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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Guide to Midtown East

Japanese food spots

Made for those who prioritize the precision and craft of Japanese culinary traditions in every meal.

Based on 899 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Tensai image 1
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Japanese restaurant

Small space with cozy atmosphere and clean decor offers a calm dining spot. Udon dishes shine with perfectly chewy noodles and rich broths, featuring options like kitsune and shrimp tempura udon. Bar seats by the window provide a peaceful view for people watching.

Udon dishes here feature perfectly chewy noodles and tender beef with a rich broth. Options like kitsune udon and shrimp tempura udon offer authentic flavors with sweet and savory notes.

People are saying

"The udon here is perfectly chewy and full of flavor."

"It's a cozy, small spot with a warm atmosphere."

"The Japanese food here is so flavorful and satisfying."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

2

The menu features dishes priced between $10-20.

3

Seating is limited, so arrive early to secure a spot.

02
Atto Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Bright, welcoming space offers a calming atmosphere with sophisticated design and great house music. Fresh, high-quality sushi features generous portions and skilled omakase preparation. Prices remain affordable, making it a top Japanese food spot.

Fresh, high-quality sushi shines with generous portions and a skilled sushi chef preparing omakase meals. Prices stay affordable while delivering an exceptional Japanese food experience.

People are saying

"The Japanese food, especially the omakase, was incredible."

"The sushi here is great value for the quality."

"The seafood here is served by super friendly and kind staff."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with $5 Sapporo and great Sake.

2

The happy hour deal costs $10 for a draft beer and 1 hand roll.

3

The lunch special includes 3 hand rolls for $15.

03
Aji Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Simple yet elegant decor creates a bright and inviting space with a homey feel. Sushi offers very fresh fish and generous portions, with rolls like Lobster and rainbow that are authentic and well made. Friendly staff keep the atmosphere serene and cozy for all group sizes.

Sushi features very fresh fish and generous pieces with an extensive variety of options. Rolls like Lobster and rainbow come well constructed and authentic, avoiding the common sweetness found elsewhere.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and high quality."

"The sashimi here is so fresh and buttery, it's the best I've ever had."

"The Miso Soup here is so peaceful and great."

Good to know

1

Aji Sushi can get quite busy during peak lunch and dinner hours, leading to longer wait times.

2

The prices are affordable, with $16 for a 10 piece sashimi being a good deal for Manhattan.

3

The restaurant offers fresh, quality products at a more than correct price.

04
Sushi You image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot with fresh sushi and a cozy, retro 80s vibe offers an authentic Japanese feel. Friendly staff enhance the omakase experience while old school music videos add charm. Intimate seating makes it perfect for quality dining.

Freshness stands out with super fresh sushi and an authentic omakase that lets the fish shine. The chef and staff are friendly and accommodating, creating a top-notch Japanese dining experience.

People are saying

"The Omakase here felt personal, like being invited to their home."

"The Japanese food here is some of the best I ever had."

"I found this place to be a true hidden gem."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating.

2

The restaurant offers a special lunch deal on Wednesdays.

3

Omakase is a popular choice; let the chef surprise you.

05
Mikiya Wagyu Shabu House | Manhattan image 1

Enjoy premium A5 Wagyu beef cooked tableside in a cozy, bright space with a relaxing vibe. Savor all-you-can-eat Wagyu shabu shabu in rich sukiyaki broth and appetizers like wagyu sushi and tartare. Spacious dining rooms offer comfort but watch for slippery floors.

Premium shabu shabu features AYCE Wagyu beef cooked in rich sukiyaki broth. Appetizers include wagyu sushi, sweet shrimp, and wagyu tartare, with Wagyu Nigiri balancing beef and rice flavors perfectly.

People are saying

"The Wagyu ribeye here is delicious and high quality."

"The seafood platter was generous and incredibly fresh."

"You'll love the unlimited premium Wagyu beef in their Japanese food."

Good to know

1

You only have 90 minutes for your meal.

