Small plates aren’t just a dining trend—they’re a way of life. Whether it’s a Spanish-inspired tapas feast, Lebanese mezze, or refined Cantonese bites, the joy of shared dining is in the variety, the experience and, of course, the exquisite flavours. Across Australia, venues are embracing this approach with expertly curated menus designed to be passed around the table, enjoyed with a glass of wine, or paired with a perfectly balanced cocktail.
From regional NSW to tropical Queensland, here are five of the best spots to indulge in small plates that pack a serious punch.
Tucked away in the historic town of Yass, Yazzbar is a hidden gem where rustic charm meets Parisian finesse. Housed in a building dating back to 1883, this cosy wine and music bar is the kind of place where locals linger over a glass of premium regional wine while live musicians set the mood. The warmth of exposed brick, soft lighting and intimate seating make it the perfect backdrop for a relaxed evening of grazing on thoughtfully curated share plates.
With a strong focus on Canberra’s boutique wine scene, the menu is crafted to complement each pour. Cheese platters and antipasto boards are laden with artisan goods, while wood-fired pizzas like The Lot—topped with prosciutto, salami, mushrooms, capsicum, red onion and pineapple—are a crowd favourite. For something heartier, the Moroccan meatballs, served with crushed pistachios, creamy yoghurt and warm Turkish bread, are a standout, offering a fragrant, spiced hit that lingers long after the last bite.
In the heart of Preston, Cedar Bakery brings a contemporary take on traditional Lebanese cuisine, blurring the lines between a bustling eatery and a specialty grocery store. As you step inside, shelves lined with Middle Eastern spices, oils and pickles offer a taste of Lebanon’s rich culinary heritage, while the scent of freshly baked bread and slow-cooked meats fills the air. Whether you're dining in or grabbing a selection of pre-packed snacks, there’s something for every craving.
A celebration of mezza culture, the menu boasts a range of vibrant, flavour-packed plates. Harissa scrambled eggs with fried halloumi, grilled chilli and sourdough toast make for an indulgent brunch, while later in the day, the hummos awarma—a luxurious blend of creamy hummus, diced lamb fillet, pine nuts and aromatic spices—steals the show. Served with Lebanese bread, this dish is a masterclass in balance, pairing richness with earthy, nutty undertones and a subtle citrusy lift from sumac.
Stepping into Hao Chi is like stepping into a world where Cantonese tradition meets refined elegance. Nestled in Newcastle’s King Street, this upscale eatery marries centuries-old recipes with contemporary finesse, delivering a dining experience that is both sophisticated and comforting. The ambience is warm and inviting, with round tables, plush banquette seating and delicate cherry blossom accents setting the stage for an unforgettable meal.
The menu is a love letter to the classics, starting with crispy deep-fried prawn wontons or pork spare ribs bathed in garlic black bean sauce. For those seeking a signature dish, the salt and pepper lamb cutlets are a must-try. Perfectly seared with a delicate crust of fragrant spices, they arrive alongside stir-fried seasonal vegetables and a side of steaming rice, bringing together crunch, tenderness and an umami depth that lingers long after the final bite.
Imagine yourself on a tropical getaway, sipping a rum cocktail with the ocean breeze on your skin—this is the essence of Calypso Club. Situated on the Esplanade in Cairns, this vibrant seafood and rum bar is the perfect place to unwind, blending the energy of an American crab shack with the sophistication of a European taverna. The space is bright, playful and effortlessly chic, with a curated music program that keeps the good vibes rolling well into the night.
Here, the focus is on fresh, sustainably sourced seafood, showcased in dishes like tempura soft-shell crab with nam jim and fragrant hot basil, or a rainbow trout tostada with pomelo and chipotle. However, the real showstopper is the Calypso Chilled Platter—a lavish spread of oysters, prawns, gravlax rainbow trout, tuna sashimi, bug tails, seaweed salad and a selection of dipping sauces and condiments. It’s a seafood lover’s dream, designed for leisurely feasting with a crisp white wine or, better yet, a piña colada in hand.
Set in the picturesque Loch Village of South Gippsland, Loch & Key is a quintessential country dining experience with a modern twist. Whether you're nestled by the open fireplace in winter, sipping a local craft beer in the beer garden, or watching the world go by from the front terrace, this venue offers a charming escape from the everyday. With a menu built around regional produce and bold, contemporary flavours, it’s a must-visit for food lovers exploring the area.
Small plates here are anything but ordinary. A rich and savoury pork, duck and pistachio terrine pairs perfectly with house-made lavash and a selection of condiments, while Spanish prawns sizzle in a smoky mix of chorizo, paprika, garlic and cream. But the dish that demands attention is the char-grilled kangaroo fillet—tender, full of gamey depth and served alongside a delicate zucchini fritter, silky cauliflower purée and a robust red wine jus. It’s a uniquely Australian dish that highlights native ingredients with finesse.
Small plates are all about sharing—both the food and the experience. Whether you’re in the mood for Middle Eastern spices, Cantonese mastery, or the fresh catch of the day, these venues offer something special for every palate. So grab your dining crew, order up a spread and prepare to feast. After all, the best meals are the ones enjoyed together.
