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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in California

Mac and cheese and fried chicken

Fried chicken that holds its own crunch against a side of mac and cheese, instead of turning into a soggy pairing.

Based on 985 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Gold Spoon Jamaican Cuisine image 1
Gold Spoon Jamaican Cuisine image 2
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Jamaican restaurant

Small, clean space with Jamaican-style decor and only two tables creates an intimate setting. Reggae music and homey, family vibes fill the air, making the atmosphere welcoming and chill. The place feels like a hole-in-the-wall gem that transports guests to Jamaican culture.

Rich and creamy mac and cheese stands out with a smooth texture and deep flavor. It pairs well with hearty dishes like goat curry and oxtail.

Crispy, deeply flavored, and juicy fried chicken comes with generous portions of sides. The owner offers free samples, and the fried chicken stands out among other dishes like jerk chicken and oxtail.

People are saying

"The oxtail here is top tier and 10 out of 10."

"I thought the Mac and Cheese was bomb."

"The owners' sweet, wholesome pride in their fried chicken is so apparent."

Good to know

1

Ordering ahead is recommended as food is made authentically and not fast.

2

Many menu items may be unavailable due to stock issues.

3

The facility is clean and maintains a high standard of authenticity.

02
Cea-Lo L.A image 1
Restaurant

Small restaurant with intimate seating and soulful R&B music creates a warm, laid-back vibe. Walls display great art that complements the cozy, inviting atmosphere. The space feels clean and comfortable, offering a calm yet lively experience.

Fried chicken comes out super crispy and very juicy inside. It pairs well with perfectly seasoned sides like collard greens and catfish.

People are saying

"The American food, especially the fried chicken, is so good."

"The seafood here is outstanding, especially the fried shrimp."

"The fried chicken here is amazing and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers several vegan and vegetarian options, along with fish and shrimp dishes.

2

The portion sizes are generous, providing good value for the price.

3

The banana pudding runs out fast, so arrive early if you want to try it.

03
Southern Soul LA image 1

Shared kitchen space hosts a takeout-only soul food spot with generous portions and authentic Southern comfort. Warm lighting creates a relaxed atmosphere despite limited parking and entry challenges. Dishes like well-seasoned lamb chops and rich mac and cheese stand out for flavor and quality.

Mac and cheese features a roux base with a blend of cheeses, offering a richer taste than typical boxed versions. It pairs well with dishes like oxtails and lamb chops and serves as a solid side alongside greens and candied yams.

Perfectly seasoned fried chicken stands out alongside hot lemon pepper wings and fried shrimp. The wings and chicken hit every time with solid flavor and crispiness.

People are saying

"The soul food here is amazing, especially the mac and cheese."

"The fried shrimp is perfectly seasoned, crispy, and juicy."

"The fried chicken here is so flavorful, you can taste the care."

Good to know

1

This restaurant is a takeout and catering location, not a dine-in establishment.

2

Parking is limited; expect to find street parking or loading zones.

3

Portion sizes are very generous, often enough for sharing or multiple meals.

04
Zecto Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant offers a warm, family-friendly atmosphere with vibrant, engaging vibes and community-focused decor. A unique game with a stopwatch adds excitement alongside a convenient drive-thru. The space feels clean and inviting with attention to detail in design.

Creamy texture and well seasoned flavor stand out in the mac and cheese. Noodles cook perfectly, avoiding the typical Velveeta style.

Crispy texture stands out with excellent flavors in the fried chicken. Sandwiches include a tasty slaw that adds a flavorful crunch.

People are saying

"I had the best chicken sandwich I've ever eaten."

"Their Mac and Cheese was very tasty and delicious."

"You have to try their hot fried chicken; it's so hot it'll make you cry."

Good to know

1

They have a happy hour.

2

The price for the chicken sandwich, fries, and a drink combo is $12.

3

Getting into the parking lot can be tricky due to limited spots.

05
B's Chicken & Waffles image 1

Spacious and clean restaurant with a welcoming atmosphere and soulful R&B music setting a cozy, family-style vibe. The place fills up quickly, reflecting its popularity for comfort food like well-seasoned chicken and fluffy waffles. Guests often experience a relaxed mood that feels like a genuine, feel-good dining experience.

