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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Local picks

Chill bars in Downtown Austin

Made for those who seek a reliable place to unwind where the social energy remains steady and unforced.

Based on 788 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01

Bar combines arcade games with a cozy, brick-walled interior and spacious, comfy seating. Atmosphere stays low key and trendy, welcoming groups without loud disruptions. Cocktails and food like mac & cheese and smash burgers complement the chill vibe.

Classy brick walls and a spacious seating area create a super chill atmosphere. The place balances arcade and chill vibes with clean restrooms and an impressive bar.

A local bar vibe blends with a high-class front area in an old school building. The space feels LGBTQ+ affirming and offers friendly service alongside good bar food and happy hour prices.

People are saying

"I found the food here to be very good and delicious."

"This bar has a super cozy and cute vibe."

"It's a chill place with an awesome vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs until 7 PM every day with great drink specials.

2

Entry is free during holiday pop-up events, creating a lively atmosphere.

3

Wing Wednesday offers special pricing on wings, making it a popular choice.

02
Valhalla image 1

Metal-themed bar with live local bands and a lively rock vibe creates an energetic yet chill atmosphere. Small venue features arcade and pool games, fostering a social and welcoming environment. Decor reflects a strong personality, continuing a punk rock legacy.

A chill vibe sets the tone with a relaxed atmosphere and good shows that keep things easygoing.

Strong and cheap drinks fuel a lively metal-themed bar with an energetic atmosphere. Shows happen regularly, and a smoking area adds to the dive bar vibe.

People are saying

"This bar has a great, lively vibe."

"The downstairs has a bar with live music and a great vibe."

"It's a chill place with an awesome vibe."

Good to know

1

Bring ear plugs for loud performances.

2

Valhalla has a restaurant upstairs for food orders.

3

There is plenty of seating available both upstairs and downstairs.

03
In Plain Sight image 1

Tiny speakeasy bar with an intimate, cozy setting and colorful rainbow theme throughout. Warm, social atmosphere with innovative cocktails chilled by nitrogen and CO2 techniques. Space features authentic art and frosted windows, creating a stylish, engaging vibe.

A chill vibe fills the space with a cozy atmosphere that suits date nights or relaxed evenings with friends. The great interior design adds to the laid-back feel.

Cocktails here are inventive and unique twists on classics. The bar has a friendly, fun vibe that makes the drinks stand out even more.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so personable and make the whole experience great."

"The cocktails were creative, balanced, and delicious."

"The bartenders here make the best, most creative cocktails."

Good to know

1

The bar only holds up to 16 people at a time.

2

There is no waitlist or reservations, and the place fills quickly.

3

Expect a wait if they reach capacity during peak hours.

04
Bull's Irish Pub image 1

Dark wood and low lighting create an authentic Irish pub feel with a cozy dive bar vibe. The atmosphere stays intimate and lively, featuring live music, comedy, and chess boards that invite relaxed socializing.

Offers a chill atmosphere ideal for relaxing. Serves beer in a nice, laid-back bar setting just off a busy street.

Dark wood and low lighting create a cozy atmosphere that feels like an old friend. Bartenders are friendly and upfront, pouring Guinness with a creamy head that shows care.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are super friendly and great to hang with."

"I enjoyed their amazing craft cocktails."

"I found it to be a nice chill bar with a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

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

2

Mr. Chase performs at 8:30pm; check for seating availability.

3

Reservations are recommended for larger groups during busy hours.

05
Marlow image 1

Lounge with vintage modern style and custom velvet divans offers a chill, intimate vibe with impeccable music and craft cocktails. Indoor and outdoor spaces provide cozy seating and a serene atmosphere away from busy streets. Dog-friendly environment complements the relaxed, classy energy.

Craft drinks set a vibe-y tone in a cozy atmosphere. The spot stays consistently chill near the greenway.

A classy cocktail lounge with gorgeous decor and immaculate vibes offers a welcome change from typical bar scenes. The interior feels lounge-y and beautiful, creating a refined atmosphere for drinks.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are phenomenal and very reasonably priced."

"This lounge is a gorgeous oasis with beautiful vintage decor."

