There’s something undeniably joyful about grazing. The rhythm of passing plates, sipping cocktails and sampling bite after bite of bold flavours turns a meal into a shared experience—unhurried, social and often unforgettable. Whether it's mezze by the sea, Asian street eats with flair or wine bar bites that sing with every sip, small plates offer a taste of everything without the formality.
Here are five top venues across the country where small plates steal the spotlight—and every dish is designed to be shared.
Mezethes Greek Taverna – Hobart, TAS
In the heart of Salamanca Arts Precinct, Mezethes Greek Taverna brings authentic Mediterranean warmth to Hobart’s waterfront. Set inside a charming bluestone building with alfresco garden seating and whitewashed interiors decorated with nods to Greece, this is the kind of place where you settle in and stay a while.
Begin with fresh local octopus, flame-grilled over hot coals, or golden calamari cooked just right. Then go deeper into mezze territory with dips, dolmades and a seafood platter to share. If you're hungry for more, the lamb rack filled with couscous and kefalograviera cheese delivers big flavour and rustic heart. With Greek lemon potatoes and a splash of red wine jus, this is soul food made for slow dining and lively conversation.
Xenia Grill – Coolangatta, QLD
With its breezy setting just steps from the beach, Xenia Grill feels more like a Greek island escape than a Coolangatta eatery. Aqua tones, vibrant art and a coastal courtyard vibe invite you in—but it’s the share plates and festive energy that keep you there.
This is mezze with muscle. Think char-grilled lamb cutlets with mint and green chilli tzatziki, herb and red pepper salad, or dive into slow-cooked lamb shoulder with lemon potatoes and housemade tzatziki. Big groups will love the Xenia Gather banquet, where dish after dish hits the table in a vibrant, flavour-packed procession. Pair it with a crisp white wine or ouzo and you’ve got a celebration on your hands.
Inspired by global travels and spiced with street food soul, Mr Drifter in Noosa Junction is a casual-yet-cool gem delivering big flavour on small plates. Inside, exposed brick, vintage postcards and timber accents set the tone for a laid-back session of adventurous eating.
Start with togarashi-spiced squid and caramelised pepper sauce—hot, crisp and dangerously addictive. Then explore dishes like crispy pork belly with chilli caramel, or a fragrant turmeric yellow duck curry with all the trimmings. Designed for sharing and ideal with a cocktail or craft beer, this is the kind of place where flavours roam as freely as your conversations.
The Melbourne Cellar Door – South Wharf, VIC
If your idea of small plates includes wine in hand and good company at your side, The Melbourne Cellar Door is your place. Set in the heart of South Wharf, this relaxed wine bar exudes laid-back luxury—fairy lights, leather lounges and over 500 bottles lining the shelves.
Pair a glass of Barossa Shiraz or a funky pet-nat with beef skewers and chimichurri, or baked prawns and chorizo with tomatoes, Spanish onion and garlic. Oysters? Always a good idea. For something heartier, try the rosemary lamb pie with salad and balsamic vinaigrette. Whether you're winding down after work or catching up on the weekend, this spot hits the sweet spot between bar and bistro.
Mr Mista – Fortitude Valley, QLD
For those who like their small plates served with a side of neon-lit glamour, Mr Mista brings LA-style luxe to Fortitude Valley. Equal parts cocktail bar and Asian kitchen, the vibe is high-energy and the food packs a punch—perfect for pre-party bites or full-blown feasting before hitting the dance floor.
Start with crispy chicken wings dusted in Szechuan spice, or
get your hands around a karaage chicken bao with caramelised pineapple and
sriracha mayo. From there, share bold mains like braised pork belly in master
stock or lotus-wrapped fish with whipped coconut and green chilli sambal. Come
for the food, stay for the party—it’s a full-sensory experience that doesn’t
quit after dinner.
Small plates aren’t just a trend—they’re a celebration of sharing, of sampling,
of slowing down. Whether you're sipping wine riverside, snacking your way
through street food, or grazing on mezze with the sea breeze in your hair,
these five venues offer more than just a meal—they offer a moment. So gather
your favourites and start ordering—you’ve got a lot of flavours to get through.