Mac n cheese waffles stand out alongside rich cheese flavor in the mac and cheese. The dish pairs well with greens and chicken for a satisfying meal.

Fried chicken comes well seasoned, hot, and crispy. It pairs with classic sides like Mac & cheese, greens, and red beans and rice, all cooked with care.

People are saying

"The chicken and waffles here are seasoned to perfection."

"I found the Mac and Cheese to be delicious."

"The fried chicken here is so delicious and perfectly seasoned."

Good to know

1

Reservations are not required, but expect a wait during busy hours.

2

The restaurant serves chicken and waffles with two sides for under $18.

3

Be prepared for a wait as the restaurant can get very busy.

06
Lucky Bird image 1
Restaurant

European market style space with a clean bar and diner-like counter creates a casual, lively atmosphere. The crowd enjoys crispy, juicy chicken sandwiches and hot honey fried chicken, often paired with beer on tap. Limited menu and higher prices set it apart from other food stalls in the hall.

Super creamy and rich, the mac and cheese stands out with its smooth texture and full flavor. It delivers a classic comfort food experience that feels indulgent and satisfying.

Fried chicken here is crispy, juicy, and bursting with flavor. The hot honey fried chicken sandwich is perfectly seasoned with a balance of spice and sweetness, served piping hot.

People are saying

"I thought the hot honey chicken sandwich was the best I've ever had."

"The fried chicken here is juicy, crisp, and packed with flavor."

"I thought their hot honey fried chicken sandwich was the best in town."

Good to know

1

Lucky Bird does not accept cash; only card payments are accepted.

2

The $22 price for a five-piece bucket is higher than typical fast food spots.

3

Parking in the attached structure could be tight during lunchtime.

07
Crimson Coward image 1
Chicken restaurant

Open kitchen setup lets guests watch chicken cooked fresh to order with a proprietary spice rub. Atmosphere stays chill and comfortable with excellent music and cold AC to balance the heat. Seating is simple with basic tables and chairs, focusing attention on bold flavors rather than decor.

Loaded Mac and Cheese offers well-mixed flavor and creamy texture. It stands out as very delicious and satisfying even for those with lactose intolerance.

Tender, juicy fried chicken carries a spicy flavor that stands out. The aroma of spices fills the air, making the fried chicken very inviting.

People are saying

"I found the food to be amazing and fresh."

"You have to try the Mac and Cheese; it's amazing."

"The fried chicken here is so tender, juicy, and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is known for its large portion sizes.

2

Expect fast service with minimal wait times.

3

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness.

08
Howlin' Ray's Hot Chicken - Pasadena image 1

Small indoor space with a rockabilly punk aesthetic and a shaded outdoor patio creates a lively setting. Staff provide umbrellas and misters to ease waiting in line under the sun. Loud music and an electric vibe fill the air, making the atmosphere energetic and welcoming.

Fresh and homemade, the mac and cheese stands out with its tasty and delicious flavor. It pairs well with sandwiches and fries, making it a solid side choice.

Juicy and tender chicken defines the fried chicken sandwich here, paired with an addictive comeback sauce. The sandwich, known as The Sando, stands out for its western style and rich flavor.

People are saying

"This American food, especially the fried chicken, is the best I've ever had."

"I had the best fried chicken I've ever tasted."

"Their Mac and Cheese is fresh and homemade, truly delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times, especially on weekends.

2

Parking availability is limited; consider street parking.

3

Seating is limited, so arrive early if possible.

09
Crawfords image 1

Small dive bar with an upside-down canoe ceiling and about 10 tables creates a cozy neighborhood vibe. Pool table and cold tap beer set a lively, friendly atmosphere where regulars feel at home. Outdoor seating welcomes pets, adding to the relaxed, local feel.

Mac and cheese comes in a green chile variety with a hint of jalapeño for some spice. It tastes good overall but can be a bit bland at times.

Spicy fried chicken offers a pleasant burn that stays manageable, unlike some hotter versions. It comes crispy outside and succulent inside, often paired with sides like jalapeño mac & cheese or cool potato salad.

