Sushi suggestions for novice?!

Sushi suggestions for novice?

I'm not a sushi eater but would like to see what all the fuss is about, some co-workers had me try California roll for lunch, it was very "salty" tasting and I don't like avacado or cucumbers. Eating raw fish makes me nervous and isn't that appealing, is there such a thing as sushi with cooked meat inside? I know that may be a contradiction, but I would like some suggestions, I want to try this again. Thanks

3 days ago
I really appreciate the GREAT suggestions, just hearing them makes me want to go to a sushi bar, I am going to give this a go one more time!!

when I introduce sushi to picky eaters, I try my best to have them not eat california rolls.

try any sushi that has cooked seafood or fried crispy tempura in it.

if you're planning to be more daring in eating fresh seafood, try this way:

always use the ginger to cleanse your palate. before and after you munch on a sushi as a whole.

try drinking good, high grade, sweet sake or plum wine. these alcohols allow your tongue to get rid of the salty after taste.

if you don't want to drink sake or plum wine, try asking for water with lime. lime is a great accompaniment with salty foods.

don't always forget to also eat some of the foods that come along served with the sushi. you can use the angel haired radishes to cleanse your palate further. some restaurants add pickeled vegetables, just place the carrot or pickle in your mouth for a few seconds, either eat or discard. the vinegar/brine allows your tongue to get used to salt, thereby allowing you to enjoy the soft texture of the fish.

always order familiar fishes first (white tuna, salmon, mackarel, cooked squid, cooked eel, cooked crab). what some of my friends have done, is order tempura on the side, cut the tempura and place it on the sushi to hide the soft texture of the fish. fatty tuna has been a favorite of mine and my friends!