Top 100 Appetizers
in the World

Conchitas a la parmesana is a traditional dish that's served as an appetizer. It consists of scallops that are topped with grated parmesan, then placed under the broiler for a few minutes. When served, the cheese should be bubbling, but the scallops will remain almost raw. The ingredients used for the dish include scallops, Worcestershire sauce, lime juice, butter, salt, pepper, and grated parmesan cheese. The dish is served immediately, while still piping hot, ideally with lime wedges on the side.Expand

Kalamar tava is a traditional dish that's usually served as a meze. The dish consists of cleaned squid that's cut into thick rings, soaked in milk, then dipped in a batter of flour, baking soda, and salt before it's fried in hot oil. The squid rings can be flavored with herbs or pepper flakes, if desired. Once fried, the rings are typically served with a Turkish tartar-like sauce on the side for dipping, along with a few lemon wedges.Expand

The name tangbao or tangbaozi refers to a broad group of steamed Chinese soup-filled dumplings. Depending on the origin, dumplings can be made with leavened or plain dumpling dough which is usually wrapped around a gelatinous filling, twisted and sealed at the top, and then steamed. While they steam, the firm filling (usually made with minced pork or crab meat) transforms into a flavorful soup, which stays safely secured inside the bun. Due to the nature of this Chinese delicacy, they are always served immediately after steaming, so the soup stays liquid and hot. Because of the sizzling filling, tangbao buns should be consumed with precaution and usually employ a unique eating technique. Chopsticks are used to hold the bun at the top, and a small bit is taken from the side, allowing the soup to pour into the wide spoon held underneath. The soup and the dumpling are usually eaten alternatively, but can also be enjoyed one at the time. One of the most common varieties of the dish includes the tangbao dumplings originating from the Jiangsu province, which are usually large in form and often come with a straw tucked inside the bun, which is used to slurp the delicious soup. Xiaolongbao, the authentic Shanghai version, is famous for its small size and slightly thinner dough. All the varieties found in China and in Chinese restaurants around the world are typically served as a snack, as a part of dim sum meals, or as a satisfying appetizer.Expand

The pan-fried variety of the Chinese jiaozi dumpling, known as guotie, is a Northern Chinese dumpling typically filled with minced pork, Chinese cabbage, scallions, ginger, rice wine, and sesame seed oil. Crunchy and soft textures are achieved by a special method of preparing; while the bottom of the dumpling is frying, a small amount of liquid is added to the pan which is then covered, thus allowing the rest of the dumpling and the filling to steam. When it comes to the shape, guotie should always be long and straight as it can stand more easily and it does not fall over during cooking. Goutie can be literally translated as pot sticks, so these dumplings are often nicknamed potstickers, especially in North America. Although the first-known mention of goutie dates back to the Song Dynasty, today they are a popular street food, often eaten as a snack or an appetizer, typically accompanied by a dipping sauce.Expand

Beyaynetu is a colorful Ethiopian assorted dishes platter that is traditionally arranged on top of injera flatbread. It is essentially a sampler plate that has meat and vegetables (or just vegetables, when it's called yetsom beyaynetu), and the choice of small dishes depends on the restaurant serving the dish. In most cases, bayenetu includes meat stews, shiro, puréed red lentils in berbere sauce, yellow peas, spiced collard greens, cabbage, carrots, and potatoes in a flavorful sauce. It is recommended to pair the dish with tej – Ethiopian wine made from fermented honey.Expand

These Chinese dumplings known as jiaozi, consisting of a thinly rolled piece of dough which contains either meat or a vegetable filling, are one of the most popular and most commonly eaten dishes in China and East Asia. They can be served either as an appetizer or as the main course, always with a side of soy sauce-based dipping sauce. Traditionally, jiaozi are always eaten for Chinese New Year. Depending on how they are cooked, jiaozi dumplings can be classified into three categories: boiled, steamed, and pan-fried, but when it comes to folding techniques, there are many, and the most popular one is known as pinched-edge fold, which results in crescent-shaped jiaozi, the most popular shape in China. Well-known variations of jiaozi dumplings include the smaller variety gaau ji that has a thin, translucent wrapping, the pan-fried guotie, and the Japanese-style dumpling, gyoza.Expand

Saganaki is a highly popular Greek appetizer where various vegetables, meats, or seafood such as shrimp or mussels are wrapped in cheese, then pan-fried or seared. The cheese can also be prepared on its own, without any accompaniments. It is then pan-seared until it develops its distinctive golden crust, and served in the so-called sagani, a small, two-handled pan in which it was fried. In the past, the word saganaki referred to a method of spicing up the local cheese by Greek peasants, who would pan-fry different varieties of cheese such as feta, kashkaval or manori. While regional variations of the dish include the use of formaela cheese in Arachova and halloumi in Cyprus, the cheese used in a typical Greek saganaki is usually graviera, kefalograviera, kasseri, kefalotyri, sheep's milk feta or any other firm cheese that melts well without losing its shape. Saganaki is sometimes enlivened by a splash of traditional Greek spirits like Metaxa brandy or Ouzo, an anise-flavored aperitif. Outside of Greece, particularly in the US, saganaki is typically flambéed at the table, and this flaming culinary showmanship is a tradition which reportedly first started in Chicago's Greektown. When the lighter comes out to ignite the pan, one can often hear "Opa!", the Greek expression for joy. After cheering, the diners usually cut off chunks of cheese that are crispy on the outside and soft and runny on the inside, and then sprinkle their saganaki with lemon juice, savoring it with some freshly baked pita bread.Expand

