The place: MacAllisters Grill and Tavern, 8110 Main St., Lakewood Ranch, (941) 359-2424, macallisters.com. A spa-cious enclave of hardwood and murals of the Scottish countryside, high-ceilinged MacAllister’s has big windows looking out on Lakewood Ranch’s pedestrian-happy Main Street, as well as alfresco sidewalk seating.

The people: Ladies lunching in-between shopping excursions; sport-jacket professionals hammering out a deal.

Time factor: Not really a grab-and-go kind of setup; you’ll want to take your time.

The food: MacAllister’s ample menu has something for everyone, even for lunch, with everything from appetizers like Scotch egg ($7.95) and baby spinach salad (from $7.99) to shepherd’s pie ($14.50) and fish and chips ($13.99), as well as sandwiches and burgers (beef, lamb or chicken, from $8.50). The black and bleu steak salad ($11.59) is a standout, and the “Pick 3” option ($8.95) is a perfect lunch-size portion, with a half sandwich, cup of soup and choice of side (the chicken salad club doesn’t disappoint).  -By Hannah Wallace