The 16 Best Small Plates in Chicago

For those in search of delectable small plates in the windy city, look no further than Small Plates Chicago. Whether you're a local or just passing through, this curated list of the best small plates in Chicago will help you find the perfect spot for your next dining adventure.
From classic tapas to innovative fusion dishes, Chicago has a wide variety of small plate options to satisfy any palate. With this comprehensive guide, you can easily compare and choose the best small plates restaurant to suit your taste and budget.
- Wide selection of small plates
- Top-rated restaurants in Chicago
- Price range for every budget
- Popular small plate dishes in Chicago
Now, without further ado, here are The 16 Best Small Plates in Chicago:
- 1. The Purple Pig Restaurant
- 2. Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!
- 3. Quartino Ristorante
- 4. Siena Tavern
- 5. Cira
- 6. Proxi
- 7. Brando's Lincoln Park
- 8. Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba!
- 9. Tapas Valencia
- 10. mfk. Restaurant
- 11. Little Madrid Tapas-Café
- 12. Boqueria Fulton Market
- 13. Mercat a la Planxa
- 14. Jaleo by José Andrés
- 15. Sociale Chicago
- 16. Mama Delia

- Monday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Wednesday: 11 AM–9 PM
- Thursday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
1. The Purple Pig Restaurant
Information and Reviews
Customers have raved about the delicious food and excellent staff at The Purple Pig. Some key points from their reviews include:
- The tuna tartar was a favorite, perfectly balancing flavors and textures.
- The dry aged pork and duck were delicious and generously portioned.
- The atmosphere is trendy and upmarket, with a cozy feel.
With a rating of 4.6 and over 6100 reviews, The Purple Pig Restaurant continues to impress patrons with its great service and fast dining experience. For a memorable and flavorful meal in Chicago, this Mediterranean gem is a must-visit.

- Monday: 10 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 4–9 PM
- Wednesday: 4–9 PM
- Thursday: 4–9 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 10 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 10 AM–9 PM
2. Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba!
Information and Reviews
With a rating of 4.6, this restaurant has received over 5000 reviews. Customers have highlighted several key points about their experience:
- The server provided attentive and welcoming service throughout the meal.
- The dishes, including stuffed mushrooms, bacon-wrapped dates, seared scallops, and Paella, were bursting with flavor and cooked to perfection.
- The Paella was the star dish, with perfectly cooked seafood, flavorful rice, and just the right amount of seasoning.
- The atmosphere, food quality, and exceptional service exceeded expectations, making it a top recommendation for those seeking a taste of Spain in the city.
Whether you're looking for a lively atmosphere, delicious food, or impressive cocktails, Cafe Ba-Ba-Reeba! offers a memorable dining experience for all customers. It's the perfect place to enjoy a taste of Spain right in the heart of Chicago.

- Monday: 11:30 AM–12:30 AM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–12:30 AM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–12:30 AM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–12:30 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–12:30 AM
- Saturday: 11 AM–12:30 AM
- Sunday: 11 AM–12:30 AM
3. Quartino Ristorante
Information and Reviews
Some of the highlights of Quartino Ristorante include fast service, great cocktails, and a cozy atmosphere. Customers have raved about the delicious food, such as pizza, pasta, and their famous espresso martini. The Reviews section boasts a high rating of 4.5 stars based on 6950 reviews.
- A patron mentioned the impeccable service and standout dishes, especially highlighting the delicious pizza, pasta, and espresso martini.
- Another customer praised the fast service, delicious food, and fair prices, recommending the fried calamari, fettuccine, and gnocchi.
- One review emphasized the accommodating staff, great atmosphere, and reasonable prices, perfect for a fun dinner with friends or family.
- Another visitor commended the variety of dishes that can be shared and enjoyed by everyone, mentioning the exceptional desserts like the banana dish and chocolate cake.
Whether you're looking for a quick bite, a lively dinner with friends, or a cozy dinner with loved ones, Quartino Ristorante promises a memorable dining experience with top-notch service, delicious Italian cuisine, and a welcoming atmosphere. Visit their website to explore their menu and plan your visit today!

- Monday: 10 AM–11:30 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–11:30 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–11:30 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–12 AM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–2 AM
- Saturday: 10 AM–2 AM
- Sunday: 10 AM–11:30 PM
4. Siena Tavern
Information and Reviews
- We had reservations, but decided to wait at the restaurant earlier. The staff was wonderful, and the food was great. Highly recommended!
- Cocktails and appetizers were excellent, but the seating arrangement was not ideal. The food, especially the fresh pasta, was delicious.
- From making same-day reservations to impeccable food and service, every aspect of the experience was outstanding. Highly recommended!
- Great experience for a birthday dinner with accommodating service and tasty dishes. Highly recommended for any special celebration.
Whether looking for a casual or romantic atmosphere, Siena Tavern has it all. Additionally, the restaurant offers various amenities like a bar on-site and accessible seating. With a diverse range of offerings from alcohol and cocktails to comfort food and vegetarian options, there is something for everyone.
For a memorable dining experience with exceptional service, delicious food, and a cozy ambiance, Siena Tavern stands out as a top choice in Chicago.

