30 Best Southern Restaurants in Chicago

Virtue Restaurant Southern • $$$
1462 E 53rd St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Green Tomatoes with Shrimp Remoulade
Collard Greens & Smoked Turkey
Biscuits & Pimento Cheese
Cornbread & Honey Butter
Macaroni and Cheese
Biscuits and Gravy
RW Millies Pudding
RW Shrimp & Grits
Blackened Catfish
Shrimp and Grits

“One evening in Hyde Park, my friend and I stepped into Virtue, not knowing we’d walk out with stories to tell. Here’s a glimpse of our adventure:Settled at the bar, close to the kitchen’s hustle, we soaked in the lively vibe. It was a bit noisy, sure, but it added to the night’s flavor. Our bartender, amidst the buzz, served up our drinks with a smile. My espresso was a tad too bold, but it was all part of the experience.Looking around, I was struck by the mix of people, all different, yet all here. Virtue, with its proud Black-owned banner, was more than a restaurant; it was a meeting ground, a place where every face told a different story.As the night unfolded, the blend of chatter and laughter, the clinking of glasses, all felt like music. Our spot near the kitchen, initially a footnote, became central to our experience, offering a front-row seat to the restaurant’s heartbeat.Leaving Virtue, it was clear: this wasn’t just dinner; it was a slice of life, shared over good food and great company. Virtue isn’t just a spot in Hyde Park; it’s a place where stories begin.“

4.7 Superb217 Reviews

2
Roux

Roux Southern • $$
1055 E 55th St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Green Tomato Tartine
Hot Chicken and Waffle
Chicken Fried Steak
Biscuits and Gravy
Three Egg Omelet
Shrimp and Grits
Beignets to Go
Pimento Cheese
Fried Catfish
Deviled Eggs

“Came here on a Saturday morning around 11am and there was a line out the door. We only waited for about 15 minutes to order and be seated.I ordered the shrimp and grits, a side of scrambled eggs, and potatoes. The shrimp and grits were pretty underwhelming which was disappointing. The grits were thick and creamy but lacked flavor - they were salted/buttery. The shrimp were fresh and seasoned but the roux was just oily with no flavor. Most shrimp and grits dishes the grits are either seasoned or the roux the shrimp is cooked in is seasoned.The eggs were good. The potatoes were my favorite part. Super flavorful and crispy on the outside, soft inside. I would come back and try something else. Everything else I see from others around me looked delicious.“

4.5 Superb159 Reviews
1308 Chicago American • $$
1308 N Elston Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

dd Carolina Gold Corn Ribs
Butternut Squash Agnolotti
dd Hot Water Cornbread
Fresh Ricotta Agnolotti
dd Crispy Cauliflower
dd Thrice Cooked Fries
Peanut Butter Moonpie
Detroit Style Pizza
dd Butter Burger
Brussels Sprouts

“We visited this establishment for Chicago black restaurants week. According to my partner the fried chicken was phenomenal. The moist cornbread was not sweet with actual corn niblets - which i can appreciate. But the star was the mushroom and grits. I love a good savory vegetarian option. The mushroom had a very nice flavor. I hope this is an actual dish on their standard menu. The atmosphere was warm and would be beautiful during the summer months in Chicago.“

4.6 Superb104 Reviews
Dove's Luncheonette Diner • $$
1545 N Damen Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Burnt Ends Hash & Chicken Fried Chicken
Biscuits and Gravy
Buttermilk Pancake
Al Pastor Fries
Broccoli Salad
Masa Pancakes
Taco Norteño
Smash Burger
Horchata Pie
Fried Egg

“It's like someone said "Let's make the BEST food ever so everyone wants to try it but choose seats that are as UNCOMFORTABLE as humanly possible so our customers stay young and beautiful." Seriously every time I come here I feel like the friend who never gets guys when y'all go out to the bars.“

4.6 Superb102 Reviews
Chef Art Smith’s Reunion American • $$
Navy Pier, 600 E Grand Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken with Hot Sauce by Chef Art Smith
Goat Cheese Buttermilk Drop Biscuits
Chef Art's Famous Fried Chicken
Braised Southern Greens
Fried Chicken Sandwich
Shrimp & Grits Entree
Fried Green Tomatoes
Pimento Hush Puppies
Braised Short Ribs
Pan Seared Salmon

