"Jaji, by the Parche team, is Oakland’s go-to for an upscale-ish, feel-good dinner. It’s a high-ceilinged space with hanging red-orange fabric, arched windows, and a buzz that can only be generated by groups unpacking their week over Afghan dishes designed for sharing. The menu pulls in both familiar and unexpected notes. There’s comforting potato-and-pea-stuffed bolani, a stunning $72 trout paired with saffron rice, perfumed by candied cara cara oranges, and a silky, seed-covered chicken liver mousse spread over butter-soft brioche more than makes up for the occasional brisk pacing. But still, when on the lookout for a relaxed date night or catch-up without any pretentious vibes, Jaji is the spot." - julia chen 1, lani conway