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Local picks

Babka and pastry spots in New York

The craving for a dense, swirled pastry like babka is hard to ignore.

Based on 838 Opinions
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Updated April 2026
01
Coffee Redefined image 1
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Coffee shop

Small coffee shop offers a quiet, calming atmosphere with fresh coffee aroma and beautiful music. It mainly caters to takeout but provides a nice spot to work or hang out. Known for legendary babka and pastries, it attracts those passionate about specialty coffee and baked goods.

Chocolate babka stands out with its gooey texture and rich flavor. Muffins and danishes share the same soft, fresh quality that makes them memorable.

Chocolate babka stands out with its gooey texture and perfect sweetness. Pastries consistently deliver fantastic flavor and quality.

People are saying

"I found the coffee here to be amazing and tasty."

"I believe their babka is the best in the world."

"The pastries here are divine, especially the chocolate babka."

Good to know

1

The cafe is closed on Sundays.

2

Expect prices around $5 for specialty coffee drinks.

3

They roast their own coffee beans on-site.

02
Make Believe Bakeshop image 1

Cozy coffee shop with adorable decor and a magical atmosphere invites relaxation and work. Loose leaf teas and in-house baked goods like legendary blueberry bars and best croissants create a distinct flavor experience. A cute kids' library adds a family-friendly touch.

Chocolate babka stands out with its rich, sweet layers. Other baked treats like the cinnamon cruffin and seasonal apple cider donut muffin add variety to the baked goods selection.

Fresh coffee pairs well with the delicious pastries here. The baked goods offer a tasty, local flavor that stands out.

People are saying

"I loved their coffee and ham and cheese croissant."

"You have to try these pastries; they're the best I've had in the area."

"You should not skip out on the babka or other baked treats."

Good to know

1

Everything is made in-house, ensuring freshness.

2

They serve breakfast, lunch, dessert, coffee, and teas.

3

Get there early for the bread pudding.

03
Little Red Kitchen Bake Shop image 1

Take-out bakery with wide selection of fresh, high-quality baked goods including exceptional cinnamon rolls and unique babka flavors. Warm, welcoming atmosphere with grab-and-go convenience near transit. Known for generous portions and distinctive treats not commonly found elsewhere.

Cinnamon babka stands out with its rich flavor. Herb and feta babka offers a savory twist. Blueberry yuzu babka combines fruit and citrus for a unique taste.

Amazing pastries stand out here with consistently excellent quality. Every pastry offers a reliable, tasty choice.

People are saying

"The herb and feta babka here is to die for."

"The hot chocolate is decadent with a toasted marshmallow."

"I returned specifically for the cinnamon bun pastry."

Good to know

1

Customers are encouraged to place their order without delay due to high demand.

2

Cookies come packaged by type, with two cookies per pack for freshness.

3

The cookies were featured on CBS Morning News, highlighting their popularity.

04
Yardsale cafe image 1
Coffee shop

Small coffee shop with vintage decor and yard sale memorabilia creates a cozy, eclectic atmosphere. Outdoor seating in a backyard patio offers a quiet spot for relaxation. The vibe feels like a welcoming small town space with unique antiques and local art.

Nutella Babka stands out with rich, sweet layers that make it memorable. The cinnamon babka and other pastries offer a soft, flavorful texture that many find exceptional.

Pastries include cinnamon babka, burekas, and croissants. Shawn bakes the pastries fresh, making them exceptional and delicious.

People are saying

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

"I found the ham and cheese croissant to be the best I ever had."

"The babka here is life-changingly delicious."

Good to know

1

They do special orders around the Jewish holidays.

2

You must get there early because most pastries sell out by 11:45 AM.

3

There is no seating available, so plan to take your order to go.

05
Moishe's Kosher Bakery image 1

Old-fashioned bakery with handwritten signs and a nostalgic atmosphere that feels like stepping back to the 1930s. Friendly, familiar interactions create a warm, welcoming vibe among a mix of local regulars. Known for authentic kosher baked goods sold by weight, it offers a unique, family-run experience with reasonable prices.

Chocolate babka stands out with its rich, tasty flavor and soft texture. The bakery offers great babka alongside sponge cake, served by a friendly family.

