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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks in Chula Vista

Taco and salsa spots

Tacos where the salsa is treated as a primary ingredient rather than an afterthought.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Taqueria by El Prieto image 1
Taqueria by El Prieto image 2
Taqueria by El Prieto image 3
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Taco restaurant

Taco restaurant offers authentic street tacos with a focus on adobada flavor. Atmosphere stays chill and relaxing with great music, though noise levels vary. Outdoor seating includes cute tables, and a salsa bar adds to the casual dining experience.

Tacos feature fresh, hand-made tortillas with authentic street flavors like carne asada and al pastor. The Quesadtaco de adobada stands out for its rich taste and quality.

A great variety fills the salsa bar with options like the mango habanero salsa standing out. Tortillas taste homemade and salsas bring just the right amount of kick.

People are saying

"These tacos are packed with flavor and always served hot."

"The tortillas here are handmade and taste amazing."

"The salsa here is so delicious, I kept adding more."

Good to know

1

Parking is available nearby, making access convenient.

2

The restaurant uses Styrofoam containers, but paper options are available upon request.

3

Prices are reasonable for the quality of food offered.

02
De Cabeza /El Único image 1

Restaurant offers authentic Mexican ranch decor and a family-like atmosphere with live music and singing by staff. Energy feels fun and upbeat, creating a welcoming and comfortable space. Unique cuts of meat like cabeza and lengua tacos stand out as specialties.

Tacos feature tender head meat like cabeza and lengua served with consomé. Freshly made tortillas hold flavorful fillings such as lamb head and maciza, all offered at a good price.

Salsa comes with a spicy roja and a homemade kick that pairs well with tacos. It complements the corn tortillas and fresh toppings like onions and cilantro.

People are saying

"You have to try the tender, flavorful cabeza tacos here."

"The lamb head tacos here are unique and incredibly tender."

"The cabeza and lengua tacos are incredibly flavorful and tender."

Good to know

1

Parking can be challenging to find nearby.

2

Expect a busy atmosphere during peak dining hours.

3

Reservations are not required but recommended for larger groups.

03
Birrieria y menuderia Guadalajara image 1

Taco shop style space with authentic Mexican ambiance and a family-like atmosphere. The environment is chill but busy, sometimes noisy with loud music and close tables. Known for generous portions and well-made micheladas, it draws crowds willing to wait for popular dishes like birria and menudo.

Birria tacos stand out with handmade corn tortillas and come in a standard size offering good value. Menudo, buche, and tripe tacos also feature prominently, served plain for easy customization with toppings at the table.

Two salsas stand out: a habanero and a thick red chili salsa. The red salsa is very spicy and flavorful, paired well with homemade tortillas and chips.

People are saying

"This Mexican food's menudo is rich, flavorful, and comforting."

"The birria tacos here are incredibly tasty and tender."

"I thought the menudo was worth a try, but it tasted mild."

Good to know

1

Expect a 45+ minute wait time during peak hours.

2

Parking is excellent on Main Street, but limited on Broadway.

3

Tacos and quesadillas are standard size, providing more value for the price.

04
Sarai's Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Small, hole-in-the-wall Mexican restaurant with limited seating and large portions. Offers authentic Tijuana-style tacos and spicy, flavorful salsas. Atmosphere is casual and quick, attracting those seeking generous servings and bold flavors.

Rolled tacos stand out with their authentic Tijuana-style and consistent quality. Carne asada and fish tacos offer top notch, tasty flavors that meet expectations every time.

Salsas here are very spicy and flavorful. Both green and red salsas are good, with the green salsa standing out.

People are saying

"The carne asada tacos were humongous and delicious."

"The breakfast burritos here are huge and bursting with flavor."

"I thought the rolled tacos were the best in town."

Good to know

1

Parking is available right out front.

2

The restaurant offers large portions, ideal for those seeking generous servings.

3

The restaurant opens at 6:20 AM instead of the scheduled 6:00 AM.

