Small-plate dining has gained momentum in recent years, and for good reason — small plates offer a fun way to sample lots of different items and provide an easy way to share when you’re dining with a group of family and friends. And because the concept is an integral part of several international cuisines, there are always plenty of options. Here’s where you can find small plates in NoVA, from Greek mezze to Spanish tapas to Chinese dim sum.
Ambar
Ambar presents an Eastern European small-plate dining experience, where for dinner guests pay $49.99 to sample an unlimited number of small plates. The menu is divided into a section for dips, such as ayar (a roasted red pepper and eggplant dip from Serbia) and white bean hummus, soups and salads, and a series of savory small plates like mushroom pilaf, garlicky baked beans, and fried cauliflower doused in pesto. 2901 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
Barcelona Wine Bar
When you mention a meal comprised of small dishes, most people first think of Spanish tapas. Tapas can include everything from salads to fried foods to bread and cheese, all served in small portions. Barcelona offers a fun dining atmosphere and a dynamic menu, complete with patatas braves, marinated olives, fried eggplant drizzled with honey, and tortilla de papas, a hearty Spanish potato omelet. Wash it all down with a pitcher of the red or white sangria. 12023 Town Square St., Reston
Láylí Mediterranean
Mezza, which consists of a bevy of small plates featuring hot and cold dishes, is a cornerstone of Mediterranean dining. To try it out, dive into Láylí’s plethora of choices, including tabbouleh, stuffed grape leaves, creamy hummus, crisp falafel, batata harra, which are potatoes roasted or fried with garlic and spices, and so much more. 3033 Wilson Blvd., Arlington
Nihao
Instead of classic dim sum, this Arlington restaurant by Peter Chang offers “Chinese tapas,” small plates of mostly Szechuan cuisine. Highlights include spicy garlic eggplant, silky mapo tofu, garlic cucumber salad smothered in a scallion pesto, and lo mein noodles — all served in small portions. 1550 Crystal Dr. Ste. F, Arlington
Tiger Dumplings
For traditional dim sum, visit Tiger Dumplings. It has a seemingly endless assortment of dumplings, including veggie ones filled with cabbage, carrots, mushrooms, and spinach; soup dumplings; potstickers; shumai; crispy spring rolls; scallion pancakes; and other dim sum options. Remember that it’s customary to drink Chinese tea with dim sum; Tiger Dumplings serves several different flavors of tea to pair with your meal. 3225 Washington Blvd., Arlington
Feature image of Ambar by Rey Lopez