Incredibly delicious kosher babka, hamantaschen, and strudel stand out among the pastries. Fresh rye bread and challah also complement the variety of cakes and treats available.

People are saying

"I thought the chocolate babka was a one of a kind experience."

"I thought their black and white cookies were some of the best I've ever tasted."

"I thought the pastries were a real treat and worth it."

Good to know

1

The bakery/deli is cash only.

2

They sell everything by weight, allowing customers to try small portions.

3

Sunday is a great day to visit for fresh rye bread.

06
Cafe Aviva image 1
Coffee shop

Small, beautifully decorated space offers a cozy atmosphere with chill vibes and relaxed, welcoming energy. Seating feels intimate and the music stays low, creating a pleasant environment. Unique touches include in-house nut milk and a variety of delicate, highly praised pastries.

Chocolate babka stands out as rich and freshly baked, pairing well with matcha. The cinnamon babka offers a delicious flavor, and the babkas overall are addicting and crave-worthy.

Freshly baked pastries come out daily and taste delicious. They are actually good, not just for show, and pair well with coffee or iced chai latte.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was the best on the island."

"The Cafe staff here are so friendly and welcoming."

"I found the chocolate babka to be amazing."

Good to know

1

Cafe Aviva opens at 8am on weekdays, perfect for early risers.

2

Family-friendly atmosphere with a kids' menu available.

3

Healthy ingredients are prioritized in all food and drink options.

07
Michaeli Bakery image 1

Small space fills with the fresh scent of baked goods and offers limited seating inside with some benches outside. Energy rises when it gets crowded, creating a cozy but tight atmosphere. Known for traditional Parisian-style almond croissants and varied savory pastries, it draws a steady flow of pastry lovers early in the day.

Chocolate babka stands out with its beautiful braiding and rich, sweet flavor. It looks like a piece of art and matches well with those who enjoy sweeter pastries.

Pastries feature flaky textures and savory fillings like spinach and feta. The selection offers fresh, flavorful options made to perfection.

People are saying

"The almond croissant was simply irresistible and perfectly flaky."

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

"The dark chocolate babka here is amazing, truly to die for."

Good to know

1

The bakery is open every day except on Saturdays.

2

The bakery's hours are limited, closing at 1 PM.

3

The banana croissant is often sold out before 10AM.

08
Kora image 1
Bakery

Bright, clean space with an open design and glass wall showcasing pastries creates a welcoming atmosphere. Donuts feature unique Filipino flavors and artistic presentation, drawing a crowd that often leads to quick sellouts. Seating inside and outside supports a casual, lively vibe where pastry-making is visible through a cool screen.

Ube babka stands out with its rich swirl and personal-sized options. The babka consistently impresses with its amazing flavor and makes a thoughtful gift.

Leche flan ni lola donut stands out as a favorite with its rich flavor. Pastries like ube, passion fruit, and crullers offer unique, bold tastes. Staff limit pastry purchases to let more people enjoy these exquisite, original pastries.

People are saying

"The pastries here are absolutely amazing and light."

"The pastries here are unique, flaky, and have a Filipino flare."

"I was obsessed with the ube babka."

Good to know

1

You have to pre-order the donuts on Mondays at 3pm EST on their website.

2

You can only pick up doughnuts from 3-6 PM on Saturdays.

3

You should order the items right at 3:00 PM because they sell out quickly.

09
La Farine Pâtisserie et Café image 1

Bright, elegant bakery offers a cozy Parisian vibe with natural light and comfy seating. Chocolate babka boasts thick chocolate swirls that delight the taste buds. Unique Shallot Pastry Cup bursts with melty, golden shallots, making pastries a must-try here.

Chocolate babka features thick chocolate swirls throughout and looks more appealing than other desserts. It tastes delicious and is a heavenly treat that’s hard to resist.

Melty, golden shallots burst with flavor in the Shallot Pastry Cup, making it a unique choice. Pastries come highly recommended by staff and consistently deliver delicious taste.

People are saying

"The pastries here are phenomenal and taste so balanced."

"It's a cute, cozy spot perfect for a quiet coffee break."

"The chocolate babka is rich, chocolatey, and one of the best."

Good to know

1

Gloves should be worn when touching food and removed before returning to the register.