2

The best package is the $98 Diamond package, which includes unlimited premium cuts of Wagyu meat.

3

Premium sets include the highest quality A5 Japanese wagyu and M9+ Australian wagyu.

06
Omakase Shihou (Shiro) - Midtown image 1

Small space seats eight, creating an intimate atmosphere with low lighting and smooth jazz. Live sushi prep shows chef's precise technique and fresh ingredients. Offers authentic omakase experience with standout Chicken Kuro Ramen and octopus appetizer.

Offers an authentic omakase experience with delicious sushi and warm hospitality. The Chicken Kuro Ramen and octopus appetizer also stand out as tasty options.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"The Wagyu here is perfectly done and not overcooked."

"The service at these dinner spots was great."

Good to know

1

The omakase experience is priced at around $155 per person.

2

Reservations are recommended due to high demand for seating.

3

Parking is available at a garage around the corner.

07
Lucky Cat image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Izakaya-style spot offers authentic Japanese decor and a cozy vibe. Enjoy rich chicken ramen and tasty takoyaki while watching retro anime visuals. Lively atmosphere with a DJ and classic anime movies keeps energy high.

Ramen stands out with rich, authentic flavors, especially the chicken ramen. The takoyaki also offers a notable taste experience.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and authentic Japanese."

"It's a cozy spot with a great atmosphere and eclectic decorations."

"You have to try the ramen; it's the best Japanese food I've had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to secure a meal, especially for large groups.

2

Happy hour offers $4 Sapporo and runs daily from 12pm to 6pm.

3

Free parking at the meter is available after 7 PM.

08
Palladino’s Steak & Seafood image 1
Fine dining restaurant

Elegant dining space offers stunning views over Grand Central Station and a beautiful bar. Sushi shines with Bluefin Tuna Roll and creative dishes like the Deli Roll with pastrami. Atmosphere blends sophistication and warmth for casual dinners or dates.

Sushi stands out with options like the Bluefin Tuna Roll and a creative Steak and Egg Sushi Roll. Unique dishes include the Deli Roll with pastrami and sauerkraut, plus family-style sashimi and sushi tacos.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be delicious and full of flavor."

"The steak here is amazing, with attentive and knowledgeable service."

"Chef Sam Hazen's Japanese Food is phenomenal and creative."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to high demand shortly after opening.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak dinner hours on weekends.

3

The restaurant accepts credit cards and mobile payments only.

09
Omakase OSUKAA Midtown East image 1
Japanese restaurant

Counter seating creates an intimate atmosphere where chefs craft fresh sushi with unique flavors. Lunch omakase offers excellent value at $79, pairing perfectly with suggested sake for an elevated dining experience.

Omakase offers 13 courses of perfectly fresh sushi with chef's unique secondary flavors in the nigiri. Lunch omakase provides excellent value at $79, combining quality and affordability.

People are saying

"This Omakase experience was a tour of exquisite fish and textures."

"This lunch spot offers a delicious 10-course omakase for only $48."

"The omakase experience here is truly transcendent."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a 10-course lunch omakase for $59.

2

A 13-course option is available for $79.

3

The full experience includes 17 courses for $109.

10
Sasabune Express image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers a quiet atmosphere and fresh fish with precise preparation. Omakase delivers a classic experience featuring delicious sashimi. Prices are on the higher side, reflecting the high-quality ingredients.

Sushi here is incredibly fresh with high quality ingredients and precise preparation. The omakase offers a classic yet elevated experience featuring delicious sashimi and a variety of fresh sushi.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is incredibly fresh and delicious."

"The sushi here is so fresh, the fish is tender and soft."

"The fish here is so fresh and of great quality."

Good to know

1

The lunch menu costs $25 and includes miso soup, salad, and a rice bowl.

2

Sushi is served one piece at a time for a unique tasting experience.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially for the omakase experience.

