Balmy nights may be waning in Colorado, but make sure to squeeze in a visit to Dorchester Social Eatery’s rooftop patio for shared small plates and a breath of fresh air. Sheltered by large private cabanas, accented with marble statues, and offering a view of the Denver skyline, the space channels Las Vegas-style glam while still feeling intimate. Here, diners unwind in the privacy of their al fresco space, where both the globally inspired menu and the worldly ambience pay tribute to the historical reach of the mighty British Empire.

Such a space demands big food, and so you might ask does the menu really deliver? The short answer is…stay tuned. Belgium-born chef Michael Wahaltere (who hails from Aspen favorites Campo di Fiori, Mirabella, and Caffe Amici to name a few) is constantly tweaking the eclectic international menu. At the moment, dishes such as Moorish chicken tagine and roasted Colorado lamb sirloin star on the menu, as well as many plates that are specifically designed for sharing.

On a recent visit for brunch, I snagged a sunny cabana on the rooftop and ordered a dish from chef Walhaltere’s roots: Belgian waffles that arrived perfectly golden brown, draped in fresh strawberries and bananas, crowned with dollops of whipped cream, and drizzled with warm, Belgian chocolate ganache. This dish was spot on—as was the view.

1448 Market St., 303-872-5986