2

Expect 8-10 minutes to get your order taken if there's one person ahead.

3

Prices are higher than at Starbucks and other local cafes.

10
3x3 Kitchen image 1

Bakery space feels homey and welcoming with a family-friendly vibe and thoughtfully curated design. Gluten-free baked goods stand out for their high quality and variety, including sourdough and forbidden rice bread. The atmosphere reflects a strong sense of community care and passion for craft.

Babka comes in cinnamon and Nutella flavors, with a gluten-free option available. The bread has an earthy quality, made with forbidden rice.

Pastries offer a range of seasonal flavors with notable variety. Some find the bread and treats delicious, while others do not return after tasting.

People are saying

"I couldn't tell this amazing food was gluten-free."

"The pastries here are baked to perfection and taste amazing."

"You can't even tell this babka is gluten-free; it's so good."

Good to know

1

The restaurant is completely gluten free, catering to those with dietary restrictions.

2

You can buy pre-frozen goodies to bake at home, perfect for later enjoyment.

3

The bakery offers completely vegetarian options alongside gluten-free treats.

11
Breads Bakery – Brooklyn image 1

Bakery offers great views of Brooklyn Bridge and Manhattan skyline with plenty of outdoor seating. Atmosphere stays quiet and dependable, making it a good spot to relax after a walk. Food includes rich chocolate babka and savory sandwiches, enjoyed in a beautifully designed, unflashy setting.

Chocolate babka stands out with its rich chocolate flavor and perfect balance, not too dense. Babka pizza offers a savory and slightly sweet taste with a bit of a kick, often toasted to perfection.

Savory pastries stand out here with solid flavor. The menu pairs pastries with sandwiches, salads, and coffee for variety.

People are saying

"The chocolate babka is rich with good chocolate flavor."

"The chocolate babka is rich with good chocolate flavor."

"I thought their pastries were the most delicious in the neighborhood."

Good to know

1

A slice of chocolate babka costs $5.95.

2

Reservations are not required, but arriving early is recommended as they sell out.

3

The menu includes pastries, sandwiches, salads, and coffee.

12
Breads Bakery - Union Square image 1

Bakery buzzes with a lively morning crowd and fresh bread aroma. Chocolate babka steals the show with rich, decadent flavor. Pastries like almond croissants and chocolate rugelach stay flaky and light, pairing perfectly with coffee. Seating blends covered outdoor and cozy industrial vibes.

Chocolate babka stands out for its rich, decadent flavor and addictive quality. Loaves are breathtaking and consistently meet high expectations despite a higher price point.

Pastries come out fresh and flaky with a great assortment including chocolate rugelach, babka, and pretzels. They stay light and high quality, matching well with the coffee.

People are saying

"I found the bread and pastries here to be delicious and fresh."

"The chocolate Babka is rich, gooey, and incredibly chocolatey."

"I found the pastries here to be the best I've ever eaten."

Good to know

1

Breads Bakery offers sandwiches, salads, bakery items, and coffee.

2

The caraway rye bread is only available on weekends.

3

They sometimes have items on the menu only for that particular month, like the cheesecake babka in May.

13
Elbow Bread image 1

Small bakery with rustic wooden accents and bright, airy lighting creates a cozy, friendly atmosphere. No seating inside encourages a grab-and-go experience amid a bustling vibe. Aromas of fresh bread and pastries fill the space, adding to its charm.

Chocolate babka blends coffee and chocolate with a stronger coffee flavor, making it a good match for coffee. It sells out fast, so arriving early is key to get this popular item.

Apricot Kolache stands out with its unique flavor. Pastries combine blueberries and cream cheese in creative ways. Each item offers little surprises that make them delicious despite the high prices.

People are saying

"You have to try their chocolate babka from the bakery; it sells out fast."

"I found the pastries here really delicious and fun."

"You have to get here early for the chocolate babka; it sells out fast."

Good to know

1

A double pretzel costs $15, while a single pretzel usually costs $7.

2

Expect no line on Friday mornings around 9:45am.

3

The bakery does not start serving pretzels until later in the day.