11
Restaurant Nippon image 1
Japanese restaurant

Tatami rooms with zashiki seating offer an authentic Japanese dining experience. Enjoy flavorful bento boxes and dishes like beef sukiyaki and Godzilla curry in a quiet, elegant space with an old school vibe and soft elevator jazz. Staff speak Japanese, adding to the cozy, nostalgic feel.

Japanese meals here include authentic sushi and flavorful bento boxes that match what you'd find in Japan. Dishes like beef sukiyaki, Godzilla curry, and zaru cold soba with tempura stand out for their taste and quality.

People are saying

"I found the homemade soba here to be delicious."

"The tempura here has a beautiful, elegant, and clean atmosphere."

"The homemade soba noodles here are amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, and it's best to confirm they are open before arriving.

2

Expect to order within 7 minutes of being seated to avoid missing out.

3

Prices for a la carte items can be very high, often marked as market price.

12
Crave Sushi Bar image 1
Sushi restaurant

Elegant space with dimmed lights and an octopus mural sets a cozy, inviting mood. Sushi shines with spectacular nigiri and fresh sashimi like scallop nigiri with brown butter. Warm atmosphere suits those seeking a refined yet friendly dining experience.

Sushi here stands out for its spectacular nigiri and fresh sashimi. Signature dishes include scallop nigiri with brown butter, spicy Maine lobster roll, and dressed bigeye tuna wasabi sashimi, all priced well for the quality.

People are saying

"The sushi service here is friendly, prompt, and truly exceptional."

"The seafood here is so fresh, especially the sashimi and scallops."

"The Japanese Food here is amazing, with staff who are super friendly and attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted bites and drinks from 4-6pm daily.

2

Reservations are not required on Wednesday nights.

3

The total bill for two people averages around $120, including tip.

13
Yakiniku TORAJI image 1
Japanese restaurant

Sleek interior with horigotatsu seating offers a relaxed vibe. Staff grill meat, enhancing the authentic yakiniku experience. Wagyu beef sushi melts in the mouth, paired with free green tea and mochi under $30.

Wagyu beef sushi melts in the mouth, offering a rich taste. Meals under $30 come with a free cup of hot green tea and mochi cake for dessert.

People are saying

"The Japanese BBQ here has divine Wagyu beef."

"This lunch spot's beef bowl and lunch sets are delicious and a great deal."

"The Japanese food, especially the melt-in-your-mouth wagyu, was exceptional."

Good to know

1

The premium course costs $198 per person.

2

The restaurant requires customers to cook their own food.

3

The restaurant has a time limit for dining despite being a premium course experience.

14
Point Seven image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood spot shines with fresh spicy tuna sushi and a stylish space featuring flying fish lighting. Perfect for business meals or after-work drinks, it offers privacy despite loud music. Bento boxes and nigiri add solid Japanese options to the elevated atmosphere.

Unrolled spicy tuna sushi and ceviche stand out with fresh flavors. Bento box sushi offers great quality, while Martingale Side Cars and Nigiri deliver solid options.

People are saying

"The food here is fantastic, beautifully presented."

"The cocktails here are expertly crafted and felt made just for me."

"The Japanese Food here, especially the nigiri, was truly delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6 PM on Fridays and Mondays.

2

Reservations are suggested, especially for pre-theater dinner between 5 PM and 7 PM.

3

Drinks are half price only for bar food during happy hour.

15
Bar Orai image 1

Apartment-style bar offers live jazz and Japanese whiskey in a cozy, upscale setting. Ebi katsu is crispy and flavorful, paired well with standout drinks like matcha cocktail. Intimate vibe suits quiet listening and dates perfectly.

Shrimp comes out crispy and flavorful in the ebi katsu, served on soft milkbread. Drinks include a matcha cocktail and a melon prosciutto that stand out.

People are saying

"The Japanese whiskey here pairs perfectly with the chill vinyl jazz."

"I thought the mac and cheese tasted great."

"The Japanese food here, especially the Mentaiko Mac n Cheese, is creamy and a little spicy."

