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Guide to San Diego

Soup and bar spots

Made for those who want to enjoy a bowl of soup in a lively, drink-focused environment.

Based on 813 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
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Restaurant

Small, elegantly casual restaurant offers an intimate and cozy atmosphere with warm, inviting decor and whimsical, sophisticated style. Seating is tight and acoustics can be loud, creating a lively energy. A small bar adds to the charm, making it a spot for both dining and drinks.

Melon soup stands out with its unique, refreshing flavor. The menu also features a variety of soups that pair well with caviar, oysters, and fresh bread.

Small bar offers a cozy spot for drinks and dessert. Sitting there lets you soak in the relaxed ambiance while enjoying a couple of drinks.

People are saying

"The food here is incredible, especially the tasting menu."

"The onion soup is warm, rich, and bold."

"The food at the bar is incredible, especially the fries with caviar."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended to ensure a table, especially on weekends.

2

The prix fixe menu costs $89, with an additional $49 for wine pairing.

3

Expect small portion sizes, which may not be sufficient for all diners.

02
Dobson's Bar & Restaurant image 1
Californian restaurant

Two-level space combines an intimate bar with a quaint upstairs dining area. Atmosphere shifts from loud live music downstairs to a cozy, romantic vibe upstairs. Frequented by those seeking a casual, friendly setting with a touch of old-school charm.

Soups here include a French onion soup served with homemade sourdough bread and a mussel bisque that matches its reputation. Meatball soup and other starters also stand out for their rich flavors.

Intimate bar area offers a cozy spot with amazing cocktails and a solid selection of wine and beer. The space feels small but welcoming, blending well with the dining area.

People are saying

"The mussel bisque soup here is rich and amazing."

"I thought the food at the Bar was really good."

"You have to try their mussel bisque soup; it's amazing."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with half-price appetizers.

2

Music is featured on Tuesday nights, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on busy nights.

03
The Spot La Jolla image 1

Bar and grill with ocean views and an indoor-outdoor second story creates a lively, cozy atmosphere. Outdoor seating is dog friendly and popular, while multiple sports TVs show several games simultaneously. The place fills up and gets loud, especially later in the evening.

French onion soup stands out with a twist of rye bread and a different cheese, topped with a great crouton and a tasty base. Lobster soup and meatball soup of the day also offer solid options.

Feels like a true locals bar with a cool, dive vibe. Bar bites include warm pretzels, calamari, and onion rings, all highly praised. A golden retriever named Jameson adds to the laid-back atmosphere.

People are saying

"The bar food here is some of the best I've ever had."

"I thought the burgers here were great and generously portioned."

"Their French onion soup has a tasty base with lots of cheese."

Good to know

1

Parking at The Spot can be challenging.

2

They have Trivia Night on Tuesdays.

3

Happy Hour gives $3 off appetizers.

04
Deckman's NORTH Park at 3131 image 1

Open kitchen with chef's counter creates an engaging dining experience. Atmosphere blends elegance and warmth with a hidden entrance adding intrigue. Rooftop bar offers a unique vibe and intimate outdoor seating.

Abalone Low Tide Soup offers a unique standout full of flavor. Other soups include varieties with quail, tomatoes, and urchin, though some find the low tide soup a bit sour.

Grant crafts cocktails with balance and creativity. The rooftop bar offers a unique setting, and the service at both the front bar and tables is attentive.

People are saying

"The food here is creative and tasty."

"The bar staff's warm, genuine service made me feel like an old friend."

"The low tide soup was just okay, a bit sour."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5:00 to 6:30 PM, featuring oysters and small bites.

2

Seating for happy hour is limited to about 10-12 guests, so arrive early.

3

The rooftop offers stunning views during happy hour, enhancing the experience.

05
Kamon Craft Cocktail Bar image 1

Speakeasy hidden behind a bakery features Japanese-inspired decor and a cozy, sophisticated atmosphere. Background music includes old J-pop songs, supporting chill conversations in a space with a private lounge and a sand garden. Display of rare Japanese whisky bottles adds unique visual interest.