People are saying

"The fried chicken here is tender inside with crispy skin."

"They serve good, cheap beer on tap and fun cans."

"I enjoyed their mac & cheese with a hint of jalapeño."

Good to know

1

Crawfords is only open a couple of days a week.

2

Finding parking at Crawfords can be tricky.

3

Crawfords offers takeout services for customers on the go.

10
Ali's Chicken & Waffles image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small, unassuming spot offers Halal southern cuisine with a selective menu focused on chicken and waffles. Atmosphere feels intimate and neat but can be scary to some. Popular for tender chicken paired with unique sauces and light coconut syrup.

Creamy and cheesy textures define the mac and cheese here, with a balance that avoids saltiness. It pairs well with fries and stands out as a consistent favorite.

Well seasoned fried chicken holds up even 1.5 hours later. Options include a halal version, a tasty sandwich, or served with waffles on the side.

People are saying

"I thought the Original Chicken Sandwich combo was amazing."

"I found the Mac And Cheese to be seriously good."

"I thought the fried chicken was the best I had."

Good to know

1

Parking is difficult due to the busy area and limited spaces.

2

Reservations are recommended as it takes about 30 minutes for an order to be ready.

3

Ali's Chicken & Waffles is halal.

11
Jonesy's Fried Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant offers casual, cheerful atmosphere with quasi self-serve options and colorful branding. Crowd tends to be down to earth and the place is often busy, making it better suited for takeout. Parking can be challenging, but seating is ample when available.

Rich and creamy mac and cheese stands out with a delicious flavor. The menu also features mac & cheese balls and pairs well with bacon baked beans.

Fried chicken features a crispy, non-oily breading with a juicy, tender inside. The coating uses a unique blend of herbs and spices, and the chicken includes boneless tenders, wings, and a notable sandwich option.

People are saying

"The American food here, especially the fried chicken, is the best I've ever had."

"I thought this was the best fried chicken I ever had."

"The mac and cheese here is delicious and a beautiful dream."

Good to know

1

Parking can be difficult, especially during busy hours.

2

Expect to pay around $20 for a meal.

3

The three and two meal portions are enough for one or two people.

12
Chicken George Waffle House image 1

Diner-style restaurant with large roomy booths and a clean, quaint dining area offers a chill, homely vibe where people from all walks of life mix. The atmosphere feels welcoming and friendly, enhanced by classic BET playing on TV and a small town southern feel. A drive-thru option adds convenience to the experience.

Very cheesy with a hint of onion, the Mac and cheese offers a rich, creamy texture. It stands out as a delightful and super good dish.

Fried chicken comes with a perfectly crispy outside and a juicy inside. It tastes fresh, savory, and reminds of homemade style with top tier quality.

People are saying

"The waffles here are fluffy with crispy edges."

"I found the fried chicken wonderfully crispy and juicy."

"The mac and cheese is super good and very cheesy."

Good to know

1

Yams now cost 6 dollars when ordered alone.

2

There was a separate charge for items I expected to be included in the meal.

3

Parking at Chicken George Waffle House is limited.

13
The Red Chickz - Culver City image 1

Bright colors and neon lighting create a retro diner meets street-food stall vibe with a welcoming atmosphere. Both indoor and outdoor seating offer a clean, open space with a black and red theme that stands out. The place draws a crowd looking for reasonably priced fried chicken and lively energy.

Creamy and velvety texture defines the mac and cheese here, with a rich sauce that clings to every noodle. The buffalo mac and cheese adds a spicy twist, standing out as a notable option.

Crunchy, spicy, and juicy fried chicken stands out with its super crunchy coating and tender inside. The menu includes fried chicken tenders and sandwiches featuring Pepperjack cheese, all reasonably priced and flavorful.

People are saying

"The American Food here is spicy, crispy, and juicy fried chicken."

"I loved the lunch special, especially the $2 Thursday tenders."

"The fried chicken here is crispy, juicy, and delicious."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesdays offer tacos for $3 each.

2

Thursdays feature a $2 special for large tenders.

