Outdoor dining heating up in downtown Aurora

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We are ready to get cozy while there is social distancing this Fall in downtown Aurora. Outdoor dining will be heating up with some creative ideas to extend the al fresco dining season.

This Spring and Summer have brought new dining spots along buildings and in parking spots and parking lots. Restaurants are once again thinking outside of the indoor-dining box to come up with some clever solutions to welcome guests this Fall.

• Mora on the River, 43 E. Galena Boulevard, recently invited patrons to BYOB (Bring Your Own Blanket) to their outdoor tent set up along Water Street Mall. The somewhat new-to-downtown restaurant will have a variety of events and dinner nightly from Wednesdays through Sundays.

• La Quinta de los Reyes, 36 E. New York Street, will warm up guests on their patio courtyard with outdoor heaters, said owner Jesus Sanchez. Sanchez said they are working hard to make their guests comfortable, and will offer outdoor dining for as long as possible this Fall.

• Gillerson’s Grubbery, 33 W. New York Street, will continue to host live music and movie nights outdoors along Pinney Street. Owner Dan Gillerson is brainstorming ways to keep guests warm outdoors while also planning for curb-side pickup as the weather cools. Check its Facebook page for the latest planned events.

As downtown restaurants continue to serve their patrons both indoors and outdoors following Phase 4 State guidelines, some are expanding their offerings.

Altiro Latin Fusion recently opened up a coffee shop adjacent to their restaurant in the ground floor of the historic Leland Tower in downtown Aurora. Altiro Coffee Shop serves specialty coffees and is open on the weekends when the restaurant serves brunch. Marissa Amoni photo

• Altiro Latin Fusion, 1 S. Stolp Avenue, recently opened up a coffee shop next door at 9 S. Stolp Avenue in the historic Leland Tower. The coffee shop serves specialty coffee drinks and is open during brunch on weekends. Check its Facebook page for other hours.

• Gillerson’s Grubbery recently announced a $7 carry-out lunch menu that includes many favorite items. The $7 Grub To Go menu is offered every Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday, from 11 a.m. to 1 p.m..

As the weather cools, downtown restaurants will keep you warm and full.

Marissa Amoni is the manager of Aurora Downtown, a nonprofit that is focused on a healthy and thriving downtown for all to enjoy. Visit downtown from October 15 to November 15 because it turns into Sugar Skull City to celebrate Day of the Dead. Find out more at auroradowntown.org.

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