade. One friend confides that it feels very New York-esque, which could be the result of the canvas curtains swept back for drama, the late-art deco lines of the reclaimed Lowenstein Theater sign, or the cool, polished cement floor. Chef Paul Reilly cooks a modern American menu, which is to say there's a little of everything (from sultry, bacon-wrapped jalapeño poppers to house-made sausage). There's always a sense of seasonality to Reilly's food: The herb-roasted half-chicken comes with a tangle of arugula, grilled Colorado peaches, red onions, and Gorgonzola, while the seductive chicken-fried Idaho rainbow trout arrives with a baby heirloom tomato-watercress salad and basil-caper aïoli. Both dishes are light, even refreshing, and ideal for al fresco dining. Tip: Don't pass on Reilly's desserts. Choose two (I'm partial to the doughnut-like cinnamon-ginger churros and the caramely peach tarte Tatin), and trade bites. 2550 E. Colfax Ave., 303-355-1112