From “Girl Dinner” Fad to Snack Plate Sensations

Why choose just one dish when you can have a little of everything? Back in 2023, when TikTokers first began sharing their plates of various veggies, spreads, crackers and more, they called it #GirlDinner—and the first video to coin the term racked up more than 1.3 billion views. Since then, the name has expanded to be as inclusive as its contents, and #SnackDinner has exploded across social media.

While the trend bears similarities to classic samplers (think: charcuterie and cheese boards, pupu platters, smorgasbords, etc.), the key to a good snack plate is variety: more colors, more textures, more flavors. It’s an excuse to try something new, like an unusual dip, by pairing it with finger-food favorites like fresh veggies, flatbreads or even more playful options like chicken nuggets.

And social media isn’t the only indicator as to the growing influence of snack-styled offerings. Last year, the International Food Information Council reported that 74 percent of Americans snack at least once a day and 56 percent choose snacks and/or smaller meals over traditional sizes. A new study from Circana also indicates younger consumers are leading the charge, with viral flavors and healthy components guiding their choices. And in a time of economic uncertainty, snack dinners provide the opportunity for a little treat. Because these plates feature only a little of each component, elevated additions like truffle cheese or gourmet chocolate can be combined with more basic foods over several meals for a quick hit of extravagance without breaking the bank.

Want your guests to get snacking? Here’s how restaurants are building entrée-level plates out of bite-size components for a one-of-a-kind dining experience.