From Tacos to Tapas: 22 Small Plates You Must Try Around the World
Some of my favorite travel memories started with a tiny plate and a big appetite. There’s something special about small plates—how they invite you to slow down, share, and really savor.
Ever had patatas bravas in a tucked-away Madrid bar or nibbled on smoky grilled yakitori down an alley in Tokyo? This list of 22 small plates is more than a food guide—it’s a passport to unexpected conversations and unforgettable bites.
It’s for anyone who’s lingered too long over a mezze spread or found joy in the crunch of a single perfect tostada. Which bite-sized dish would you hop a plane for right now?
1. Mexican Tacos
How would you like to wander through Mexico City and stumble upon the perfect taco stand? Tacos are more than just a dish, they’re a cultural experience. A soft corn tortilla cradles succulent meats, fresh cilantro, and a squeeze of lime.
You might find yourself surrounded by locals, sharing stories and laughter.
Though simple, a taco is an explosion of taste that invites you to explore more. When you try one, you’ll understand why it’s a worldwide favorite. It’s an invitation to taste Mexico’s vibrant spirit.
2. Spanish Tapas
If you ever find yourself in a cozy Spanish tavern, tapas are a must-try. These small dishes offer a variety of flavors, from spicy chorizo to creamy patatas bravas. It’s social dining at its best.
Tapas encourage sharing and conversation, making meals more than just about food. You might be drawn in by the aroma of sizzling garlic shrimp or the sight of vibrant olives.
This communal style of eating invites you to linger, savor, and connect. Each bite tells a story of Spain’s rich culinary heritage. When you try tapas, you taste the heart of Spanish culture. Who could resist such an engaging experience?
3. Japanese Yakitori
This is where flavor meets simplicity in Japan’s yakitori. Skewered chicken, grilled to perfection, offers a savory delight. Imagine the aroma of hot coals and the sizzle of meat filling the air.
At an izakaya, these skewers become a social centerpiece. Patrons gather, sipping sake, sharing stories, and enjoying the moment. It’s not just about the food, it’s the atmosphere, the camaraderie.
Yakitori brings people together, inviting you to experience Japan’s hospitality. Try it, and you’ll discover why these skewers are loved across the nation. They embody the essence of Japanese cuisine, simple yet profound.
4. Italian Arancini
Picture biting into a golden, crispy arancini in a charming Italian trattoria. These rice balls, filled with mozzarella and peas, offer a taste of Sicily’s culinary charm.
When you savor one, the gooey cheese and rich flavors transport you to sunlit Italian streets. Every bite is a testament to Italy’s love for food and tradition.
Arancini are more than a snack, they’re a connection to Italy’s vibrant culture. As you enjoy them, you might find yourself daydreaming of your next Italian adventure. It’s a small plate with a big heart, leaving a lasting impression.
5. Indian Samosas
Are you ready to explore the flavors of India with a bite of a crispy samosa? These deep-fried pastries, filled with spiced potatoes and peas, are a popular street food.
The crunch of the pastry and the warmth of the filling create a perfect harmony. Can you imagine enjoying one with a side of tangy chutney? It’s an experience that captures the essence of Indian cuisine.
Samosas invite you to taste India in a single bite. They embody the country’s vibrant flavors and culinary creativity. This small plate promises a big impact, inviting you to explore further.
6. Greek Dolmas
When you think of Greece, dolmas might come to mind. These grape leaves, stuffed with rice and herbs, offer a taste of the Mediterranean.
Imagine enjoying them on a sun-drenched terrace, overlooking the Aegean Sea. The flavors are fresh, vibrant, and reminiscent of Greece’s culinary traditions.
Dolmas are more than a dish, they’re a journey through Greece’s rich culture. It’s a small plate with a big story, leaving you enchanted and wanting more.
7. Lebanese Mezze
It’s a feast for the senses when you encounter Lebanese mezze. This assortment of small dishes, like hummus and tabbouleh, offers a variety of flavors and textures.
Mezze is more than just food, it’s a celebration. Imagine a table filled with friends, laughter, and vibrant dishes.
The beauty of mezze lies in its diversity, catering to every palate. From creamy to crispy, it’s a culinary adventure that delights and surprises. This small plate tradition brings people together, creating memories that last a lifetime.
8. Turkish Meze
Did you know that Turkish meze is one of the best ways to experience the country’s food culture? These small plates—like smoky eggplant dips and spicy sucuk—show how rich and diverse the cuisine really is.
In Turkey, meze isn’t just about eating—it’s about slowing down, sharing stories, and enjoying time with others. Picture yourself at a seaside table in Izmir, plates filling the table as laughter fills the air.
Every bite adds to the atmosphere, each flavor revealing something new. Meze brings people together and turns a simple meal into something memorable.
9. French Escargots
Where can you taste elegance in a bite? French escargots offer just that. These tender snails, cooked in garlic butter, are a delicacy worth trying.
Escargots invite you to experience French cuisine at its finest. They offer a taste of sophistication and tradition, leaving a lasting impression. It’s a small plate that elevates your dining experience, making it unforgettable.
10. Brazilian Coxinhas
How about indulging in a Brazilian classic? Coxinhas are deep-fried pastries filled with shredded chicken, offering a delightful crunch with every bite.
Picture yourself on a lively Brazilian street, surrounded by the aroma of these golden treats. They’re a popular snack, inviting you to taste Brazil’s vibrant flavors.
