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Market lunch spots in California

A market that serves a real lunch, not just pre-packaged items that have been sitting in a refrigerated case for hours.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Gourmanoff European Deli image 1
Gourmanoff European Deli image 2
Gourmanoff European Deli image 3
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Spacious deli with a modern, clean design and beautifully organized displays creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. It offers a wide variety of authentic European and Russian foods, including hard-to-find meats, sweets, and homemade dishes. A parcel drop-off point adds convenience to the experience.

A solid spot to grab lunch with a convenient location right across the street from many offices. It offers quick service and a casual vibe for a midday break.

A clean neighborhood market offers a wide selection of deli meats and imported spreads, spices, and snacks from Europe. The deli serves delicious items, making it a go-to spot for European market needs.

People are saying

"I found the ready-to-eat food here to be fresh and delicious."

"This market has an amazing selection of imported European groceries."

"This lunch spot has high-quality Eastern European food and deli items."

Good to know

1

Gourmanoff European Deli has a wide variety of products, making it rare among grocery stores.

2

The store was clean during my visit.

3

There was good parking right next to the entrance.

02
George's Market image 1

Outdoor beer garden offers a family-friendly atmosphere with German music enhancing the vibe. Modest and well-kept deli features a butcher counter and serves authentic German sandwiches and sausages. Cold draft beers, including German brews on tap, complement the food in a relaxed setting.

Hotplates and sandwich combos come at reasonable prices for lunch. A beautiful outdoor beer garden offers a nice spot to sit and enjoy the meal.

Offers a wide selection of German products like pickles, sauerkraut, deli meats, and knockwurst. Features many hard-to-find imports including sweets, beer, and chocolate, creating an authentic European market and deli experience.

People are saying

"I found the authentic German food and bread here to be the best."

"I loved the German deli market, especially the amazing sandwiches."

"This lunch spot has an excellent selection of German meats and breads."

Good to know

1

Live music happens outdoors every Saturday from 1pm until close.

2

Saturdays feature a German band performing in the biergarten.

3

The market offers a wide selection of authentic German products.

03
Yama Sushi Marketplace image 1

Tiny market packed with fresh sashimi and Japanese groceries creates a cozy, slightly cramped atmosphere. Customers often gather at lunchtime, adding to the lively energy. Unassuming exterior hides a well-organized space with a kitchen for made-to-order cuts and quality sake offerings.

Fast-moving lines and friendly service keep lunch efficient even during rush hours. Sushi comes in individual meals with a variety of drink options, making it a solid choice for quick takeout.

Fresh sushi and sashimi trays sit ready to eat, with raw market fish sliced on demand. The market offers reasonably priced Japanese goods and California rolls that stand out compared to other spots.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is so fresh and reasonably priced."

"The California rolls at this Market are so good they sell out fast."

"This lunch spot has incredibly fresh, well-priced sushi."

Good to know

1

Take a ticket first when ordering from the counter.

2

Yama Sushi Marketplace is not a restaurant but a market selling ready-made food.

3

Pre-order online or arrive early for the best selections.

04
Mercado Gonzรกlez Northgate Market image 1

Mexican grocery store combines vibrant decor with live mariachi music and a full bar inside. Atmosphere feels lively and festive, often with a DJ and food stations creating a chaotic yet welcoming vibe. Outdoor seating adds a quaint touch, making it a unique blend of shopping and entertainment.

Assorted lunch options and fresh bakery goods fill the market. A great bar area offers a spot to enjoy lunch or grab a drink. Prepared foods and food stands provide reliable choices for a quick meal.

The market offers a unique shopping environment with a great design that stands out. It is known for being exceptionally clean and has become a notable attraction for its quality and atmosphere.

People are saying

"This grocery store has amazing prepared Mexican food and fresh items."

"I loved the market's delicious and authentic Mexican food."

"This lunch spot is a culinary tour through Mexico and Latin America."

Good to know

1

Live music happens every weekend, enhancing the shopping experience.

2

Menudo is served only on Fridays and Saturdays from 6 AM to noon.

3

Parking can be challenging, especially on weekends.

