When Troppo moved from East Lansing to its new downtown Lansing location last November, executive chef and general manager, Jason Keusch said there was no doubt that outdoor seating would be part of the atmosphere.

"It's very important to have that aspect," he said. "I want people to come down here to be part of what's happening downtown. It's the only place you can really get a downtown feel."

In style with the rest of Troppo, the outdoor seating section has the feel of a martini bar. Dinner and cocktails are served the same as inside and the entire menu is offered. The scene is dressy casual. Keusch said there's a wide range of clientele but most are nicely dressed professionals enjoying fresh air, people watching, cocktails and food.

"We come frequently," said Stacey Murray, 39 of Williamston, who was enjoying cocktails with co-workers last week on Troppo's patio. "You see people that you know."

"It's convenient after work," said Tricia Keith, 34 of Okemos, one of Murray's co-workers. "The city of Lansing should allow more outdoor dining."

"It's very nice service," added their friend Amin Tejani, 36, of East Lansing.

All agreed that champagne topped the list of what to order on the patio. Their other favorites included the grilled sirloin and portobello salad and the Scandinavian cheese pot and squash soup. "It's to die for," Tejani said. "It's thick and creamy."

Troppo serves eclectic American cuisine. All entrées are served with choice of soup or salad and bread. Prices range from $11.95 to $36.95 for the surf and turf, but many diners on the patio are simply there to enjoy a cocktail and appetizers.

Although the patio is popular, Keusch said the wait is never too long and customers can enjoy seating at the bar until a spot opens up. Another added bonus: the cement on the patio is heated. "We hope we can get a couple of extra days that way," Keusch said.

• 101 S. Washington Square, Lansing
• 517.371.4000
• Kitchen open 11a.m. to 11p.m. Monday to Friday, 4p.m. to midnight Saturday. Bar open until empty