- Monday: 8 AM–3 PM
- Tuesday: 8 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 8 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 8 AM–11 PM
- Friday: 8 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 8 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 8 AM–10 PM
5. Cira
Information and Reviews
- Customers praise the attentive and welcoming staff, especially waiter Shah.
- Reviewers highlight the delicious food options, from appetizers to main courses.
- Guests appreciate the cozy and romantic atmosphere of the restaurant.
Whether for a casual brunch or a romantic dinner, Cira promises a memorable culinary journey for all its patrons.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 4–10:30 PM
- Thursday: 4–10:30 PM
- Friday: 4–11:30 PM
- Saturday: 4–11:30 PM
- Sunday: Closed
6. Proxi
Information and Reviews
Customers have shared their positive experiences, highlighting key points such as:
- Great food with small portions and excellent presentations.
- Exceptional and kind staff offering outstanding service.
- Unique and delicious Asian/south Asian flavors with vegan options.
- Beautifully crafted dishes with a mix of global inspiration and fun textures.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: Closed
- Wednesday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 5 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 5 PM–3 AM
- Sunday: Closed
7. Brando's Lincoln Park
Information and Reviews
Customers have praised Brando's Lincoln Park, with a notable rating of 4.8 based on 275 reviews. Here are some key points from customer reviews:
- Enjoyable time with strong shots and good music for a lively karaoke experience.
- Concerns raised over payment for priority slot in karaoke lineup by specific DJs.
- Disappointment over smaller size and outdated song list but still an enjoyable spot for karaoke.
- Positive feedback on aesthetically pleasing ambiance, friendly atmosphere, and heavy-handed drinks.

- Monday: 10 AM–9 PM
- Tuesday: 3:30–9 PM
- Wednesday: 3:30–9 PM
- Thursday: 3:30–9 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
8. Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba!
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews have described Lil' Ba-Ba-Reeba! as a fantastic place with some standout features:
- Great variety of tapas, easy to share, and very tasty.
- Superb service with attentive and friendly staff.
- Wonderful atmosphere with modern and intimate vibes.
- Excellent sangria options and unique menu items to enjoy.

- Monday: 5–9 PM
- Tuesday: 5–9 PM
- Wednesday: 5–9 PM
- Thursday: 5–9 PM
- Friday: 5–10 PM
- Saturday: 12–10 PM
- Sunday: 10:30 AM–8:30 PM
9. Tapas Valencia
Information and Reviews
- Customers appreciate the attentive and friendly staff at Tapas Valencia, making their dining experience enjoyable.
- The portions at this restaurant are described as generous, ensuring that guests leave satisfied with their meal.
- Many visitors highlight the high quality ingredients and flavor combinations of the dishes, making it a great place for a special occasion or gathering.
Whether you're in the mood for a quick bite, a refreshing cocktail, or a leisurely dinner, Tapas Valencia has you covered. Experience the cozy and welcoming atmosphere while indulging in a variety of flavorful tapas that will leave you wanting more.

- Monday: 5–9:30 PM
- Tuesday: 5–9:30 PM
- Wednesday: 5–9:30 PM
- Thursday: 5–9:30 PM
- Friday: 5–9:30 PM
- Saturday: 5–9:30 PM
- Sunday: 4–8:30 PM
10. mfk. Restaurant
Information and Reviews
- Food is unique and decent with a nice interior design.
- A spectacular experience with perfectly cooked food and excellent service.
- Quails and other dishes were described as awesome and delicious.
- Great seafood-oriented tapas style dining with delicious dishes like basque cake and roasted mushrooms.

- Monday: 4:30–10 PM
- Tuesday: 4:30–10 PM
- Wednesday: 4:30–11 PM
- Thursday: 4:30–11 PM
- Friday: 4:30–11 PM
- Saturday: 2–11 PM
- Sunday: 2–9 PM
11. Little Madrid Tapas-Café
Information and Reviews
The service options include outdoor seating, delivery, takeaway, and dine-in, catering to various preferences. Additionally, the place is popular for lunch, dinner, and solo dining, making it suitable for different occasions. Customers appreciate the fast service and the accessibility features like wheelchair-accessible entrance, seating, and toilet.
The restaurant is known for its diverse offerings ranging from cocktails to coffees, comfort foods to spirits, ensuring a memorable culinary journey. The dining options include breakfast, brunch, lunch, dinner, and dessert, giving plenty of choices to diners. The cozy and trendy atmosphere adds to the overall experience, making it a perfect place for groups.
- The food was fantastic with generous portions that made customers feel like they were in Spain.
- The service was impeccable, with attentive and welcoming staff members.
- Customers enjoyed a variety of dishes like Paella, croquetas, crema catalana, calamari, and albondigas.
- The ambiance, music, and authentic Spanish food received high praise from visitors.
If you're craving a taste of Spain with exceptional service and a cozy ambiance, Little Madrid Tapas-Café is the place to be!