Good to know

1

Making a reservation is recommended because the bar gets packed on weekends.

2

The bar has a wait time of 2 hours during peak hours.

3

Bar Orai does not accept cash; credit cards only.

16
Shima Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot offers a relaxing atmosphere with fun music and a cool vibe. Enjoy fresh, well-crafted sushi like spicy scallop and salmon rolls at reasonable prices. It stays uncrowded even during early evenings on weekdays.

Sushi here is very fresh and well-crafted, with standout items like spicy scallop and spicy salmon rolls. Prices stay reasonable, especially with lunch specials and bento boxes offering good value.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, is super fresh and well-crafted."

"The lunch spot bento box is a great deal for the price."

"These soup dumplings are the best I will ever try."

Good to know

1

There is a $15 lunch special available.

2

The bento box special offers a good amount of food for the price.

3

The restaurant is not crowded even after 6:00 PM on a workday.

17
Hatsuhana image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small sushi spot buzzes with lively energy and retro Japanese charm. Chefs serve fresh nigiri omakase with friendly care at a crowded sushi bar. Reservations are a must for this top-quality sushi experience.

Freshness and diversity stand out in the sushi and sashimi offerings. Chefs at the sushi bar are kind and friendly, explaining and accommodating orders during a 15-piece nigiri omakase dinner.

People are saying

"I considered this the best sushi spot in all of NYC."

"The fish here is so fresh and delicious."

"I had an amazing dinner experience with the Japanese food here."

Good to know

1

Reservations are necessary as people are often turned away without them.

2

Make a reservation if you're dining with more than two people.

3

Paying with cash gets you a 10% discount on your bill.

18
Yakiniku Gen image 1
Yakiniku restaurant

Dark interior and open grill tables create an interactive, lively atmosphere popular with young men. Booths offer a quieter spot amid the noise. Japanese menu features wagyu sushi with rich, tender meat, but no liver sashimi options remain.

Wagyu sushi stands out with its rich, tender meat served as nigiri. Liver sashimi is not available, and Reba Sashimi has been removed from the menu.

People are saying

"The wagyu steak here just melts in your mouth."

"I found this spot for high-quality Japanese BBQ."

"The Japanese food here, especially the wagyu nigiri, is amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available, but prices are considered high.

2

Expect to pay around $70 per person for a meal.

3

The restaurant has a reputation for high-quality Japanese BBQ.

19
sushi AMANE image 1
Sushi restaurant

Eight-seat omakase counter offers Michelin-starred sushi with perfectly seasoned rice in a cozy basement setting. Warm, attentive staff create a speakeasy vibe that feels like Tokyo. Chef's unique spin broadens flavors into a phenomenal experience.

An intimate 8-seat spot offers Michelin Star Edomae sushi with perfectly prepared rice and legit cuts of fish. The chef adds a unique spin to traditional dishes, broadening flavors into a phenomenal omakase experience.

People are saying

"It felt like a private speakeasy, hidden downstairs."

"The fish here is undeniably the freshest and top quality."

"The Japanese food here is top-quality, especially the fresh fish."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not hard to get, but it's best to book in advance.

2

The omakase experience costs $230 per person, with additional charges for drinks.

3

Finding the restaurant can be tricky due to construction; look for the basement entrance.

20
Nishida Sho-ten image 1
Ramen restaurant

Small ramen shop offers authentic flavor with a rich chicken broth that shines late at night. Tight seating and a classic Japanese vibe create a warm, quick dining spot. Notable sake selection complements the meal perfectly.

Ramen here stands out for its authentic flavor and late-night availability. The chicken ramen is especially notable for its rich, satisfying broth.

People are saying

"This ramen is one of my absolute favorite spots."

"This is a great late night spot for delicious ramen."

"This Japanese food is one of my absolute favorite spots."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait for a table if you are a party larger than 1 during busy hours.

2

The restaurant is open till 3am during the week and weekend.

3

You will likely have to wait for a table at 7pm on a Saturday.