05
Spaccio Salumeria by Truffle Brothers image 1

Modern Italian cafe with a fabulous outdoor patio nestled in busy streets offers a calm, friendly atmosphere and good music. Lunch service keeps crowds low, attracting those seeking authentic Italian delicacies and a relaxed vibe.

Personal pizzas offer a good size for lunch and the menu features beautiful Italian food. The spot stays less crowded by opening only for lunch, making it easy to enjoy a meal alone or with friends.

Offers a mini market with great products alongside a modern Italian restaurant. Combines part market and part restaurant experience in one spot.

People are saying

"The pizza and pasta here are so authentic, it's like eating in Italy."

"The sandwiches at this Lunch Spot are great, especially the panini."

"The Market offers authentic dine-in food and great products."

Good to know

1

The cafe is only open for lunch, reducing crowding.

2

Prices are on the higher side for Italian food.

3

Outdoor seating is available but located near busy streets.

06
Farm Boy image 1
Produce market

Small-scale grocery store offers fresh exotic fruits, wide selection of Korean goods, and ready-to-eat meals like sushi and bulgogi rice boxes. Atmosphere feels like a classic Mom And Pop Shop with a welcoming vibe. Located conveniently next to Trader Joe's, it provides unique Asian snacks and fresh produce in a compact space.

Offers fast work lunch options with good prices. Includes fresh sushi, juices, and rice boxes with bulgogi or Kalbi.

Fresh produce stands out with great papayas and a variety of Asian fruits and vegetables. The market has a long history, operating for decades before the late 90s Farmer's Market trend.

People are saying

"The sushi here is so fresh and delicious."

"This grocery store has fantastic ready-to-eat Korean meals and sushi."

"The market's sushi and Korean meals taste restaurant quality."

Good to know

1

Parking is shared with Trader Joe's, so expect a short wait for a spot.

2

Prices vary; some items are great deals while others are pricier than Trader Joe's.

3

The store's hours vary on different days, so check before visiting.

07
Sahara on Adams image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean deli with sidewalk seating and a market offering rare snacks and drinks creates a welcoming atmosphere despite a loud indoor noise level. Gyros and falafel wraps stand out as well-prepared and flavorful options. The place draws a diverse crowd and offers excellent value for lunch specials.

Quick to-go items and lunch specials between 11am and 3pm offer great value. The gyro sandwich stands out as a notable lunch option with consistently good prices.

A modern and spotless market offers a wide range of drinks, snacks, candies, and other goodies. Staff are consistently wonderful and helpful, enhancing the overall experience.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, fresh, and delicious."

"I found the market's Mediterranean food to be the best I've had."

"The lunch special is an excellent deal."

Good to know

1

Parking is available beside the building.

2

Lunch specials are offered between 11am and 3pm.

3

Credit cards are accepted for payment.

08
Claro's Italian Markets image 1
Italian grocery store

Old world market with a classic Italian deli and cozy atmosphere draws steady crowds. Renovated space includes baked goods, pre-made foods, and an outdoor table with mountain views. Known for East Coast-style sandwiches and a wide selection of Italian specialties.

Offers quick and delicious lunch options with sandwiches and cold drinks. Accommodates walk-in orders even during short lunch breaks and provides specialty ingredients for cooking.

Offers a wide variety of Italian foods including pastas, wines, coffees, deli meats, and cheeses. Feels like an old world market with fresh deli items and exceptional desserts.

People are saying

"The sandwiches here are awesome and made to order."

"This market has amazing Italian foods and deli items."

"I loved their fresh deli sandwiches with high-quality meats and cheeses."

Good to know

1

Parking is available in the back and front of the market.

2

They offer a wide variety of Italian products, including unique items.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

09
Nijiya Market Torrance Store image 1
Japanese grocery store

Moderate-sized Japanese grocery store offers fresh seafood and sashimi-grade fish with a wide variety of rare Japanese ingredients. The atmosphere is cozy and neat, tucked away on a quiet street with a simple, elegant design. It attracts shoppers looking for high-quality sushi and specialty Japanese staples.

Lunch options include handmade lunches with high-quality vegetables and a hot food bar. Grab-and-go lunch boxes taste better than those at other Japanese markets and cost under $10 with a drink.