05
Xolotacos image 1
Mexican restaurant

Food trucks with benches outside create a casual, lively atmosphere. Self-serve drinks and a salsa bar add to the informal vibe. The place draws a busy crowd seeking generous portions of tacos with a Tijuana-style influence.

Spicy shrimp and birria tacos stand out with rich flavors and tender textures. Bone marrow and marlin tacos add unique, bold flavors while the consomé complements the birria perfectly.

Salsas come with a great salsa bar offering a variety of flavors. They pair well with fresh aguas for a solid combo.

People are saying

"I had the best taco I’ve ever had, with rich, fatty birria broth."

"I had the best spicy shrimp taco I’ve ever had."

"I thought their salsa had great flavor, rivaling Tijuana's best."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during busy hours, especially for large orders.

2

The food truck is located in the parking lot of Bobar Liquors.

3

Prices are reasonable, especially considering the generous portion sizes.

06
Tacos El Mayo image 1
Restaurant

Small space offers a friendly vibe with a focus on authentic birria tacos and grilled chicken known for great char and flavor. The salsa is fresh but mild, and the menu features high-quality, tender meat in tacos and burritos. Language barriers may arise without Spanish, but the atmosphere remains welcoming.

Birria tacos feature high-quality, tender meat and deliver an authentic, delicious flavor. The birria taco stands out compared to other options like the azada taco.

Fresh salsa stands out with a mild flavor and no spice. It keeps people coming back for more.

People are saying

"The food here is really good and always fresh."

"I found the birria tacos here to be excellent."

"I found the birria tacos to be authentic and delicious."

Good to know

1

Tacos El Mayo is located in a large parking lot facing Main Street.

2

Expect reasonable prices for quality food at Tacos El Mayo.

3

Articulate your order clearly to avoid misunderstandings due to language barriers.

07
Californias Taco Shop image 1
Fast food restaurant

Small space fills quickly with steady activity, creating a busy and casual vibe. Menu focuses on large portions and authentic Mexican flavors, especially in burritos and tacos. Popular for late hours and reasonable prices, it draws a diverse crowd seeking hearty, straightforward meals.

Tacos capture the authentic taste of Tijuana with standout options like $2 fish tacos and fabulous habanero salsa. Rolled tacos and carnitas compete well with other spots, offering excellent flavor at a lower price.

Salsas here range from tamarindo to habanero, offering a good mix of sweet and spicy. The tomatillo orange and creamy green salsas stand out, with some options packing a noticeable kick.

People are saying

"The salsa here is amazing, especially the creamy green one."

"I'd drive a long way for their tasty carne asada fries."

"I loved the shrimp tacos; the shrimp were so plump."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers all tacos at $2, which is a great deal.

2

They offer $6 Chipotle Burritos, displayed in yellow on the wall by the register.

3

They offer inside and outside seating.

08
Tacos de Birria El Chinito Jr image 1

Mexican restaurant offers Tijuana-style birria with authentic, flavorful tacos and table service in a loud, friendly atmosphere. The space feels hot due to limited airflow and plays very loud music even in the morning. Cash or Zelle payments are required, and parking is limited nearby.

Birria tacos stand out with Tijuana style flavor and a great crunch. Prices run about $2.70 each, and the consomé is essential for dipping.

Salsas here have a good level of spice and stand out as amazing. They rank among the best in town.

People are saying

"The birria tacos here are TJ style and super good."

"I found the food here to be really delicious."

"These birria tacos are the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

The place only accepts cash or Zelle payments; no credit or debit cards.

2

Tacos cost about $2.70 each, which is lower than average.

3

Parking is limited and can be challenging.

09
El Viejon Seafood image 1
Seafood restaurant

Small interior with six booths and three tables, plus outdoor seating, creates an intimate setting. Loud music fills the space, contributing to a chill but lively atmosphere. Frequented by seafood lovers, it offers fresh, well-prepared dishes inspired by Ensenada and Sinaloa styles.

Fish tacos stand out with fresh ingredients and mostly fish, not batter, especially the Ensenada Style. Other tacos like the Viejon and birria offer great flavor and solid portions.

