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Family owned Italian food in New Jersey

Italian food from a family-owned kitchen that honors traditional recipes without feeling stuck in the past.

Based on 899 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Bella Bianca Deli image 1
Bella Bianca Deli image 2
Bella Bianca Deli image 3
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Italian deli with modern styling and authentic atmosphere offers a clean, spacious environment filled with positive energy. Friendly staff contribute to a family-owned vibe that feels welcoming and elegant. The place stands out for its high-quality sandwiches and detailed, beautiful decor.

Family-owned atmosphere creates a homie and inviting vibe. The business feels sweet and full of love.

Meatballs and chicken parmesan come in generous portions with good thickness. Fresh-made prosciutto bread and cannoli add authentic Italian flavors. Pasta dishes like penne vodka and tortellini alfredo offer classic tastes.

People are saying

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

"The Italian food here, especially the Uncle Tony sandwich, is unbelievably delicious."

"It's a sweet, family-owned business that feels so inviting."

Good to know

1

Bella Bianca Deli offers catering services for events like parties and confirmations.

2

The deli can accommodate dietary needs for catered events.

3

Sandwiches are served neatly arranged on trays for easy serving.

02
Giorgio's Restaurant image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant features beautifully renovated space with warm, cozy atmosphere suited for intimate dinners or large gatherings. Live jazz plays at a comfortable volume, enhancing the elegant ambiance. Outdoor seating and a thoughtfully designed party room add to the inviting environment.

Family-owned and ran service creates a welcoming atmosphere. Thoughtful attention goes into both the dining experience and the food, supported by friendly staff.

Fresh pasta comes with homemade sauces full of real flavor. Dishes like linguine with white clam sauce, gnocchi with salmon, and scallops with pasta stand out. Desserts include cannolis, mousse cake, and tartuffo.

People are saying

"The pasta dishes here are amazing and perfectly cooked."

"The dinner spots here feel like home, thanks to the warm vibe and kind staff."

"It's a family-owned gem with a very nice owner."

Good to know

1

Giorgio's is a BYOB restaurant, perfect for a romantic evening.

2

The restaurant can host events for up to 60 people in their party room.

3

A 22% gratuity fee is automatically added for parties of six or more.

03
Il Goccino Ristorante image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers an intimate, elegant atmosphere with a quiet, casual vibe and family-style warmth. The space is BYOB, welcoming guests who appreciate refined, authentic dining without overwhelming noise or size.

Staff shows attentive, friendly service in a setting that is both family-owned and family-run. The atmosphere reflects a genuine family business approach.

Seafood dishes like linguine with white clam sauce and crab stand out with fresh flavors. Pasta options include bolognese tortellini and Capellini Sinatra with scallops and shrimp cooked carefully. Desserts feature homemade cannoli and tiramisu that melt on the tongue.

People are saying

"The food here is fresh, delicious, and tastes like home cooking."

"The food at these dinner spots is delicious and cooked with care."

"The Italian food here is delicious and the service is fantastic!"

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own wine.

2

Reservations are recommended, especially during peak hours.

3

Expect a wait during busy dinner hours, especially on weekends.

04
Chief's Steak Shop image 1
American restaurant

Small, family-run restaurant with clean dining room and visible kitchen where the cook sings along with music. Atmosphere feels welcoming and relaxed, with family photos creating a sense of connection. Known for best cheesesteaks in the area, offering a friendly and comfortable place to enjoy a meal.

Homemade cannolis stand out as a key Italian treat here, noted for their exceptional quality. The menu also includes other hearty options, but the cannoli clearly shines as the Italian highlight.

People are saying

"This family owned spot has the best, juicy cheesesteaks."

"The onion rings were perfect, with the sweetness balanced by the batter."

"I considered the cheesesteak sandwich the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The cheesesteaks are priced around $11.41, with extra charges for rolls or wraps.

2

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

3

The establishment maintains a clean dining and food prep area.

