Shareable Snacks and Appetizers

Shareable snacks and appetizers are perfect for restaurant-goers as they promote the social aspect of dining out. They also help boost your bottom line, because diners tend to order drinks to accompany those appetizers. However, you’ve got to think beyond nachos and mozzarella sticks. Check out these delicious ideas, perfect for sharing.

Smoked salmon crisps are a great way to start a meal. Make your own crisps by slicing and baking baguettes. Top with caramelized onions, raclette cheese, bacon, and you’re good to go. Nova salmon is less salty, but regular salmon can encourage your patrons to order more drinks! For an Italian-inspired appetizer, top your toasty crisps with bruschetta. For a sweeter spin, make fig and goat cheese, apple-brie-honey or apple-walnut bruschetta. Skip the guac and serve watermelon and avocado bruschetta, and await the rave reviews.

For a healthier spin on French fries, serve carrot, butternut squash, rutabaga, parsnip, turnip or vegetable fries. Or cut the zucchini in rounds and make baked zucchini chips. Of course, they’re baked. A little olive oil, garlic, and parmesan gives just the right flavor. Perfect for roasted Brussels sprouts, too. For a fancier version, use truffle oil. Roasted chickpeas are another addictive snack. Sprinkle on za’atar, cumin, seafood spices or other seasonings.

Want a Latin flair? Serve mini empanadas or taquitos.

Desserts are great for sharing, too. Add colorful macarons to your dessert menu. Either make them yourself, with luscious jam fillings, or buy them ready-made. Or be adventurous and serve caramel “falafel,” a decadent twist on the classic cream puff with the perfect opposite of textures: a crunchy chocolate panko coating and salted caramel filling. When it’s fried, it looks like a golden falafel.