A few different salads appear at the salsa bar, with the yellow salad standing out. The green salsa adds a nice kick to the fish taco.

People are saying

"I thought the fish tacos were amazing and fresh."

"I thought the fish tacos were amazing and well-prepared."

"The green salsa on the fish taco really enhanced its taste."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday offers special pricing on tacos, making it a popular choice.

2

Prices for tacos range from $7 to $9, which some find steep.

3

Octopus tacos have recently increased in price to nearly $16 each.

10
La Nacional image 1
Restaurant

Bright colors and playful decor create a lively, vibrant atmosphere with a big space for large parties. Music ranges from dancing cumbias to Spanish rock, fueling a festive vibe. The bar offers a top-notch tequila and mezcal selection with handcrafted cocktails that stand out.

Tacos here come with bursting flavor and fresh toppings. The birria tacos stand out as perfectly crispy and juicy, while the cabeza and pollo options offer satisfying, hearty choices.

Salsas here are super spicy with a hot chimi salsa and a red hot salsa that packs a punch. The verde salsa complements dishes like birria perfectly, and chips come with frijoles and salsa.

People are saying

"Their craft cocktails are amazing and packed a punch."

"The tacos here have a fun, vibrant atmosphere and bold flavors."

"The salsa here packs a punch and is super spicy."

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends at 6pm with the best prices on drinks.

2

There is paid street parking along Main Street.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is recommended for street vendors.

11
Otay Farms Market & Mexican Food image 1

Mexican grocery store offers fresh handmade tortillas, wide variety of produce, and an on-site butcher. Outdoor eating area adds casual vibe while prices remain affordable. Frequented for authentic Mexican products and quick prepared food options.

Steamed tacos stand out with tacos al Vapor that many find better than homemade versions. Fried tacos feature tasty tortillas, and chicken tacos come with a green sauce. Steamed tacos often sell out quickly and take up to two hours to prepare more.

Fresh tortillas and authentic salsas stand out here. The salsa verde and fresh salsa bar offer a great selection alongside other Mexican staples.

People are saying

"I found the handmade flour tortillas to be amazing."

"I loved the fresh salsas and handmade tortillas here."

"I thought the tacos al vapor were the best I had ever tasted."

Good to know

1

Ample free parking is available at the market.

2

The parking lot is handicap accessible.

3

Expect a great selection of fresh vegetables and fruits at good prices.

12
Aqui Es Texcoco image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers authentic barbacoa with slow-roasted lamb and rich bone broth. Atmosphere feels comfortable but plain, with TVs showing baseball games adding casual energy. The place is usually quiet and seating is immediate.

Lamb tacos stand out with varied cuts like ribs and head and come with salsa verde and chipotle tatemado sauce. Other options include chicharrón prensado and chapulín tacos, all served with rice, beans, and a range of salsas.

Salsas come with layers of flavor and a spicy kick that pairs well with the rich bone broth. They complement the tortillas and dishes like veg mushroom tacos, adding depth to the meal.

People are saying

"The lamb barbacoa here is phenomenal Mexican food."

"The salsa here is fresh and flavorful with the lamb barbacoa."

"I found the lamb tacos with ribs and head to be excellent."

Good to know

1

The restaurant charges an 18% service fee on all bills.

2

Halal options are available, including goat and some meats.

3

Parking is easy to find around 3 pm on Fridays.

13
Mariscos Mar Y Tierra image 1
Mexican restaurant

Parking lot dining with limited seating encourages many to eat standing. The vibe is busy and popular, especially during lunch hours. Known for large, flavorful fish tacos and fresh oyster shots, it offers a casual, no-frills seafood experience.

Fish tacos come with large breaded pieces and a great sauce. Shrimp tacos like Hercules and Arrachera stand out for their size and flavor. Tacos are super flavorful and big, making them worth the trip.

Self-serve salsas stand out, especially the green salsa. Some salsas lack flavor, but the ones at Mariscos Mar Y Tierra offer a noticeable taste.

People are saying

"The seafood tacos here are fresh, delicious, and huge."

"The fish tacos here are fresh and perfectly fried."