“I am such a sucker for a fried chicken place..I loveeeeee me some good fried chicken. I look for flavor, breading, texture, juiciness, and over all quality of the bird. This chicken was soooooo good! It came to me BURNING HOT..which I appreciate. The crunch was ridiculous in the best way. Flavor could have been amped up (but it was sooooooo goooooood regardless) and the breading wasn't really adhered to all the chicken (the breast in particular and the chicken sandwich chicken). The pieces are pretty huge. The hot sauce it came with wasn't stupid hot, but just enough heat and it came on the side. $30 for half a bird w mashed potatoes. Oh the potatoes....so creamy and pretty flavorful. Honestly worth it. I would get it again. For the drink I had the hibiscus/gin/thyme cocktail (I forget the name) and it was goooood as well, could've been stronger, but I'm a boardline lush, it's not on them lol. Got the wings for the appetizer (sauce on the side) it was AMAZING with or without the sauce.Navy Pier is EXPENSIVE but this place is worth it. Give it a try!!Parking: We went early so parking wasn't too bad, so I suggest going early.“

4 Good382 Reviews
Sweet Maple Cafe American • $
1339 W Taylor St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Holiday French Toast and Blueberry Pancakes
Hot American Cheese Grits
Chicken Livers and Onions
Chocolate Chip Pancakes
Cinnamon Roll Pancakes
Sweet Maple Special
Hot Cheddar Grits
Biscuits and Gravy
The 18th Street
Catfish Fridays

“Was visiting Chicago from Philly and found this restaurant on Google. It was well worth the wait. The food tasted fresh, was hot and tasty. I had the cheese grits, turkey sausage and French toast. Our waitress was attentive and friendly.Kid-friendliness: They had food my 11 year old likes.“

4.5 Superb136 Reviews
Luella's Southern Kitchen Southern • $$
4609 N Lincoln Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Buttermilk Biscuits with Homemade Jam 5
Skillet Cornbread with Honey Butter 5
Nashville Hot Chicken and Waffles
Nashville Chicken & Waffles
Buttermilk Fried Chicken
Braised Collard Greens
Biscuits and Gravy 9
Macaroni and Cheese
Baked Mac & Cheese
Blackberry Cobbler

“Probably the best breakfast I've had in recent memory. I had the salmon croquettes, which were very well seasoned and so, along with the cheesy pasta, created a very good counterbalance to the strength of the fish flavor. We finished the meal with the beignets, which were a good combo of not-too-dense and crispy.Wheelchair accessibility: Entrance is level with the sidewalk“

4.5 Superb116 Reviews
Ina Mae Southern • $$
1415 N Wood St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Hushpuppies and Pimento Honey Butter
Chargrilled Oysters Creole Butter
New Orleans Hot Sausage PO' Boys
Fried Shrimp PO Boy with Fries
Powdered Sugar Beignets
Fried Catfish PO' Boy
Hurricane Punch Bowl
Blackened Cauliflower
Fried Oyster Plate
Blackened Shrimp

“I always love Ina Mae's because of the atmosphere and brunch music. Chicken and pancakes are always a hit, but this time they only had chicken strips instead of wings (not a big deal whatsoever). Our server had zero personality and seemed like he hated his job, but other than that everything was great. Will be back again.“

3.8 Good234 Reviews
Big Jones Southern • $$
5347 N Clark St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Roasted Mushrooms and Grits with a Sunny Duck Egg
Award-Winning Fried Chicken
A Simple Southern Breakfast
House-Cured & Smoked Bacon
Duck & Oyster Etouffee
Bourbon Bread Pudding
Tres Leches Pancakes
Fried Green Tomatoes
Buttermilk Biscuits
Skillet Cornbread

“Just delightful! Got in last minute for Mardi Gras. More than "just another Cajun place". Had wonderful smokey jambalaya, alligator and collards. Place was packed but one of the owners came by to apologize for sitting us on the counter by the door to the kitchen. Loved watching and smelling the food come together and told him. Really can't say enough about this place.“

