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Local picks

Japanese food in Berkeley

Made for those who seek out the precision and discipline of traditional Japanese culinary techniques.

Based on 776 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Tsuruya image 1
Tsuruya image 2
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Ramen restaurant

Cozy spot with authentic ramen and a lively, family-run vibe. Bar seating and tables create a friendly atmosphere. Black garlic and vegan ramen show real craftsmanship and rich flavors.

Ramen here features detailed craftsmanship with perfect fixings and rich broth. The black garlic and vegan ramen stand out as especially excellent.

People are saying

"I found the spicy tonkotsu ramen to be phenomenal and deeply savory."

"It's a cozy place with a welcoming vibe."

"I found the ramen broth here to be phenomenal and deeply savory."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not accepted, and seating is available in a clean alleyway.

2

Parking can be difficult, so plan to arrive early.

3

Expect long wait times as Tsuruya gets busy quickly.

02
Sushinista image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot offers fresh sushi burritos with balanced sauces and authentic rice. Cozy layout and 70s soul music create a relaxed vibe. Friendly, casual atmosphere focuses on local, organic ingredients and quality care.

Sushi burritos here feature extremely fresh ingredients and sushi rice that tastes just like in Japan. Options like the unagi sushi burrito and beef sukiyaki bowl offer balanced flavors with sauces that are not overpowering.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and full of flavor."

"I had the best, freshest sushi burrito I've ever tasted."

"I loved the fresh sushi burritos with great flavor."

Good to know

1

Takeout is available, but seating is very limited inside.

2

You're taking a gamble if you want to dine in due to few tables.

3

Prices are very reasonable, well below standard Berkeley prices.

03
Himalayan Bite image 1
Indian restaurant

Small space with a friendly atmosphere and cool vibe. Chicken bento boxes offer tender chicken and spicy noodles with generous portions. Ramen has a thick, rich soup with a pleasant spice level. Open kitchen adds transparency while music keeps energy lively.

Chicken bento boxes come with tender chicken, spicy noodles, and fried cauliflower. Ramen features a thick, rich soup with a pleasant spice level. Bentos offer generous portions and include salad.

People are saying

"The food here is so delicious and flavorful."

"The naan here is amazing, especially the garlic."

"The ramen here is rich and pleasantly spicy."

Good to know

1

Himalayan Bite serves free rice with curry orders.

2

A student BOGO free lunch special is available.

3

They serve halal meat options.

04
Sun Sun Sushi Shop image 1
Sushi restaurant

Grab fresh sushi with seared nigiri and crunchy rolls under $10. Enjoy a lively spot with cozy window tables perfect for quick bites. Small, tidy space focuses on fast service and affordable quality.

Fresh sushi features seared nigiri that melts in your mouth and crunchy rolls with balanced flavors. Prices stay under $10 for quick, grab-and-go meals, with free gyoza and fried chicken sometimes offered.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The takeout sushi here has such fresh, quality fish."

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

Good to know

1

This spot is NOT a dine-in restaurant; it's designed for pick-up and go.

2

The prices at Sun Sun Sushi Shop are affordable, with many options under $10.

3

You can request any dish on the menu to be made fresh if it's not in the fridge.

05
Katsumi Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Roomy interior offers a clean setting with a simple menu that speeds ordering. Sushi shines with fresh fatty fish and fluffy warm rice, paired with avocado and lemons. Late night crowds enjoy freshness and flavor in dishes like veggie udon and Chicken Katsu.

Sushi features fresh fatty fish with fluffy warm rice and comes with fresh avocado and lemons. Veggie udon is made fresh and very flavorful, alongside dishes like Chicken Katsu and Dragon Roll.

People are saying

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

"I found the sushi here to be really fresh and tasty."

"I found the food here to be great and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required but recommended during peak hours.

2

Expect a wait time of 20-30 minutes during busy dinner hours.

3

The restaurant offers a late-night menu until 1am on weekends.