Hummus Beiruti is a Lebanese version of hummus, the famous chickpea-based dip. This version adds a large amount of garlic and spices to it. It’s usually made with a combination of chickpeas, olive oil, garlic, yogurt, tahini, cold water, cumin, lemon juice, chili peppers, chopped parsley, and paprika. Once prepared, this hummus version is plated and garnished with a drizzle of olive oil, chopped parsley, and mint leaves. Hummus Beiruti is served with freshly baked pita or lavash flatbread.Expand

One of Albania's national dishes, fërgesë tirane is a baked vegetable and cheese specialty originating from the capital of Tirana. Traditionally, this recipe uses bell peppers, onions, tomatoes, locally made salted cottage cheese (or feta cheese as a substitute), basil, butter, flour, and olive oil. The vegetables are sautéed, while the butter and flour make a roux in a separate pan, and the cheese is set to melt over it. All the ingredients are mixed in small clay pots, seasoned, and baked in the oven. After the dish has slightly cooled down, it is served with crusty bread on the side. The vegetable version of this specialty is referred to as fergesë e tiranës me speca or fergesë e tiranës me piperka in Albanian. Another version of this dish, named fërgesë me melçi or tavë dheu me mëlçi, is created by adding chopped liver and garlic to the mixture, and the veal version is known as fergesë e tiranës me mish viçi. While the vegetarian version is mostly served as a side dish, the version prepared with meat is often served as the main course.Expand

Peruvian ceviche de conchas negras is a type of ceviche made with black clams (concha negra) said to have aphrodisiac properties, traditionally sourced from the Tumbes region. The clam meat and its juices are meticulously cleaned, then seasoned with a vibrant mix of ají limo peppers, finely diced red onions, salt, pepper, and garlic paste. This concoction is allowed to marinate briefly in fresh lime juice, intensifying its flavors. It's traditionally served with choclo (Peruvian large-kernel corn) and a slice of sweet potato, adding a delightful contrast to the dish's spicy zest. Some other serving options include toasted corn nuts cancha and crispy chifle or fried plantain chips.Expand

Zollai Baromfi és Húsfeldolgozó Kft. is a Hungarian company established in 1980, specializing in the production of high-quality meat products. The company is an exclusive supplier to the domestic hotel and hospitality sector, with their products also featured in the restaurants of multinational companies both locally and internationally. They are currently working on making their products directly available to the Hungarian population. Zollai Baromfi és Húsfeldolgozó Kft. places special emphasis on the quality of their products, using traditional recipes and natural ingredients. Their offerings include specialties such as burgers prepared with an original Croatian recipe made from pork and beef, seasoned with natural spices. Expand

Maison Vérot is a prestigious French butcher and delicatessen that has been preserving the tradition of fine charcuterie - the art of crafting cured and prepared meat products - for generations. Founded in the 1930s, it is now led by Gilles Vérot, a master charcutier known for his respectful fusion of artisanal techniques with contemporary flavors. Based in Paris, Maison Vérot's products can also be found in top restaurants and luxury food boutiques. The quality of the meat and the careful selection of ingredients lie at the heart of their philosophy, with a strong emphasis on French sourcing and sustainable production. The visual appeal of their creations, the balance of flavor and texture, and their attention to seasonality make their products truly distinctive. Maison Vérot is not only a symbol of authenticity and tradition, but also a shining example of how French culinary heritage can be carried forward and reimagined with taste and integrity. Their shops in Paris are places of both artisanal excellence and exceptional gastronomic experience.Expand

On the Pig’s Back is a renowned producer of fine foods that artfully blends French culinary tradition with high-quality Irish ingredients. Their handcrafted range includes pâtés, terrines, cured meats, and artisan cheeses, all made using traditional methods without artificial additives, flavorings, or industrial gelatin. Great care is taken in sourcing ingredients—from free-range eggs and rich Irish butter to locally raised pork—ensuring each product delivers full, natural flavor and a satisfying, authentic texture. Signature offerings include chicken liver pâté with garlic and cognac, pork terrine with dried fruit, and a selection of cheeses and gourmet specialties ideal for charcuterie boards. Known for its artisanal approach and dedication to quality, On the Pig’s Back has earned a trusted reputation among food lovers seeking honest, delicious, and thoughtfully made delicacies.Expand

