Mealtime Meltdowns

I haven't seen anyone else post about this, so hopefully you have some advice. For a few months now, Owen has been whining, fussing and crying during meals (generally dinner, but many days, it's breakfast, too).

I have everything ready before getting him in his high chair, and even though he doesn't understand, I tell him it's ready. I've tried bottle, cup, feeding him, letting him feed himself, getting him out of his chair and holding him, giving him a spoon to hold. He eats around the same time every day, and although I pick his meals, he decides how much to eat so I think he's getting plenty.

My inclination is to wait to feed him until he calms down. I would sit there and try to comfort him by talking quietly and holding his hand, but I'd like to keep him in his chair. Is this a good idea or is he too young? Should I just ignore the behavior? Should I set a time limit for him to fuss, like five minutes, then I feed him anyway?