06
Butterfish Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small space with dimmed lighting and close tables creates a cozy vibe. Fresh fish shines in every dish, especially the miso cod and perfectly cut nigiri. Thoughtful Japanese aesthetics make the interior stand out, while lively buzz fills the room quickly.

Fresh, vibrant fish shines in every dish with perfectly cut nigiri and sushi rolls. The imported wasabi pickles and real wasabi on top add unique flavors, while the miso cod stands out as a recommended dish.

People are saying

"I thought the sushi here was the best I'd ever had."

"The sake here is great, especially with the stellar nigiri."

"I thought the Japanese food here was the best I'd ever had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to the restaurant's small size.

2

Expect high prices for sushi, with some rolls costing around $20.

3

The restaurant emphasizes sustainability by using minimal plastic.

07
Azure Hot Pot image 1
Restaurant

Bright indoor space with wall murals and lively music creates a cozy vibe. Miso soup offers a perfectly balanced flavor, while sukiyaki broth adds rich taste to Japanese dishes. Fresh atmosphere keeps the experience comfortable for groups.

Miso soup stands out with a perfectly balanced and delicious flavor. The sukiyaki broth offers a rich, enjoyable taste that pairs well with the Japanese dishes served.

People are saying

"I found the soup here to be really tasty and flavorful."

"It's a cozy spot with a fun, welcoming vibe."

"The Japanese broths, especially miso and sukiyaki, were delicious."

Good to know

1

The price is $41.99 per person for all-you-can-eat hot pot.

2

Children under 5 eat free with a paying adult.

3

The restaurant allows 90 minutes maximum for unlimited ordering.

08
Tokyo Fish Market image 1
Asian grocery store

Narrow aisles create a cramped market feel with bright energy on weekends. Freshness shines in sushi grade fish and fresh wasabi root. Unique Japanese imports like Ponzu Sauce and authentic bentos offer great variety and quality.

Freshness stands out with sushi grade fish and fresh wasabi root from Half Moon Bay. The market offers a wide variety of sashimi, sushi, and Japanese ingredients like Ponzu Sauce and miso, plus authentic bentos and onigiri for quick meals.

People are saying

"I found the seafood here to be incredibly fresh and high-quality."

"The sushi and sashimi here are incredibly fresh and tasty."

"This market has a huge variety of super fresh fish."

Good to know

1

The market closes at 5pm.

2

Parking is limited, so plan accordingly.

3

Expect a great selection of fresh sashimi and sushi ingredients.

09
Mainichi Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Cozy and spacious with a casual yet luxurious vibe, perfect for groups and dates. Enjoy fresh sushi with generous portions and free miso soup. Large menu offers authentic Japanese dishes and ends with a refreshing orange dessert.

Sushi and sashimi come in generous portions with excellent quality. Meals include free miso soup and often end with cold orange desserts. Bento boxes offer fun and substantial options for dine-in.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here mean waiting forever for your food."

"It's really kid friendly with great veggie rolls for them."

Good to know

1

Parking is available directly in front of the restaurant.

2

The restaurant offers free miso soup with each meal.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere on Wednesday evenings.

10
Nippon Curry Berkeley image 1
Japanese restaurant

Fast casual spot shines with authentic Japanese curry and crunchy tonkatsu. Seating is limited and uneven but space stays clean and calm. Ideal for quick, no-frills meals with tender chicken thigh and a superior batter on katsu dishes.

Japanese curry stands out with its authentic flavor and mouthwatering taste. Tonkatsu and chicken katsu curry feature well-cooked, crunchy katsu and tender chicken thigh with a superior batter.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese curry here to be delicious and mouthwateringly good."

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The Japanese food, especially the curry, is authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Nippon Curry Berkeley focuses mainly on take-away orders with very limited seating.

2

The total cost for two dishes is around $28, making it affordable.

3

The restaurant is very clean and offers compostable or recyclable containers.