3

Lunch specials are available from 11 AM to 3 PM for $9.99.

14
Humble Bird image 1
Chicken restaurant

Small, clean space with basic seating and a busy, friendly vibe. Energy feels inviting yet spartan, resembling a British chippy focused on food quality. Many come for takeout orders, reflecting a popular spot with a strong reputation for excellent fried and hot chicken.

Creamy texture and perfect cooking stand out in the mac and cheese. It pairs well with mashed potatoes and comes with options for heat levels and sides like slaw.

Crispy, juicy, and not greasy fried chicken stands out here. The hot fried chicken and sandwiches deliver amazing flavor and come with fries that complement the meal well.

People are saying

"I had some of the juiciest, most flavorful fried chicken."

"I thought the Mac and Cheese was creamy and cooked to perfection."

"The fried chicken here is amazing and juicy."

Good to know

1

Humble Bird is closed on Mondays and Tuesdays.

2

Expect a minimum 15-20 minute wait for made-to-order food.

3

Many customers prefer takeout to avoid long wait times.

15
Lola’s Kitchen image 1
American restaurant

Small, cozy space with vintage mom-and-pop charm and chic boutique decor creates a homey, casual atmosphere. The vibe stays chill and inviting, with cute sayings on the walls adding personality. It fills up quickly, making it a lively spot for breakfast or lunch.

Pulled brisket adds a smoky twist to the cheesy mac and cheese. Garlic bread often accompanies the dish, enhancing the meal's richness.

Fried chicken dinner features crispy wings served with mac and cheese and fries. Plates often combine fried chicken with other hearty options like meatloaf, making for a delicious meal.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was delicious and great."

"I'd return for the fried chicken dinner; it's so good and fresh."

"The mac and cheese with brisket was amazing."

Good to know

1

You must order at the counter and take a number, then they deliver to your table.

2

The breakfast tacos are only available before 11:30 AM.

3

Parking is available along the street and in nearby spaces.

16
Minnie Bell’s Soul Movement image 1

Neighborhood soul food spot with Southern fried chicken and best-ever cornbread serves meals in plastic trays like a sports bar. Atmosphere stays low key and lively, with pleasant background music and TVs showing 80's shows and sports. Small tables, booths, and a communal table create a warm, family-operated vibe.

Mac n cheese comes fried and creamy, served alongside fried chicken and braised greens. It pairs well with yams and cornbread for a full soul food experience.

Extra crispy, light and flavorful coating covers some of the juiciest fried chicken around. Seasoned well, it pairs nicely with sides like mac and cheese and braised greens.

People are saying

"I thought the fried chicken was the best I've ever had."

"The cornbread here is excellent and crispy."

"I'm telling you, this Mac And Cheese is the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-5:30 pm with great deals on wings and wine.

2

The 2 piece combo is priced at $15, but may cost $20 with extras.

3

The menu is limited to lunch options, primarily featuring fried chicken.

17
The Red Chickz image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant offers a bright, lively space with clean, well-organized seating and a narrow layout. DJs play coastal tunes on weekends, creating a fun and welcoming atmosphere suitable for families. Crowds gather especially during special deals, making it noisy and energetic.

Loaded mac and cheese stands out with its creamy, cheesy base and a topping of chopped hot chicken. The dish combines rich flavors and a spicy kick.

Crunchy and crispy textures define the fried chicken here, with bold Nashville-style flavor standing out. The fried chicken sandwich also delivers a notable punch of taste and crunch.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great and delicious."

"I thought The Red Chickz served the best fried chicken."

"The mac and cheese here is pretty good."

Good to know

1

Tenders cost $2 every Thursday, making it a popular day to visit.

2

The restaurant offers a brunch menu with bottomless mimosas on weekends.

3

Expect a car meet every Monday at 7pm, attracting local car enthusiasts.

18
Dave's Hot Chicken image 1
Chicken restaurant

Chicken restaurant offers a stylish interior with colorful graffiti and artistic decor that creates a fun atmosphere. Outdoor seating and free WiFi add convenience, while loud kitchen music sometimes affects the vibe. The place serves halal-certified, spicy hot chicken praised for its flavor and quality.