Good soup offers an adventurous savory experience. It stands out alongside cocktails like the stache and negroni.

Cocktails feature custom adjustments despite batching, with a standout Tokyo banana cocktail. The bar offers a speakeasy vibe and a strong selection of Japanese Whiskey guided by a knowledgeable manager.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are amazing, with attentive service."

"The bar's creative cocktails were thoughtfully curated and unique."

"I thought the chicken broth in the soup was amazing."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required to secure a table, especially on weekends.

2

The bar is accessed through a hidden door next to ASA Bakery.

3

Expect a 45-minute wait if you arrive without a reservation.

06
formoosa image 1
Taiwanese restaurant

Small Taiwanese restaurant features a wrap-around bar with chic modern decor and classic 90s and 2000s hip hop music. Atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, with lively energy and good music. Seating focuses on bar spots, offering a unique view of food preparation and torch-lit bowls.

Beef noodle soup stands out with rich flavor and tender meat. The soup pairs well with wontons and is a popular choice during happy hour from Monday to Friday between 2 and 5 pm.

Seating at the bar features a cool set-up that stands out from typical restaurant arrangements. Staff like Julian provide attentive service right at the bar.

People are saying

"The beef noodle soup here is so flavorful and the beef is tender."

"I found the handcrafted cocktails to be amazing and delicious."

"The bar staff, James and Danny, were so attentive."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Monday to Friday, 2-5 pm, with discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Most happy hour items are $1-3 off, making it a budget-friendly option.

3

Parking is available in a plaza lot, but payment is required.

07
Ken Sushi Workshop image 1
Japanese restaurant

Japanese restaurant offers indoor and outdoor seating with fireplaces and portable tents creating a fun, lively atmosphere. Sushi bar seating allows watching chefs prepare high-quality, creative sushi. Ambiance blends minimalist decor with casual, inviting energy.

People are saying

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

"The seafood here is pristine and melts in your mouth."

"I loved the high quality sushi and creative dining experience."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, especially on weekends, to secure a spot.

2

The restaurant does not accept walk-ins, so plan ahead.

3

Expect to spend around $63 per person, excluding alcohol.

08
Chili's Grill & Bar image 1

Upbeat restaurant with a horseshoe-shaped bar and many TVs for watching sports. Atmosphere is lively and enjoyable, suitable for football games and family dining. Electronic games add to the kid-friendly environment while seating remains clean and comfortable.

Enchilada soup and baked loaded potato soup stand out with rich flavors. Soups often come as part of specials or starters and pair well with salads and burgers.

A full bar offers a variety of drinks alongside good food and drink specials. Friendly staff provide excellent bartender service in a clean seating area at the bar.

People are saying

"The food here was amazing and delicious."

"The enchilada soup was part of a great deal for $10.99."

"I loved the bar food, especially the burgers and chili."

Good to know

1

Happy hour is available all day on weekends in the bar section only.

2

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating.

3

Expect a 15-20 minute wait for tables on busy Friday nights.

09
Pichudo Mexican Grill image 1
Mexican restaurant

Outdoor patio with fire pits and heat lamps creates a warm, inviting atmosphere. Mostly outdoor seating blends with a full bar and fun music for a lively, comfortable vibe. Organic, fresh ingredients complement the modern, pleasant setting.

Outdoor seating features heat lamps for comfort. Both indoor and outdoor dining areas include a full bar. The bar complements the modern Mexican vibe of the restaurant.

People are saying

"The food here is so fresh, organic, and delicious."

"This Mexican food is the highest quality I've ever had."

"The food here is so fresh and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 3-6 pm with half-price tacos and draft beers.

2

Taco Tuesday features 50% off tacos and $5 margaritas during happy hour.

3

Parking is limited with no street parking available.

10
Beeside Balcony La Jolla image 1
Mediterranean restaurant

Open-air Mediterranean restaurant offers breathtaking ocean views and an elevated patio that reduces street noise. Live music sets a classy beach town vibe with a vibrant atmosphere that feels both lively and welcoming.

