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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Best of San Diego

Affordable dinner spots

A satisfying meal should not have to come with a heavy price tag.

Based on 887 Opinions
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Updated October 2026
01
Alexi's Greek Cafe image 1
Alexi's Greek Cafe image 2
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Greek restaurant

Mysterious blue lights and vintage decor create a cozy, nostalgic atmosphere with a family diner vibe. The space feels unpretentious and welcoming, focusing on hearty, authentic Greek food at affordable prices. Generous portions and a no-frills setting make it a rare gem for casual dining.

Dinner options include a Greek dinner with gyro, fresh salad, soup, and fries. Affordable dinner plate combos offer good value around $9 to $10 with tax.

Lunch and dinner sets cost around $9 or $10 including taxes. Portions come generous with authentic Greek seasoning. Lunch specials keep meals inexpensive and affordable.

People are saying

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

"The dinner spots here serve genuine Greek cuisine, hitting the gyro and souvlaki cravings."

"The Mediterranean food here is served with a big smile."

Good to know

1

Lunch specials make meals affordable, typically around $10-11.

2

Happy hour offers excellent deals on drinks and appetizers.

3

Dinner specials include a cup of soup, salad, and an entrée for $12.

02
Empanada Kitchen image 1
Argentinian restaurant

Bright and friendly space shares a corner with a burger joint and includes a cute backyard with tables. Atmosphere stays modern and relaxing, quiet enough for laid-back meals. Empanadas come with authentic Argentinian flavors and clear labels, served warm and full of flavor.

Dinner offers a laid-back vibe with a nice and quiet inside environment. Empanadas are available for takeout alongside the dine-in options.

Prices stay very affordable for families. The empanadas come at a low cost, making it a good spot for budget-friendly meals.

People are saying

"I found the empanadas here to be absolutely excellent."

"The empanadas here are excellent, especially the spicy beef."

"I found the food here delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

They offer a special deal every day for three empanadas.

2

Daily specials change frequently, so check the menu often.

3

Parking around Pearl Street can be tricky, but spots are available.

03
BHATTI HIMALAYAN GRILL Indian Cuisine image 1

Bright, modern decor creates a clean, cozy atmosphere with ample seating and a relaxed vibe. The space feels spacious yet comfortable, suitable for quiet conversations and casual dining. Lighting and setup support a pleasant, inviting environment without frills.

Dinner comes well packed for takeout, ensuring safe travel and freshness. The spot offers a family-friendly atmosphere with consistently satisfying meals.

Food offers delicious flavors at affordable prices. Good value for Indian cuisine with consistently reasonable costs.

People are saying

"The lunch buffet here is really tasty and a great value."

"The dinner spots here are so flavorful and delicious."

"I found the food delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

The buffet is available every day from 11 AM to 2:30 PM.

2

Lunch special is priced at $14.99, providing good value.

3

Expect large portion sizes at the buffet.

04
Steamy Piggy Point Loma image 1
Asian restaurant

Asian restaurant with modern, inviting decor and photo-worthy corners creates a friendly, vibey atmosphere. Loud, chill music and several TVs showing sports and K-pop fill the space. Cocktails like lychee and passionfruit complement soft dumplings and flavorful chicken rolls.

Dinner features friendly service with staff like Ethan and Eugene managing the floor smoothly. The food aroma draws people in, creating a welcoming atmosphere for family meals.

Food comes out quickly and stays affordable with inexpensive prices for the portion size. Cocktails, noodles, dumplings, and soups all fall within a fair price range.

People are saying

"I found the food to be delicious and the portions huge."

"The dinner spots here have super friendly and attentive service."

"The food and cocktails here are delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour starts at 8pm with $1 wings and late night deals.

2

The $1 wings are a popular choice during happy hour.

3

Parking is easier at this location compared to others in the area.

05
The Mixer image 1
American restaurant

American restaurant combines indoor and outdoor seating with numerous TVs for a high-energy sports bar vibe. Music and live events create a buzzing atmosphere where fans cheer and enjoy themed nights. Burgers and cocktails stand out amid a setup designed for football watching and socializing.