Crispy outside and juicy inside, the fried chicken stands out with its outstanding flavor. It beats typical fast food options and shines especially in spicy fried chicken varieties.

People are saying

"I thought the food was fresh and delicious."

"The atmosphere here is really cool and laid-back."

"The Mac and Cheese here is cheesy goodness."

Good to know

1

The chicken at Dave's Hot Chicken is halal.

2

If you order the Carolina Reaper, you need to sign a waiver.

3

They offer different spice levels, so there's something for everyone.

19
Amarith Farmhouse Restaurant & Pie Shoppe image 1

Interior combines farmhouse chic decor with greenery and indoor plants, creating a cozy and elegant atmosphere. Live music, including jazz and country, adds an eclectic vibe without overpowering conversation. Seating is packed and narrow, fostering a lively yet intimate setting.

Mac and cheese tastes very homey and pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes. Staff sometimes offer extra portions to make up for mix-ups, showing attention to service.

Crispy skin and juicy meat define the fried chicken here, cooked fresh to order. Portions are large, often enough for two, and the dish pairs well with sides like mashed potatoes and mac and cheese.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh and delicious."

"The fried chicken here is so juicy and perfectly cooked."

"I found the Mac and Cheese to be delicious and homey."

Good to know

1

Expect a 30-45 minute wait time for food orders.

2

The restaurant lacks wheelchair access.

3

All ingredients are organic and sourced from their farm.

20
Cluck N' Sip image 1
Fast food restaurant

Fast food spot with a hole-in-the-wall vibe and about eight tables inside, plus limited outdoor seating. Atmosphere feels friendly and inviting with Mandarin music playing softly. Known for juicy, well-seasoned chicken and affordable prices, it offers a clean, casual place to enjoy simple meals.

Spicy mac and cheese stands out with its rich and creamy texture and bold flavor. It pairs well with house sauces and complements fried chicken and fish dishes.

Fried chicken comes out crispy, juicy, and well seasoned with a fresh taste. The chicken is tender and flavorful, paired with potato wedges and sauces that complement the meal.

People are saying

"This chicken sandwich is so juicy and crispy."

"I loved the spicy Mac and Cheese; it scored a perfect 10."

"I found the fried chicken incredibly delicious, tender, and juicy."

Good to know

1

They offer a lunch deal every day for $7.99, including two chicken tenders, a side, and a drink.

2

Happy hour specials are available at Cluck N' Sip.

3

The restaurant is halal certified, making it a good option for halal diners.

21
Gus's World Famous Fried Chicken image 1

Fried chicken restaurant with a 1970s diner atmosphere and large indoor dining area featuring multiple large screen TVs for sports. The vibe is nostalgic and welcoming, often accommodating large families with a friendly, lively energy. Seating is basic, and the environment supports casual, communal dining experiences.

Creamy, cheesy, and flavorful with a baked crust on top, the mac and cheese stands out. It pairs well with sides like greens and coleslaw.

Fried chicken comes out fresh and juicy, made with hormone-free chicken and fried in peanut oil. The flavor is rich and consistent, especially right from the fryer.

People are saying

"This fried chicken is some of the best I've ever had."

"The fried chicken here is so fresh and juicy, my whole family loves it."

"I thought the mac and cheese was super good and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a lunch special with 4 legs and 2 sides for $12.

2

Parking is available at the restaurant, with easy access from Glenoaks.

3

The two-piece meal costs $16, and kid's tenders are $10.

22
Legend Hot Chicken Restaurant image 1

K-pop theme sets a lively yet comfortable vibe with clean, modern decor. Fried chicken stands out for its crispiness, juiciness, and bold spice levels. The place draws those seeking generous portions and a relaxed atmosphere with consistent quality.

Mac and cheese features a signature sauce and appears as a filling topping on sandwiches like the mild chicken and the #1 burger with honey BBQ and pickles.

Crunchy skin with juicy inside and minimal oil stands out. Korean style fried chicken pairs well with kimchi fried rice and features a signature sauce that sets it apart.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the fried chicken, is so crispy and delicious."

"They had dollar beers and great deals on beer."

