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New Yorkers 1st Choice
Top picks in San Antonio

Cool spots for beer

A cold beer in a space with a genuinely relaxed vibe is the only way to unwind.

Based on 850 Opinions
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Updated May 2026
01
Breakaway Brewing Company image 1
Breakaway Brewing Company image 2
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Cycling-themed brewpub with fun bicycle decor and big screen bike races creates a relaxed, comfy atmosphere. Board games and Wii add casual entertainment, while excellent beers and unique food draw a steady crowd. Large windows offer views of historic surroundings, enhancing the laid-back vibe.

The spot features a great brewing facility and a strong theme that stands out. It has a super cool vibe throughout.

Special beer offerings attract enthusiasts, featuring unique brews like Fiesta on Hill. The beer pairs well with a distinctive food menu, and staff provide great recommendations.

People are saying

"I found the beer here to be excellent and on point."

"I thought the spot had a cool vibe and cyclist vibes."

"This place has a really interesting theme and unique decor."

Good to know

1

Wrestling happens once a month on Sundays in the parking lot.

2

Happy hour offers discounted drinks and appetizers.

3

Singo sing along bingo takes place every Thursday night.

02
Anaqua Garden Bar image 1

Outdoor space offers large patio, shaded seating, and poolside oasis with overhead heating. Atmosphere stays calm and inviting, ideal for long conversations or relaxation. Frequented for craft cocktails and lively DJ sets, blending serene setting with vibrant energy.

Outdoor seating stays cool even on warm days and overcast weather. The bar offers a relaxed but cool vibe with a lovely patio that keeps the atmosphere fresh.

Ale stands out with its amazing and fantastic quality. It delivers an awesome experience that many find delightful and great.

People are saying

"The bartender Drew was super friendly and provided great service."

"The beer here was amazing and fantastic."

"The vibe here is really cool and relaxed."

Good to know

1

The 555 Sunday deal offers $5 drinks, $5 bites, and $5 entry to the pool.

2

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

3

Guests can purchase a resort pass to use the pool without staying at the hotel.

03
Longtab Brewing Company image 1

Military-themed brewery with Special Forces decor and walls covered in memorabilia creates a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Space divides into two rooms: one with a bar and tall tables, the other with dining tables and couches. Music stays mellow for easy conversation, and the venue is pet-friendly.

Special Forces theme creates a unique vibe throughout the venue. Each beer comes with a story behind its name, adding to the cool atmosphere.

A wide variety of craft beers includes Belgians, Germans, and American ales. The atmosphere feels warm and welcoming, encouraging people to enjoy great beer together.

People are saying

"I thought the beer here was first class and top notch."

"The cinnamon sugar pretzel bites were life-changingly good."

"I found the atmosphere to be cool and chill."

Good to know

1

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

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a $5 entry fee.

3

Father's Day brunch is a special event worth attending.

04
Ranger Creek Brewing & Distilling image 1

Brewery and distillery with a small tap room and a large dog-friendly patio offers a low-key, casual atmosphere that welcomes both adults and families. The space feels intimate and well-organized, with friendly staff and occasional live music. It serves whiskey and beer only, with no food but often a food truck outside.

A large patio creates a cool hangout spot with a relaxed vibe. The overall atmosphere feels laid-back and inviting.

Tours include a souvenir glass and two free beers. Staff share their passion for craft beer and spirits with guests. The beer offers a refreshing fizz and smooth flavors without unpleasant aftertastes.

People are saying

"I can't wait to return and try more of their great whiskey."

"The guided tours here are super fun and informative."

"I enjoyed the great beer here."

Good to know

1

They offer tours on Saturday, which include two free drinks.

2

Trivia nights are hosted regularly, providing a fun social atmosphere.

3

Dogs are welcome at the establishment, making it pet-friendly.

05
Roadmap Brewing Co. image 1

Taproom combines visible brewing equipment with dog-friendly spaces and casual games, creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere. Large, open layout offers room to relax or watch sports without loud noise. Food trucks outside serve noted burgers, complementing the highly regarded beer selection.

A cool vibe sets the tone with a casual atmosphere and friendly staff. The brewery offers a relaxed spot with good beers.

