Sushi Bistro Out, Kazan In on 24th; Hamburger Mary's Formula Retail Battle

MISSION—Sushi Bistro has vacated its 24th Street location and been replaced by Kazan, a spot serving sushi and Japanese tapas. (The Richmond location is unaffected.) Traditional nigiri and wild rolls are both part of Kazan's offering. [Tablehopper]

CASTRO—Hamburger Mary's attempt to take over the Castro's forever-vacant The Patio is headed to a December vote with the Planning Commission, who'll have to decide whether or not it's formula retail. Considering the cold shoulders received by Starbucks and Chipotle in recent efforts to open in still-vacant spaces, this could be another epic battle. [BAR]

OAKLAND—Newish Alchemy Bottle Shop is now holding free tastings of various spirits on Saturday afternoons. Raff Distillerie will stop in this weekend, and Arkansas Black, Seven Stills, and Duncan Taylor are all on the docket. [EaterWire]

FINANCIAL DISTRICT—The Palace Hotel's famed Garden Court, long a teatime destination, is now open in the evenings. Catch them from 5-10 pm every evening, serving snacks, desserts, cocktails, and wine. [Tablehopper]