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With the failure rate of new restaurants hovering around 59 percent in the first three years of opening, it’s not surprising that restaurant owners are trying to come up with a hook—a theme, a specific type of ambiance, or discounts for certain groups or time periods in the day or evening. A trend that has gained so much momentum that it’s no longer a novel concept—and is somewhat expected in “cute” or bustling neighborhoods—is dining “al fresco,” that is, on a patio or outdoor common area next to the restaurant.