Offers a wide variety of Japanese groceries with reasonable prices and a notable bento and sushi selection. The market features authentic products like locally made Meiji tofu and fresh vegetables, standing out for its size and lunch box menu.

People are saying

"I found this Japanese grocery store to be the best."

"This lunch spot has fresh, tasty, and affordable grab-and-go options."

"I found this Japanese market has the best karage and maki."

Good to know

1

Nijiya Market offers a 20% discount on all prepared meals close to closing time at 10 PM.

2

The market has a great selection of hard-to-find Japanese specialty items like Amazake drinks.

3

Expect a cozy atmosphere with a clean environment throughout the store.

10
Leucadia Farmers Market image 1

Farmers market spreads across wide grassy areas with shaded picnic tables and a lawn for live music. It offers a friendly family atmosphere with a community feel and less crowding than busier markets. Vendors provide a huge variety of fresh produce, unique foods, and handmade goods.

Plenty of food trucks offer ready-to-eat meals from various cultures, making it a solid spot for lunch. Options include snacks and refreshing drinks, suitable for quick bites or casual meals.

Many products at this market are unique compared to others in the area. It offers a great variety of fresh produce, local organic food, and quality vendors with plenty of seating to enjoy food from the stalls.

People are saying

"I thought this farmers market was the best I'd ever been to."

"It's a great lunch spot with ready-to-eat meals from a variety of cultures."

"The live music here is great and not too loud."

Good to know

1

The market takes place on Sundays from 10 am to 2 pm.

2

Parking can be really tough since the venue is at a school in a residential neighborhood.

3

Expect limited disabled parking spots; arrive early for better chances.

11
Blossom Market Hall image 1

Vintage Masonic Lodge repurposed into a stylish food hall with vibrant decor and communal seating. Atmosphere stays relaxing and modern with natural light and quiet upstairs study areas. Offers diverse food vendors, indoor and outdoor seating, plus events and an art gallery upstairs.

Convenient spot for lunch with a relaxed atmosphere. Offers a good setting to meet friends for coffee and a midday meal.

A variety of food stalls offers options from sushi and Korean cuisine to BBQ and desserts. The market features a stylish, cute atmosphere with an art gallery upstairs and is dog friendly.

People are saying

"I loved the variety of food options from Mediterranean to Mexican to Asian."

"This market has so many food options, from Mediterranean to Asian."

"This lunch spot has great variety, from Caribbean to Korean."

Good to know

1

Parking is available on the side streets and is free.

2

Expect limited seating during peak times, especially on weekends.

3

Blossom Market Hall hosts various events every weekend, check the schedule online.

12
Buena Vista Market image 1
Grocery store

Market combines Mexican street tacos with a carniceria offering a wide meat selection and fresh produce. Atmosphere stays clean and inviting, with a small take-out spot in the back. Tacos and burritos come in generous portions, often praised for their quality and flavor.

Offers a great lunch experience with a vibe that feels like a secret spot. Known for its casual and inviting atmosphere during midday.

Small Mexican market with a carniceria offering a good meat selection. A take-out counter sits in the back, adding convenience.

People are saying

"I found the tacos here to be some of the best I ever had."

"I loved the tacos; they were so yummy."

"I found the carnitas tacos at this Market to be the best."

Good to know

1

The market offers a variety of Mexican street tacos at reasonable prices.

2

Expect a clean environment throughout the market and deli.

3

The meat counter features a wide selection of fresh meats.

13
Corner Sandwiches image 1
Sandwich shop

Small, cozy sandwich shop in a quaint corner house offers outdoor seating and a friendly neighborhood vibe. Sandwiches feature crispy, chewy bread and flavorful fillings like juicy pastrami with horseradish aioli. Limited parking and seating encourage ordering ahead.

Pastrami sandwich stands out with wonderful bread that is neither dry nor too crunchy. Portions suit a quick lunch and the spot serves as a reliable go-to for midday meals.

Organized layout makes shopping easy. Sandwiches with Mortadella stand out as a specialty. Produce includes seasonal finds and staples from Russian and Armenian cuisines.

People are saying

"The pastrami sandwich here is stunning."

"The sandwiches at this Market are the best I've ever had."

"This lunch spot's pastrami sandwich is moist and tender."