Cioppino soup features mostly mussels and clams with little fish. Tomato soup comes alongside pork chop and filet mignon dishes. Bread served with soup can be greasy.

A stellar cocktail menu and a full bar offer plenty of drink options. The bartender stays exceptionally nice and attentive, even when it's quiet, making sitting at the bar a special treat.

People are saying

"The food at these dinner spots was spectacular and did not disappoint."

"The cocktails here were delicious and spot on."

"The cioppino soup was out of this world and so flavorful."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great prices on drinks and appetizers.

2

The happy hour menu is available upon request from the staff.

3

Parking is generally easy, but can be difficult during peak hours.

11
Havana Grill image 1
Cuban restaurant

Indoor space features a skylight and authentic Cuban bar decor with tiles that evoke Cuban culture. Live Cuban jazz music plays at a balanced volume, encouraging salsa dancing and casual conversation. The atmosphere feels vibey and lowkey, blending a clean, expansive setting with engaging entertainment.

Chicken soup stands out with its gluten-free, dairy-free recipe and added vegetables. Black bean soup offers a delicious alternative. The chicken and vegetable soup appeals even to picky eaters.

Phenomenal service stands out at the bar with staff like Sofia delivering friendly, attentive care. The bar team consistently impresses with their excellent hospitality.

People are saying

"The Cuban food here is authentic, especially the croquetas and empanadas."

"The bar area looked like an authentic Cuban bar."

"Their chicken soup is so good, even picky eaters love it."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 pm on weekdays with empanadas.

2

The kitchen starts to shut down at 8:30 PM, so arrive early.

3

Live music events are scheduled occasionally; check ahead for dates.

12
The Butcher Shop image 1
Steak house

Steakhouse with old school Rat Pack style features red leather booths and a real fireplace creating a swanky, low-key vibe. The atmosphere is relaxed with 70s music playing and a bar known for classic cocktails. Spacious booths and preserved antique details add to the plush, vintage feel.

French Onion soup stands out as a favorite with a rich, delicious flavor. The chowder and mussels also complement the soup offerings well.

Neighborhood bar atmosphere feels outstanding with a full bar offering a cosmopolitan among other drinks. Service at the bar and tables stays excellent throughout.

People are saying

"The steaks here are always delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The bar staff, especially Eric, are so friendly and attentive."

"The French onion soup here is the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs daily from 4pm to 10pm with great food and drinks.

2

The B.A.G networking event occurs on the second Tuesday of every month.

3

Reservations are recommended, especially during busy times like Valentine's Day.

13
VULTURE image 1
Restaurant

Speakeasy-style restaurant with unique, otherworldly decor and a red curtain entrance creates an intimate, elegant atmosphere. The vibe blends 80's music with a warm, inviting energy that suits a night out. Fully vegan menu offers plant-based fine dining with standout cocktails and memorable dishes.

Tangy French onion soup stands out with a super flavorful broth, tons of onions, and cheese. The bolognese and celery soup also rank among the best on the menu.

Great bar offers a lively spot with top notch service and a welcoming atmosphere. Bar seating feels more comfortable than the small dining booths, and the appetizers complement the drinks well.

People are saying

"I can't wait to return for the amazing vegan options."

"I loved the tangy French onion soup."

"The bar's inventive craft cocktails were carefully curated and tasted really good."

Good to know

1

A reservation is needed to dine at VULTURE.

2

VULTURE adds an automatic 20% gratuity on all checks.

3

Many items on the menu were unavailable during my visit.

14
Shanghai Bun Chinese Tapas Bar image 1
Shanghainese restaurant

Shanghainese restaurant offers a laid-back beach vibe with an open baresque feel and a casual, chill atmosphere. The place feels more like a dive bar than a traditional dim sum spot, attracting those looking for a relaxed setting and great cocktails. It serves hand-crafted dishes with a variety of Asian flavors, including many vegan options.