11
Manpuku image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot offers affordable prices and generous portions with a homey atmosphere. Sushi combos are excellent quality and well-priced. Cozy seating and simple decor make it feel unpretentious and welcoming.

Sushi here offers great value with prices around $16 for combos including tax and tip. The rolls are perfectly made and the nigiri comes in generous portions with excellent quality.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is fresh and delicious."

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"The Japanese food here is a great cost-effective option."

Good to know

1

The chicken katsu curry costs $12.95, offering good value.

2

Expect reasonable portion sizes that satisfy most diners.

3

A sushi combo with tax and tip is about $16.

12
Kirala image 1
Japanese restaurant

Outdoor seating offers a bright, casual vibe with a lively crowd. Fresh sushi shines with top-grade sashimi and rolls like Spider and Dragon. Cold sake pairs well with crispy tempura and Salmon Teriyaki, making it a popular spot that fills quickly.

Fresh fish and top-grade sashimi stand out here. Rolls like the Spider, Dragon, and Rainbow come highly praised, alongside crispy tempura and perfectly cooked Salmon Teriyaki.

People are saying

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

"The food here, especially the fish, is so fresh and flavorful."

"I loved their house sake, it was chilled and delicious."

Good to know

1

Kirala opens at 5:30 PM daily and does not accept reservations.

2

Expect a long wait, especially on weekends; arrive early to secure a table.

3

Cash is preferred due to a 4% fee on credit card payments.

13
Itani Sushi - Berkeley image 1
Japanese restaurant

Indoor shared space opens to a sunny garden patio with ample seating, creating a cool atmosphere. Sushi preparation at the bar highlights fresh fish and a perfect rice to fish ratio. Quick, tasty Japanese food offers excellent value and a cute setting for on-site or to-go dining.

Fresh fish and a perfect rice to fish ratio make the sushi stand out. The crunchy nori, super fresh fish, and well-plated dishes create a quick, tasty Japanese food experience with great value.

People are saying

"The seafood here is unbelievably fresh and delicious."

"I picked up their sushi takeout and it was so fresh and delicious."

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

Good to know

1

Itani Sushi offers quick, ready-made lunch and dinner options.

2

The prices are reasonable for the quality of sushi provided.

3

To-go service is quick and comparable to a fancy omakase.

14
Asaka Sushi & Bar image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi shines with fresh fish and real wasabi, while tempura stays light and crisp. Cozy modern space buzzes with energetic vibe and music. Eco-friendly packaging matches inventive rolls, making dining both tasty and responsible.

Sushi features exceptionally fresh fish and real wasabi that enhances flavor. Tempura comes out light and not greasy, while inventive rolls and artful chirashi add variety to the menu.

People are saying

"The sushi here is exceptionally fresh and delicious."

"The salad dressing here is a wonderful take on the classic."

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

Good to know

1

Asaka uses paper packaging instead of plastic.

2

Prices for sushi are affordable compared to other restaurants in the area.

3

The restaurant is located in a quiet part of town, away from the hustle.

15
Kyoto Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small takeout-only sushi shop offers fresh sushi with a fair meat-to-rice ratio and affordable prices. Open fridge displays sushi and Japanese snacks, with seating at nearby public tables. Simple, no-frills atmosphere focuses on quick, quality bites.

Freshness and affordability stand out with sushi priced between $3 and $5. Options include maki rolls and warm bowls like teriyaki salmon, all with a fair meat to rice ratio and good portions.

People are saying

"I found the Japanese food here to be super fresh and affordable."

"The sushi here is super fresh and affordable."

"The salmon here is super fresh and a great value."

Good to know

1

Kyoto Sushi is a take-out only restaurant with no dine-in options.

2

Sushi rolls are priced between $3 and $5, making them affordable.

3

To get the best selection, visit no later than 2-3 PM.