"I thought the salsa here was amazing."

Good to know

1

The parking is located to the right of the dog grooming business toward the back.

2

Expect busy times during lunch; consider calling in your order ahead.

3

They charge $1 for card payments without prior notification.

14
El Ranchero Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Traditional Mexican restaurant with a family-friendly atmosphere and authentic flavors made from scratch. Offers street tacos on the patio at night and excellent raspados as standout features. The place is casual with a quick lunch vibe and no alcohol served.

Tacos feature authentic Mexican flavors with options like Pescado, barbacoa, and Tacos Al Vapor. House red salsa adds extra flavor to the tacos and burritos.

Salsas have a nice kick without being wild spicy and bring out great flavors. The house red salsa enhances tacos and burritos, but staff can get rude when asked for more.

People are saying

"The breakfast tacos and burritos are delicious with flavorful salsa."

"I found the tacos to be authentic and delicious."

"The house red salsa made the tacos and burrito even better."

Good to know

1

Street tacos are available on the patio at night.

2

They close at 7:30 pm, so arrive early to avoid missing out.

3

Limited parking is available, so plan accordingly.

15
Mariscos Negro Durazo image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant with live Norteño music that plays loudly, creating a fun but noisy atmosphere where conversation can be difficult. It offers both indoor and outdoor seating and serves authentic Sinaloa-style seafood known for strong flavors like birria and fish tacos.

Fish tacos stand out with a $2 Tuesday special and consistently good flavor. Shrimp tacos come in several varieties like chili shrimp and cucaracha, all described as delicious and satisfying.

Chips come with crisp and fresh salsa fresca that is both spicy and flavorful. The salsa quickly whets the appetite and pairs well with aguas frescas.

People are saying

"I found the seafood here to be delicious and authentic."

"I found the fish tacos to be excellent and delicious."

"The salsa here is spicy and flavorful."

Good to know

1

The fish tacos cost $1.65 each.

2

They accept cash, cards, or mobile pay.

3

It took about 10 minutes for my order to be ready.

16
El Patio image 1
Mexican restaurant

Bright, colorful decor creates a casual Mexican vibe with a welcoming atmosphere. Music adds to the fun, lively energy while the space remains clean and newly remodeled.

Crunchy beef tacos and Baja tacos stand out here. Options include traditional dishes like enchiladas alongside tacos, all with solid flavor.

Chips come crispy and tangy alongside salsa that tastes just like homemade. The salsa offers an authentic and flavorful start to the meal.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the shredded beef burrito with cheese sauce, is a must-try."

"The chips and salsa here are really good."

"I found the crunchy beef taco to be delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times during lunch hours, especially on holidays.

2

Parking is limited; arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Credit cards are accepted, but cash is preferred for some vendors.

17
El Prieto Cantina y Restaurant image 1

Rustic barn-style decor with cowboy and wild west themes creates a cozy, immersive atmosphere. Loud, lively energy fills the space, especially during celebrations with live music enhancing the experience. Outdoor seating adds to the relaxed vibe, making it feel like a festive Mexican cantina.

Fish and birria tacos stand out with huge portions and authentic flavors. Carne asada tacos match those found in Mexico, and Taco Tuesday offers a really good deal.

Complimentary homemade chips and salsa arrive before the meal. Sweet bread also comes with the free chips and salsa.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here is super flavorful and really good."

"You have to try the fish tacos; they were on point."

"The Salsa here feels authentically Mexican, transporting you straight to Mexico."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends due to high customer volume.

2

Happy hour offers 2-for-1 drinks, making it a great time to visit.

3

The restaurant has a covered patio with food trucks available.

18
Hermanos Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with homemade tortillas and perfectly seasoned meat creates a comfortable atmosphere. The place serves fresh, flavorful tacos and burritos with generous portions, maintaining consistent quality over time. Cash-only policy and simple setup distinguish it from others.

Tacos come super fresh and packed with flavor, served hot every time. Options include cabeza, fish, shrimp, carne asada, and shredded beef, all with good portions and tasty fillings.