14
Librae Bakery image 1

Open kitchen with glass viewing showcases bakers at work, creating a modern, natural decor atmosphere. Space includes indoor and outdoor seating but often feels crowded and competitive for seats. Aromatic scents of za'atar and pistachio fill the air, adding to the sensory experience.

Loomi babka stands out with its fluffy texture and strong lemon flavors that avoid dryness. Lime babka delivers a vibrant citrus punch that leaves a lasting impression.

Tasty pastries draw a line that feels worth the wait. The seasonal banana pastry offers a fantastic twist, while the Zataar morning bun stands out as an incredible savory option.

People are saying

"I found the pistachio croissant crispy, creamy, and delicious."

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

"The loomi babka is soft inside with a crispy outside."

Good to know

1

Seating is quite limited if it’s busy, especially during the day.

2

Get here early because the place gets packed.

3

You should avoid the lines by visiting during the week.

15
Breads Bakery - Rockefeller Center image 1

French bakery offers freshly baked goods with a spacious, cozy atmosphere featuring natural lighting and table seating. The space fills up quickly, creating a lively but sometimes congested environment. Pastries like babka and croissants stand out for their quality and taste.

Chocolate babka stands out with its moist texture, chocolate-y flavor, and a golden-brown flaky top. Black Sesame Babka features a generous filling of black sesame paste, offering a unique twist on the classic.

Pastries stand out for their rich buttery texture and generous dark chocolate fillings, especially the Rugelach. Breads Bakery offers a variety of tasty breads and to-go snacks that pair well with coffee.

People are saying

"The croissant here is beautifully laminated with a delicate crunch."

"I left with amazing pastries and a smile."

"I found the chocolate babka to be the best I ever had."

Good to know

1

The almond croissant costs over $6.

2

The chocolate rugalach costs $14 for 6 pieces.

3

The bakery is located in midtown Manhattan along 6th Avenue, near the subway.

16
Bagel Joint image 1
Bagel shop

Bagel shop offers a trendy vibe with a cozy, classic decor and a lively, inviting atmosphere. Unique bagel flavors and pastries stand out, including gluten-free options and creative combinations. Indoor seating provides a cute, comfortable space to enjoy fresh, hot bagels.

Babka comes in seasonal flavors and holiday specials like rugelach. Varieties include a tart yuzu poppy seed and a rich taro with salted egg yolk, both highly flavorful.

Knish and rugelach stand out as hidden gems. Pastries are well-made and flavorful, not just an afterthought.

People are saying

"These bagels are inventive, with creative flavors and no shortcuts."

"The sandwiches here have amazing and unique flavors."

"The pastries here are well-made, flavorful, and hidden gems."

Good to know

1

Expect to wait at least 15 minutes on weekends due to high demand.

2

The business often runs out of popular items by noon.

3

Bagel Joint offers unique items like egg creams and babka.

17
Breads Bakery - Upper West Side image 1

Modern bakery with extensive covered outdoor seating and a warm, inviting atmosphere filled with the smell of fresh bread. Space feels busy and cozy, with a coffee shop vibe and friendly service. Outdoor area includes heaters and plugs, making it comfortable for longer stays.

Chocolate babka stands out for being moist, not too sweet, and addictive. Apple and black sesame coconut babkas offer unique, delicious variations. The babka is often considered world class and worth buying by the loaf.

Pastries here stand out for their freshness and variety, including babka and cheese and potato options. The bakery offers a great spot to enjoy these alongside good coffee.

People are saying

"The bakery's almond croissants are buttery, flaky, and so delicious."

"I loved the babka here; it's the best in the city."

"This almond croissant pastry is buttery and flaky."

Good to know

1

The bakery doesn't have seating options inside and has few tables outside.

2

If you go at the last hour, the cheesecakes are $5.

3

The price for two cups of tea is $10 plus tax.

18
Oneg Bakery image 1

Tiny bakery offers wide variety of traditional pastries with homemade quality and rich chocolate babka. Inside smells of fresh sweets fill the air, creating a picturesque, authentic atmosphere despite crowded space and limited seating.

Chocolate babka features a rich chocolate flavor with a soft, flaky texture and a dense, decadent feel. Loaves come fresh baked, smelling amazing, and are sold by weight with reasonable pricing.

