Sometimes, it’s the smallest dishes that leave the biggest impression. Across the country, restaurants are embracing the art of small plate dining where flavour, flair and finesse collide. Whether it’s a Mediterranean-inspired grazing board, an experimental tartare, or delicately plated seafood with bold accompaniments, these venues prove you don’t need a heaped plate to walk away completely satisfied.
From coastal cafés with ocean views to subterranean wine bars hiding vintage gems, here are the top spots where one bite is never enough:
Tucked along the Anzac Parade beachfront, Lure Living is as much about its dreamy seaside views as it is about its menu. This breezy, beach-chic café captures the essence of relaxed coastal living with alfresco seating, upcycled timber finishes and an ocean-toned interior that invites lingering. Whether you’re lounging beneath the swaying palms or nestled on the indoor banquettes, Lure Living sets the scene for unhurried bites and salty air.
The tapas menu, served exclusively on weekends, is a celebration of variety. Guests can curate their own experience with a selection of shareable morsels like salt and pepper chicken wings, lamb gyoza and steamed edamame. It’s the signature grazing board that captures attention - an abundant spread where local produce meets global flair, delivering a satisfying yet elegant communal feast.
Book your beachfront seat and start your weekend with a board worth sharing.
Life’s Too Short Bar – East Melbourne, Vic
In the historic cellars beneath Victoria Parade lies a moody treasure that feels more like a secret than a bar. Life’s Too Short is a plush and intimate hideaway set in the old Victoria Brewery, where flickering candles bounce off bluestone walls and conversation flows as freely as the wine. With a focus on rare back vintage bottles and boutique distillations, this refined den also showcases Australian artisan snacks designed to complement your pour.
Here, the tapas goes beyond the expected. Marinated Thai-style King prawns are baked to perfection, their spiced shells yielding to succulent flesh that lingers with heat and zest. For something richer, opt for the NZ green lip mussels in garlic butter - a decadent nod to classic pairings elevated by the venue’s understated luxury.
Secure your cellar spot and sip your way through a sophisticated bite-sized affair.
Ella by Minoli – Darwin CBD, NT
A journey through Ella by Minoli is like stepping into a lush Sri Lankan escape nestled discreetly in Darwin’s CBD. This warm, inviting space founded by MasterChef alum Minoli De Silva embraces the art of storytelling through spice, hospitality and soul. The atmosphere strikes a balance between comfort and curiosity, where culinary creativity is matched by a genuine sense of community.
Ella’s small plates are layered in flavour and meaning. The kangaroo tartare is a bold opening act, complemented by sweet figs, tangy dehi and a confit yolk that enriches each bite. Pan rolls - a street food favourite in Sri Lanka - are crisp, spiced and deeply satisfying. The menu balances familiar textures with unexpected ingredients, offering an exhilarating range of tastes that never overwhelms.
Reserve your table and discover the untamed beauty of Sri Lankan flavours in miniature.
Le Petit Chef GC – Broadbeach Waters, Qld
With its intimate French ambience and theatrical plating, Le Petit Chef GC brings a dash of Parisian charm to the Gold Coast. Located on Sunshine Boulevard, this elegant venue marries traditional Gallic techniques with the richness of seasonal produce, all under the watchful eye of bilingual staff who add to the immersive experience. Dim lighting and classic tunes provide the perfect backdrop for refined indulgence.
For those venturing into entrée territory, the crumbed lamb brain is a surprisingly sumptuous choice - delicately prepared, paired with braised cabbage and finished with a buttery mustard seed beurre blanc that elevates the humble offal to gourmet status. Other bites include escargots slathered in persillade and tuna belly tartare that balances luxury with lightness.
Book now and let your palate be seduced by the elegance of French small plates.
Dark, dramatic and effortlessly cool, MIINE is Newcastle’s answer to late-night luxury. Hidden along Darby Street, this sultry venue pairs culinary sophistication with atmospheric edge - think shadowy lighting, curated DJ sets and cocktails as seductive as the décor. It’s where night owls and foodies intersect, trading stories over artisanal plates designed to surprise and impress.
The tapas-inspired offering is crafted for shared indulgence. Start with tuna carpaccio, kissed with citrus and balanced with delicate spice, or dive into kingfish crudo, where tamarind and pomegranate dance across the palate. The croquettes oozing with mozzarella and flecked with salami offer a comforting counterpoint to the lighter fare. Every dish is a bite-sized revelation, perfect for grazing as the evening unfolds.
Make a booking and experience where bold bites meet the beat of the city.
When it comes to dining, sometimes less is most definitely more. These venues prove that small plates are no longer side notes, they're the main event. Perfect for sharing, sampling and savouring, each dish offers a concentrated burst of the Chef's vision. So, next time you dine out, skip the oversized servings and opt for something with precision, purpose and personality. Just one bite? Trust us you’ll be back for more.