Good to know

1

Expect a wait time of around 45 minutes for made-to-order sandwiches.

2

Call ahead to place your sandwich order and minimize wait time.

3

Limited parking is available, so consider arriving early or using public transport.

14
Island Savoy Market image 1
Grocery store

Small, airy market combines organic groceries, artisan goods, and a coffee cafe with a deli offering handmade sandwiches. Friendly, lively atmosphere feels like visiting friends, with locals enjoying the space and outdoor seating. Prices are high, reflecting support for local producers and quality items.

Kind staff prepare fresh lunch options. The El Capitan sandwich stands out for a quick meal. Coffee and groceries are also available.

Fresh and natural produce fills the shelves alongside a variety of products. Friendly staff create a vibe like visiting friends, and the woman-owned coffee house offers very good coffee and sandwiches.

People are saying

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

"The staff at this market is so kind and helpful, it feels like visiting friends."

"You have to try the sandwiches at this lunch spot; they're tasty."

Good to know

1

The market offers a great selection of quality groceries and local artisan products.

2

Dogs are allowed at Island Savoy Market, making it pet-friendly.

3

High chairs are not available, which may be a consideration for families.

15
Hokkaido Sashimi Marketplace image 1

Marketplace resembles a bodega for sushi with a grab-and-go setup and fresh sashimi-grade fish. Atmosphere feels like a convenience store setting focused on quick, quality sushi and sashimi options. Items sell out fast, and prices have risen but still offer reasonable value for fresh sushi takeout.

Sashimi bowls cost around $15 and serve as a quick lunch option. Chirashi stands out as a go-to dish for both lunch and dinner.

Fresh sashimi options stand out with a wide variety and complimentary ginger and wasabi. The market suits quick grab and go visits with solid food offerings.

People are saying

"The sashimi here is super fresh and well cut."

"The Lunch Spot's fish is super fresh."

"The sashimi at this Market is so fresh."

Good to know

1

Basic rolls cost $14, up from $10 nine months ago.

2

Items sell out quickly, so arrive early to avoid disappointment.

3

Parking is available with meters nearby.

16
Suruki Supermarket image 1
Japanese grocery store

Small space with narrow aisles creates a busy, sometimes anxiety-inducing atmosphere. Shelves stay spotless and well stocked with a wide variety of fresh sashimi and sushi-grade fish. Offers a wide selection of Junmai Daiginjo sake alongside Japanese groceries and prepared foods.

Offers a wide variety of pre-made Japanese lunches including bento boxes and chicken Karaage. Prices stay reasonable and the sushi and bento bar provide fresh options for lunch.

Fresh, high quality fish market stands out, especially the Uni from Hokkaido. Compact space offers many Asian snacks, seasonings, and kitchenware alongside fresh, ready-to-eat items.

People are saying

"This grocery store's sushi and bento bar is a go-to lunch stop."

"This lunch spot has impeccably fresh sushi and bento boxes."

"I loved this Market; the salmon sashimi was so fresh."

Good to know

1

Sashimi discount starts at 4PM; arrive early to avoid long lines.

2

Cooked food and sashimi available from 4PM in the deli area.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider visiting on weekends for easier access.

17
Hottinger Family Meats image 1

Small butcher shop with a homey, small town feel and a butcher shop aroma. Locals gather for fresh, high-quality meats like sausages and tri-tip, often during busy lunch rushes. Prices stay reasonable, focusing on old school quality rather than aesthetics.

Well known for the Tri Tip sandwich and pastrami, this spot offers a variety of lunch meats and cheeses sliced to order. Lunch specials are quick, cheap, and delicious, though there can be a wait during the lunch rush.

Busy with steady customers, this market offers excellent meat selections. It holds a strong local reputation for quality and consistency.

People are saying

"I thought the steaks here were the best I ever had."

"They had a great selection of housemade sausages, like game, bison, and quail."

"I thought the Market's sausages were the best I had."

Good to know

1

Hottinger Family Meats offers a fantastic selection of fresh meats and poultry.

2

Prices are very reasonable for the quality of meat provided.

3

They can provide obscure cuts of meat upon request.