"The drinks at the bar were really good."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from Tuesday to Friday, 3-6pm, with $10 craft cocktails.

2

Parking is available on the street or in the nearby convention center garage.

3

Marlow hosts a monthly bingo event with prizes from spirit brands.

06
Mort Subite European Bar image 1

European beer hall with cozy atmosphere and neighborhood vibe where regulars gather. Offers wide Belgian beer selection served in special glasses. Features outdoor patio seating and nearby food trucks serving authentic Spanish dishes and other snacks.

Super chill atmosphere with a Belgian ambiance sets a relaxed tone. Music adds to the fun, laid-back vibe perfect for unwinding.

Specializes in Belgian brand beers with an amazing selection of on-tap beers, including many hard-to-find brews. Staff provide a friendly, knowledgeable service that helps with beer choices.

People are saying

"I found the beer selection here to be exceptional and reminded me of Belgium."

"It's a nice place to sit outside on the patio."

"This bar has an amazing selection of Belgian beers."

Good to know

1

There is no food available on Monday nights.

2

The bar specializes in Belgian brand beers.

3

The bartenders are knowledgeable about their beers.

07
Remedy image 1

Bar combines laid-back Austin charm with a polished, welcoming vibe and offers both indoor and outdoor seating. Atmosphere balances chill and elevated energy, making it suitable for relaxing or celebrating. Multiple TVs and a spacious layout support casual hangouts and game watching without feeling like a typical sports bar.

Energy stays low with a chill vibe and some sports on screens. It balances relaxed atmosphere with just enough buzz to keep things interesting.

A quaint, expanded bar offers a solid selection of drinks with no pretension. The Old Fashioned stands out, and the bar food satisfies cravings beyond typical fare.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are super friendly and knowledgeable."

"It's a chill spot with a cool, laid-back vibe."

"I thought the burgers here were heaven."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with discounted drinks and appetizers.

2

Trivia night occurs every Wednesday at 7pm with no entry fee.

3

Parking can be challenging; consider rideshare or public transit.

08
Saturn image 1
Cocktail bar

Eclectic decor filled with movie references and hidden Easter eggs creates a unique setting. The vibe stays fun and chill with killer cocktails and lively music. Frequented by a crowd that appreciates offbeat energy and creative drinks.

Music sets a fun yet chill vibe here. Drinks come out delicious and the atmosphere stays relaxed, especially for those in the industry.

A cocktail lounge with a sapphic vibe offers themed drinks inspired by movies like Die Hard. The atmosphere stays fun yet chill with awesome music and a welcoming space.

People are saying

"The cocktails were unique and delicious."

"The vibe here is fun, offbeat, and has an effortless cool energy."

"Chase is a super cool guy, making it chill here."

Good to know

1

Wu-Tang Wednesdays feature a grown and sexy vibe with live music.

2

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm with great prices on cocktails.

3

Enjoy $1 wings every Wednesday night, a popular deal.

09
The Royale Room image 1
Cocktail bar

Cocktail bar offers an intimate, upscale setting with luxurious yet comfortable decor and carefully crafted martinis. Atmosphere stays chill and cozy, encouraging conversation despite occasional loud music. Fresh oysters shucked at the bar add a distinctive touch to the experience.

Space feels casual but high class with a chill and calm atmosphere. It suits relaxed conversations and casual meet-ups with friends.

Great dirty martinis stand out here, crafted by a bartender who stays on point all night. Fresh oysters get shucked right at the bar, paired with elevated bar snacks that go beyond the usual.

People are saying

"The oysters here are fresh and shucked right at the bar."

"The martinis here are some of the best in the city."

"The drinks were on point and strong all night."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers $10 martinis and fun food options from 4-7pm on weekdays.

2

Live music happens every Friday from 8 to 10 pm.

3

The menu includes only three entrees: a hamburger, a salmon sandwich, and steak frites.

10
San Jac Saloon image 1

Long, narrow saloon with traditional western decor and a second floor balcony creates a spacious setting. Live country music fills the air, encouraging plenty of dancing and a chill, old school vibe throughout the venue.