21
Carrot Express image 1
Restaurant

Spacious and stylish interior with bright lighting creates a relaxed vibe. Freshness shines in the Tuna and Salmon Poke Bowl, offering balanced seasoning. Ample seating supports a calm dining experience with a cozy, well-organized layout.

Freshness stands out in the Tuna and Salmon Poke Bowl, which balances seasoning well. Several poke bowls, including the Pesto Chicken Bowl and Caesar Wrap, offer variety and consistent quality.

People are saying

"The healthy foods here are fresh, delicious, and flavorful."

"I ate every last crumb of the carrot cake."

"I loved the fresh, flavorful poke bowls here."

Good to know

1

Customers should order ahead online to avoid long wait times.

2

You get 10 bucks off if you order from the app.

3

The restaurant does not offer table service.

22
Hokey Poké image 1
Poke bar

Poke bowls feature fresh fish and creative toppings like shiitake mushrooms. Customers enjoy Hullabaloo Ponzu and Roasted Sesame Cream sauces for bold flavors. The chill atrium setting offers quick service with no wait times and fair prices.

Fresh ingredients come together in create-your-own poke bowls with no limit on toppings or sauces. Sauces like Hullabaloo Ponzu and Roasted Sesame Cream add distinct flavors to the quick, customizable meals.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, the fish wasn't fishy at all."

"This Lunch Spot's bowls are so fresh and delicious."

"I thought the poke here was excellent."

Good to know

1

There is no limit on toppings or sauces for the create-your-own poke bowl.

2

The only extra charge is for avocado, which is common at all places.

3

The restaurant ran out of several protein options and sauces.

23
Yezo Thai Isankaya image 1
Thai restaurant

Cozy space blends Thai dining with Japanese decor and lively jazz music. Small stools create an intimate vibe. Enjoy Yezo Yakitori and spicy salads with a wasabi kick in an Izakaya style setting.

Flavors focus on Yezo Yakitori and dishes like tako wasabi, kai yang, and crying tiger. The salad offers a wasabi kick with ponzu, all served in an Izakaya style setting.

People are saying

"I loved the delicious and fresh food here."

"The decor makes this place feel so cozy and authentic."

"The Japanese food, especially the sukiyaki hot pot, is so delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has live jazz music from 8-9pm on Fridays.

2

There is a lunch special available.

3

Yezo Thai Isankaya does not have liquor but offers BYOB for beer and wine.

24
Remi43 Flower & Coffee image 1

Coffee shop blends lush greenery with natural light for a lively, forest-like vibe. Berry matcha latte offers a unique rich flavor alongside solid sushi and tasty matcha loaf. Stylish crowd enjoys outdoor and mezzanine seating despite some narrow stairs and tight spots.

Berry matcha latte stands out with a unique, rich flavor unlike typical matchas. Sushi is solid, and the matcha loaf offers a tasty twist on traditional Japanese flavors.

People are saying

"The lavender latte is amazing and visually beautiful."

"The atmosphere here is work friendly, full of plants and great vibes."

"The Japanese food, especially the sushi, was surprisingly good."

Good to know

1

The cafe gets crowded quickly, so arrive early to secure a seat.

2

Expect long wait times on Saturday mornings due to high traffic.

3

Finding an open table can be challenging during busy hours.

25
Dai Hachi Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Cozy space with large wooden tables invites work or chats. Sushi is fresh and delicious, with great vegetarian options and rich miso soup. Enjoy intimate atmosphere with occasional lively music and a fine sake selection.

Sushi comes fresh and perfect with options that suit vegetarians well. Crispy haru maki and flavorful pork gyoza complement the meal, while the miso soup stands out for its rich taste.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and reasonably priced."

"The sushi here is so fresh, it's a great lunch spot."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and delicious."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a happy hour menu that is not advertised.

2

The restaurant offers special prices for lunch orders.

3

A tuna and avocado roll costs $9.