Great for birthday dinners and celebrations with a lively vibe. Offers a $20 girl dinner and cocktails for a solid dinner experience.

Prices stay stunningly affordable across the menu. The Egg-cellent Plate offers a hearty meal without stretching the budget. This spot keeps dining family-friendly and budget-conscious.

People are saying

"I thought the burgers here were amazing, truly the best."

"Our server Ryan was amazing and provided great customer service."

"The butter burger was handmade and smashed for only $7."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $6.25 drinks and $7.25 food options.

2

The Bravo watch party for RHOSLC is on Tuesday nights.

3

Parking is ample and convenient near The Mixer.

06
Johnny Mañanas Ocean Beach image 1
Mexican restaurant

Mexican restaurant offers colorful storefront and outdoor seating with views of the pier. Atmosphere shifts from quiet early afternoons to a lively vibe later, enhanced by Mexican music and a self-serve salsa bar. Affordable drinks include $5 margaritas and draft beers, complementing well-regarded tacos and burritos.

Offers a quick dinner option with a family-friendly vibe that appeals to kids. Serves as a solid choice for a final meal during a trip.

Crispy fish tacos come at an extremely affordable price. Lunch options are quick, tasty, and budget-friendly. Draft beer costs just $3, making the overall experience very affordable.

People are saying

"The staff here are super friendly and attentive."

"You can't beat the crispy fish tacos for such an affordable price."

"You have to try the Surf and turf taco for dinner."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, enjoy $2.50 street tacos and two for $5 specials.

2

Happy hour features $3 pints and $6 margaritas from 2 to 6 PM and all day on weekends.

3

Outdoor seating is available for dogs.

07
Volare Italian Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, family-owned Italian restaurant with a cozy, authentic atmosphere and dated interior that feels like a time capsule. The place hosts an eclectic group of local regulars and offers a locals-only secret vibe. It serves excellent Italian food with standout dishes like lasagna and Oso Buco.

Dinner offers Italian classics with options like rotini with broccoli and shrimp that feels lightly seasoned and healthy. Tables can be hard to get, but the food suits both dine-in and carry-out well.

Prices stay very affordable here, making it easy to enjoy good food without spending much. The setting feels a bit cramped but peaceful enough to focus on the meal.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is amazing, just like in Boston or NYC."

"The dinner here is delicious and surprisingly good."

"The food here is good and affordable."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required for large parties to ensure seating.

2

Expect longer wait times during peak hours, especially on weekends.

3

A 20% service charge is automatically added to all dining bills.

08
Sizzler image 1
Restaurant

Bright, spacious restaurant with modern remodeling and clean, well-lit interiors creates a welcoming atmosphere. Endless salad bar and live music add unique touches, while the environment stays quiet and pleasant with attentive service.

Attentive service stands out during dinner, with staff like Sheila and Martha going above and beyond. The spot offers a pleasant atmosphere suitable for family dinners.

Prices stay consistently affordable and thrifty. The steakhouse offers good food without high costs.

People are saying

"The salad bar here had so many choices, it was amazing."

"The service during dinner was great and attentive."

"The food here is affordable and good."

Good to know

1

The salad bar is always clean and well-stocked.

2

Prices are low for the quality of food offered.

3

There is plenty of parking available.

09
Pho Cow Cali image 1
Pho restaurant

Steampunk-themed interior with large seats and murals creates a lively, bustling atmosphere. Dim lighting and soft music add to the authentic Vietnamese vibe. The place suits groups and families more than quiet dinners due to its hectic and noisy environment.

Prices stay affordable with most specials around $13. Portions come generous and meals like chicken noodle soup satisfy without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"The pho here is super delicious and flavorful."

"The pho broth here is light and perfectly balanced, truly authentic."

"You'll probably wait in line for these popular dinner spots."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times on weekends due to popularity.

2

Arrive early to avoid a long wait, especially on Fridays.

3

The waitlist moves quickly, often under 20 minutes.