Bold, creative IPAs and a gold medal-winning pilsner stand out here. Knowledgeable staff offer tailored beer recommendations and pairings with world-class coffee.

People are saying

"The beers here are tasty and unique."

"I enjoyed the amazing, delicious coffee here."

"It's a really cool spot with a great atmosphere."

Good to know

1

Coffee is served from 8AM to 3PM, and beer starts at 10AM on Sundays.

2

Happy hour prices are available with great specials on weekdays.

3

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm.

06
Black Laboratory Brewing image 1

Brewery offers a laid back, family friendly atmosphere with indoor and outdoor seating and a gaming room featuring Nintendo 64. The vibe feels like a chill neighborhood bar with 80's rock music and dog-friendly outdoor space. Creative beers and excellent pizza complement the relaxed, casual setting.

Interesting brews stand out, especially the grape cool aid with a nostalgic twist. The atmosphere feels cool and relaxed, making it a unique spot to hang out.

Flights include a variety of beers like Red Ale, Spaceforce IPA, and Hefe. The tap list features a mix of IPAs, Saisons, Stouts, and Ciders with guest taps from other breweries.

People are saying

"I found their beers to be flavorful and creative."

"I thought the pizza here was amazing, especially the crust."

"It's a cool, relaxed place with interesting brews and 80's rock."

Good to know

1

Trivia quizzes happen every Wednesday at 7 pm.

2

Happy hour runs from 6 pm to 9 pm with $5 beers.

3

Parking is limited; arrive early or consider using Uber or Lyft.

07
Back Unturned Brewing Co. image 1

Retro-style brewery offers a family-friendly vibe with pet-friendly indoor space and ample TVs for games. Atmosphere feels welcoming and lively, blending comfort with craft beer flights and casual fun. Small size enhances a cozy, social environment where kids and dogs fit naturally.

Intimate atmosphere creates a relaxed and inviting space. Staff contribute to the cool vibes throughout the brewery.

Craft beer options include the Queen of Beers, Dream Juice, and a cherry beer. The Belgians be Bitchin IPA balances hops well without being flat. Beer pairs well with pizza and salad specials.

People are saying

"I loved their exceptional craft beer, especially the Vienna lager."

"They were so accommodating to my kids, even making pink lemonade."

"The vibe here is really cool and intimate."

Good to know

1

Happy hour features $5 appetizers on weekdays from 4-7pm.

2

Trivia night occurs on the second and fourth Mondays of the month at 7pm.

3

Brunch is served on weekends with daily lunch specials available.

08
Tandem San Antonio image 1

Coffee shop combines cozy seating with art-covered walls and mismatched decor creating a homely, relaxed vibe. Live music, comedy nights, and board games add lively entertainment alongside quiet spaces for work. Indoor and outdoor areas offer comfortable spots with a casual, inviting atmosphere.

The spot has a cool vibe that feels both relaxed and unique. Indoor and outdoor spaces add to its off the beaten track charm, making it a great place to hang out or work.

Cold beers come on tap with a decent craft selection. Options include a few wines alongside the great beer variety.

People are saying

"The coffee here has such a cozy and inviting vibe."

"This place has a really cool vibe and atmosphere."

"I enjoyed the cold beer selection."

Good to know

1

Tandem San Antonio hosts live music and comedy events weekly.

2

Karaoke nights are popular and often attract a lively crowd.

3

Parking is generally easy to find near the venue.

09
2-1-DOUGH PIZZA CO. image 1

Wood-fired brick oven creates a warm, cozy setting with indoor and outdoor seating including a patio area. The atmosphere stays chill and nostalgic, enhanced by an emo playlist and an attached brewery with games. Guests often enjoy thin crust pizza and wings, praised as some of the best in town.

The spot has a super cool vibe with a focus on pizza and beer. It feels relaxed and inviting for casual hangouts.

Great beer on tap pairs well with consistently amazing food. A nice brewery shares the building, and they offer Southside craft soda alongside the beer.

People are saying

"The brick oven pizza here is delicious."

"The salads here are always cold and refreshing."

"I enjoyed the delicious eats and great beer."