- Monday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Tuesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Wednesday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Thursday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Friday: 11:30 AM–11 PM
- Saturday: 11 AM–11 PM
- Sunday: 11 AM–9 PM
12. Boqueria Fulton Market
Information and Reviews
Customer reviews highlight the exceptional qualities of Boqueria Fulton Market:
- Delicious paella with fresh seafood
- Authentic taste and great sangria
- Excellent service and attention to detail
- Great atmosphere and flavorful tapas
These positive reviews showcase the commitment to quality and customer satisfaction that Boqueria Fulton Market upholds. Whether you're looking for a casual outing or a special Spanish dining experience, this establishment is sure to leave a lasting impression.

- Monday: 4–10 PM
- Tuesday: 4–10 PM
- Wednesday: 4–10 PM
- Thursday: 4–10 PM
- Friday: 4–10 PM
- Saturday: 7:30 AM–1:30 PM
- Sunday: 7:30 AM–1:30 PM
13. Mercat a la Planxa
Information and Reviews
- Mercat a la Planxa is a delightful gem that offers delicious, modern tapas suitable for any occasion. The service is impeccable, with attentive staff that enhance the dining experience. Don't miss out on the stellar chocolate cake!
- Customers rave about the elegant atmosphere, impeccable service, and diverse menu options at Mercat a la Planxa. The scallops, tuna tartare, and bacon-wrapped dates are just a few of the standout dishes that have left a lasting impression.
- Guests appreciate the inventive drink selection, delightful tapas offerings, and festive ambiance that make Mercat a la Planxa a go-to spot for a fun and delicious dining experience. Highlights include the shrimp, lamb chops, and bacon-wrapped dates.
- Visitors have praised Mercat a la Planxa for its incredible service, delicious food, and overall dining experience that exceeds expectations. The Traditional Experience Menu is a favorite, offering a wide variety of delectable dishes that leave you full and content.
This restaurant is not only popular for its diverse menu options and great cocktails, but also for its darling atmosphere that suits every occasion. Whether you're in the mood for a casual lunch or a special dinner, Mercat a la Planxa promises a delightful culinary experience that will keep you coming back for more.

- Monday: 4–9 PM
- Tuesday: 4–9 PM
- Wednesday: 4–9 PM
- Thursday: 4–9 PM
- Friday: 4–10 PM
- Saturday: 11:30 AM–10 PM
- Sunday: 11:30 AM–9 PM
14. Jaleo by José Andrés
Information and Reviews
Customers have left glowing reviews for Jaleo, highlighting some key points:
- A wonderful evening with a slight hiccup in the dishes, but great service and a special Valentine's Day deal on wine bottles.
- Fabulous food, especially the paella and wine selection, with fantastic Happy Hour deals and allergen-friendly options.
- A great brunch experience with delicious food, refreshing drinks, and friendly staff recommendations, perfect for tapas lovers.
- An amazing Chicago Restaurant Week Dinner with incredible dishes and a promise to return for more.
One customer mentioned enjoying the cozy atmosphere and delicious food, while another praised the clean establishment, friendly staff, and healthy menu options. With a solid rating of 4.1, Jaleo by José Andrés continues to captivate diners with its authentic Spanish cuisine and inviting ambiance.

- Monday: Closed
- Tuesday: 4–10 PM
- Wednesday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Thursday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Friday: 4 PM–2 AM
- Saturday: 4 PM–3 AM
- Sunday: 4–10 PM
16. Mama Delia
Information and Reviews
With a 4.0-star rating based on 320 reviews, Mama Delia has received positive feedback from customers. Some key points from the reviews include:
- Perfect date spot with knowledgeable staff and excellent food. Vegetarian options available.
- Warm ambiance, superior service, delicious food, and standout cocktails.
- Exquisite cuisine, outstanding service, and elegantly sophisticated ambiance.
- Delightful dishes, must-visit spot, and outstanding desserts.
Overall, Mama Delia provides a memorable dining experience with a combination of delicious food, impeccable service, and inviting atmosphere. Its diverse offerings and positive reviews make it a top choice for Spanish cuisine enthusiasts.
Map of Small Plates in Chicago
Discover the diverse and delicious world of small plates in Chicago. From savory tapas to flavorful appetizers, this city is home to a plethora of restaurants offering an array of small plate options. Use the map below to navigate your way through the best spots to indulge in a variety of culinary delights in the Windy City.
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