16
Masa Ramen Bistro image 1
Ramen restaurant

Ramen spot serves rich broth with chewy noodles, blending authentic Japanese flavors and a spicy twist. Open, crisp space plays Hawaiian tunes for a calm vibe. Seating fits groups but front seats lack comfort.

Ramen features chewy noodles and a rich, flavorful soup made by boiling bones for hours. The menu includes the Broke Da Mouth ramen and oxtail ramen, offering authentic Japanese flavors with a spicy twist.

People are saying

"I found the ramen here to be very tasty and rich with flavors."

"The chicken katsu curry here is solid and very crispy."

"The Japanese food, especially the ramen, has a rich and satisfying broth."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but arriving before 7pm helps avoid long waits.

2

Parking can be challenging, so consider public transport or rideshare options.

3

Expect some menu items to be sold out, especially during peak hours.

17
Berkeley Bowl Marketplace image 1

Massive grocery store buzzes with a bustling outdoor-market feel and fresh sushi that shines with unique salmon rolls. Intimate aisles lead to a newly remodeled butcher counter offering quality meats. Vibrant displays and a co-op vibe make shopping lively and down-to-earth.

Sushi stands out with tasty, fresh options and sashimi that is consistently excellent. California rolls use salmon instead of imitation crab, adding a unique twist.

People are saying

"I thought this was the best grocery store I've ever seen."

"I found so many great dairy-free options, especially the vegan tacos."

"I found amazing variety and selection of Japanese food here."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect higher prices compared to typical grocery stores.

3

The market offers a variety of prepared foods and bakery items.

18
Musashi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Quaint Japanese spot offers fresh sushi with real grated wasabi and dishes like chirashi don and tempura. Seating varies in a charming atmosphere that feels tucked away. Occasional distractions come from a large screen, but overall it stays quiet and calm.

Fresh sushi and sashimi come with real grated wasabi and are made to order. The menu includes chirashi don with gorgeous presentation, ramen, katsu, and transformative tempura like soft shell crab and broccoli.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be amazing and beautifully presented."

"The fish here is so fresh and nicely presented."

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

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended to secure a table, especially during peak hours.

2

Expect some wait times due to the restaurant's smaller size.

3

There is limited indoor waiting space, so plan to wait outside if necessary.

19
Ippuku image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Dark, traditional izakaya space offers authentic yakitori and a quiet, intimate vibe perfect for dates. An expansive whiskey bar and exceptional sake selection enhance the experience. Fried rice onigiri adds a tasty twist to classic Japanese fare.

Authentic izakaya-style dining shines here with superb yakitori grilled to perfection. The fried rice onigiri also stands out as a tasty option.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the grilled skewers, is amazing."

"The atmosphere here is cool, with chill music and happy people."

"I thought the yakitori here was the best I'd tried."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

Expect long wait times during busy hours, especially on weekends.

3

You can order at the bar, but seating is not guaranteed without a reservation.

20
Marugame Udon image 1
Udon noodle restaurant

Enjoy authentic udon made from Japanese wheat in a casual, efficient setting with cafeteria-style seating. Fast service and a customizable toppings bar cater to all tastes, including vegan and vegetarian options. Prices stay reasonable in a relaxed atmosphere.

Udon noodles come from wheat flown in from Japan, ensuring freshness and authentic taste. Dishes like curry udon and beef udon stand out for their flavor, with options for vegan and vegetarian diets. Service is fast and prices stay reasonable.

People are saying

"The katsu curry rice was a favorite, with tender meat and crispy coating."

"The udon noodles are perfectly chewy and freshly made."

"The Japanese food udon noodles were perfectly chewy and delicious."

Good to know

1

Customers need to pay before sitting down, which allows everyone to pay separately.

2

The place has wheelchair access and is easy to maneuver inside for those with mobility difficulties.

3

Parking can be difficult because it's mostly street parking nearby.

