Square Meal

The casual atmosphere at Square Meal can encourage even the most reserved diners to roll up their sleeves and put their elbows on the table. The menu, like the vibe, skews low-key, with Mediterranean-leaning seasonal grub including a watermelon and strawberry salad with feta and spicy greens, and lightly fried calamari piled high atop a bed of coleslaw. Maryland crab cakes or pan-roasted duck breast in a fig and balsamic reduction make for a fine dressed-up midweek dinner. These meals stick to your ribs: Portions are generous enough for leftovers, but make room for dessert, such as a jammy Maine blueberry cobbler à la mode.