"It may be an offshoot of the Boston original, but Tico stands on its own two feet. Pulsing with energy, it fits right in with this lively U Street neighborhood. The spacious dining room’s dark wood furnishings and vibrant murals create the sense of relaxing in a Latin American courtyard—and once those hibiscus margaritas arrive, stress has no chance. Lunch is mainly tacos, but come dinner, the small plates menu offers plenty to choose from, including ceviche (snapper is especially good); guacamole with an inventive sprinkle of black olive powder; and cauliflower roasted and covered in crunchy fava beans and cotija cheese. From Spanish octopus with panca vinaigrette to Brussels sprouts with aji lime honey, the items cooked a laplanchaare always a hit." - The MICHELIN Guide