21
Moku Hawaiian BBQ (Berkeley) image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Kiosks make ordering easy, but seating is limited and uninviting. Enjoy insanely crispy chicken katsu and generous portions of bold Hawaiian BBQ. Clean space offers great value with moist interiors and tasty dipping sauces.

Chicken katsu arrives piping hot and insanely crispy, with a moist interior and a delicious dipping sauce. Options include tender curry chicken and flavorful chicken teriyaki, all served in generous portions.

People are saying

"The Japanese food portions here are so generous, I could barely finish my plate."

"I got a large portion of delicious Chicken Katsu for a great price."

"I got so much meat with my Teriyaki plate, it lasted two meals."

Good to know

1

Meals are well priced, with plates averaging around $14.

2

Portion sizes are generous, often enough for two meals.

3

The eatery maintains a clean environment for diners.

22
Berkeley Bowl West image 1

Supermarket buzzes with crowded aisles and a huge bulk section. Japanese food shines with varied onigiri and local snacks like Hello Kitty ramune. Mushroom lovers find an unmatched mushroom selection amid a lively, farmerโ€™s market vibe.

Onigiri come in many varieties and prices stay reasonable between $2.80 and $5. Sushi, spam musubi, and local Japanese snacks like Hello Kitty ramune and ramen are available for takeout.

People are saying

"I found it to be the best grocery store."

"I was impressed by the array of unique local goods and produce."

"You can find so many exotic fruits and vegetables for Japanese food here."

Good to know

1

Parking at Berkeley Bowl West can be difficult.

2

Expect to find unique items here that you can't find anywhere else locally.

3

The store is known for its extensive variety of fresh produce.

23
Mitama image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small space with tables close together creates a cozy, snug vibe. Sushi and sashimi come super fresh with great taste, paired well with excellent sake. Soft lighting adds to the homey atmosphere, making it perfect for those who love quality Japanese food.

Sushi and sashimi come super fresh with great taste. Ramen features a perfectly cooked egg and a nice broth that stands out.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be super good and fresh."

"The Japanese food here is super fresh and tastes great."

"The ramen here has a nice broth and the egg is cooked perfectly."

Good to know

1

Seating is usually available immediately during off-peak hours.

2

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

The menu features a wide variety of sushi and Japanese dishes.

24
Daruma Sushi image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small Japanese spot shines with generous sashimi and next level unagi nigiri. Cozy, bright space with gorgeous woodwork and live music on some nights. Intimate seating fits about 18, perfect for savoring well seasoned yakitori and local favorite Okonomiyaki.

Sushi here features generously sized sashimi and next level unagi nigiri with fresh, delicate cuts. Yakitori offers well seasoned options including vegetarian choices, and the Okonomiyaki stands out as a local favorite.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here, especially the sushi, was so fresh and tasty."

"I loved their happy hour, the prices were great."

"The food here is incredible and the quality justifies higher prices."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted prices on select menu items.

2

Expect longer wait times for food during busy hours.

3

Online orders may take longer than estimated, especially during peak times.

25
Wikiwiki Hawaiian BBQ image 1
Hawaiian restaurant

Hawaiian restaurant offers a laid-back vibe with beachy decor and tropical plants. Crunchy chicken katsu delivers savory Japanese flavor, while teriyaki plates like beef and pork chop are rich and classic. Large portions and varied menu make it a great spot for authentic tastes.

Crunchy chicken katsu stands out with a savory flavor that holds up even without sauce. Rich and flavorful teriyaki plates offer a classic taste, including options like beef and pork chop.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be fast, good, and inexpensive."

"I found the chicken katsu here to be very good."

"The Japanese food, especially the chicken katsu, is delicious and crunchy."

Good to know

1

The prices are very reasonable for the portion sizes offered.

2

Expect large portions that are more than enough for one person.

3

The restaurant maintains a clean environment for dining.