Findlater's Fine Foods is a renowned Scottish producer of luxury pâtés, spreads, and delicatessen items, based in Linlithgow, West Lothian, Scotland. The company was founded in 2004 as a restaurant and deli shop, but due to high demand for their handmade pâtés, they expanded production and moved to a larger facility at their current location. Their products are crafted in small batches using techniques and equipment typical of high-end restaurant kitchens. This commitment to quality and artisanal craftsmanship has earned them numerous awards. Today, their products are available in delicatessens, farm shops, and food halls across the United Kingdom.Expand

Highland Charcuterie is a family-run business based in Oldshoremore, Kinlochbervie, Scotland. It was founded by Isabelle and Richard Flannery and specializes in producing artisanal cured meats and smoked products using high-quality, locally sourced ingredients. Isabelle started making charcuterie in 2004, initially for their hotel restaurant. As demand grew, they officially established the business in 2014. They source their meat from local producers in the Highland region. The products are handcrafted, and they often forage for wild ingredients such as wild garlic, seaweed, and wild berries. Their range includes pork rillettes, venison salami, pheasant pâté, and smoked sausages, all of which are gluten-free. They take pride in producing unique flavors using traditional methods, offering a variety of smoked and air-dried meats, pâtés, and cheeses, all made by Isabelle and Richard in their specialized workshops.Expand

Three Little Pigs Charcuterie is a renowned company specializing in high-quality French-inspired charcuterie, pâtés, mousses, and other gourmet snacks. Founded in 1975, the company introduced American kitchens to the art of charcuterie, with a focus on using only the finest ingredients. They offer a wide range of products, including cured meats, pâtés, foie gras, and sous-vide egg bites. Located in New York, Three Little Pigs is committed to providing customers with authentic and artisanal French-inspired delicacies, perfect for parties, special occasions, or everyday indulgence. Their products are available for purchase directly through their online store, where you can explore their curated selections and seasonal offerings.Expand

L’Authentique is a producer of authentic French charcuterie, crafting fine delicacies with passion and dedication using traditional recipes. Their range includes handmade sausages, terrines, and pâtés, made from meat sourced from farms that follow principles of free-range or controlled farming. Free from gluten, flour, artificial flavors, nitrates, or preservatives, L’Authentique products embody honesty and purity of flavor. The combination of French culinary tradition and high-quality local ingredients makes this charcuterie highly regarded and widely appreciated among lovers of true artisanal craftsmanship.Expand

Butler Country Estates is a family-run artisan producer specializing in premium smoked trout products. Founded by passionate fisherman Richard Butler, the company blends traditional culinary methods with modern flavor sensibilities. Their products are crafted from fresh, high-quality trout and delicately smoked to preserve the fish’s natural richness and texture. The range includes pâtés, fillets, whole fish, and gravadlax, offered in a variety of flavors such as classic, dill, beetroot & horseradish, chili, and watercress. Everything is handmade in small batches, with close attention to detail and quality. Butler Country Estates takes pride in using honest ingredients and delivering real, recognizable flavors. They maintain a strong commitment to sustainability and partner with like-minded local producers. The result is authentic, thoughtfully crafted food with a clear sense of origin and care.Expand

Rare & Pasture is an award-winning producer of fine charcuterie and smoked meat products, based on the organic Fowlescombe Farm in Ugborough, Devon, England. The company is renowned for its handcrafted frankfurters, smoked meats, and cured products, all made using traditional methods without artificial additives. They use organic, certified meat sourced from their own farm and other farms that share their values and commitment to animal welfare. Their philosophy is rooted in sustainable and regenerative farming, with a mission to produce food that is flavorful, nutritious, and environmentally responsible. Fowlescombe Farm specializes in raising native British breeds such as Beef Shorthorn and English Longhorn cattle, as well as Tamworth pigs. These animals are reared on species-rich pasture without grain-based feed, resulting in meat of exceptional quality and taste.Expand

Olympia Provisions is Oregon’s first USDA-approved salumeria, dedicated to crafting premium European-style cured meats using traditional methods. Founded in 2009 in Portland, the company was born from a deep passion for authentic charcuterie, inherited by founder Elias Cairo from his father and perfected through years of training in Europe. Driven by the vision of making artisan meats without compromise, Elias gathered a team of experts and established Olympia Provisions in a small workshop inside the historic Olympic Cereal Mill building. Over the years, the company has grown into one of America’s leading cured meat producers, now operating a 34,000-square-foot production facility alongside multiple restaurants across Portland. Their philosophy is built on carefully sourcing meat from sustainable farms, using traditional curing and fermentation techniques, and incorporating only natural ingredients. Their product range includes premium salamis, sausages, pâtés, and pickled delicacies, all crafted with meticulous attention to detail and a deep respect for tradition. The quality and authenticity of Olympia Provisions’ products are recognized across the United States – they are available in gourmet shops and specialty stores, as well as through their "Salami of the Month Club" subscription, allowing cured meat enthusiasts to enjoy their exceptional products nationwide. With an uncompromising dedication to quality, rich heritage, and an innovative approach, Olympia Provisions continues to be a true symbol of artisan charcuterie, bringing the authentic flavors of Europe to the American table.Expand