Beef noodle soup features gelatinous pieces that add authentic taste and texture. Wonton soup blends chicken stock with miso paste and includes fried wonton strips, offering a lighter, savory flavor than the beef noodle soup.

The spot has a dive bar atmosphere with a full bar and bar service. The vibe feels more like a bar than a traditional restaurant, offering a chill setting alongside Asian-inspired bar food.

People are saying

"The Chinese food here, especially the dumplings and wontons, is so flavorful."

"The tapas at this bar are excellent and delicious."

"The savory wonton soup had flavorful, not soggy, wontons."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers a large selection of plates for budget-friendly dining.

2

Tapas Tuesdays provide a unique dining experience with various small plates.

3

The restaurant closes promptly at 9pm, so plan to leave by then.

15
Craft House Sky Deck image 1
New American restaurant

New American restaurant offers a cozy and stylish atmosphere with a chill but elevated vibe. Outdoor seating on a patio with park views provides a relaxing setting, though the space feels lively and somewhat cramped inside. Music plays loudly, creating an energetic backdrop amid beautiful decor.

Lobster bisque offers a rich, creamy option alongside a fresh tomato basil soup. Soups come served separately from salads when requested.

Craft House Sky Deck serves non-alcoholic cocktails at the bar. Staff like Franky and Connor create a lively atmosphere and provide excellent service even during off hours.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and full of flavor."

"The burger and fries at the bar were a great value."

"I had the lobster bisque soup and a club sandwich."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 5 pm with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Expect high prices, with burgers and fries costing over $25.

3

The menu lacks vegan and gluten-free options.

16
Sardina's Italian Restaurant and Bar image 1

Italian restaurant with warm, inviting atmosphere and lively noise levels that vary between rooms. Decor features Italian style art and a modern, clean interior with two outdoor patios where dogs are allowed. The space balances a family-owned feel with areas suitable for quiet conversation.

Soups come with entrees and include minestrone served lukewarm. Meals often pair soup with salad and bread for added value.

A full bar with a beautiful setup offers a warm and inviting atmosphere. The outside patio and bar area provide great spots to watch sports, have a party, or gather with friends.

People are saying

"The Italian food here is out of this world, especially the pasta."

"The bar here has great pizza and delicious food."

"The staff here makes you feel like family."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm daily with discounted appetizers and drinks.

2

Parking is free but can be limited during peak hours.

3

The restaurant offers a half and half pasta menu for a great price.

17
Morton's The Steakhouse image 1

Elegant interior with dark walls and dim lighting creates a cozy yet slightly dated atmosphere. Crowd tends to be more casual than expected for a fine dining steakhouse, with a vibe suitable for date nights and group events. Service includes thoughtful touches like framed photos for special occasions, enhancing the overall experience.

Lobster bisque stands out with its creamy texture and rich flavor. French Onion soup offers a hearty base topped with perfectly broiled cheese.

Bar offers free corkage on wine with the VIP card and a free drink served by the GM after dinner. Bar bites feature the highest quality food compared to other branches.

People are saying

"This steak was cooked to perfection and tasted amazing."

"The bar staff are fun, friendly, and provide excellent service."

"The steaks here are cooked to absolute perfection."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended, especially for special occasions like anniversaries.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers on weekdays.

3

Expect a total price of around $100+ per person for a full meal.

18
Isola Pizza Bar image 1
Pizza restaurant

Woodfire pizza oven greets diners with the smell of fresh pizza in an upscale yet casual atmosphere. Dim lighting shifts to candlelight, creating a moody ambiance ideal for date nights. Outdoor patio offers pleasant seating for people watching and enjoying the weather.

Shrimp features in a soup-like appetizer that stands out. Tomato basil and lentil soups offer solid, simple options.

Bar seating offers a friendly, attentive service without being overbearing. The atmosphere is modern and fashionable, with a bar counter that lets you watch the wood fire oven in action.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the pizza, is delicious and authentic."

"I ordered the lentil soup and it was superb."

"The pizza from the wood smoke oven bar was incredible."

Good to know

1

Reservations are suggested because the restaurant is very busy.