Good to know

1

The restaurant has its own parking lot, so parking is free for diners.

2

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

3

They offer daily specials, so check the menu for discounts.

10
Il Forno image 1
Pizza restaurant

Pizza restaurant offers rustic decor with an open kitchen and authentic Italian stone oven. Atmosphere feels cozy and welcoming, with half the seating outdoors in a vineyard-like setting providing natural shade. Local draft beer on tap complements the easy-going vibe.

The patio area offers a cool hangout spot with an herb garden outside. Inside, the design features a warm wood fire vibe and an open plan kitchen that matches the building's cool exterior.

Craft beers and draft options stand out here, with samples offered to try. The beer pairs well with the food, especially pizza, making for a solid cold beer choice.

People are saying

"The Margherita pizza here is excellent, with a crispy, chewy crust."

"I'd return just for the calabrese hummus."

"The pizza here is fantastic, with a delicious charred flavor."

Good to know

1

Happy hour for pizza runs from 3:30 PM to 6:30 PM.

2

Margherita pizza is just $8 during happy hour.

3

Thirsty Thursdays event offers special deals on drinks.

11
The Golden Goose image 1

Small restaurant with jade green finishes and convex mirrors creates a cozy, low-key atmosphere filled with artwork and Korean posters. Music and puzzles add to the casual, welcoming vibe. Seating includes outdoor options and window views.

Big convex mirrors and jade green finishes shape a cool, clean vibe. Staff offer friendly recommendations that match the welcoming atmosphere.

Korean beer here is refreshing and light. Beer pairs well with liqueurs and complements entrees alongside soju.

People are saying

"The Korean fried chicken here is fantastic and amazing."

"The art and decorations here are really cool."

"I found authentic Korean fried chicken and somaek here."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-6pm on weekdays with discounted drinks.

2

Brunch is served on Sundays from 10am to 2pm.

3

Parking at the garage on Laredo St. is free for 2 hours with validation.

12
Black Potion image 1

Space combines board game library, private rooms, and a hidden theater for movies or improv. Lighting stays soft, creating a cozy, welcoming vibe where groups gather to play and relax. Community feels down-to-earth, making it a hub for tabletop gamers seeking comfort and connection.

Super cool vibe with hundreds of card and board games plus role-playing games to choose from. The welcoming staff and a theatre in the back add to the chill atmosphere.

A huge and unique beer selection stands out here, including some wines. Options include craft beers alongside non-beer drinks. The spot combines beer with games and music for a relaxed vibe.

People are saying

"I found the beer selection here to be huge and unique."

"The staff here genuinely like games and offer great recommendations."

"It's a really cool place to hang out and play board games."

Good to know

1

Black Potion allows outside food, which is convenient for visitors.

2

Parking is available in the gravel lot across the street.

3

Private rooms can be rented for $40, with costs deducted from purchases.

13
Cootey's Tavern image 1
Bar & grill

Small bar with dark wood decor and old western themes offers a chill, low-key atmosphere where friendly locals gather. Games like darts, pool, and karaoke add a lively but relaxed energy. Drinks include Guinness on tap and well-priced food features wings and burgers.

A laid back karaoke bar with a very friendly crowd creates a cool vibe. It feels like a local spot where people relax and enjoy themselves.

Beer comes chilled perfectly and stays nice and cold here. Prices are good, making it easy to enjoy a cold one.

People are saying

"The bar food, especially the brisket and Mac bits, was great."

"The beer here is always super cold."

"It's a cool, laid-back local bar with a friendly vibe."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Wednesday night starting at 9pm.

2

Thursday features steak night with special pricing on select cuts.

3

Taco Tuesday offers $1 tacos all night long.

14
Pink Shark image 1

Bar space features disco ball shark, production-level lighting, and a secret speakeasy lounge behind a fake vending machine. Atmosphere shifts from super chill and eclectic upfront to a lively club vibe in the back. Music plays continuously with a DJ, and art pieces create multiple photo opportunities throughout.

Big drinks come in cool take-home containers shaped like a shark or boot. The bar has a super chill vibe with cool music and friendly security staff.