4.2 Good119 Reviews
Wishbone Southern • $$
161 N Jefferson St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Catfish with Mashed Potatoes Greens and a Corn Muffin
Cajun Shrimp & Grits
Smoked Brisket Hash
Crunchy French Toast
Louisiana Breakfast
Chicken & Waffles
Blackened Catfish
Sautéed Spinach
Cajun Omelette
Cheese Grits

“I had the corn cakes with scrambled eggs and a side of crispy french toast. The corn cakes were soft and moist like good buttermilk pancakes and had sweet corn and peppers in the batter. The savory sauce on the side was a great complement. The crispy french toast was absolute perfection. Soft and almost gooey in the center but the frosted flake coating gave it an incredible crunch. What an incredible mouth feel! In the future I'll go out of my way to get this again. My server was friendly and checked back regularly to see if I needed a coffee refill or anything else.Vegetarian options: There are lots of vegetarian options and even vegan sausage patties. Everything is clearly marked on the menu.“

4.6 Superb119 Reviews
Cleo's Southern Cuisine Southern • $$
4248 S Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Green Beans and Smoked Turkey Salty Corn Muffins Fried Catfish Sauteed Crab and Remoulade Sauce
Southern Gent Six Fried Chicken Wings Served with One Belgium Waffle and a One Signature Side
Float and Fly Friend Catfish and Chicken
Classic Baked Mac & Cheese
Honey Butter Corn Muffins
Pineapple Sweet Potatoes
Garlic and Herb Salmon
Southern Fried Chicken
Crab Mac and Cheese
Chicken and Waffles

“The catfish (5pcs!) is very crispy and flavorful. The pineapple yams are perfect. Mac and cheese was ok and the corn muffin was good! I am excited to try other items on the menu. I went on a busy Sunday afternoon and it was about a 45 minute wait from ordering. Definitely worth it or you can order ahead. Food was still hot and fresh! Great customer service. Highly recommend if you're in the Bronzeville area.“

4.4 Superb108 Reviews
Reclaimed Bar & Restaurant Southern • $$
3655 N Western Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

New Orleans Style BBQ Shrimp Brussels Sprouts with Bacon and a Reuben
Applewood Smoked Wings
Pulled Pork Sandwich
Chicken Wings
Deviled Eggs

“Stopping in on the whim we got lucky and found a gem. We googled somewhere to eat and this place poped up. Im glad it did. I tried the best lamb burger and fries ? and they are A1. I will be going back in the near future. And check out their “

4.5 Superb51 Reviews
Doll's Kitchen And Catering Southern •
1014 S Western Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Garlic Parm Dipped Wings DK Mild Sauce Wings Salmon Philly and Philly Cheesesteak on Texas Toast
Baked Macaroni & Cheese
Fried Chicken Dinner
Philly Cheesesteak W
Cajun Chicken Pasta
Catfish Dinner
Stuffed Salmon
Egg Rolls

“Food so good u wanna keep it to yourself! You can't do that though because they deserve to be celebrated. I luv the dipped chicken wings and the salmon Philly. Wish I had some now but I'm headed there tomorrow. Ya'll better go get some. You won't regret it.“

4.8 Superb43 Reviews
House of Blues Chicago American • $$
329 N Dearborn St, Chicago

“Loved it! Server was excellent, drinks were excellent, food also excellent! Had a really great time in the restaurant, then went upstairs for an hour to see their edm... really liked it! Honestly, my daughter and I really had a better time here than at our other concert (which was also amazing). Great job! Now I see why my brother worked here twenty years ago. ?“

4.1 Good220 Reviews
Yardbird Table & Bar Southern • $$$
530 N Wabash Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Sweet Tea Braised Short Rib
Fried Green Tomato blt
Yardbird Chicken Wings
Yardbird Hash Browns
Lobster Mac & Cheese
Mac and Cheese Side
Macaroni and Cheese
Fried Green Tomatoes
Biscuits and Gravy
Cavatelli Bolognese