05
Emilio’s Wood Fire Pizza image 1

Small, family-owned pizzeria with wood fire oven on display creates a cozy, inviting atmosphere blending modern decor and rustic charm. The space feels warm and welcoming, with a family-friendly vibe and Italian music enhancing the experience. Outdoor seating adds flexibility while maintaining an intimate setting.

Cozy and family-owned, this restaurant shows care in every detail. The operation feels personal and infused with love.

Gnocchi stands out with its texture and flavor. The Mortadella and pistachio pizza offers a unique taste rarely found outside Italy. Ending with the cannoli cake and espresso rounds out the meal nicely.

People are saying

"This pizza is so delicious, it's beyond words."

"It's a cozy spot with an inviting atmosphere."

"This Italian food is amazing, the best pizza I've had."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended on weekends to avoid long wait times.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own drinks.

3

On Wednesdays, buy a pizza and get $1 wings.

06
Rizzo Bakery & Pizzeria image 1

Simple, old-school bakery with an authentic Italian vibe and old-fashioned charm. Atmosphere feels like visiting a grandma's home, with a family-owned, mom-and-pop energy. Offers large, perfectly cooked pizza slices and a few tables for quick, casual dining.

Family ownership shows in the huge slices and perfectly cooked pies. The business keeps a personal touch through its long-standing family roots.

Mozzarella stands out as delicious and salty. Lasagna is exceptionally delicious and worth returning for. Pasta dishes are consistently great and flavorful. Cannolis also rank among the notable Italian desserts here.

People are saying

"Their Italian food, the pizza, has huge, crispy slices."

"I found the fresh bread here to be the best I ever had."

"The family who owns this place is so precious and sweet."

Good to know

1

The bakery is open until 7 pm.

2

You could ask for any toppings on the pizza.

3

They also sold by the slice, which is becoming more uncommon these days.

07
Angelina's Fine Italian Deli image 1

Italian deli with authentic products and fresh food displays creates a warm family atmosphere filled with regulars passionate about the offerings. The place buzzes with energy as lines form early, reflecting its reputation for best sandwiches and home-cooked Italian cuisine.

Family owned and run operation shapes the atmosphere here. Management and staff come from the same family, keeping things personal and consistent.

Fresh mozzarella features prominently in sandwiches like the chicken cutlet with prosciutto and the eggplant wrap with arugula and balsamic glaze. The marinara sauce stands out, especially paired with meat lasagna and rice balls. Sandwiches with imported mortadella, burrata, and pesto offer rich Italian flavors.

People are saying

"The food here is authentic Italian American soul food."

"Their sandwiches are fresh, flavorful, and amazing."

"I thought the chicken cutlets were out of this world."

Good to know

1

Expect long lines during peak hours, especially around lunchtime.

2

The deli offers a wide variety of sandwiches and daily specials.

3

Prices are reasonable, with many sandwiches under $10.

08
Il Leone image 1
Restaurant

Restaurant offers a beautifully decorated and thoughtfully spaced interior with an inviting vibe. Atmosphere ranges from intimate and lovely to occasionally loud, especially during celebrations. Guests bring their own alcohol, adding a casual touch to an otherwise high-class setting.

A family-owned Italian restaurant that blends tradition and innovation with heart. It operates as a BYOB spot.

Gnocchi stands out as exceptionally good. The spicy vodka rigatoni balances heat well without overwhelming. Desserts like tiramisu and Affogato finish the meal on a high note.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have outstanding pasta dishes, especially the spicy rigatoni."

"The Italian food and service here are perfect."

"It's a family-owned restaurant that blends tradition and heart."

Good to know

1

Il Leone allows customers to bring their own alcohol.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, with a BuyRite store next door for convenience.

3

Expect high prices, with some dishes over $40.

09
Little Italy Pizzeria & Restaurant image 1

Small space with limited seating and a warm, homey vibe reminiscent of an old-school Italian neighborhood. Atmosphere feels welcoming and casual, suited for relaxed lunches or pizza dinners. Known for exceptional pizza and a friendly, inviting energy.

A sweet family-owned business runs the place. It stays true to its family owned roots.

Penne alla vodka stands out with its creamy, flavorful sauce and perfectly cooked pasta. The menu includes chicken parmesan with crunchy breading, mussels marinara, baked pasta, and solid pizza options.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I ever had."