Beers come cold and affordable, with some priced as low as $2. The selection includes both alcoholic and non-alcoholic options, paired well with food offerings.

People are saying

"The bartenders here are so personable and skilled at their craft during Happy Hour."

"The vibe here is super cool and chill."

"The beer here is great, and the staff is so friendly."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 8 PM with a variety of drink specials.

2

Pink Shark has a secret bar located past the bathrooms.

3

Food is available at certain times, including snacks and small plates.

15
Maverick Distilling image 1

Historic building with deep Texas roots creates a warm, rustic atmosphere filled with Texas heritage and elegant design. Quiet space offers world-class whiskey and small-batch spirits alongside educational tours that highlight local history and craftsmanship.

The space feels historical and cool, set in an old bank building downtown near the Alamo. The small distillery offers a cool tour and whiskey tasting that adds to the vibe.

Exceptional whiskeys and beers stand out here, with options like the Sunny Blonde Ale gaining attention. Knowledgeable staff provide detailed info on the beers on tap.

People are saying

"This whiskey is bold, balanced, and unapologetically Texan."

"The staff made the fun activities enjoyable and entertaining."

"The staff here are super friendly and knowledgeable about the beer."

Good to know

1

The upstairs bar is closed on Monday and Tuesday.

2

Tours provide insights into whiskey production and the distillery's history.

3

Whiskey flights are reasonably priced at $15.

16
Bubba's 33 image 1
American restaurant

Large dining and bar areas fill with numerous TVs showing sports and music videos, creating a lively and family-friendly atmosphere. Bright lighting and well air-conditioned spaces keep the environment comfortable and inviting. The bar features a MEGA screen and serves cold drinks, enhancing the energetic vibe during games.

A cool atmosphere sets the tone with a nice, refreshing temperature inside. Friendly people and a cool manager add to the vibe, making it a good spot to hang out and enjoy some food and drinks.

A large selection of ice cold beers pairs well with burgers, wings, and appetizers like fried pickles and nachos. The beer consistently arrives cold and complements the casual food offerings.

People are saying

"The food here is amazing and always delicious."

"The beer here is ice cold."

"The atmosphere here is really cool, perfect for hanging out."

Good to know

1

Kids are not allowed in the bar area for safety and comfort.

2

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

3

The kids' meal costs $5.99, which includes a side and lemonade.

17
Reese Bros Barbecue image 1
Barbecue restaurant

Outdoor barbecue spot offers covered seating with a backyard patio vibe and friendly service. The atmosphere is clean and inviting, featuring TVs and a small bar with affordable Lone Star beers and flavorful margaritas. Conversations and music create a relaxed, social energy throughout the space.

Outdoor seating with a bar creates a real chill vibe. The atmosphere feels like being back in Texas with a variational menu and plenty of seating.

A bar offers a great selection of unique cocktails and beer on tap. Staff sometimes serve a beer while waiting in line.

People are saying

"This American food is some of the best barbecue I've ever had."

"The beer here is surprisingly good, especially the unexpected ones."

"The brisket here is worth trying, seriously."

Good to know

1

Arrive early to avoid long lines; they often sell out by early afternoon.

2

Parking is available in a large dirt lot behind the restaurant.

3

All drinks are ordered at the bar, which can lead to long wait times.

18
Wrigleyville Grill image 1
Hot dog restaurant

Hot dog restaurant with Chicago-themed decor featuring nostalgic photos and sports rivalries creates a cozy, lively atmosphere. Fans gather to watch games on multiple TVs while enjoying authentic Chicago-style food and cold beer. Shared seating and outdoor tables add to the friendly, communal vibe.

Atmosphere feels super cool and filled with memorabilia. The vibe is very much like a ballpark hotdog spot.

Cold beer served in frosted glasses stands out here. It pairs well with quick bites and suits a casual, game-watching atmosphere.

People are saying

"I thought the food here was outstanding and amazing."

"The atmosphere here is super cool and filled with memorabilia."

"The beer here is so cold and refreshing."

Good to know

1

They offer a Thursday special of two Vienna Chicago-style hotdogs and fries for about $10.

2

Food specials are available from Monday through Thursday.

