June 24, 2010 - Small plates, tapas, mini-sandwiches and the like are a big deal in restaurants today. Easy and fun to eat, these little nibbles invite recession-wary consumers to dine on a budget many operators say. They encourage them to sample new flavors, ingredients and cuisines they might hesitate to try in large portions. What’s more, they’re the perfect items to go along with beverages at cocktail hour.

Small plates have been stealing the scene from larger items for some time at Bar Louie Restaurants, the 45-unit, Glenview, Ill.-based casual-dining chain...