"This family owned spot has outstanding food with fresh, high-quality ingredients."

"The Italian food here is outstanding, with flavorful sauces and fresh ingredients."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has limited seating, so arrive early to secure a table.

2

Most menu items are not available during lunch hours.

3

Parking is easy and accessible near the restaurant.

10
Ippolito's Cucina Italiana and Pizzeria image 1

Family-run Italian restaurant with a cozy, old-fashioned atmosphere and walls adorned with autographed photos. The vibe is warm and homey, reflecting pride in authentic, quality food. Regulars enjoy outstanding pizza and a friendly, welcoming environment.

Strong family-owned and operated roots create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Staff treat guests like part of the family, enhancing the dining experience.

Pasta comes out cooked to perfection with dishes like Eggplant Parmigiana standing out. The menu also features veal parmesan subs, meatballs, manicotti, risotto, tortellini dinners, and tasty pizza including a bruschetta slice.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was amazing and really tasty."

"This family owned spot has the best pizza crust."

"This family-run place has the most delicious homemade Italian food."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

2

Prices are very reasonable for the quality of food offered.

3

There is lots of free parking available nearby.

11
Casa di Napoli image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, cozy space feels like stepping into a grandmother's home with warm, family-run atmosphere. Decor includes lovingly arranged details that create a living room setting. Cash-only, BYOB policy adds to the intimate, unpretentious vibe.

Authentic Italian cuisine comes with love and dedication here. The spot feels like an old school, family-owned restaurant with a strong sense of tradition.

Fresh spinach ravioli pairs well with homemade sauces that taste unlike anything else. The chicken francese stands out, and the homemade tiramisu offers a sweet finish.

People are saying

"I thought the homemade Italian food was truly amazing and authentic."

"The seafood here is cooked to perfection, especially the lobster tail."

"It's a family-owned treasure with warm, welcoming hospitality."

Good to know

1

Casa di Napoli only accepts cash payments.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, so bring your own wine.

3

Reservations are recommended on weekends due to high demand.

12
From Scratch image 1
Italian restaurant

Small, intimate space with an open kitchen that feels like dining in Italy. Warm, inviting atmosphere balances cozy charm with joyful energy, ideal for quiet meals or dates. Offers authentic homemade pasta and cooking classes, emphasizing genuine Italian experience.

A family owned business that focuses on perfecting their craft with top-notch ingredients. They bring authentic heritage and passion to their menu.

Fresh pasta stands out with authentic homemade quality and rich Italian flavors. Dishes like amatriciana offer a spicy kick, while the carbonara impresses with creamy, satisfying taste.

People are saying

"The pasta here is incredible, fresh, and authentic."

"You have to try the Nutella pie, it's so good."

"It's a wonderful family-owned business with top-notch ingredients."

Good to know

1

Reservations are required, so planning ahead is necessary.

2

The restaurant offers a special Valentine’s Day menu.

3

Bringing a bottle of wine is recommended when visiting.

13
Mangia Pizza and Pasta image 1
Pizza restaurant

Warm, family-run atmosphere feels like a cozy kitchen with quaint, friendly vibes and beautiful interior decorations. The place welcomes guests with a genuine, unpretentious energy that stands out among pizza restaurants. It offers a clean, inviting space where people gather comfortably.

Authentic, family-owned business with a menu that offers options for every appetite.

Fresh Caprese salad features generous sliced tomatoes and mozzarella over spinach with balsamic glaze. Pasta dishes like gnocchi sorrentino and ravioli with meatballs offer authentic Italian flavors. Tiramisu stands out as a notable dessert.

People are saying

"The food here is always delicious and top-notch quality."

"The pasta here is amazing and authentic Italian."

"This family owned spot makes everything fresh in-house."

Good to know

1

You can easily order online for pickup.

2

Cash payments are not accepted for takeout orders.

3

There is ample parking available near the restaurant.