3

Eating in is recommended to get the fries fresh, as they don't hold up well after a 20-minute drive home.

19
Royal Blue Grocery image 1
Convenience store

Cozy convenience store with natural light and a friendly atmosphere plays black metal music creating a unique vibe. Offers locally sourced gourmet grab-and-go products alongside coffee and deli items. Limited seating supports casual people-watching in a clean, quaint setting.

Offers a variety of items with an above-average convenience store feel and a coffee shop vibe. The atmosphere feels super cool and inviting.

Offers an outstanding craft beer selection with a focus on IPA beers. The beer and wine variety stands out downtown.

People are saying

"I thought the coffee here was really good."

"They had a great beer and wine selection."

"I found the supermarket to be very cool."

Good to know

1

Royal Blue Grocery is open until 12am, making it convenient for late-night shopping.

2

Expect high prices, often resembling airport pricing for everyday items.

3

The store offers a great selection of unique and locally sourced products.

20
McIntyre's Southtown image 1

Sports bar with multiple TVs inside and outside offers a laid-back atmosphere with live music and outdoor seating. Visitors enjoy cold beer, varied games, and food trucks serving pizza and wings. The space feels spacious and comfortable, with water misters enhancing the outdoor experience.

Bartenders stay cool and sweet while the spot hosts community events and GameDays. The vibes feel relaxed and fun for watching sports or shows.

Cold beer comes with a great selection including cocktails. Servers work hard to serve drinks despite crowds. The spot offers a relaxing vibe for enjoying a few beers.

People are saying

"The pizza and wings here are surprisingly great."

"You won't miss any of the game with TVs everywhere."

"It's a cool spot to relax and watch sports games on the big TVs."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 4-7pm on weekdays with great drink specials.

2

Trivia night happens every Tuesday at 8pm with a fun atmosphere.

3

Parking can be challenging, especially during busy events.

21
Idle Beer Hall & Brewery image 1

Big open-air conditioned brewery with pool tables, arcade games, and a huge dog-friendly outdoor patio creates a lively, chill atmosphere. Stylish wood-beamed design adds an old world feel without pretension. Crowd enjoys cold, excellent beer alongside casual games and live music.

Space offers a cool vibe with areas for lounging and games like skee ball and pool. Ambience feels relaxed and enjoyable throughout.

Offers a wide variety of craft beers that rank among the best in the city. The huge, dog-friendly outdoor patio adds to the fun atmosphere for enjoying drinks with friends.

People are saying

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

"This bar is totally dog-friendly, I saw so many pups inside."

"The beer selection here is great, especially the IPAs."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 3 to 6 PM with great deals on drinks.

2

Karaoke takes place every Tuesday night, starting at 8 PM.

3

The brewery allows food from the adjacent market but has a strict no outside drink policy.

22
Lo Cura image 1

Bar under a bridge along the riverwalk offers river views and water misting fans that keep the area cool. Atmosphere blends chic and fun vibes with lively energy, especially at the riverfront bar where people watch and boats pass by.

A cool spot under the bridge offers relief with continuous water misters spraying to beat the heat. The vibe stays refreshing even on hot days.

Happy hour features $5 beers alongside a mix of cocktails and frozen drinks. The beer wrangler ensures a great selection, with the IPA and signature drink offering a refreshing and bold combo.

People are saying

"The bar staff here are amazing and make you feel so welcome."

"The walking tacos are a solid value at $5."

"The beer here is great, thanks to the friendly and attentive staff."

Good to know

1

Happy hour runs from 11 AM to 5 PM with $5 beers and tacos.

2

The happy hour walking tacos cost $5.

3

Grab a seat at the bar when Ben is working for great service.

23
The Bang Bang Bar image 1

Cozy dive bar with a vintage atmosphere and classic arcade games like pinball and skee-ball. Music stays rocking and lively, creating a unique San Antonio vibe. Separate spaces include a game room and a patio with seating, offering varied experiences in one spot.

Vintage atmosphere sets a cool vibe with cozy spots for trivia nights. Old TV plays I Love Lucy reruns while the bar serves cool drinks in a unique setting.