“First time at Yardbird and the experience was great. Went there for my birthday dinner. Food and service was good. Our server was Rudy. He was friendly, timely, and offered suggestions. Music was a little loud but overall a great atmosphere“

3.8 Good588 Reviews
Dawn A.M. Eatery American • $$
1642 E 56th St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Green Tomatoes
Chicken and Waffles
Shrimp and Grits
Fried Chicken
Smoked Salmon
Scone

“Dawn A.M. Eatery is located in the Hyde Patk neighborhood inside the historic Windermere apartment complex on Chicago’s south side. It’s walking distance from the Museum of Science and Industry located on the lakefront. This all day Brunch establishment offers delicious breakfast and lunch items with standouts like homemade biscuits with flavored butters, creamy and well spiced Shrimp and Grits, deviled eggs with smoked salmon and a variety of mouth watering baked goods. The atmosphere is sunny and colorful with friendly and welcoming staff. It’s perfect for families or a girls catch-ups. Dawn is a busy place, so make a reservation and be prepared for a delightful meal and enjoyable experience!“

4.2 Good75 Reviews
Lady May Eatery & Cocktail Parlor Southern •
405 N Wabash Ave, Chicago

“I decided to bring my hubby to Lady May's for a pre-celebratory graduation dinner and the decision DID NOT disappoint. Food was amazing, ambiance was giving what it was supposed to for such an intimate moment. The staff were attentive and we thoroughly enjoyed ourselves, will be returning“

4.2 Good51 Reviews
St Rest No 2 Country Kitchen Soul Food • $$
727 E 87th St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken Wings Yams Macaroni and Cheese and Corn Bread
Black Eyed Peas Roast Beef and Mash Potatoes
Neck Bones Yams and Macaroni Cheese
Short Ribs Yams Dressing Muffins
Smothered Pork Chops
Peach Cobbler
Candied Yams
Beef Ribs

“A southside soul food staple that has been in the Chatham neighborhood for a long while now. Lots of love goes into the food, portions are hearty and the rotation menu served is flavorful. Stopped in with a friend on Friday (Restaurant is only open Fri, Sat, and Sunday til 6pm everyday). We were greeted by a nice lil lady @ the door which directed us on how to order and pay. She then seated us after we got our food. I had a great lunch. Smothered Pork chops were so delicious. Black eyed peas and rice had that soul up in it. My only complaint was that the okra side could've had a lil bit longer in the pot. Everything else from the service to the food was fantastic. The decor is a bit dated tho but I'm fine with it. Thumbs up to this place and kudos to the staff for the experience.Vegetarian options: Sides??‍♂️. Nothing else is really vegetarian.Dietary restrictions: Soul food. U might get the Itis.Parking: The lot is small. Only big enuff for maybe 8 to 10 cars. U may have to pay to park. And yes, they do get busy.Kid-friendliness: There's space to move around BUT this place isn't a playground. It's a restaurant. Be mindful.Wheelchair accessibility: Yes.“

4.4 Superb72 Reviews
Roost Chicken & Biscuits Southern • $$
457 N Milwaukee Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Nashville Hot Chicken Breast Sandwich
Original Fried Chicken Sandwich
Creamy Mac and Cheese
Macaroni and Cheese
Carolina Style Meal
Buttermilk Biscuit
Xcreamy Mac&Cheese
Tenders with Fries
Chicken Tenders
Chipotle Ranch

“I found this gem quite by accident. The soul food style Menu is quite extensive and has a lot of Items and meals you don't see anymore. The food is delicious and taste like it came out of someone's grandmother's Southern kitchen. You really gotta check display out. The prices are very reasonable for what you get.“

4.2 Good63 Reviews
Gus’s World Famous Fried Chicken Chicken • $
847 W Fulton Market, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

2pc Fried Chicken Baked Beans and Coleslaw Macaroni and Cheese
Fried Green Tomatoes
Chocolate Chess Pie
4 Tenders Plate
French Fries
Potato Salad
Pecan Pie
Slaw