10
Sushi Yorimichi image 1
Sushi restaurant

Small, cozy sushi restaurant with intimate atmosphere and authentic Tokyo vibes. Limited seating creates a warm, inviting space often packed with charm. Music adds to the serene, chill energy, making it ideal for quiet meals or dates.

Dinner time draws a crowd here, making it lively. The spot closes between lunch and dinner on weekdays, so happy hour runs only from 2 pm to 3 pm.

Unique layers of flavors come with affordable pricing. Sushi offers quality at a super affordable cost.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is amazingly fresh and well-priced."

"I found the sushi to be delicious and affordable."

"You have to try the Red Dragon roll; it's delicious."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 6 PM with discounted prices on select items.

2

The restaurant can only accommodate about 25 customers at a time.

3

Reservations are recommended due to limited seating and popularity.

11
Bangkok Spices Thai Restaurant image 1

House converted into a restaurant with quirky decor mixing travel, hippie, and retrogamer styles creates a cozy, homey atmosphere. Aromas of lemongrass, chili, and coconut fill the air, enhancing the quiet, quaint vibe. Open late with affordable prices, it offers a solid, casual Thai dining experience.

Calm atmosphere suits late dinners with quiet surroundings and enjoyable meals. Food offers solid options for a relaxed evening.

Prices stay consistently inexpensive and meals come at an affordable rate. This spot offers solid value for Thai food without stretching the budget.

People are saying

"The Thai food here bursts with bold, vibrant flavors."

"The flavors here are authentic and the dishes are so good."

"I found this Thai joint to be a solid, affordable option."

Good to know

1

Bangkok Spices Thai Restaurant is the only Thai place open until midnight.

2

People with dietary restrictions should be cautious when dining here.

3

Parking is not easy near the restaurant.

12
Meet Dumpling image 1
Chinese restaurant

Small, family-owned Chinese restaurant with cozy atmosphere and simple decor. Guests can watch dumplings being handmade in an open kitchen while enjoying Studio Ghibli instrumental music. Seating is limited and intimate, creating a warm and inviting vibe.

Family owned spot offers a cozy vibe for dinner gatherings. Meals suit both light dinners and more festive occasions like Christmas Eve.

Prices stay affordable with good portion sizes and fresh ingredients in the dumplings.

People are saying

"The cucumber salad is amazingly fresh, crunchy, and flavorful."

"The dumplings at these dinner spots are so juicy and fresh."

"I found the dumplings here to be affordable and tasty."

Good to know

1

Make sure to come early because there are limited seats in the restaurant.

2

Be prepared to look for parking.

3

The restaurant was small and parking could be difficult.

13
Sapphire Indian Cuisine image 1
Indian restaurant

Spacious layout with beautiful lighting creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The space feels bright and clean, suitable for large gatherings. The ambiance combines a heartwarming vibe with a touch of elegance.

Dinner features four different curry dishes including vegetarian and chicken options. Service stays friendly, quick, and attentive throughout the meal.

Offers good Indian food at very affordable prices. Pricing suits everyone's budget.

People are saying

"The buffet here is super good, with fantastic Indian food."

"The dinner dishes here are so flavorful and delicious."

"I thought the prices were affordable for everyone."

Good to know

1

The restaurant offers a lunch buffet from Monday through Saturday.

2

The $15 buffet includes many vegetarian and non-vegetarian options.

3

There is ample parking available right out front.

14
Bánh Mì Hội An image 1
Vietnamese restaurant

Vietnamese restaurant offers cozy, calm atmosphere with simple, clean decor and authentic culinary traditions. It draws a welcoming crowd seeking outstanding pho and bánh mì sandwiches. Indoor seating feels dated, but the place remains a chill spot to relax and enjoy flavorful food.

Portion sizes are generous, letting you enjoy dinner and have leftovers for lunch. Going to Bookstar after dinner adds a fun way to extend the evening.

Meals cost around $40 total, which is very affordable compared to other spots. The local Vietnamese cuisine offers great value with consistently affordable prices.

People are saying

"I found the Banh Mi here to be flavorful and loaded."

"The pho here has an unbelievable depth of flavor."

"The food here is amazing and affordable."

Good to know

1

The best parking is behind the building.