14
Angelina's Tavern image 1
Italian restaurant

Rustic Italian tavern blends warm family vibe with a packed bar area and lively music that sometimes challenges conversation. Small space centers around a pizza oven, creating a cozy, home-like atmosphere with friendly, welcoming energy.

Warm, welcoming vibe stands out with attentive staff and a strong sense of local connection. The place operates as a family-owned business focused on personal service.

Pasta and specials come out perfectly cooked and flavorful. Desserts like homemade cannoli and cream puffs offer a rich, crispy, and heartfelt finish to the meal.

People are saying

"The Italian food here tastes homemade and is perfectly spiced."

"They offered us complimentary homemade cream puffs for dessert."

"This family owned place makes you feel like part of the family."

Good to know

1

Parking is spacious and located at the back of the restaurant.

2

A debit card fee applies, so using cash is advisable.

3

Reservations are recommended for large groups, especially during busy months.

15
Mr Assante Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Cozy dining space features Italian-themed decor with pictures of Italy and religious paintings. Atmosphere feels warm and inviting, with a family-owned vibe and BYOB policy. Food focuses on freshly made pizza and classic Italian dishes, consistently praised for quality and taste.

Family ownership shows in the long-term operation and personal touch of the business. The place stays true to its roots as a small, family-run spot.

Cheesy dishes like Allegro with cream cheese sauce, green peas, and prosciutto stand out. Pasta options include shrimp Parmesan over angel hair, tortellini with meat sauce, and pasta a la vodka. Soups like pasta fagiol and hearty entrees such as veal and eggplant Parmesan and lasagna are also popular.

People are saying

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

"The pasta dishes here are amazing, especially the penne vodka."

"This family owned spot has had excellent pizza since the 80s."

Good to know

1

Everything is made fresh daily, ensuring high-quality meals.

2

Weekly specials offer great deals for budget-conscious diners.

3

It's a BYOB establishment, so bring your favorite drinks.

16
LG’s Pizza & Pasta Toms River image 1

Family-run pizzeria with a friendly atmosphere and inviting garlic aroma fills the air. Clean, bright space offers fresh, made-to-order pizza with a thin, crispy crust that stands out. Regulars enjoy a warm, welcoming vibe and a menu featuring popular Italian dishes.

Small and family owned, this place operates as a tight-knit business. The family ownership shapes its character and service.

Penne vodka draws a lot of attention and is highly recommended. The menu features comforting, flavorful Italian fare with dishes like penne with broccoli and sausage standing out.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the pizza."

"I thought the pizza was some of the best I've had."

"The Italian food here is delicious, especially the penne with broccoli and sausage."

Good to know

1

The grand opening is on August 31st, with free samples from 11am to 2pm.

2

Lunch specials change daily, offering a variety of options.

3

Credit cards and mobile payments are accepted; cash is also welcome.

17
Ferraro 1061 image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers a cozy, intimate setting with a warm, family-style atmosphere that feels like dining with relatives. Charming outdoor seating adds a peaceful, secluded option for groups. The space combines beautiful renovations with a welcoming vibe perfect for romantic or casual meals.

Local, family-owned business runs the restaurant with care. Regular visits show strong support for this family-owned spot.

Seafood dishes like linguini pescatore and clams oreganata come with rich marinara sauces. Classic Italian plates such as veal Marsala, chicken parmesan with angel hair pasta, and pasta Fagioli showcase fresh bread, pasta, and sauces.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here have delicious food, especially the pizza."

"The Italian food, especially the spaghetti and meatballs, was excellent."

"This family owned spot has delicious homemade Italian food."

Good to know

1

This restaurant is BYOB, so bring your favorite drinks.

2

Reservations are recommended as the restaurant gets crowded.

3

Parking is available in front of the restaurant.

18
New York Pizza and Italian Restaurant image 1

Pizza restaurant offers a relaxed atmosphere with a family-friendly vibe and comfortable dining areas including an outdoor courtyard. The place feels warm and welcoming, suitable for casual dinners and gatherings. It consistently delivers quality Italian food with a lively yet chill energy.

Family members run the restaurant and handle daily operations. This family owned setup shapes the service and atmosphere.

