"Dinner at a quick, casual sushi spot is one foolproof way to spend time with a third-tier friend. Even better when that time is spent at Okoze. It’s one of our favorite spots in Russian Hill for excellent nigiri and special rolls, and is also pretty easy to get a table last-minute. We also love the decorative little touches on each dish, like flower-shaped beets and actual flower petals. Comment on how adorable the beets are while you rack your brain to remember what this friend’s nebulous “I work in tech” job really entails. " - julia chen 1