“I first had Gus' around Memphis area and it tasted great for fried chicken. It includes a very small spice kick but with great flavor and cooked well. This tasted similar to Memphis area, so consistency is good so far.My order had a very minor mix-up and the staff were happy to help correct it. Great service, great food.I personally think the pricing is too high considering it is chicken, but at the least the flavor is great and worth it for maybe once a week. This is the same problem at the Memphis area for high pricing, it's quite similar.“

4 Good86 Reviews
House of Blues Restaurant & Bar American • $$
329 N Dearborn St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Crispy Brussels Sprouts
Pulled Pork Sandwich
BBQ Chicken Salad
HOB Smash Burger
Baby Back Ribs
Crispy Wings
Chicken Wings
BBQ Nachos

“My friends and I saw a concert here for Gloryhammer and Twilight Force and had a blast. The sound, service, and decor were top notch. I heard the restaurant was good but I didn't get anything from there. The bathrooms were immaculate as well. The only thing we didn't like was a small group of people mosh-pitting during the performance. It was super distracting, knocked me down twice and I wasn't even in it. The staff and the bands dud nothing to discourage it. Other than that, it was 10/10.“

4 Good181 Reviews
Boxcar Betty's Southern • $
500 W Madison St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Boxcar with Sweet Potato Fries
Buffalo Sandwich
Hand-Cut Fries
Fried Chicken
Bacon Jam

“Took my daughter since we were both craving chicken sandwiches. We got one boxcar and one betty with some fries. Not knowing what to expect they both came out piping hot and fresh. We both bit in to our sandwiches and gave the knowing nod of "WHOA this is excellent!" to each other. We then tried each others and couldn't decide which one we liked better. The peach on the betty is not too overpowering, the pimento adds a surprise flavor element that works really well. The buns were fluffy and delicious. Then we got to the fries and lordy were they perfect. Next time I go here I will probably honestly just get one of each with fries because they're that good!“

4.6 Superb27 Reviews
Roost Chicken & Biscuits Southern • $
2011 W Roscoe St, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Chocolate Chip Bread Pudding
House Style Sandwich Meal
Original Chicken Sandwich
Hand Cut French Fries
Macaroni and Cheese
Buttermilk Biscuit
Chipotle Ranch
Mac & Cheese
Hot Honey
Tenders

“I came here with a group of friends late after already eating breakfast here. The food is absolutely amazing. However when ordering food our first friend, by mistake, ordered to-go and we were told by the hostess we all had to order to-go. Our second friend tried to change and the hostess was insistent that we all had to order to-go. We all continued to wait to receive our orders in a delayed series and some ate while in store. Again food was amazing. We were told next time we should order in, we notified the new waitress we tried to change and the original hostess said that never happened. Either way food was great, hostess wasn’t. She also told a friend of mine to order the fries instead of the Mac & Cheese since in her opinion the Mac isn’t that good, Mac & Cheese is amazing. To each their own. Great food, not impressed by the hostess. Waitress was great.“

3.9 Good69 Reviews
The Delta | Chicago Southern • $$
1745 W North Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

The Breakfast Burger
Animal Style Frites
Vegan Hot Tamales
Red Beans & Rice
Shrimp & Grits
Fried Chicken
Bread Pudding
Chilaquiles
Fried Rice
Cornbread

“I write this review while being serenaded by throwback JayZ, mild chatter and dim lighting all after a long day at work.Somehow the vibe transitions me to the porch back in the South where I’m from.My only concern is why I am sitting in the dining area alone, if you are on a date tonight, you should absolutely be here.It’s the perfect place to get to know someone.Now… to the food.I started with a generous citrus cocktail, the The Mom Collin’s, momma didn’t disappoint. If the ingredient is listed on the menu, it is there in each sip.My precious deviled eggs. Absolutely delightful. You get your classic deviled egg then you get… that chicken on top caused me to close my eyes and take it in.The will probably be my go-to dish.The chicken wings boast the same delicious skin from the deviled eggs, drizzled with what seems to be a take on Chicagos original “mild sauce”. I don’t typically eat hot sauce — but I ate all 10 of these wings.Now— southern born, I eat baked mac and cheese but these jalapeño hinted loose Mac has made me a new fan. Look at the pic, you see that cheese pull. Baby that Mac and cheese is good. Burst with flavor with each bite.The Delta needs to be added to your “must try list”, I know I will be back again.*Especially on a Tuesday night (9pm) when the Dj shows up!- D’Reviewer ✨“