Coxinhas are more than just street food, they’re a taste of Brazilian culture. They capture the essence of Brazilian cuisine, blending comfort with excitement. This small plate promises a flavorful adventure, leaving you craving more.
11. Thai Satay
Where can you find a perfect blend of flavor and aroma? Thai satay offers just that with its marinated meat skewers, grilled to perfection.
With a side of peanut sauce, each bite is a burst of flavor. Satay invites you to explore Thai cuisine, offering a taste of its rich culinary heritage. This small plate is an invitation to dive into Thailand’s vibrant street food culture.
12. Korean Kimchi Pancakes
When it comes to Korean cuisine, kimchi pancakes are a standout. These savory pancakes, made with fermented cabbage, offer a unique blend of flavors.
Imagine wandering through a vibrant Korean street, the aroma of sizzling pancakes in the air. Kimchi pancakes are more than just a dish, they’re a taste of Korea’s culinary creativity.
With each bite, you experience the perfect balance of spicy, tangy, and savory. They invite you to explore the bold flavors of Korean cuisine. This small plate is a delightful introduction to Korea’s rich food culture.
13. Vietnamese Spring Rolls
It’s a culinary delight to try Vietnamese spring rolls. These fresh rolls, filled with shrimp, herbs, and vermicelli, offer a light, refreshing taste.
With a side of dipping sauce, each bite is a harmonious blend of flavors. Spring rolls invite you to savor the simplicity and freshness of Vietnamese cuisine. This small plate is a perfect introduction to Vietnam’s vibrant food culture.
14. Moroccan Briouats
Have you ever tasted the exotic flavors of Moroccan briouats? These savory pastries, filled with meat and spices, offer a delightful crunch with each bite.
Picture yourself in a bustling Moroccan market, surrounded by the aromas of spices and vibrant colors. Briouats are more than just a snack, they’re a taste of Morocco’s rich culinary heritage.
With every bite, you embark on a culinary journey.
15. Ethiopian Injera
If you’re in the mood for something unique, Ethiopian injera is a must-try. This spongy flatbread, used to scoop up flavorful stews, offers a taste of Ethiopia’s rich culinary traditions.
With its unique texture and tangy flavor, it invites you to explore Ethiopian cuisine. This small plate is a gateway to Ethiopia’s vibrant food culture, offering a taste of its hospitality and warmth.
16. Peruvian Ceviche
Where can you find a burst of freshness in every bite? Peruvian ceviche offers just that. This dish, made with fresh fish marinated in lime juice, is a staple of Peruvian cuisine.
With its bright, citrusy taste, it invites you to explore Peru’s culinary creativity. This small plate is a refreshing introduction to Peru’s rich food culture, offering a taste of the ocean’s bounty.
17. Argentinian Empanadas
With every bite, Argentinian empanadas transport you to the heart of South America. These golden pastries, filled with beef, olives, and warm spices, carry the soul of Argentine kitchens.
Imagine a rustic village bakery, the scent of baked dough and simmering meat filling the air. Empanadas aren’t just food—they’re part of the country’s everyday rhythm.
Their flavors tell a story, one that starts at the table and stretches across the Andes.
18. German Pretzels
When it comes to German cuisine, pretzels are a classic. These doughy treats, sprinkled with salt, are a staple at festivals and gatherings.
Picture yourself at Oktoberfest, surrounded by the lively atmosphere, savoring a warm pretzel with a cold beer. They’re more than just food, they’re a taste of German tradition.
Pretzels invite you to enjoy the simple pleasures of German cuisine. With their chewy texture and salty flavor, they offer a comforting experience.
19. Icelandic Puffin Sliders
In Iceland, puffin is not just a charming bird, but also a traditional dish. Imagine savoring puffin sliders, where the tender meat is infused with smoky flavors that dance on your taste buds. These sliders, enhanced by the aromatic zest of wild Arctic thyme, offer a taste adventure that’s both daring and delightful.
Served with a tangy crowberry sauce, each bite is a blend of tart and savory. Perfect with a chilled Icelandic craft beer, this dish is a must-try for those seeking the extraordinary.
Feel the crisp Icelandic breeze as you bite into this culinary wonder.
20. Polish Pierogi
Where can you find comfort in a bite? Polish pierogi offer just that. These dumplings, filled with potatoes and cheese, are a beloved Polish dish.
With their soft texture and rich filling, they invite you to explore Poland’s culinary traditions. This small plate is a heartwarming introduction to Polish cuisine, offering a taste of comfort and connection.
21. Cuban Croquetas
Though small, Cuban croquetas pack a flavorful punch. These crispy bites, filled with ham or chicken, are staples of everyday Cuban life.
Picture a lively Havana street—music in the air, the scent of something golden frying nearby. Croquetas aren’t just food, they’re part of the rhythm of the island.
Creamy inside, crisp outside—they spark curiosity with every bite.
22. Swedish Meatballs
Have you ever tasted the comfort of Swedish meatballs? These savory bites, served with lingonberry sauce and mashed potatoes, are a staple of Swedish cuisine.
Imagine dining in a cozy Swedish home, surrounded by warmth and tradition. Meatballs are more than just a meal, they’re a taste of Sweden’s culinary heritage.
With their rich flavor and comforting sides, they invite you to explore further.