2

The prices are very affordable, with meals around $23.

3

They are closed on Wednesdays.

15
The Kebab Shop image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Mediterranean restaurant with a family-friendly vibe and green environment. Atmosphere ranges from noisy with aluminum furniture to comfortable and clean. Known for juicy grilled chicken skewers and flavorful shawarma wraps.

Dinner offers a light and fresh experience with clean, nutritious options. Meals often come with a garlic yogurt sauce that adds flavor.

Food comes at very inexpensive prices, especially the kebabs. Meals are filling and consistently affordable.

People are saying

"The Mediterranean food here, especially the lamb skewers, is unmatched."

"I loved stopping there for a delicious San Diego Wrap."

"I found the kebabs delicious and the prices affordable."

Good to know

1

The portions are large, making it easy to share a wrap.

2

Prices for wraps start around $17, but sharing can reduce costs.

3

The restaurant maintains a high standard of cleanliness throughout.

16
Ichiban PB image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers a friendly atmosphere with Japanese posters decorating the walls and comfortable seating. The place stays lively and suits date nights well. Menu features fresh sushi and a variety of dishes at reasonable prices.

Offers a solid spot for a treat yourself dinner with a budget-friendly vibe. Works well for a casual Friday night out with about 50 bucks to spend.

Affordable prices stand out here, making meals easy on the wallet. The bill stays really reasonable, which is rare in this area.

People are saying

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

"It's a great local spot that should be supported."

"I ate everything down to the last grain of rice because the food was so delicious."

Good to know

1

Ichiban PB offers affordable prices, making it a budget-friendly option.

2

The menu features a limited selection of sushi items.

3

Portions are generous for the price.

17
San Diego Chicken Pie Shop image 1
Chicken restaurant

Old-school American diner with authentic rural feel and classic country style offers a bright, inviting atmosphere that feels like stepping back in time. Space is large and uncluttered, maintaining a clean, meticulously kept environment with friendly energy.

Dinner features a chicken pie dinner with potatoes, gravy, veggie, coleslaw or apple sauce, and pie for dessert. The 4-piece fried chicken plate offers a hearty option with a home-cooked feel.

Meals come at inexpensive prices with a focus on old-fashioned style and homestyle dishes. The food stays consistently affordable and tasty for dinner.

People are saying

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

"These dinner spots serve the best comfort food, like pot pie."

"I found the homestyle dishes here to be inexpensive and delicious."

Good to know

1

Kids eat free on Tuesdays.

2

Every day, they have a different cream pie; ask your server for details.

3

Expect large crowds on Thursday nights and during Monday Night football.

18
Sushi Deli 1 image 1
Sushi restaurant

Walls covered in manga pages create a casual, laid-back atmosphere that feels more like a burger joint than a traditional sushi spot. The place fills with an energetic, noisy crowd enjoying affordable, fresh sushi and a variety of sake cocktails.

Arriving just before dinner time usually means quick seating. The menu offers a wide range of options including ramen, curry, sushi tacos, and sushi fries alongside many sushi rolls.

Offers a monthly sushi combo that lets you try four different rolls at a low price. Both sushi and bento plates come at affordable prices while maintaining good quality.

People are saying

"The Japanese food here is fresh, flavorful, and reasonably priced."

"I found the sushi to be delicious and affordable."

"The sushi rolls here are always fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs Monday to Friday from 3-6pm with food and drink specials.

2

Daily specials on food and rotating monthly specials are available.

3

Parking is limited, so consider arriving early or using public transport.

19
The Fire Spot image 1
Restaurant

Charcoal grills create a smoky, vibrant atmosphere in a small, cozy space with tables close together. The place fills quickly, leading to long waits and a lively, bustling vibe. Strong smoke and limited ventilation add to the intense grilling experience.

Prices start around $32.99 for a basic package and go up to about $39 for premium options. These rates stay affordable compared to other Korean BBQ spots.

People are saying

"The Korean food's quality meat just melts in your mouth."

"This Korean BBQ dinner spot is the best I've ever had."

"I thought the price offered good value for money."