Rich, cheesy lasagna stands out with its classic homemade flavor. Chicken parmesan and pasta come highly recommended, alongside chicken piccata and a pasta pizza that appeals to all ages.

People are saying

"I thought the Italian food, especially the pizza, tasted fresh and authentic."

"This New York Style Pizza has incredible flavor and a perfect crust."

"It's family owned and operated."

Good to know

1

There is plenty of parking in the back.

2

The restaurant has two sections: a casual pizzeria and a formal dining room.

3

They informed us that dinners might take longer, but pizza would be served quickly.

19
Gargiulo's Tinton Falls image 1
Italian restaurant

Italian restaurant offers cozy, elegant dining with white tablecloths and romantic music creating a warm, inviting atmosphere. Comfortable seating and live piano or jazz performances enhance the relaxed, quiet vibe. Outdoor seating and valet parking add to the charming, original setting.

A strong sense of family ownership shapes the atmosphere here. The business traces its roots back to 1965 through a sister restaurant, showing a deep family history.

House-made pastas like ravioli and lasagna stand out for their flavor and presentation. Desserts include tiramisu, tartufo, and caramel crunch ice cream, all served in shareable portions.

People are saying

"The house-made pastas and seafood specials are amazing."

"The baked clams and calamari were tremendous."

"It's a family owned business that makes you feel like family."

Good to know

1

Reservations are a must for dining.

2

Valet parking is the only option available.

3

Expect to pay around $200 for a meal for two.

20
Charlotte's Web image 1
Italian restaurant

Old-fashioned Italian restaurant offers a cozy, relaxed atmosphere with a family-owned, local vibe. The space feels like an old lady's living room with dated decor and uncomfortable booths. Food portions are generous, featuring classic Italian dishes with some unique twists.

This spot is family owned, giving it a personal touch in how it runs. The ownership keeps things close-knit and focused on quality.

Penne vodka features a cream sauce with chopped tomatoes, not a traditional vodka sauce. Eggplant parmesan melts in your mouth. Veal saltimbocca and chicken cordon bleu are among the hearty entrees offered.

People are saying

"The Italian food, especially the penne vodka, is amazing."

"This family owned spot has outstanding food quality."

"I found the atmosphere to be cozy and relaxed."

Good to know

1

Reservations are accepted, which helps manage seating during busy times.

2

Parking can be challenging, so plan to arrive early.

3

The restaurant is not handicapped accessible.

21
Round Pie Pizza Company (Brick) image 1

Pizza restaurant offers spacious seating for large groups with family-owned atmosphere that feels welcoming. Thin crust pizzas stand out with fresh, high-quality ingredients and homemade sauce. Music plays softly, creating a casual and comfortable vibe.

A family owned and operated pizza chain with multiple locations in New Jersey. It maintains a close-knit atmosphere typical of a family business.

Chicken parm with ravioli stands out with rich flavors. Pizza balances tomato to mozzarella ratio, fresh basil, and pecorino well. Penne vodka and wings add variety with solid taste.

People are saying

"I found the thin crust pizza to be delicious and perfectly cooked."

"The pizza here is delicious, with a perfectly thin and crispy crust."

"This Family Owned spot has amazing, tasty, thin crust pizza."

Good to know

1

Signing up for rewards gives a 15% discount on orders.

2

The restaurant is suitable for large groups needing to be fed.

3

Ordering for pickup is quick and efficient.

22
Red Room Cafe image 1
Italian restaurant

Huge round brick oven dominates the rear, setting a rustic tone. Atmosphere ranges from cozy to noisy and crowded, with tables placed closely together. Outdoor seating offers a seashore town vibe enhanced by wood slat window treatments and occasional live music.

Family ownership creates a personal touch and a sense of being a special guest. The business is locally operated and well-loved in the community.

Homemade pasta stands out with perfect cooking and great sauces. Gnocchi feels like little pillows of heaven. Salads, veal, pizza, and cannoli also feature in the Italian menu.

People are saying

"The homemade pasta here is outstanding, like little pillows of heaven."

"The filet was cooked perfectly and a very large portion."