26
Dainobu image 1
Japanese grocery store

Small, cramped space bursts with fresh sushi and ready-made bento boxes for authentic Japanese flavors. Loud reggaeton music adds unexpected energy near the snacks aisle. Leopard print wallpaper and dive bar decor create a unique vibe among Japanese grocery stores.

Offers a wide selection of sushi, bento boxes, and onigiri with good quality fish. Also stocks Japanese snacks, sweets, beer, ramen, and udon.

People are saying

"This grocery store has amazing sushi and a huge variety of snacks."

"I found so many unique Japanese treats and gifts I couldn't find elsewhere."

"I loved the onigiri and bento selection of Japanese food here."

Good to know

1

There is an $8 minimum purchase for using a credit card.

2

Frozen items (except meat and fish) are 40% off every weekend.

3

Karaage chicken onigiri costs $2.50 each.

27
KazuNori: The Original Hand Roll Bar image 1

Bar seating offers an intimate setting where chefs craft fresh sushi rolls with top-quality fish. The casual, sleek vibe suits solo diners or pairs, though noise from the open food hall can be loud. Perfect for those craving handmade Japanese food in a compact space.

Fresh, handmade sushi rolls stand out with excellent nori and rice. Fish quality is flavorful and satisfying, making it a solid choice for sushi lovers and newcomers alike.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the hand rolls, is so fresh and tasty."

"The food here is amazing and truly memorable."

"The seafood here is incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and expect a long wait during peak hours.

2

The restaurant does not allow tipping as it is included in the prices.

3

Hand rolls must be eaten while seated at the bar, not in general seating.

28
Sushi & Co Lexington Ave image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with hip modern ambiance offers fresh sushi in fancy boxware that enhances the experience. The 4 Roll Box shines with variety and taste, while Black Spicy Tuna adds a spicy kick. Miso soup and udon noodles bring rich, comforting flavors.

Freshness and presentation stand out in the 4 Roll Box, offering a variety of sushi rolls that taste amazing. The Black Spicy Tuna roll delivers a notable spicy kick, while the miso soup and udon noodles complement the sushi with rich flavors.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is phenomenal—fresh, delicate, and beautifully prepared."

"The udon portion size was so generous, I couldn't finish it."

"I found the prices to be very affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant does not have a bathroom for clients.

2

The price of the sushi is double that of average sushi restaurants in the area.

3

Beware of additional prices that are hidden throughout the menu.

29
Sushi Ginza image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers fresh sashimi and crispy rock shrimp tempura in a clean, inviting space. Outdoor terrace seating provides a good breeze and a calm to clubby vibe. Friendly service makes dining alone or with company enjoyable.

Sushi here features extremely fresh sashimi that melts in your mouth and crispy rock shrimp tempura lightly sauced for perfect texture. The menu includes special sushi rolls and hand rolls with high-quality ingredients and great flavor balance.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and fatty, it's amazing."

"The seafood here is so fresh and flavorful."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and fatty."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on Thursday, Friday, and Saturday nights.

2

The restaurant can get crowded during peak hours.

3

Affordable lunch options are available on attractive plates.

30
Kaoru image 1
Seafood donburi restaurant

Small space blends classic izakaya and piano bar vibes with live music and karaoke. Fresh sushi bowls and authentic sashimi offer high-quality fish that melts in your mouth. Intimate, cozy atmosphere fills with lively energy from Japanese regulars.

Sushi bowls feature an assortment of fresh, high-quality fish with perfectly seasoned rice. The chirashi stays fresh even after takeout, and the sashimi is notably authentic and melt-in-your-mouth.

People are saying

"The seafood here is so fresh, it's the best I've ever had."

"It's a small, inviting spot that feels so cozy and authentic."

"The Japanese food here is so fresh, especially the salmon."

Good to know

1

Kaoru stays open until 3:00 AM on Fridays.

2

The place fills up quickly at lunch time.

3

Go off hours from 2-5 PM for no wait.

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