Upstairs offers a chill saloon/lounge vibe with relaxed seating. Open mic comedy nights keep the atmosphere easygoing and enjoyable. Service matches the mood, staying super chill throughout.

Old school vibe fills the bar with a vibrant country atmosphere. Live music plays regularly, focusing on local bands rather than DJs, and the event space is well managed with attention to detail.

People are saying

"The live music here is great and the ambiance is wonderful."

"This bar has a great honky-tonk vibe with live country music."

"The upstairs lounge had a really chill vibe."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features specialty cocktails and a vegan-friendly menu.

2

Free open mic comedy happens every Sunday at 7pm.

3

The Carr Sisters perform typically between 4 and 8 pm.

11
Seven Grand image 1

Spacious bar divided into three distinct areas including a main bar with pool tables and an outdoor patio for cigar smoking. Atmosphere is relaxed and classy, with a focus on an extensive whiskey and bourbon selection. Tacos and live music add to the varied experience across different sections.

A chill vibe comes from the mix of pool tables inside and a large outdoor area with a canopy for smoking cigars. Cocktails and hanging out with friends or big groups fit well here.

Offers an incredible selection of whiskeys and beer with solid drink options including agave and rum. Features a great atmosphere with different themed bars and a cool outdoor area connecting three bars where tabs carry over.

People are saying

"I loved the huge whiskey selection from around the world."

"This bar has a huge, curated selection of over 400 premium whiskeys."

"It's a cool spot to chill with friends, especially with the pool tables."

Good to know

1

Cigars can only be smoked outdoors.

2

Happy hour specials are available, offering great deals.

3

Seven Grand has a tequila bar and a rum bar.

12
Edge Rooftop image 1

Rooftop bar offers panoramic city views and a spacious pool area with live music enhancing the atmosphere. The vibe is relaxed yet lively, suitable for both casual hangouts and special occasions. Guests enjoy seasonal cocktails and cozy touches like blankets during cooler evenings.

Relaxed atmosphere sets the tone with chill vibes and a casual bar area to hang out. Great views complement a spot ideal for unwinding with cocktails.

Rooftop bar offers amazing views and a great atmosphere. Cocktails are well made, and blankets are available when it gets cold.

People are saying

"The servers at the Rooftop are so attentive and sweet."

"The views from the rooftop are gorgeous, especially at sunset."

"Our server Jae was super friendly and attentive at the bar."

Good to know

1

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

2

Sundays feature a special martini night with $10 drinks.

3

Tabs cannot be itemized and must be paid as one.

13
DuMont's Down Low image 1

Basement bar with speakeasy vibe and candlelit, moody decor creates a cozy, intimate atmosphere. Comfortable leather seating and whiskey barrel walls add to the elegant, underground feel. Music stays at a moderate volume, supporting relaxed conversation and late-night cocktails.

A chill, speakeasy-style vibe sets a relaxed tone without loud noise. The atmosphere feels like a downtown hideaway perfect for unwinding or a casual date.

Bar features a brothel chic vibe with whiskey cathedral elements, including leather furniture and whiskey barrel walls. Service is attentive, allowing ordering without waiting at the bar, and bathrooms stay very clean.

People are saying

"It's a cozy, laid-back hideaway with a chill vibe."

"It's a dark, sexy, and intoxicatingly moody vibe here."

"The cocktails here are amazing and well-crafted."

Good to know

1

Seating can be limited at peak hours, so arrive early.

2

Happy hour specials offer great deals on drinks.

3

Expect a 25% auto gratuity added to your bill.

14
Garage image 1
Cocktail bar

Speakeasy bar hidden inside a parking garage offers an intimate, dimly lit atmosphere with a moody, quiet vibe. Creative cocktails receive detailed attention, enhancing the experience for small groups or dates. Lounge seating and a hidden location create a relaxed, exclusive feel.

An industrial setting creates a chill vibe with friendly staff and great cocktails. The atmosphere stays relaxed, making it easy to unwind with a drink or two.

Hidden in the back of a parking garage, this bar offers an intimate, dimly lit setting with a speakeasy vibe. It serves well-made cocktails in a quiet space perfect for conversation.

