Take a break from the Beltway and head to Millie’s. It’s an offshoot of the Nantucket original, with a loyal whale-patterned, shorts-wearing crowd. Sound preppy? It is. The space nails that breezy, nautical vibe with navy blue booths, a ceiling strung with boats and not-too-twee ship lanterns. It’s almost impossible not to be cheerful here—even the open kitchen buzzes with activity, simply enhancing the convivial aura.

Equally upbeat is the menu that shines a spotlight on New England. Seared tuna tacos with wasabi cream and ceviche are light and refreshing; while the heady fragrance of the blue crab fried rice will induce envy from nearby tables. Maryland crab cake piled atop a fluffy brioche and slathered with herb aïoli tastes of summer by the sea.