Good to know

1

Expect wait times of 1-2 hours during peak hours on weekends.

2

Parking can be difficult to find, especially during busy times.

3

Reservations are not accepted; arrive early to avoid long lines.

20
Mike's Red Tacos - Point Loma image 1

Roomy dining areas combine with inside and outside seating to create a clean, modern environment. A self-serve salsa bar offers various options, adding a unique touch to the experience. The atmosphere feels chill and cozy, enhanced by views of a green field and mountains in the background.

Dinner comes attractively served on a metal tray with delicious flavors. Taking preemptive heartburn medicine suits those over 40, especially if eating late.

Food comes at very affordable prices, with burritos around $14. Quality stays good despite the low cost.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing, truly top tier."

"I thought the food was delicious and really affordable."

"I found the dinner here to be amazing and very good."

Good to know

1

On Tuesdays, a free taco is offered with meal combo orders.

2

Expect a lively atmosphere on Taco Tuesdays with many locals attending.

3

Parking is available nearby, but can fill up quickly during peak hours.

21
Dosa Studio Indian Restaurant & Catering image 1

Small, authentic South Indian restaurant offers a self-serve chutney and sambar bar that stands out. Atmosphere varies from lively and comfortable to chaotic and uninspired, with mixed cleanliness reports. Frequented for authentic South Indian flavors and a spacious sit-out area.

Dinner runs late with hours open until 10 pm every day. Service stands out with kind hosts and an ala carte menu that delivers a solid experience.

Food offers great flavor and stays very affordable. Prices remain consistently low while delivering tasty, authentic dishes.

People are saying

"The buffet had authentic Indian flavors with fresh dosas made-to-order."

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

"The South Indian dinner spots here are delicious, especially the dosas."

Good to know

1

Dosa night happens every Thursday, featuring family-friendly vegetarian options.

2

The weekend brunch buffet is available on Saturday and Sunday.

3

The buffet costs $20 per person, which is considered affordable.

22
Sportsmen's Seafoods image 1
Seafood restaurant

Seafood restaurant offers epic bay views with plenty of outdoor seating by the docks and boats. Atmosphere feels unpretentious and cozy, attracting those looking for a casual spot to enjoy fresh seafood and a beer. Indoor space is small, but the focus stays on the harbor setting and relaxed vibe.

Fresh, flavorful fish dishes stand out for dinner, including a halibut fish sandwich and a salmon sandwich. Dinner service ends early at 8 pm, but the quality encourages repeat visits.

Fresh seafood and affordable prices stand out here. The spot offers inexpensive meals, including affordable wine and casual bites with good value.

People are saying

"The shrimp tacos here are the best, seriously bomb."

"The fish dinners here are fresh, flavorful, and perfectly cooked."

"I found the food to be delicious and affordable."

Good to know

1

Parking is available, but can be challenging during busy times.

2

Prices are reasonable, with fish tacos costing around $15.

3

The seafood is fresh and often sushi-grade.

23
Szechuan House image 1
Chinese restaurant

Traditional Chinese decor creates a cozy, warm atmosphere with soft piano music enhancing a calm, relaxed vibe. The space feels old school and quaint, attracting those who appreciate a quiet, family-friendly setting.

Soft background music sets a relaxed atmosphere for dinner. Dishes cost about $20 each, making it a solid go-to takeout spot for evening meals.

Food comes at reasonably affordable prices and tastes good. The menu offers inexpensive options without sacrificing quality.

People are saying

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

"The food here is so tasty and authentic."

"The decor for dinner spots is a bit dated."

Good to know

1

Szechuan House only accepts cash, so be prepared with cash.

2

They offer lunch specials that are very filling and fairly cheap.

3

You get free wonton chips with your meal.

24
Sushi Deli 3 image 1
Sushi restaurant

Lively sushi house with casual local vibe and loud indoor seating that challenges conversation. Multiple seating areas include a shaded outdoor space with casual Japanese decor and a bar area popular for watching sports. Offers affordable sushi with fresh options and generous portions.

Dinner offers an amazing experience with a zen and calm atmosphere. Arriving early helps avoid the dinner rush.