26
Kinda Izakaya image 1
Izakaya restaurant

Small space buzzes with Tokyo izakaya decor and lively energy. Grilled meats and smoky yakitori shine alongside rich ramen and okonomiyaki. Communal tables fill with Japanese students, creating an authentic, fun vibe.

Grilled meats and yakitori with smoky char stand out alongside authentic okonomiyaki and complexly flavored ramen broth. The menu features deep fried dishes, sukiyaki, and tofu, capturing the essence of Japanese izakaya cuisine.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is bursting with flavor and delicious."

"I thought the cocktails here were genuinely fantastic."

"The Okonomiyaki tastes so authentic, like being back in Japan."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early or visit on weekdays.

3

Expect small portion sizes; consider ordering multiple dishes.

27
IPPUDO Berkeley image 1
Ramen restaurant

Large, airy space with a modern cozy interior and lively, friendly vibe draws a college crowd. Authentic ramen features spicy karaka paste and rich tonkotsu broth for deep umami flavor. Popular pork buns balance quality with bustling energy.

Spicy karaka paste and rich tonkotsu broth create a flavorful ramen with a satisfying kick. Noodles stay supple and the broth offers a heartwarming umami experience.

People are saying

"The ramen and chicken karaage here are amazing."

"I thought the ramen here was some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought the Japanese ramen here was some of the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Ippudo is open and serving ramen at 9pm on Christmas Eve.

2

Parking near Ippudo is difficult due to limited availability and high foot traffic.

3

The total cost for a meal can be around $40 for one person.

28
Nikko Sushi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small local sushi spot offers a quiet atmosphere with pleasant decor and affordable prices. Bento boxes are generous with teriyaki, sashimi, and tempura, served fresh and crispy. Service is fast and friendly, making it a great choice for Japanese food lovers.

Generous bento boxes come with teriyaki, sashimi, tempura, salad, rice, and soup. Miso soup and shrimp tempura rolls stay fresh and crispy. Service is fast and friendly, with affordable prices.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and fresh."

"I had the best sushi I've ever had in my life."

"The Japanese food here, especially the sashimi, is incredibly fresh."

Good to know

1

Prices at Nikko Sushi are affordable for sushi in the area.

2

The portion sizes and quality offer good value for the price.

3

The menu is relatively small, limiting choices for diners.

29
AKEMI image 1
Sushi restaurant

Cozy spot with casual yet sophisticated decor fits intimate dining. Sushi shines with outstanding fish quality and tempura shrimp is notably crisp. Sake selection is excellent, pairing well with fresh, innovative dishes.

Sushi and sashimi feature outstanding fish quality and beautiful presentation. The tempura shrimp stands out for its crispness, and the tonkotsu ramen offers a deep, creamy broth with complex flavors.

People are saying

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

"I found the food here to be amazing and delicious."

"The sushi and sashimi here are excellent quality and beautifully made."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and high demand.

2

Expect longer wait times if the restaurant is over 60% full.

3

The average meal costs around $25, including multiple dishes.

30
Fish & Bird Sousaku Izakaya image 1
Modern izakaya restaurant

Modern izakaya offers an upscale yet casual vibe with sleek decor and an open kitchen. Enjoy deluxe sashimi featuring fresh seared tuna and toro alongside fusion dishes like chicken katsu. Spacious setting with tall ceilings balances lively music for a cozy dining experience.

Deluxe sashimi features high-quality seared tuna, toro, kanpachi, kanpachi belly, and sea trout, all fresh and flavorful. The menu blends classic izakaya vibes with a unique fusion of Japanese and seafood dishes like chicken katsu and grilled salmon.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is amazing and melts in your mouth."

"The fish here is so fresh, it's like it came straight off the boat."

"The Chicken Katsu is perfectly crispy and juicy."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially on busy nights like New Year's Eve.

2

Expect to pay around $145 per person for the New Year's Eve prix fixe menu.

3

Portion sizes are small; plan to order multiple dishes for a full meal.

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