If you believe those AT&T ads, bigger is better. But four places that opened in the past three months are challenging the notion, building tapas-focused menus around smaller plates. "Entrees are a big commitment," says Jillian Davis, owner of Toast in the Gordon Square Arts District. "Sometimes lots of things look good and it's hard to choose. With small plates you don't have to and that's what people love about them."
The Vibe This sleek, upscale spot is known for its lineup of local, regional and national musicians, top-shelf spirits and fine food. Tapas Take "The entire menu is designed for grazing and sharing," says executive chef Jeremy Rolen. "Diners can order a few dishes at a time and experience a variety of flavors." Try This Ray Charles ($12), three moist and meaty smoked turkey ribs glazed with thick, zingy house barbecue sauce. 740 W. Superior Ave., Cleveland, 216-861-5299, take5live.com
The Vibe Music — jazz, blues, big band and Motown — take center stage seven nights a week in this spacious, stylish club housed in a handsomely converted warehouse. Tapas Take Though you can put together a full meal, the focus is on snacking. "We're going for fun, casual bar food but with international flair," says chef Gregg Korney. Try This Asian BBQ pork nachos ($12) with Gorgonzola, sweet cucumbers, bean sprouts, cabbage and spicy wasabi aioli. 18515 Detroit Ave., Lakewood, 216-767-5202, voshclub.com
The Vibe The wine bar with a local food focus is designed for sampling, hanging out and socializing at communal tables. Tapas Take "Small portions are great for doing pairings with glasses of several different wines," says chef Joe Horvath. "That way your choices aren't so limited," adds Jennifer Plank, his partner in the kitchen. "It's how we like to eat." Try This Head cheese vol-au-vent ($7), tender stewed meat pulled from a pig's head in puff pastry, with butter-braised vegetables. 1365 W. 65th St., Cleveland, 216-577-4795, toastcleveland.com
The Vibe Cocktails and a baby grand in this basement hideaway evoke a mood that's part Roaring '20s speakeasy, part Mad Men. Tapas Take The menu suits the tiny kitchen and complements the bar program. "We have small plates for before-dinner appetizers or to satisfy late-night cravings," says owner Andrew Pucella. Try This French toast panini ($9) filled with Belgian Biscoff spread made from cookies with whipped cream and dark chocolate. 2063 E. Fourth St., Lower Level, Cleveland, 216-781-9050, societycleveland.com