Creative dishes and sushi rolls come with affordable prices that feel fair for the quality. Portions stay generous while keeping the menu diverse and inexpensive.

People are saying

"I thought the Japanese food here was delicious and inexpensive."

"The sushi here is amazing and always very tasty."

"I thought the sushi was delicious and inexpensive."

Good to know

1

Sushi Deli 3 has a 90-minute seating limit.

2

Expect a 30-minute wait during peak dinner hours.

3

Parking is limited and may require a short walk.

25
Mimi's Tuk Tuk image 1
Thai restaurant

Small, cozy space with a subtle tropical vibe and bright lighting creates a welcoming, laid-back atmosphere. Friendly energy and clean, uncluttered design make it feel like eating in someone's home. The setting includes tuk tuk models and a few seats facing the front window.

Dinner portions come with an extra cost of $4-5 per meal and feel more like lunch-sized servings. Meals may not satisfy larger groups or those expecting hearty dinner plates.

Prices stay quite affordable throughout the menu. It suits those looking for good, affordable food on a weekday without cooking.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious with fresh, bold flavors."

"The dinner spots here are delicious and made at request."

"I found the prices here to be quite affordable."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has a lunch menu available on weekends.

2

Expect a wait time of about 25 minutes for orders during peak hours.

3

Prices have increased by $3-4 per dish recently.

26
El Primo Birrieria Mexican cuisine image 1

Mexican restaurant blends upscale decor with a nightclub vibe, featuring loud disco and techno music and an in-house DJ. Full bar and private party area complement the family-friendly atmosphere despite high volume. Spacious layout includes ample parking and multiple TVs playing music videos.

Steak dinners like the Tomahawk stand out here. The spot offers a classy ambiance that fits both romantic and family dinners with decent prices.

Prices stay consistently affordable here, offering excellent value without stretching your budget.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and has a unique, homemade flavor."

"The birria at these dinner spots is bursting with spices and juiciness."

"The staff here makes you feel like family."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens on Wednesdays with a DJ creating a fun atmosphere.

2

Live music is featured on Fridays at El Primo Birrieria.

3

The restaurant closes at 8pm, so arrive before 7:30pm for food.

27
Bafang Dumpling image 1
Asian restaurant

Cozy shack with cafeteria-style seating and a shared patio for outdoor dining. Atmosphere is vibrant and casual, often busy with long lines during lunch hours. Walls display stories about dumplings and franchise growth, adding a unique touch to the spacious, clean interior.

Dinner rush causes a 15-20 minute wait. Food service slows down during peak dinner hours.

Prices stay affordable with meals around 20 dollars for two. Portions come large and the food remains inexpensive overall.

People are saying

"These dumplings are as good as any I had in Taiwan."

"The food here is affordable and comes in large portions."

"The Taiwanese Beef Noodle Soup at these dinner spots is so delicious."

Good to know

1

Expect long wait times of 10-15 minutes for food during busy hours.

2

The restaurant is often crowded, especially during lunch on weekdays.

3

Walk-in orders are only accepted for takeout; no reservations available.

28
Great Plaza Buffet image 1
Buffet restaurant

Buffet restaurant offers an enormous dining area with live cooking stations including Mongolian and teppanyaki grills. Atmosphere varies from cozy and quiet to lively and crowded during peak hours. Tables are close together, creating a bustling environment with fresh sushi and stir fry options.

Dinner prices range from about $26 per person to roughly $30 each for buffets, with a two-person meal plus a beer costing around $55. Groups of six or more get a free birthday dinner or lunch.

Buffet options come with inexpensive prices and senior discounts. Location by the sea helps keep the overall cost affordable.

People are saying

"The buffet's fresh food, especially the stir fry, is always delicious."

"The dinner spots offer a fantastic variety of food for a reasonable price."

"I found the buffet to be good and affordable."

Good to know

1

The buffet is available every day, regardless of weather or season.

2

The restaurant has a birthday policy where you eat for free if it's your birthday, but you must show an ID.

3

Lunch costs around $20 for one person, including tip.

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