18
International Meat & Deli image 1

Cozy family-owned deli-bodega offers authentic Eastern European soul food with shelves stocked with Romanian imports like spices and pickles. Warm, welcoming charm fills the space, creating a friendly, home-like atmosphere. Casual vibes attract those seeking traditional Romanian and Hungarian delicacies in a humble, well-organized setting.

Lunch offers authentic, flavorful dishes like Mititei, Sarmale, and Chimney bread. Meals come at a budget-friendly price under $8.00 with a setup that mirrors traditional European lunch spots.

Stocks a fantastic selection of Romanian specialties including meats, cheeses, sweets, and drinks. Offers an authentic Eastern European deli experience with products hard to find outside Romania.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and authentic, like grandma's cooking."

"This market feels like Europe with authentic Romanian specialties."

"This lunch spot has delicious, authentic, and comforting traditional Romanian food."

Good to know

1

The store offers a wide selection of authentic Romanian and Eastern European products.

2

They provide a shipment service called Atlantic Express for parcels to Europe.

3

Expect to find unique meats and international items not available in regular grocery stores.

19
Woori Food Market image 1
Grocery store

Small Korean grocery store offers fresh produce, affordable prices, and a wide selection of authentic Korean staples. Loud, hectic club-style music plays, creating a high-energy atmosphere. Plates, utensils, and to-go boxes are available for convenience.

Selection of Korean grab-and-go snacks and lunches offers variety at reasonable prices. Pricing stays fair for quick meals.

Offers a fantastic selection of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and pantry staples. Features authentic Korean ingredients and a variety of freshly made to-go meals from Woori Kitchen.

People are saying

"I love the Korean prepared foods and snacks at this grocery store."

"This market has great Korean groceries and fresh produce."

"I loved the gimbap, especially the sesame seeds and oil."

Good to know

1

Woori Food Market offers a great selection of fresh produce and Korean staples.

2

Prices are reasonable, especially for fresh produce and pantry items.

3

The market has a variety of Korean grab-and-go snacks and lunches.

20
Jensen's Foods image 1
Grocery store

Small grocery store offers premium quality groceries with a fresh sushi and deli selection. Atmosphere feels cool and organized, featuring a fancy soda machine and fresh produce. Prices tend to be higher but reflect the quality and variety available.

A wide variety of fresh lunch options includes a hot food bar and sushi selections. Prices stay reasonable, making it easy to grab a quick, tasty lunch.

Offers a premium retail market experience with high quality groceries and a great deli department. The market is clean, organized, and family owned, serving as a nice local neighborhood spot.

People are saying

"The Grocery Store staff are friendly and know me by name."

"The lunch spot here has amazing prepared foods and a great selection."

"This is a really nice, clean, and organized neighborhood market."

Good to know

1

Outdoor BBQ is available on weekends at Jensen's Foods.

2

The deli offers a wide selection of fresh items for quick meals.

3

Expect high prices for premium quality groceries at Jensen's Foods.

21
Olives Gourmet Grocer image 1
Gourmet grocery store

Quaint, eclectic gourmet grocery store with thoughtful organization and a patio seating area for casual dining. The atmosphere feels like a small town market in a quiet neighborhood, offering a great selection of artisan cheeses, beer, wine, and unique brands not found in larger stores.

Outdoor seating and a patio create a pleasant spot for lunch dates or casual meals. Sandwiches stand out as a go-to lunch choice here.

A small town market vibe comes through with fresh sandwiches and a variety of unique market items not found in big grocery stores. The selection includes some bakery and deli products that add to the charm.

People are saying

"This grocery store's sandwiches are fresh, delicious, and fairly priced."

"Their sandwiches and premium sides are amazing."

"This market has amazing fresh sandwiches, I drove miles for one."

Good to know

1

They offer daily specials that change regularly.

2

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

A 10 cent fee is charged for bags at checkout.

22
Neighbors & Friends Cafe image 1

Cozy cafe with a community-centered vibe and warm, welcoming atmosphere. Features include a communal table, cheese bar, and a micro market with local artisanal foods. Space feels like a friend's home, fostering connection and support.

Lunch features a delicious sandwich paired with fresh lemonade. The menu offers a terrific variety that suits an afternoon meal well.