People are saying

"The cocktails here are creative and crafted to perfection."

"The bar's creative cocktails tasted amazing, even if a bit pricey."

"The vibe here is super chill and industrial."

Good to know

1

Reservations are highly recommended if not required.

2

Seating is first come, so arrive early to secure a spot.

3

Expect to wait over 20 minutes for a table during peak hours.

15
Elephant Room image 1
Live music bar

Small basement bar with stone walls and a cellar setting creates a classic, intimate vibe. Smooth, live jazz music fills the space with chill energy, attracting those who prefer sitting and enjoying quality performances. Unique house brine for dirty martinis stands out among the drink offerings.

A very chill atmosphere with speakeasy vibes creates a relaxed setting. Live jazz music adds to the casual and authentic vibe perfect for unwinding.

A laid back bar with a basement setting offers live jazz music every night. Talented musicians create a memorable vibe in this underground jazz spot.

People are saying

"The jazz musicianship here is amazing."

"It's a cozy basement spot with an intimate, speakeasy vibe."

"I loved the live jazz music at this bar."

Good to know

1

There is a $10 cover fee at Elephant Room.

2

A $7 cover charge applies after 8pm.

3

No food is served; drinks only, but you can bring food in.

16
Retail Therapy Cocktail Lounge image 1

Cocktail bar blends speakeasy vibe with club atmosphere featuring vinyl-spinning DJs and plush, elegant decor. The space offers intimate, cozy areas suited for both small and large groups. Music energy stays lively without overpowering, creating a lowkey, high vibe environment.

Cozy, inviting atmosphere creates a chill vibe perfect for unwinding or celebrating. Lounge setup offers privacy ideal for relaxed conversations.

Cocktail lounge blends a club atmosphere with a lowkey, high vibe setting. It offers top shelf drinks, comfy seats, ambient lighting, and great service in a chic, cozy space.

People are saying

"This bar has a chic, laid-back vibe with great music."

"It's a chill spot to unwind and have a conversation without shouting."

"The decor feels like a modern speakeasy with cool artwork."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for busy nights, especially on weekends.

2

Happy hour runs from 5-7pm on Wednesdays with discounted drinks.

3

Ladies' night on Fridays offers free champagne for women until 11pm.

17
Friends Bar image 1
Live music bar

Live music fills a spacious bar with a stage and a courtyard featuring picnic tables. The atmosphere stays friendly and positive, drawing a crowd that enjoys dancing and people watching. Cold beer and cocktails complement the blues club vibe and no cover charge policy.

The atmosphere stays laid back and chill, making it a solid spot to kick back and unwind. Music plays softly enough to enjoy a drink and relax without any rowdiness.

Live music plays throughout the day with performances by artists like Casey Shaw and Brad Steiger. The bar offers a good drink selection, tasty food from a Mexican food truck, and a clean, lively atmosphere.

People are saying

"I loved the live music and the bands here."

"This bar has amazing live music every night."

"It's a chill spot to kick back, relax, and listen to music."

Good to know

1

Live music runs from 12 pm to 2 am every day.

2

Friends Bar is dog friendly inside.

3

Food is available from a food truck at the back of the bar.

18
The Stay Put image 1

Restored 1920s bungalow hosts a large outdoor space with a dog-friendly patio and communal seating inside. Atmosphere stays laid-back and chill, suited for watching games or casual hangouts. House-brewed beers named after western themes add a unique local touch.

Chill and easy-going vibe sets the tone with communal seating and options for indoor or open-air patio lounging. The spot suits casual drinks with excellent beer and tequila and welcomes pets.

A neighborhood bar with its own brewery offers both indoor and outdoor areas to hang out. It screens unique events like the Pillow Fighting Championship on ESPN 8 The Ocho.

People are saying

"Their in-house brewed IPAs were fantastic and fresh."

"I found the vibes here to be chill and easy-going."

"The bartenders here mix fantastic, experimental drinks."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers house beers for $5.00 a pint.

2

They host a free community cookout every Monday night.

3

First Friday of every month features amazing vendors.