Rich and tasty pastries fill the air with wonderful smells. Traditional Jewish pastries, puff pastry, chocolate, and creamy sweets stand out for their delicious flavors and pretty presentation.

People are saying

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

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

"The pastries here are delicious and remind me of childhood."

Good to know

1

You pay by weight for the babka, so ask for the price before ordering.

2

Expect to pay around $10 for a 3/4lb slice of babka.

3

Be cautious as they may charge tourists more than locals.

19
Kossar's Bagels & Bialys image 1

Bright, clean space blends bakery charm with bagel shop vibe and features cozy seating and black-and-white photos. Atmosphere ranges from quiet early mornings with jazz to crowded, lively weekends. Popular spot offers a polished setting uncommon for typical bagel shops.

Chocolate and cinnamon babkas stand out with soft texture and balanced sweetness. Both varieties show careful craftsmanship and deliver rich, satisfying flavors.

Fresh, tasty pastries include apple turnover and croissants. Bagels come out chewy and pair well with cream cheeses and lox.

People are saying

"These bagels are the freshest and most delicious I've ever had."

"I enjoyed the delicious chicken cutlet sandwich."

"The pastries here are fresh, tasty, and perfectly baked."

Good to know

1

The prices for a bagel with lox are $15+.

2

The prices for a bagel with flavored cream cheese are $6+.

3

Kossars gets a little busy on weekend mornings.

20
Orwashers Bakery image 1

Artisanal bakery layout with a display case to the left creates a cozy and comfortable atmosphere. The space offers outdoor seating and fills with the aroma of fresh bread. Known for wide variety of baked goods including bagels, babkas, and croissants, it maintains a long-standing reputation for quality.

Chocolate babka stands out with its rich flavor and consistent quality. Sticky Bun Babka earns a reputation for its unique sweetness. Nutella babka offers a milder taste but is less remarkable compared to others.

Flaky, gooey cinnamon morning buns stand out among a wide variety of fresh, beautifully baked pastries. Croissants and sweet pastries consistently show great flavor and quality.

People are saying

"I found the sourdough bread to be one of the best I'd ever tasted."

"The pastries here are fantastic, especially the croissants and donuts."

"I thought the babkas here were great."

Good to know

1

If you have an online pick-up order, have your confirmation email ready.

2

Customers should expect to wait a long time for their drinks.

3

There is no sitting area in the bakery; it's just take out.

21
Breads Bakery - Upper East Side image 1

Roomy bakery with varied seating options including sofas, high tops, and cushioned chairs creates a cozy atmosphere. Multiple music sources play simultaneously, contributing to a lively but sometimes noisy vibe. Pet-friendly space offers wifi and power outlets, supporting work and relaxation.

Chocolate babka stands out with its rich, decadent flavor and moist texture. Cheesecake babka offers a unique, creamy twist, while chocolate hazelnut babka adds a nutty depth. All babkas here are consistently delicious and well-crafted.

Pastries offer a great variety and stand out for their Spinach and Feta Pastry and the special black and white cookie that blends croissant, pastry, and cookie textures. They taste amazing and pair well with the bread and coffee available.

People are saying

"I found the pastries here to be fresh, fragrant, and delicious."

"You have to try the chocolate babka, it's packed with chocolate."

"I found the chocolate babka here to be next level."

Good to know

1

Cash is not accepted at the coffee stand.

2

You need to order while you are in line even if you don’t see what they offer.

3

The prices are on the high side, with croissants costing $5 to $6 each.

22
Lysée image 1
Dessert shop

Pastry boutique and café blends Korean and French aesthetics with a museum-like dessert gallery showcasing edible art. The space feels minimalist and intimate, with small tables and curved alcoves creating a private atmosphere. Desserts offer subtle, savory flavors and are presented with striking visual detail.

Crunchy exterior and soft interior define the chocolate babka, packed with a good amount of chocolate. The traditional Lysée babka offers a buttery, classic taste.

Pastries here blend Korean and French fusion with delicate flavors and artistic presentation. Signature items like the Strawberry Tart feature a crunchy puff pastry base with almond cream and strawberry jam, showcasing the chefs' extreme talent.

People are saying

"The cakes here are beautifully crafted and delicately balanced."