2

Happy hour runs from 2:30 PM to 5:00 PM with $5 pizzas.

3

A 4% restaurant fee is added to the bill to support rising costs.

19
Zzan Downtown image 1
Sushi restaurant

Sushi restaurant blends Korean pub style with a vibrant izakaya vibe, featuring K-pop music and multiple TVs showing music videos. Atmosphere stays lively and cool with neon signs and a large fan. Bar offers a variety of soju cocktails alongside high-quality sushi and Korean dishes.

Soups offer good flavor and come with lots of noodles. Options include a seriously delicious jjambbong, a fishcake udon that's pricey but tasty, and a pork soup with small pork pieces and half an egg.

A vibrant bar area blends the casual feel of an izakaya with the refined touch of a sushi bar. The friendly bar staff offer awesome recommendations that enhance the experience.

People are saying

"The sushi here is always fresh and delicious."

"The food at this bar is amazing and beautifully plated."

"The noodle soups here are seriously delicious and flavorful."

Good to know

1

Zzan is open late for late-night food cravings.

2

They sometimes play K-dramas and mukbangs alongside music videos.

3

Credit card payments are accepted, and tap pay is available.

20
Azuki Sushi Lounge image 1

Small, intimate space blends classic Japanese aesthetic with modern touches and rustic wood decor. Atmosphere stays tranquil and authentic, inviting relaxation with minimalistic design. Offers outdoor dining and a sushi bar, with a back seating area suited for special occasions.

Shiitake Miso Soup stands out with a solid rating. The miso soup pairs well with other dishes like nigiri and appetizers.

The bar features an awesome drink list with cocktails crafted by a bearded bartender known for quality like top Japanese bars. Seating at the bar offers a chance to watch sushi made fresh and chat with attentive chefs and servers.

People are saying

"The sushi here is outstanding, especially the blue fin tuna."

"The sushi here is out of this world, so fresh and delicious."

"I loved the shiitake miso soup."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets packed quickly.

2

Curbside pick-up and online ordering are available for convenience.

3

Seating is not wheelchair accessible for parties less than four.

21
Beginners Diner image 1

Old-fashioned diner charm blends with a 1940s-inspired design and antique decor to create a spacious, authentic atmosphere. The place hums with a classic diner vibe and offers 24-hour service, making it lively at all times. Outdoor seating by the pool adds a relaxed option alongside the retro indoor setting.

Matzo ball soup stands out with its exceptional flavor. Tomato soup pairs well with tangy notes and complements the grilled cheese sandwiches.

The bar offers a full range of alcoholic beverages available for order. The adjacent bar and lobby provide a comfortable spot to spend time while waiting.

People are saying

"The diner breakfast here is surprisingly good, especially the hash browns."

"You can get full bar drinks, even from the poolside bar."

"The tomato soup was so tasty and tangy."

Good to know

1

Beginners Diner is open 24/7 inside the Lafayette Hotel.

2

Parking is available via valet or on the street with metered parking.

3

Brunch is offered on weekends with a special menu.

22
Guava Beach Bar & Grill image 1

Bar with numerous TVs and electric game day atmosphere draws sports fans, especially for football. Comfortable layout includes an outside patio and fish tanks, creating a relaxed vibe. Music and trivia add energy, while specialty margaritas stand out among drinks.

Chicken tortilla soup features tortilla strips, roasted corn, and a side of smashed avocado. Some versions miss the tortilla strips and corn, affecting the texture and flavor.

A friendly dive bar with a great selection of drinks including standout Margaritas. Offers exceptional food that goes beyond typical sports bar fare and hosts solid happy hour and Taco Tuesday deals.

People are saying

"The Mexican food here, especially the tacos, is legit."

"The bar staff here is super friendly and accommodating."

"The soup here is great for watching sports."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and food options from 4-6pm on weekdays.

2

Taco Tuesday features $1 tacos and drink specials all day.

3

Expect a lively atmosphere during Vikings games with special promotions.