19
The Iron Bear image 1

Large space with pool table and TouchTunes music selection creates a lively setting. Atmosphere feels friendly and inclusive, attracting a diverse crowd with great music and a fun vibe. Busy times bring loud energy, making conversation challenging but encouraging dancing and socializing.

The spot has a pretty chill atmosphere with a laid-back vibe throughout. It feels easygoing and relaxed.

A friendly gay bar with a chill vibe and a pool table. Staff provide great service, making it a welcoming spot to enjoy a cold beer and hang out.

People are saying

"The bar food, especially the burgers, was surprisingly good."

"It's a fun gay dive bar with a great crowd and strong drinks."

"The vibe here is pretty chill."

Good to know

1

Parking costs between $15 to $20 unless you find a free space.

2

Expect long wait times during peak evening hours.

3

Karaoke happens on Sundays and Wednesdays with a great song list.

20
Electric Shuffle Austin image 1

Electronic shuffleboard with automatic scoring and innovative game modes anchors a lively bar space with funky decor and vibrant lighting. Semi-private rooms and a great DJ create an energetic, social atmosphere. Cocktails and food offer distinctive flavors that complement the upbeat vibe.

Fun atmosphere pairs with killer music and a shuffleboard setup that balances competition and chill vibes. Good casual food supports both laid-back hangs and celebrations.

Cocktails stand out with a diverse menu and spectacular flavors. The bar features shuffleboards for rent and offers food that surpasses typical bar fare.

People are saying

"The food here is delicious, especially the crispy chicken with maple and a spicy kick."

"This bar is a fun new place to experience with a group."

"The staff's genuine care makes you feel so seen and taken care of."

Good to know

1

Reservations are recommended for large groups to ensure seating availability.

2

Drag brunch occurs every Sunday, featuring a boozy option for $50 per person.

3

Expect a $15.99 charge per person for events, which includes shuffleboard access.

21
Azul Rooftop image 1

Rooftop lounge 20 stories high offers spectacular skyline views and an open-air pool surrounded by torchlight ambiance. Atmosphere stays comfortable and lively, ideal for sunset photos and all-night chats. Cocktails and food complement the setting with a festival-like vibe.

A relaxed vibe sets the tone with a sincere and chill atmosphere. Seating around a firepit adds warmth on cooler nights, making it a solid spot to unwind after work or hang out with friends.

A beautiful rooftop bar with a pool offers a standout setting. Staff like Sabrina, Conner, and Hannah provide professional and kind service.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the amazing nighttime views."

"The bar staff, especially Jenifer, made me feel so welcome."

"The view here is amazing, especially at sunset."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 5 to 7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

You need a key card to access Azul Rooftop if not a hotel guest.

3

There is no charge to enter Azul Rooftop.

22
Ellis image 1

Glass-enclosed bar offers both indoor and outdoor seating under a huge oak tree with lanterns and string lights. Atmosphere stays chilled and relaxing with live guitar music and elevator tunes setting a calm vibe. Outdoor patio serves as a people-watching spot with bar service inside and out.

Weekend nights feature live music that sets a relaxing vibe. Casual atmosphere suits grabbing a beer or an after work cocktail on a good weather day.

Glass-enclosed bar offers great views and air conditioning for a comfortable drink. Outdoor patio with lanterns and string lights creates a cute, inviting setting.

People are saying

"The staff during Happy Hour was wonderful and fun to talk to."

"The bar's happy hour is a great start for a night out."

"It's a great spot to chill with live music on the weekend."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 12 to 3pm with $7 mimosas and bloody Marys.

2

Happy hour offers $3 wine, making it a great deal.

3

The outdoor seating area is popular but can get crowded.

23
El Cockfight image 1

Multi-level bar with a rooftop patio offers live music and skyline views. Atmosphere stays relaxed and chill, with a mix of DJs downstairs and live bands upstairs. Tacos from a pop-up stand add a unique touch to the drink-focused setup.

Rooftop patio offers a chill vibe with relaxed music and a laid-back atmosphere. The patio and rooftop deck create a perfect spot to unwind with your dog or friends.