"It's family owned and operated, making you feel like a special guest."

Good to know

1

Making reservations is recommended, even for weeknights, as the restaurant fills up fast.

2

The restaurant is BYOB, with a liquor store nearby for drinks.

3

They charge a 4% fee for credit card payments, disclosed at the end of the meal.

23
Adam's Pizza image 1
Pizza restaurant

Small space with four tables and two TVs creates an intimate, old-school atmosphere. Friendly, family-run vibe welcomes guests with consistent, well-made pizza at reasonable prices. The place stays open until 10 PM, drawing locals who appreciate its handcrafted, tasty pies.

A family-owned spot with a personal touch. The place keeps a homey vibe throughout.

Shrimp alfredo and cheesesteaks stand out as popular dishes. Mozzarella cheese and mozzarella sticks offer creamy, cheesy flavors. Italian sausage is salty and lacks fennel seeds, with a slightly off taste.

People are saying

"I thought the pizza here was the best I had."

"The pizza's cheesy pull and crispy crust are amazing."

"The Italian food here has a perfectly crispy crust."

Good to know

1

Adam's Pizza is open until 10 PM.

2

The published price on the menu is $12.95.

3

Expect pizzas to be ready within 30 minutes.

24
Evolution Restaurant & Bar image 1

Upscale restaurant with a blue color scheme and a comfortable setting combines bar and dining vibes. Atmosphere feels friendly and welcoming, often featuring live music and rotating entertainment like DJs and karaoke. Space is thoughtfully renovated and spotless, creating a relaxing environment.

Strong sense of family connection shapes the environment. Staff treat everyone like part of the family-owned business.

Pasta dishes come with lots of sauce and include options like penne vodka and raviolis. Some pasta, like the bolognese, can be unevenly cooked, while sides like potatoes complement seafood well.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious and made with fresh, high-quality ingredients."

"The food and drinks here are phenomenal."

"The pasta dishes here are delicious, especially the penne vodka."

Good to know

1

Happy hour ends at 6 pm with $3 draft beers.

2

All-you-can-eat crab legs night is a popular event.

3

DJ plays on Thursday nights, creating a lively atmosphere.

25
Larry & Joe's Pizzeria image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza restaurant offers family-owned charm with a cozy, inviting vibe and crispy cracker crust pizzas that draw a steady crowd. The atmosphere stays pleasant and family friendly, with many opting for takeout alongside dine-in. Prices remain affordable, supporting its reputation as a local staple.

A small, quaint spot run by the same family for over 30 years. It keeps a strong family-owned vibe that feels welcoming and genuine.

Fresh mozzarella stands out in the Italian dishes. Pizza, pasta, and meatball heroes deliver solid flavors, while baked ziti and chicken dishes also impress.

People are saying

"I considered their pizza the best in Jersey City."

"The food here is amazing and always fresh."

"I considered this my favorite Italian food spot in Jersey City."

Good to know

1

The pizzeria offers takeout and delivery options for convenience.

2

Credit cards and cash are accepted; no personal checks.

3

Expect a busy atmosphere during weekend dinner hours.

26
Sorrento II Pizzeria & Restaurant image 1

Pizza restaurant offers perfect crust and generous toppings with a warm, family-owned atmosphere. The environment can feel uncomfortably hot due to limited air conditioning use. Prices tend to be expensive compared to other nearby options.

A warm, family-owned atmosphere shapes the experience here. The business feels like a genuine family operation, adding a personal touch to the bustling boardwalk setting.

Pasta dishes come in ample portions with flavorful sauces and perfectly cooked noodles. Baked ziti with sliced sausage and homemade marinara stands out, and the mozzarella melts just right. Kids enjoy the pasta meals, though some dishes like penne with vodka sauce have age restrictions.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, truly the best on the boardwalk."

"This Family Owned spot's pizzas have generous toppings and a perfect crust."

"The Italian food here has amazing pizza with a perfect crust and generous cheese."

Good to know

1

A soda costs $5, which is considered expensive.

2

They add an 18% gratuity for groups of four or more.

3

There is a 4% fee for card payments.

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