3.9 Good68 Reviews
Kitchen + Kocktails by Kevin Kelley Chicago Southern
444 N Wabash Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Chicken Macaroni and Cheese and Black Eyed Peas
Dream Eggs with Blackened Shrimp
Fried Catfish and Mac and Chesse
Deviled Eggs with Cajun Shrimp
Collard Greens w Smoked Turkey
Shrimp Grits w Lobster Tail
Catfish and Mac and Cheese
Mississippi Catfish Grits
Caribbean Jerk Lamb Chops
Chicken Waffles Specialty

“Our first time dining was almost not so pleasant. We arrived without reservations and the host was not friendly and informed us that our only option was to find a seat at the bar. After going to the bar area, we saw Sherron C who informed me that it would be a pleasure to serve us at a Bartop if the table was not reserved. The server vowed to turn around our experience and this was definitely done! Our Server: Sherron C was absolutely the best server; extremely welcoming, explained various dishes and beverages! Our food arrived promptly and our appetizers and entrees were delicious. Sherron recommended drink options of which we ordered and they were delicious. I would definitely recommend this restaurant and I would return only if Sherron was our waiter/server.“

3.8 Good1478 Reviews

26
Feed

Feed American • $
2803 W Chicago Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Fried Catfish Sandwich
Fried Chicken
Pudding
Mashed
Burger

“It's certainly nothing much to look at from the outside, and the interior isn't much to write home about, either. But for a Humboldt Park hole in the wall, the food is good, particularly the roast chicken, you get a lot of it, it's a decent price, the service is fast and the small place is cozy. It feels like real, pure, good Chicago. I was happy I stopped in.“

3.9 Good39 Reviews
The Budlong Southern Chicken American • $$
4619 N Western Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

The Budlong Original Chicken Sandwich
Famous Homemade Banana Pudding
Budlong Tenders Combo
Nashville Hot Chicken
Hot Chicken Sandwich
Chicken Tenders
Comeback Sauce
Mac N Cheese
Mac & Cheese
Pickles

“Delicious sandwiches at a great price point! I have tried their sandwich combo with fries and a drink a couple of times and have never been disappointed. Their banana pudding is also pretty good.The staff at this location is also super friendly and fast in getting your food to you. Worth a stop if you're in the neighborhood!“

3.9 Good82 Reviews
King Soul Food Gallery Soul Food • $
8103 S Cottage Grove Ave, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Strawberry and Lemon Parfaits
Peanut Butter Cookies
3 Layer Cakes Slices
Strawberry Parfait
Baked Mac & Cheese
Black Eyed Peas
Red Velvet Cake
Mashed Potatoes
Banana Pudding
Peach Cobbler

“I've been ordering for some months now. My absolute fav is the catfish Fillets, always fried perfectly & tasty yum. My better half likes the Cabbage & Pork Chops. You must have a slice of Lemon Cake snd they don't skimp on the slice.“

3.8 Good58 Reviews
Bourbon on Division Bar • $
2050 W Division St, Chicago

“Finally got to hang with coworkers and friends and must say it was amazing, music was dope the employees are nice and it's a great place!Edit: 5 year later and bourbon continues to be a wonderful place, had a lil birthday get together and had a blast with friends and loved ones“

3.6 Good36 Reviews
Chicago's Home of Chicken & Waffles Chicken • $$
3947 S King Dr, Chicago

Customers` Favorites

Grandma’S Peach Cobbler a La Mode
Fried Chicken Wings Waffle
Bern's Biscuits N' Gravy
Kev's Lemon Pepper Wings
Macaroni and Cheese
Chicken and Waffles
Red Beans and Rice
Catfish N' Waffles
Biscuits and Gravy
Chicken & Waffles

“The food was awesome. The chicken was excellent. We had the fried chicken and the smothered chicken. The catfish was delicious too. The greens were great. The yams were awesome. The dressing was awesome. I highly recommend it. We will be returning.“

3.7 Good118 Reviews
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