These Are The Best Small Plates Restaurants In London
We know all about tapas, we love a sharing menu, and, at this point, nobody I associate myself with is averse to sharing, but we’ve never done an article on a broader list of the best small plates restaurants in London. The longevity of this trend has seemingly transformed it into what can only be described as a norm. Assume small plates, be shocked at large. Plus, who doesn’t want a full menu of appetisers? They’re better than mains anyway. Discuss.
Sova
Sova, a new opening and a new favourite, is one to note in terms of small plates. The epitome of a small plates restaurant, Sova is, at its core, a wine bar. That said, the plates are silent giants. Balkan and Alpine cheese boards, seasonal pickles, beetroot croquettes, tartares and chocolate mousses — right off Portobello, Sova is a recent culinary standout despite its wine and music selling point.
Where: 9 Blenheim Cres, London W11 2EE
Website: www.sova.london
The Palomar
Right in Soho, The Palomar consistently sets the tone for the surrounding small plates zoo. The Jerusalem-inspired cooking leans bold, rich, and comforting, all served in plates designed for sharing (even if you, perhaps, regret it after the fact). The kubaneh with labneh alongside a green tahini cucumber salad, octopus and a pork chop is a non-negotiable; the rest is up to you. It moves with the confidence of an established restaurant front with an honest finger on the pulse of London’s culinary demands. Everything here is good.
Where: 34 Rupert St, London W1D 6DN
Website: www.thepalomar.co.uk
Brawn
The renowned neighbourhood favourite, Brawn, has never had to raise its voice to be heard. Tucked away in Bethnal Green, it does seasonal European small plates with intense certainty — charcuterie, vegetables, offal if you’re inclined, and things on toast that are more often than not essential. You order a few plates, then immediately add more. It’s less about chasing standout dishes and more about the cumulative effect: everything landing, nothing missing, the table slowly filling in a way that surprises like a surprise and yet is entirely correct.
Where: 49 Columbia Rd, London E2 7RG
Website: www.brawn.co
Café Deco
Café Deco operates with a pared-back level of restraint that’s increasingly rare. The menu is simple, almost disarmingly so, and the plates follow suit. But there’s a distinct intent behind everything. A few ingredients, properly prepared, no unnecessary flourishes — small plates without tendy theatre, which in itself feels refreshing. You’ll likely start with something light, add something richer, then keep going until you realise you’ve unintentionally assembled quite the perfect meal.
Where: 43 Store St, London WC1E 7DB
Website: www.cafe-deco.co.uk
Sessions Arts Club
There’s no getting around the realities of the room, nor is there any getting around the realities of the hype of Sessions Arts Club. It’s one of the most beautiful and iconic dining spaces in London, but it backs it up where it matters. The menu leans towards elegant, seasonal plates that feel simple and not overworked. Expect soft textures, clean flavours, and dishes that reward a slower pace. This is small plates as a long meal rather than a quick turnover: a table that fills gradually, a rhythm that builds over time. Ps, stay for dessert, it’s rarely optional here.
Sessions is a place you’ll want to lose track of time in. The cocktails are great and it’s made for lingering. There was live music courtesy of the owner’s own music teacher, which added a special touch. It’s the perfect spot to settle in for hours, with great bites, drinks, and views.
Caitlin, Senior Campaign Success Manager
Where: 24 Clerkenwell Grn, London EC1R 0NA
Website: www.sessionsartsclub.com
Morchella
Morchella sits comfortably in the sweet spot between polished and relaxed. The menu pulls from across the Mediterranean — grilled meats, sharp salads, things with enough acidity to keep you ordering — and translates it into a format that works for London at any moment, in any space. The first round of plates disappears quickly, whilst you’re already halfway through ordering the second. Energetic without being overwhelming, and reliably good across the board.
Where: 86 Rosebery Ave, London EC1R 4QY
Website: www.morchelladining.co.uk
Morito
Its parent, Moro, is iconic. A cornerstone of Exmouth Market, and a restaurant that, to me, feels woven into London’s dining history with a long-standing reputation that still holds weight.
Next door, Morito takes that same DNA and scales it down, making small plates become second nature with a casual and busy atmosphere. Spanish and North African influences run through the menu — croquetas, aubergine, spiced little bits — and everything is built to share. You’ll order more than you planned, eat all of it, and consider a repeat order next time. And if you do suddenly decide you want something larger, Moro is right there. Same thinking, different format.
Where: 32 Exmouth Market, London EC1R 4QE
Website: www.morito.co.uk
