Small plates have become a popular choice for large group dining because they make it easy to share food, try different dishes, and have a social dining experience. Rather than ordering individual entrees, a small plates restaurant allows guests to choose several dishes for the table, making the meal more interactive and giving everyone a chance to try something new.
Whether you’re meeting friends for drinks, celebrating a special occasion, or planning a date night, small plates are a great option.
What are Small Plates?
Small plates are dishes that are served in smaller portions than traditional entrees at a restaurant. They can be ordered individually or among parties, allowing diners to order a variety of items instead of just one meal.
From savory appetizers to charcuterie with cured meats and cheeses, small plates offer something for all different palettes. They’re especially popular at restaurants and cocktail bars where guests want to enjoy a small dish alongside drinks.
Why are Small Plates Ideal for a Group?
One of the biggest benefits of small plates is that they make sharing easy. Typically a large group would order a wide variety of small plates for the table for everyone to enjoy.
Small plates dining is also great for a group with different food preferences. While some people may like dry-aged meat, others prefer lighter appetizers. Small plates also leave an opportunity to try something new, because there’s less commitment compared to a large entree.
Small plates also encourage a social dining experience, prompting guests to converse and interact with one another as they eat.
How Do Small Plates Pair with Cocktails and Wine?
With small plates, guests are able to experiment with different food and drink pairings throughout the night, making it a natural complement to cocktails and wine throughout the meal.
For example, white wines can complement creamy cheeses or seafood dishes, while lighter red wines paid well with cured meats. Citrusy cocktails can balance savory appetizers and flavors.
At a small plates restaurant and wine bar, pairing drinks with shareable dishes is a large part of the dining experience. As guests order different dishes, they can explore various combinations with different drinks.
How Many Small Plates Should You Order When Dining With a Group?
The number of plates to order depends on the size of the group, appetizer and dining preferences. Small plates restaurants often recommend two to three small plates per person. Many large groups like to order many menu items, and see what they like before ordering more. The small plates ordering experience does not have to be stressful or overwhelming.
Charcuterie boards are also a great option to order for the table while waiting for drinks before the food is served.
Enjoy Small Plates and Group Dining at The Block at Woods Hill
Whether you're planning a casual date night, family dinner, or a large special occasion gathering with friends, The Block at Woods Hill in Seaport offers an inviting atmosphere for sharing food and conversation.
Our menu features seasonal small plates, house charcuterie, dry aged meats, and a curated market, all built on pasture raised, grass fed ingredients from The Farm at Woods Hill in Bath, New Hampshire. Our bar offers cocktails, zero proof options, and an extensive list of organic and biodynamic wines by the glass or bottle, giving your guests plenty to pair with every bite. Explore our menu and book your table through Resy today.