Small Bites Equal Big Taste at These Chicago Restaurants

While "Super Size" may be the king of fast food, smaller portions - and more of them - are all the rage in fine dining.

Appetizers. Small plates. Tapas. Tasting Menus.

12 OUNCES EQUALS HOW MANY CUPS

The idea is straightforward and compelling. You can try many distinct tastes at a particular sitting. Also you can tailor the meal to you needs and desires much better. You may not feel like a full meal late at night after a show or dancing, but you do want something. Small plates are perfect. Order a couple. Still hungry? Order another.

3 Small portion Dishes to Try in Chicago

The next time you are in the Windy City, make sure to sample some of the local favorites. Here are 3 to get you started.

Golden Cups at Amarind's

This neighborhood favorite Thai cafeteria serves these appetizing wee one-bite treats by the truckload. With good reason.

They look like small batter-dipped flowers but come jam-packed to the brim with splendid flavors - corn, peas, shrimp, chilantro and shiitake mushrooms to name a few.

Amarind's is in Galewood at 6822 W. North Ave. And the Golden Cups run

Grilled Baby Octopus and Fingerling Potato Salad at Aria

Aria places a lightly breaded baby octopus on top of warm potatoes and mizuna. The whole dish is seasoned with preserved lemons and black truffle vinaigrette.

This dish will change even those in your party who claim that they hate octopus. They've never had "calamari" like this.

Aria is in the Fairmont Chicago, 200 North Columbus Dr. And the Octopus is

The Tamale at La Humita

Okay, I'm cheating a bit on this one - This is not a new dish and tamales have always been "small dishes." But trust me - One bite and you will not mind.

The tamale at La Humita comes encased in the traditional corn husk but it is far from ordinary. The "filling" is prepared daily from fresh corn (not masa) mixed with quesa fresco. If you want to kick up the flavor and heat a bit, be sure to ask the tree-tomato based salsa.

La Humita is at 3466 North Pulaski Road and the Tamales are .50 each. But just try and eat one. I dare you.

Small Bites Equal Big Taste at These Chicago Restaurants

12 OUNCES EQUALS HOW MANY CUPS