Space includes a micro market with local and artisanal foods and accessories. It also features a free market setup during emergencies and a cute market area connected to the cafe.

People are saying

"This local spot has amazing food and delicious, handcrafted drinks."

"You have to try the Toasted Vegan sandwich at this lunch spot."

"This market's vegan food options have such unique flavors."

Good to know

1

The cafe is cashless, so bring a card for payments.

2

Most menu items are Halal or have Halal options available.

3

The cafe offers a fridge stocked with free food for those in need.

23
Halal Good Subs Market image 1

Halal grocery store offers certified halal meat and fresh sandwiches with a New York deli vibe. Bright, clean space feels welcoming and homey, with outdoor seating available. Prices stay reasonable while maintaining a focus on authentic halal options.

Quick lunch runs feel easy here with friendly staff like Ahmed making the experience smooth. Sandwiches serve as the main draw during midday visits.

Offers a full Halal market and deli with an impressive selection of fresh meats and unique merchandise. Friendly staff provide great customer service alongside delicious subs.

People are saying

"I found the sandwiches here to be fresh and delicious."

"The sandwiches at this Market are amazing and flavorful."

"I loved the chicken wrap; it's the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The market offers a wide variety of halal groceries and fresh Zabiha Halal meat.

2

A whole chicken costs $4.99 a pound, which is a great deal.

3

The sandwich costs $9.29 with a student discount, making it affordable.

24
Wat Thai Food Court image 1
Fresh food market

Outdoor market with casual seating and a beautiful Thai temple nearby creates a vibrant, welcoming atmosphere. Authentic Thai food vendors offer affordable, diverse options, attracting families and groups. The setting feels like a mini trip to Bangkok, blending cultural ambiance with lively dining.

Lunch offers delicious and affordable options. Parking is free but limited, filling up quickly during lunch hours.

Weekend food market offers a busy atmosphere with a focus on Thai cuisine and culture. Early arrival helps beat the crowd, and a Thai tea stall sits just across the corner.

People are saying

"I thought the food tasted great."

"This lunch spot has really cheap food, often under $10."

"The food at this market is fresh, flavorful, and amazing."

Good to know

1

The food court is open only on weekends from 8am to 5pm.

2

Cash payments are required; no credit cards accepted.

3

Tokens must be purchased to buy food from vendors.

25
Nijiya Market San Diego Store image 1
Japanese grocery store

Japanese supermarket layout offers neatly organized aisles with beautifully displayed fresh produce, sushi, and sashimi. Atmosphere feels authentic with a wide selection of Japanese snacks, frozen foods, and bakery items. Parking can be scarce during busy hours, but quality and variety stand out.

Pre-made meals and a lunch bento box make quick lunch pickups easy. Avoiding lunch hours helps skip the crowd for a smoother experience.

Fresh food and high-quality products fill the shelves. The market offers an excellent selection of seafood, organic produce, and Japanese groceries, all in a clean and organized space.

People are saying

"This Japanese grocery store is the finest I've visited."

"It's a great lunch spot for fresh sushi and bento boxes."

"I found this Japanese market to be the best."

Good to know

1

Parking can be scarce during busy hours.

2

Get there before 11:30 for the best selection of products.

3

Expect limited sushi and bento options after 6pm.

26
Castro Valley Marketplace image 1

Large, open space combines a retro aesthetic with futuristic touches and a clean, well-designed layout. Atmosphere feels special and authentic, with live music adding a calm energy in the evenings. Variety of high-quality food shops, including bakery, butcher, and international cuisine, create a unique one-stop market experience.

Several decent food choices make it a solid spot for lunch or a quick bite. The atmosphere supports a casual lunch date vibe.

Offers a local market with a good selection of products typical of a health food store. Includes a fresh meat market and a few options for grabbing a meal in a pleasant shopping environment.

People are saying

"I found the grocery, bakery, and olive oil here to be super good."

"This market has amazing variety, from dumplings to pizza to a great butcher."

"It's a nice place to meet up for a lunch date."

Good to know

1

Parking can be a challenge if busy.

2

The marketplace offers a variety of food options for eat-in and take-out.

3

The bakery and butcher shop are top-notch.

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