"The fried chicken here is so juicy and crispy."

Good to know

1

They close at 9:30pm, not 10:30pm.

2

You can only choose 6 regular wings with no special flavors and 6 sauced or seasoned wings.

3

I heard that the last level of spice requires signing a waiver.

23
Surf & Soul Spot image 1

Takeout-only soul food spot with curbside service and reasonable prices offers authentic dishes like shrimp and grits and banana pudding with crunchy cookies. The atmosphere carries real soul, though limited parking and frequent early closures due to food shortages affect flow.

Saucy and stringy with a nice flavor, the mac and cheese tastes homemade and pairs well with collard greens and fried chicken. It stands out as a must-try side alongside other classic dishes.

Fried chicken comes out with a homemade taste that stands strong without any sauce. It pairs well with sides like yams and mac n cheese, making it a solid choice alongside shrimp and grits or catfish.

People are saying

"The fried shrimp and fish were some of the best I ever had."

"The banana pudding here is delicious and made in a way I'd never tasted."

"The Mac and Cheese tasted homemade and was saucy."

Good to know

1

The place is takeout only; no dining-in available.

2

Order ahead to avoid long wait times, especially during busy hours.

3

Street parking is limited; consider parking around the corner.

24
Rise Southern Biscuits & Righteous Chicken - San Diego image 1

Small space with bright orange decor and metal seating creates a loud, echoey atmosphere amplified by music and voices. Organized heated lockers and self-checkout kiosks streamline takeout orders amid a chaotic, crowded vibe. Walls feature animated murals that add a fun touch despite the tense energy.

Mac n cheese with veggie chicken comes on a biscuit and tastes very delicious. The dish pairs well with blueberry biscuits and tater tots, making it a satisfying meal.

Fried chicken comes flavorful and juicy with a crispy bacon touch. It pairs well on a buttermilk biscuit with fried green tomato and pimento cheese for a breakfast twist.

People are saying

"These biscuits are seriously beautiful and the best I've ever had."

"I found the blueberry biscuit to be exceptionally good."

"I found the Mac and Cheese with veggie chicken delicious."

Good to know

1

Place your order at least 1.5 hours in advance for pickup.

2

Mobile orders shut off 45 minutes before closing time.

3

Parking is limited and can be difficult to find.

25
Felix's BBQ with Soul image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Small dine-in area with cozy, dark interior and loud Motown music creates an informal, energetic vibe. Southern-style barbecue and soul food dominate the menu, featuring unique desserts and large lunchboxes. Atmosphere suits casual visits, though music volume can be intense.

Large elbow pasta comes in a light cheddar sauce topped with shredded cheese. The mac and cheese pairs well with other dishes like ribs and candied yams.

Alabama fried chicken stands out with a unique flavor that differs from typical fried chicken. It pairs well with consistently great sides like collard greens and macaroni.

People are saying

"The American Food here, especially the brisket, is off the hook."

"The cornbread muffins are warm and delicious."

"I found the fried chicken to be delicious and unique."

Good to know

1

The lunch special runs every day until 4 pm.

2

Lunchbox Meals are priced at $12, offering good value.

3

Prices for meals range from $12 to $15.

26
Honeybird image 1
Southern restaurant (US)

Southern restaurant offers a clean and stylish interior with casual, bright seating and a warm, inviting atmosphere. The vibe stays calm and chill, reflecting its family-owned roots. Chicken dishes stand out as exceptionally flavorful and juicy, defining the menu's focus.

Creamy texture stands out in the mac and cheese, making it a favorite for kids. It consistently delivers a very good flavor that appeals to those who enjoy classic comfort food.

Crispy outside and moist inside, the fried chicken features a super light batter that shatters perfectly. It stays juicy and well-seasoned whether in a wrap, meal, or brunch burrito.

People are saying

"The Chinese chicken salad is always fresh with great chicken."

"I had the best chicken sandwich I've ever had."

"The fried chicken here is so juicy and crispy."

Good to know

1

Parking in the small lot gets tight around lunch.

2

Street parking on Foothill works fine.

3

The beans are only available after 4pm because they are dinner only.

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