23
Hatsuzakura image 1
Japanese restaurant

Small, cozy Japanese restaurant with sakura-themed decor and an atmosphere that feels like stepping into Japan during cherry blossom season. Relaxed and inviting vibe suits pairs or small groups, with beautifully styled dishes and cups enhancing the authentic experience. Outdoor seating welcomes dogs, adding to the casual charm.

Broth stands out as simple but flavorful. Soups come as part of meal sets alongside authentic Japanese salad and dessert.

People are saying

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

"The desserts here are phenomenal and delicious."

"You have to try their soup; it's a Japanese comfort food gem."

Good to know

1

Hatsuzakura closes briefly from 3 to 4:30 pm.

2

Street parking can be difficult during peak hours.

3

On Sundays, expect a wait for the menu when they open at 11 am.

24
Filippi's Pizza Grotto Kearny Mesa image 1

Spacious Italian restaurant with full bar and comfortable outdoor patio that welcomes dogs. Atmosphere feels less lively without traditional wine bottle decor, offering a quiet, relaxed vibe. Tables and booths are well spaced, making it suitable for large groups and families.

A full bar serves a variety of drinks in a comfortable setting with a patio area. Large groups can be seated near the bar, which features music and an open layout.

People are saying

"I've been coming here for decades for their phenomenal pizza."

"This lunch spot is a great value, I got a complete meal for under $10."

"It's a great place with a full bar."

Good to know

1

The lunch special costs $9.60 and includes soup or salad and bread.

2

Filippi's offers a $32 family meal on Sundays, perfect for large groups.

3

Parking is easy with many spots available right off the 163.

25
Carvers Steaks & Chops image 1

Steak house offers a quiet, intimate atmosphere with rustic decor and a lively bar and lounge area serving a full menu. Comfortable booths and an adjoining sunroom provide varied seating options. The vibe suits romantic dates and solo diners alike.

Entrees come with soup or salad and a side at reasonable prices. The French onion soup stands out as next level.

Sitting at the bar during happy hour gets you quicker, more accommodating service. The bar area has a short 15-minute wait and offers an open lounge where you can easily find a seat even with a group.

People are saying

"The service here is outstanding, especially Alfredo's recommendations."

"The prime rib here is delicious and cooked well."

"The prime rib here is outstanding and perfectly portioned."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4 to 6 pm with discounts on drinks and appetizers.

2

Dinner service starts at 4 pm, with an early dining menu available.

3

Reservations are recommended to avoid long wait times, especially during peak hours.

26
AKA San Diego image 1
Restaurant

Interior features Asian-inspired decor with stylish, romantic design and photo-friendly artwork. Atmosphere balances warm, welcoming vibes with lively music and dancing, creating a fun environment for groups. Cocktails and sushi stand out as notable highlights.

Rich and flavorful Tom Kha soup stands out, noted for its depth and quality. Miso soup appears regularly and pairs well with other dishes like tuna rolls and dumplings.

A cute bar with a welcoming vibe, great for a date night or hanging out with friends. The staff bring warmth and personality, offering incredible happy hour deals on craft cocktails, wines, and appetizers.

People are saying

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

"The bar service is amazing, especially Tommy's craft cocktails."

"The Tom Kha soup is rich, flavorful, and the best I've ever had."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

2

The restaurant turns into a nightclub on weekends after dinner.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially on weekends.

27
California English image 1

Sprawling restaurant blends indoor art deco with a lush outdoor patio featuring a grassy area for lawn games. Atmosphere stays cheeky and vibrant with live classical music and a lively crowd. Cocktail menu highlights tea-based drinks alongside unique British-inspired dishes.

Sweet corn and Spring Asparagus soups stand out with fresh, vibrant flavors. The soup of the day changes regularly, offering variety alongside other dishes.

People are saying

"The Fish And Chips here are huge and excellent."

"You have to try the sticky toffee pudding for dessert."

"The asparagus and roasted garlic soup was delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for dinner, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with great cocktail deals.

3

The restaurant allows individual payments during happy hour.

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