Several different beers come on tap, always served cold. The bar offers a full selection of beers alongside mixed drinks and pickle back shots. Playing darts and chatting pairs well with grabbing a beer here.

People are saying

"The bar staff here is so attentive and friendly."

"The atmosphere here is so cool, with a great retro vibe."

"I had some really nice, cold beer on tap."

Good to know

1

Karaoke happens every Sunday night, attracting a chill crowd.

2

Half-price pizzas are available on Mondays.

3

The bar gets quite packed on Saturday nights.

24
The Ridge at the Hill image 1

Converted old house offers indoor and outdoor seating with a covered patio that welcomes dogs. Atmosphere stays relaxed and comfortable, with a fenced grassy area where kids can play. Live music used to add to the vibe but is no longer featured.

The spot has a cool vibe with a sweet patio perfect for eating out when it cools down. The overall atmosphere feels very laid-back and refreshing.

Cold draft beers come highly recommended and pair well with large portions. The selection includes local drafts, cocktails, and other spirits, offering a solid variety for beer lovers.

People are saying

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

"The vibes here are cool and the patio is sweet."

"The beer selection here is great, with local craft options on tap."

Good to know

1

Live music is available on Friday and Saturday nights.

2

Happy Hour for food ends at 5 PM; drinks Happy Hour ends at 6 PM.

3

Expect a wait time of less than 10 minutes on busy Friday nights.

25
Beethoven Maennerchor image 1

Outdoor spaces with soaring pecan trees and plenty of picnic tables create a classic German beer garden vibe. Live music ranges from traditional German tunes to swing, encouraging dancing and a lively atmosphere. The venue welcomes families and offers authentic German beers alongside hearty German food, blending a friendly, club-like energy with a relaxed, inclusive setting.

Vibe feels laid-back and inviting. Venue has a unique charm that stands out.

Offers a great selection of German beer, including some unique imports on tap. The seasonal Warsteiner Oktoberfest stands out among the choices.

People are saying

"I enjoyed the excellent German beer here."

"The live music and festive atmosphere make for really fun activities."

"I found the vibe here to be really cool."

Good to know

1

Every third Thursday during the summer, Gartenfest features the Concert Band as the main event.

2

Oktoberfest activities occur on Friday and Saturday nights with live music.

3

The venue is wheelchair accessible and dog-friendly.

26
El Luchador image 1

Wrestling-themed bar with colorful murals and lucha libre masks creates an energetic atmosphere. Live bands, DJs, karaoke, and stand-up comedy keep the vibe lively and fun. Spacious layout includes a covered outdoor area for smokers and dog-friendly policies.

Walls display many cool portraits of luchadores with a retro vibe. Live music features an excellent rock band and the staff keep the atmosphere cool and welcoming.

Cold beer comes with good specials including a $6 beer and shot combo. Prices stay cheapish making it easy to grab a cold one with a fresh drink.

People are saying

"The bar here is amazing and super welcoming."

"The karaoke here is so much fun, a real blast."

"The beer here is great, and the staff is super friendly."

Good to know

1

El Luchador offers karaoke nights on Sundays, which are very entertaining.

2

Parking is available across the street, but can be limited next to the bar.

3

The bar has a $6 beer and shot combo, which is a great deal.

27
The Buckhorn Saloon & Museum image 1

Saloon with historic Western decor and extensive taxidermy displays creates a nostalgic, immersive atmosphere. Vintage game room and Texas Rangers memorabilia add unique entertainment and cultural elements. The space feels expansive and lively, blending bar and museum experiences.

Walls covered with taxidermy animals create a unique and cool vibe. The museum and saloon offer an authentic atmosphere that feels connected to American history.

Great selection of Texas beers comes in flights or by the glass. You can carry a beer from the bar while exploring the museum's period back bar and hunting trophy decor.

People are saying

"You'll see lots of interesting history and taxidermy animals here."

"It's a cool place with a unique atmosphere and vibe."

"The beer here is ice cold and refreshing."

Good to know

1

Admission includes access to both the taxidermy and Texas Ranger museums.

2

Daily specials are available, offering unique food options.

3

Guided boot scooting events happen in the main ballroom.

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