Rooftop bar offers a lively spot with excellent service. The bar team stands out as highly skilled and competent, making it a fun place to hang out.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so friendly and make you feel cared for."

"The rooftop has a really pretty, scenic ambiance."

"The rooftop patio is a chill vibe for a relaxed night out."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3-6pm with drinks under $10.

2

Live music is featured on weekends, enhancing the atmosphere.

3

The rooftop patio is a popular spot during happy hour.

24
Higbie's image 1
Cocktail bar

Cozy cocktail bar with pool tables, big screens showing sports, and provocative portraits on the walls. Atmosphere feels like a laid back neighborhood bar with a fun, friendly vibe and unique music playlist. Regulars enjoy whiskey cocktails, cigars, and a mix of chill and lively energy.

Hours pass easily thanks to the nice chill vibes and attentive service. It suits casual business meetings, social events, or just relaxing with a signature cocktail during a busy day.

A cocktail bar with provocative portraits on the wall and two pool tables. The bartender offers hospitable service and crafts classic drinks like old fashioneds.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are super friendly and charismatic."

"They have badass pool tables available."

"The bartenders here are so friendly and make you feel comfortable."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 1 to 7 pm with discounted drinks.

2

Expect a 20% gratuity automatically added to your bill.

3

Parking is limited on the street, but Sundays are free.

25
Sweet Sensi image 1
Cannabis store

Cannabis store combines art nouveau decor with a speakeasy vibe and a relaxed lounge setting. Atmosphere feels chill and laid-back with live DJ music enhancing the experience. Offers THC-infused treats and cocktails for a unique social environment.

Space offers super chill vibes with a laid-back atmosphere. Staff are friendly and informative, creating a relaxing spot to unwind alone or with friends.

Cozy lounge serves classic cocktails and non-alcoholic THC drinks with a strong Art Nouveau vibe. Friendly bartenders like Lana and Marie offer welcoming service and know their products well.

People are saying

"You can buy marijuana here with a fantastic, elevated experience."

"You can get the cocktails with THC or alcohol."

"I waited at the bar forever to get a drink."

Good to know

1

Sweet Sensi is open on Sundays for visitors looking to unwind.

2

Live music happens on the 4th Friday of each month, featuring various genres.

3

The lounge offers both THC-infused and non-alcoholic cocktails.

26
The Dead Rabbit, Austin image 1

Hybrid of cocktail bar and Irish pub with a classy yet grounded atmosphere. Frequent live Irish folk music creates a lively, festive vibe. Space feels crowded and loud with small tables close together.

Lively yet intimate vibe suits both casual nights and special occasions. Offers chill spots for weekend mornings, after work, or casual brunches with friends.

Irish pub atmosphere stands out with Irish music and food creating a vibe like Temple Bar in Dublin. Drinks rank among the best in Austin, complemented by unique touches like Tayto crisps behind the bar.

People are saying

"The cocktails are imaginative, creative, and beautifully balanced."

"The bar's drinks are perfectly crafted and mesmerizing."

"The cocktails here are creative and expertly crafted."

Good to know

1

Happy hour offers oysters for $2 each during specific hours.

2

Irish Sessions and Sunday Roast meal are recommended for a great experience.

3

The kitchen stops serving at 1am, but a late night menu is available.

27
Bull and Bowl image 1
American restaurant

Mechanical bull, mini bowling, and karaoke rooms create a lively, interactive space with small lanes and modern aesthetic on an upper floor. Atmosphere stays fun and clean with music, TVs showing football, and optional outdoor seating. The venue draws groups looking for unique activities and a casual, energetic vibe.

A chill atmosphere sets the tone with casual seating near the bowling alley. Activities like bowling, arcade games, and bull riding mix with good food, drinks, and trivia for a relaxed hangout.

Service stands out with outstanding bar staff like Max and Justin who take great care of guests. The bar offers a unique atmosphere compared to others in the area.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was great."

"Max was the best bartender I ever had at the bar."

"Max took great care of us at the bar."

Good to know

1

On Sundays, all games are complimentary, including bowling and bull riding.

2

The bull ride costs $10 per attempt, plus tax.

3

Happy hour offers great deals on drinks and appetizers.

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