Salsas come in two types here, including a red salsa with perfect spice and a guacamole and salsa Fresca mixture served generously. Two salsas are provided, complementing the homemade tortillas and well-seasoned meat.

People are saying

"I thought the carne asada fries here did not disappoint."

"I loved their breakfast burritos; I hope to be back for another."

"The tacos here are incredible, super fresh, and packed with flavor."

Good to know

1

The shop is cash only, so bring cash for your meal.

2

The portions are generous for just over $12.

3

Guacamole and sour cream come at no extra charge.

19
La India Bonita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers extensive menu with generous portions and affordable prices. Atmosphere lacks dine-in options, focusing on takeout with quick service. Known for flavorful burritos and excellent rolled tacos.

Rolled tacos stand out with potato filling and toppings like guacamole, lettuce, tomato, sour cream, and cheese. Burritos, tacos, and carne asada chips also deliver solid flavors.

Hottest salsa delivers strong heat that requires a drink to cool down. The red salsa tastes more like hot tomato sauce than traditional salsa.

People are saying

"The carne asada burritos here are top notch and perfectly seasoned."

"The rolled tacos with toppings were excellent."

"I loved their hottest salsa; it was excellent."

Good to know

1

They don't have dine-in options available.

2

Phone orders are convenient and typically ready in under 10 minutes.

3

The portion sizes are generous for takeout orders.

20
Don Pedro Taco Shop image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdated Mexican restaurant with quiet atmosphere and good scenery. Offers a sauce and condiment table with limes, guacamole, and beverages. Known for huge portions and a board menu with vegetarian options.

Tacos here come in many varieties like Tacos de Cabeza, potato tacos, and beef rolled tacos. The salsa is really tasty and the shrimp and fish tacos stand out for their flavor.

Salsas come in three varieties, all flavorful and balanced. Salsa Verde stands out as a favorite, pairing well with chips and drinks. Some dishes lean a bit greasy, but the salsa remains delicious.

People are saying

"I thought the burritos here were among the best I ever had."

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

"I thought their tacos were the best."

Good to know

1

Taco Tuesday specials are available every Tuesday.

2

The restaurant is open until 8:30 PM.

3

A meal costs around twelve dollars, including tip.

21
El Pollo Grill - Bonita image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant with casual, welcoming vibe and pleasant decor hosts a help-yourself salsa bar and drink station. Few tables create a cozy, slightly crowded setting where grilled chicken stands out for freshness and flavor.

Rolled tacos come with carne on top and taste very good. Crispy tacos are loaded with lettuce, cheese, and guacamole. Chicken tacos have a solid amount of chicken inside.

A salsa bar offers many flavorful, homecooked options with a green salsa that has a perfect kick. The salsas complement dishes like burritos and go well with chips for a hearty snack.

People are saying

"This Mexican food is amazing; the burritos are huge and flavorful."

"I found the tacos here to be incredibly delicious."

"The salsa here is fresh and perfectly complements the burrito."

Good to know

1

Parking is limited with narrow spaces, so arrive early.

2

The restaurant offers a military discount for service members.

3

Portions are generous, providing good value for the price.

22
Taquería Revolución image 1
Taco restaurant

Tight seating fills the space, creating a lively but comfortable atmosphere with some noise. Authentic Mexican tacos stand out, featuring mesquite wood-cooked meat and handmade tortillas. A salsa bar adds variety, enhancing the overall experience.

Tacos here match the flavor and style of Mexico closely. Options like carne asada, Birria, and Pollo Adobado come well seasoned and cooked just right.

A fresh salsa bar offers a variety of salsas with rich, spicy flavors. The green salsa delivers a nice spicy kick and all salsas taste very good.

People are saying

"I loved the adobada tacos; they were phenomenal."

"You have to try the freshly made tortillas here; they're amazing."

"The salsa here is fresh and has a nice spicy kick."

Good to know

1

They do not accept cash; only card payments are accepted.

2

A California burrito costs $21, and extra charges apply for sides.

3

Taco Tuesday features special pricing on September 26, 2023.

