Wine Bars with Small Plates in London

When you think of a wine bar with small plates, a relaxed spot where you can sip regional wines while nibbling on thoughtfully made bites. Also known as wine and tapas bar, it’s not just about the drink—it’s about the rhythm of eating, sipping, and lingering. This isn’t fancy dining. It’s the kind of place where you show up after work, grab a stool, order a glass of something crisp from the Loire, and let the kitchen send out a plate of charred octopus or aged cheddar with quince paste. No reservations needed. No dress code. Just good wine and food that feels like it was made for you, not a menu.

These spots thrive in neighborhoods where locals actually live—not just tourists. You’ll find them tucked into corners of Peckham, tucked behind bookshops in Islington, or humming quietly in Shoreditch after dark. The small plates, bite-sized dishes designed to be shared or savored solo. Also known as tapas, mezzes, or antipasti, they’re not just appetizers—they’re the whole experience. Think spiced almonds, roasted beetroot with goat cheese, crispy fried olives, or a slice of jamón ibérico draped over a warm slice of bread. They’re meant to be eaten slowly, with pauses between bites, and always with another sip of wine.

The wine list, a curated selection of bottles, often by the glass, focused on quality over quantity. Also known as natural wine list or imported wine selection, it’s where you’ll find obscure varietals from Slovenia, organic Grenache from Spain, or a skin-contact white from Georgia. These aren’t the wines you see in supermarkets. These are the ones the staff actually drink after their shift. The staff knows what pairs with what—not because they read a guide, but because they’ve tasted it themselves. Ask them. They’ll point you to something you didn’t know you needed.

You don’t need a special occasion. A Tuesday night works just fine. You can come alone with a book, or with a friend who’s had a long day. You can stay for one glass or three. The food changes weekly. The wine rotates with the season. And the vibe? Always low-key, always real.

Below, you’ll find real spots in London that do this well—not the ones with neon signs or Instagram filters, but the ones where the wine is chilled just right, the bread is still warm, and the cheese board doesn’t come with a price tag that makes you flinch. These are the places locals keep quiet about… until now.