"The pastries here are unbelievably delicious and beautiful."

"The babka here is buttery and delicious."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended due to limited seating and high demand.

2

Expect to wait 2-3 hours for a table if you don't reserve.

3

The prices of desserts are high, with some items costing up to $17.

23
Breads Bakery – Bryant Park image 1

Small kiosk with an outdoor bar faces a park setting, creating a casual spot for coffee and pastries. Atmosphere feels simple and unremarkable, with pigeons nearby and limited seating. Known for chocolate babka by the slice and Israeli bites, it draws people looking for fresh pastries and a quick park-side snack.

Chocolate babka features a moist, flaky texture with a rich chocolatey flavor that melts in your mouth. It stays fresh and delicious even after a day, making it a standout choice for babka lovers.

Pastries come fresh and well made with a fresh quality that pairs well with coffee. Portions stay reasonable, and heating them up is common to enhance flavor.

People are saying

"The chocolate babka here is moist, rich, and melts in your mouth."

"The chocolate babka is rich, moist, and melts in your mouth."

"The pastries here are always great and fresh."

Good to know

1

The bakery kiosk is located at the Northwest corner of Bryant Park.

2

Go in the morning to get the freshest chocolate babka.

3

The bakery can get busy during the morning rush hour.

24
Modern Bread and Bagel image 1

Gluten-free bakery with best gluten-free bagels and artisanal bread offers mostly outdoor seating with heated patio and benches. Atmosphere feels modern and inviting but indoor space lacks tables and is limited. Energy is slow with some inefficiencies in layout and service.

Gluten-free chocolate babka stands out with its mouthwatering flavor and exceptional quality. The bakery has mastered this pastry alongside true bagels and donuts.

Gluten-free pastries and bagels have a remarkable texture and taste. This spot offers well made and consistently amazing gluten-free options.

People are saying

"I found the gluten-free bagels to be the best I've ever had."

"I found the gluten-free pastries and bagels unbelievable."

"The chocolate babka is mouthwatering and unforgettable."

Good to know

1

Everything at this place is gluten free.

2

The entire restaurant is dedicated gluten-free, making it a must-visit for any Celiac or gluten-sensitive people.

3

You should order ahead and pick it up to avoid waiting in the long line.

25
K'Far image 1
Israeli restaurant

Upscale Israeli restaurant offers a chic and cozy atmosphere with beautiful interior design featuring lots of light and greenery. The space includes a comfortable lounge and outdoor seating, creating a relaxed vibe. Drinks include creative cocktails and Israeli wines, complementing a menu with Middle Eastern and Western fusion flavors.

Soft, warm babkas come in lemon cheesecake, apple caramel, and walnut cinnamon flavors. Each is fluffy and filled with rich, unctuous fillings that stand out among the baked goods.

Pastries come with burekas filled with pickles and tahini sauce that stand out. The overall selection is incredibly tasty and pairs well with the cafe setting.

People are saying

"The dinner spots here serve tender lamb shank and juicy chicken schnitzel."

"The pistachio sticky bun pastry is phenomenal."

"The lemon cheesecake babka was soft, warm, and fluffy."

Good to know

1

Get there early for a drink at the Hoxton lobby.

2

The restaurant offers a prix fixed murder mystery brunch.

3

You should definitely make a reservation before coming here.

26
Syrena Bakery image 1

Traditional bakery with clean, inviting interiors and a warm, festive atmosphere. Quiet energy encourages savoring authentic flavors, often attracting early visitors. Outdoor bench offers a spot to enjoy fresh pastries and coffee in a relaxed setting.

Fresh babka comes with just enough sweetness and a moist texture. Both plain and cheese babka stand out as authentic Polish comfort foods, often chosen for special occasions like Easter.

Pastries come buttery and flaky, filled with rich poppy seeds, fresh berries, or melting farmer’s cheese. Traditional Polish recipes shape the fresh and excellent breads and cakes.

People are saying

"I found the bread here to be delicious and still warm."

"You can taste the tradition in these authentic Polish pastries."

"This babka is massive, it could feed a family of four."

Good to know

1

The bakery opens very early for morning customers.

2

Expect long lines during holidays due to high demand.

3

There is no indoor seating; a bench is available outside.

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