23
Los Panchos Taco Shop image 1
Taco restaurant

Taco restaurant offers lively atmosphere with great music and a varied salsa bar. Seating is plentiful but the space feels outdated and built for speed, not comfort. The vibe suits those seeking quick, flavorful Mexican food rather than a romantic or upscale setting.

Crunchy chicken rolled tacos have a soft inside and a crispy outside. Hard shell tacos, shrimp enchiladas, and carne asada rolled tacos add variety, all served with great salsa and a combo plate option featuring an enchilada and a taco.

A variety of salsas fills a clean salsa bar, including tasty red salsa and unique green and white options. Staff keep salsa packages well stocked and provide plenty of utensils with each order.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food here to be delicious and plentiful."

"Cyndy made sure our Mexican food order had plenty of salsas and utensils."

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

Good to know

1

Parking is limited in front but there is plenty in the back.

2

You need to be hungry to finish the birria because of its large portion.

3

The price is great, making it affordable for families.

24
Los Taquitos Taco Shop(Cash Only) image 1

Taco shop with cash-only policy and on-site ATMs offers authentic Mexican cuisine featuring crispy rolled tacos praised as the best. Prices have increased significantly, and food quality shows some inconsistency. Atmosphere suits late-night cravings with freshly prepared orders.

Roll tacos stand out with their crunchy texture and seasoned meat, especially the special 5 roll tacos topped with guacamole, sour cream, and cheese. Tacos de cabeza come loaded with meat and salsa Verde, offering a rich flavor that stays consistent over the years.

Salsa here ranges from salsa Verde served with tacos de cabeza to a canned tomato paste style with rolled taquitos. Some salsas taste like frozen mariscos, and one salsa per rolled taco is common.

People are saying

"You have to try the rolled tacos; they're the best."

"The salsa here is a must with the rolled tacos."

"You have to try the rolled tacos; they're the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Los Taquitos Taco Shop only accepts cash payments.

2

The restaurant has an ATM on site for cash withdrawals.

3

Prices for tacos have increased from $8.99 to about $11 or $12.

25
El Pollo Grill - Otay Ranch image 1
Mexican restaurant

Spacious dining areas display San Diego sports decor and maintain a clean, cool atmosphere with loud music. A self-serve salsa bar offers unlimited choices, complementing generous portions of authentic grilled chicken and carne asada tacos. Prices reflect portion size, with some extras like cotija cheese charged separately.

Fire grilled chicken tacos stand out with solid flavor and satisfying portions. Birria and fish tacos offer rich, bold tastes, while rolled tacos add variety. Prices lean high, with five roll tacos costing $11.00.

Salsas here come with a salsa bar offering plenty of options. The hot sauce and salsa Verde stand out for their good, spicy flavors.

People are saying

"This burrito is huge and stuffed with delicious meat."

"The salsa here is really good and spicy."

"This California burrito was stuffed with delicious meat and fries."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on Wednesdays, making it a great family option.

2

Expect larger portion sizes, perfect for sharing or leftovers.

3

Prices are generally reasonable for the quality and portion sizes.

26
Asada Mexican Restaurant image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers a quiet, cool atmosphere with a warm, home-like vibe that welcomes diners of all ages. A complimentary salsa bar with six varieties adds a distinctive touch. The space feels clean and inviting, encouraging relaxed meals.

Tacos come with carnitas, cabeza, and potato fillings that pack a lot of flavor. Rolled tacos with chicken or fish are served with guacamole and sour cream and taste consistently good.

Salsas here come in a variety of flavors that are not watered down. The salsa bar offers jalapeños and spicy carrots in escabeche, and the sauce, guacamole, and cream on the fries stand out as excellent accompaniments.

People are saying

"I found the Mexican food burritos to be delicious and large."

"The rolled tacos here are delicious and full of flavor."

"These steak fries are crispy, tasty, and plentiful."

Good to know

1

They started accepting debit and credit cards for payments.

2

Asada Mexican Restaurant is open 24 hours, subject to holidays.

3

They offer a drive-thru option for convenience.

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Chula Vista, California

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